critique Audio screenplay critiques

[Cracker Funk]

So, a lot of different people, from this board and people I know, are critiquing my screenplay. Two of my friends in town, fellow indie filmmakers, are going to critique it in the following manner:

They are going to read through it together, aloud. They won't be taking any notes. Their notes are going to be spoken, and recorded. Then, they're giving the recording to me, unedited.

Personally, I think this method is genius. It's easier for the reader, as you don't have to write or type your notes -- just say them. Also, it's about as honest and blunt as can be. Plus, it's probably going to be hilarious to listen to.

Anybody else ever done this?

 

[TheBuck]

I have not but it sounds like a neat idea. Maybe take it a step beyond that can have a telephone convo with them as they read it that way you guys can talk things out as issues come up. Let us know how the audio thing works out.

 

[sebru]

cracker funk, i actually enjoy reading your script. i know some complain that alot of the dialogue is expository, however i like it as it gives a more 'pulp fiction' element about it. I havent finished reading it yet, and i think you should listen to what others have said, as they really want to help you. cheers man

 

[sebru]

i meant : not that you're not listening, but to continue listening to what the others say...

 

[sebru]

....and in the end, do the way you want to do it. haha

 

[Cracker Funk]

Word. Thanks!

Do people in Brussels know the slang meaning of "word", the way I just used it? And, is JCVD not the most awesome badass ever? Seriously, though, his latest movie, "JCVD", was pretty cool.

TheBuck, I think I like that I won't be there, either in physical presence or over the telephone. First, they won't be interrupted by my constant questions to their reactions. Second, with me out of the picture, they can just react honestly, not worrying about hurting my feelings. I'll let you know how it goes (and, with their permission, I'll look for a way to post it online).

 

[barnaclelapse]

I could see that being useful. I'd prefer to be able to discuss notes at some point, too though. That's the biggest part of the critique process for me.

 

[ussinners]

It sounds like your friends are doing a reading. That's where actors are cast in certain roles all get together and read the script. This way the director/screenwriter/producer can hear everything. Then each cast member gets to give feedback, and then the script gets some rewriting.

You don't want my voice on tape. I sound awful. : )

 

[Cracker Funk]

It sounds like your friends are doing a reading. That's where actors are cast in certain roles all get together and read the script. This way the director/screenwriter/producer can hear everything. Then each cast member gets to give feedback, and then the script gets some rewriting.

You don't want my voice on tape. I sound awful. : )

Of course, that's exactly what they're doing. But different. And, yes, I know what a reading/read through is! But what's this "rewriting" thing you mention? Never heard of that.

Without the screenwriter there, they will have no (or at least less) inhibitions or worries about hurting the screenwriters' feelings. And, the critique will be um, let's say in "real time". For a normal read through, you read the whole thing, then talk about it. The way my friends are going to do it, if something jumps out at them, they're stopping the reading, and commenting on it right away. I think the combination of these two different aspects will make it much more honest.

 

[ussinners]

The reason for the reading/notes is for your rewrite. If they send you a tape of them performing the work, you get to hear everything. It gives you an idea of what works and what doesn't. The notes give you a feeling of what they're thinking as actors of the roles.

That's what a reading is all about.

 

[VPTurner]

We did a read through of my first feature while I was attending a screenwriter's workgroup in Austin. We didn't record it, though. This is why I said in your other thread that a read thorough is essential. Each individual had something unique to contribute. I came away with several ideas for a rewrite that never happened. I shelved that project. But that's another story.

During the writing phase, I had a partner for story development. And everywhere we went I brought with me a tape recorder. That recorder was invaluable. We'd brainstorm and discuss, go over plot points and characterization, while sitting in I-HOP. At the end of each brainstorming session, I'd go home and playback the recorder, transcribing word for word our discussion. Most of the script got written this way. But the downside was pages and pages of material that wouldn't get used.

So, yes, the tape recorder is your friend. It will lead to your ability to "hear" the words for yourself as you write them. As you get better, your dialogue will take on the more natural cadence, broken sentence structures, and repetitiveness found in speech.