Is There A Book In You? Ten Points That Will Help You Decide

The desire to have a book with your name on the cover seems universal - yet how many would-be writers really know if they have what it takes to succeed? Here are ten points that every beginner should consider.

How to Story Board a Film

Storyboards are the heart and soul of any aspiring or existing director. Here are some guidelines to the basics and philosophy of storyboarding and visualizing your film in the process of storyboarding.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Brokeback Mountain; Innate Suitability

Trial 2 often sees the Hero demonstrate innate suitability to the New World and Self. In Brokeback Mountain (2005), Jack Twist hits on the guy in the bar.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Brokeback Mountain; Fish Out of Water

Every Hero must be a Fish out of Water at some point - the essence of every story is Transformation. Commonly, one Fish out of Water stage is upon entrance of the New Domain of the First Threshold. In Brokeback Mountain (2005), the sheepherder tells Jack and Ennis what not do to; don’t order soup; don’t need soup; Jack can’t ride.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): First Threshold Guardian

Before the Hero et al enter the First Threshold, they must pass a Threshold Guardian. In Star Wars (1977), Luke and Obi Wan must pass the Storm Troopers into Mos Isley. In Goodfellas (1990), the young Henry Hill gets arrested.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Ordinary World

This is where the Hero is at the start of his (or her) Journey. This is a physical benchmark.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Heralds Journey Characteristics

The Herald's Journey should have characteristics that demonstrate the urgency and danger of the Journey (that the Hero will ultimately embark upon). These include:

Thank You Letters: 5 Reasons Why They Are Important

How would you feel if you unexpectedly received a thank you letter for something you did? Writing a thank you letter does not have to be complicated and you don't need to master literary skills to write one. Here are five reasons why you shouldn't overlook the importance of composing them.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Freedom to Live; New Behaviour

Part of the Freedom to Live is the Hero's New Behaviour. In Brokeback Mountain (2005), junior is getting married and Ennis will go to the wedding.

Think Like a Winner

Writers put words on paper for public consumption, and it isn't always easy. In fact, there are few aspects of freelance writing that don't require just plain chutzpah. As freelance writers, we are constantly auditioning. The trick is to do so with confidence and class. The question then becomes, how does one achieve that attitude? Here are some techniques I have found helpful over the years.

The Rogue Knight of Cinema: Why Screenplay Contests Matter

Screenplay contests are changing cinema. Coming from a person who runs one, your first reaction to this statement is most likely, “The only reason you’re saying that is you want me to enter yours.” Or more frankly, “You just want my money.” Well, coming from one who runs one, I’ll say you’re right. Sorta.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Progression from a Fish Out of Water

Evolution past the Fish out of Water stage is an integral part of the First Threshold. This is a benchmark upon entry and exit.

K.I.S.S. - Keep It Simple Stupid

Forget perfect prose. Forget clever words. Chat in writing, that's Natural Born Selling

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Outer Cave of the First Threshold

The Outer Cave of the First Threshod is where the Hero's Outer Challenge is made explicit, In Straw Dogs (1971), David sees Charlie put her hands on Amy's throat; he hides behind the curtain - a metaphor for his hiding in the house.