Script Rewrite

Alien Enigma · May 12, 2006

I gave a script that I wrote to a producer friend of mine. The producer said he really liked it a lot, but he wants me to rewrite it.

I went and made a copy.

Little script humor for you.

DeePower · May 12, 2006

Would you actually rewrite it?

We had a script that a production company in Hollywood really liked. They asked if we would make the main character more confrontational. Another production company said the main character should less confrontational.

I don't think a script should be rewritten on speculation.

Dee

dpaterso · May 12, 2006

Hmm, joke post turns into serious subject!

I'll bite. Yes, I'd rewrite if a kosher producer showed interest and suggested changes. Unless they were obviously mental, in which case I'd be polite about saying no thanks.

I'd keep the original of course so if it didn't pan out I could pimp whichever version I preferred.

-Derek
My Web Page - naked women, bestial sex, and whopping big lies.
Stop reading this and get some writing done instead.

Boo_Radley · May 13, 2006

I'm in a bit of a situation regarding this exact thing. I recently (read: week before last) had a producer ask for a script of mine. She liked it a lot and wants to option it, but is asking if afterwards I'd be able to rewrite it to take place in South America, because she and her partners are settling on a six picture deal in which the films will be shot and made in South America, for both English and Latin audiences. She requested specifically if I would be able to rewrite it TAKING PLACE in Venezuela or Argentina.

BUT...

...the problem is, the script she wants is a cop story -- set it Detroit, in a nightclub and with gangsters -- which would basically require a complete cultural change as well as placing it into an enviroment I don't have the first clue about. AND, filming would start in August!

So...I'm in a bit of a pickle. Any suggestions?

similan · May 13, 2006

Boo_Radley said:
I'm in a bit of a situation regarding this exact thing. I recently (read: week before last) had a producer ask for a script of mine. She liked it a lot and wants to option it, but is asking if afterwards I'd be able to rewrite it to take place in South America, because she and her partners are settling on a six picture deal in which the films will be shot and made in South America, for both English and Latin audiences. She requested specifically if I would be able to rewrite it TAKING PLACE in Venezuela or Argentina.

BUT...

...the problem is, the script she wants is a cop story -- set it Detroit, in a nightclub and with gangsters -- which would basically require a complete cultural change as well as placing it into an enviroment I don't have the first clue about. AND, filming would start in August!

So...I'm in a bit of a pickle. Any suggestions?

First, congratulations!!!!

If it was me in your shoes, I'd do a hell of a lot of research on politics, cops and gangs activities in Venezuela. And if there aren't any gangs in Venezuela then you can set it up so that your cop has to make the trip from Detroit to Venezuela to tracks down some Latin thug who has relative there or a sister. You cop would then have to overcome a lot of political road blocks etc. Might even solicit help from the gorgeous sister to track the bad dude down.

Check this out

Good luck

scripter1 · May 13, 2006

I like Sim's advice

and attitude. Maybe the problem isn't quite as bad as you think?

However, if you really believe that such a change would ruin an otherwise great story, maybe you can take the elements you know the person really liked and then after doing the research whip out a new script to match her needs?

Just a thought.

Boo_Radley · May 13, 2006

Thanks for the suggestions, fellas.

I've been leaning towards rewriting it so the main character is forced to go to South America, it's just...well, I know I shouldn't complain, it's a credit -- my FIRST credit -- if it goes through...but after making adjustments for it to take place in South America, it'll lose so much of what the producer liked about it -- the natural dialogue, the locations, the VERY AMERICAN characters. It'll basically be a completely new script, in which case I'm wondering why I wasn't just asked to write an original piece. I'm sure it's probably because it's far cheaper to option than commission an original, but still...

Ah, hell. I'll go through with it, I'm sure -- it's just really going to be a *****! :Wha:

WritingFool · May 13, 2006

Its all part of what comes with being a writer.
Gotta adapt.

Buyer wants this...do this. Agency wants that...hey give em that.
I always trip out when I come across someone whos asked to modify their work, and they get all bent out of shape like someone just through them a wicked curve ball.
This is when you know if youre worth whatever price theyre paying you.

Good luck with it.

One good thing going for you is that the bar down there (South America) isnt set that high.

icerose · May 16, 2006

Boo_Radley said:
Thanks for the suggestions, fellas.

It'll basically be a completely new script, in which case I'm wondering why I wasn't just asked to write an original piece. I'm sure it's probably because it's far cheaper to option than commission an original, but still...

Ah, hell. I'll go through with it, I'm sure -- it's just really going to be a *****!

Why not just write a whole new script taking her desired situation. You keep the current one you like and have one that fits her criteria.

Boo_Radley · May 16, 2006

I've thought about that, as well. Right now I'm waiting for her to get back to me regarding what exactly she wants changed.

But, now that I'm over the initial shock that someone actually wants to make a film of a script I wrote, I'm feelin' quite giddy.

scripter1 · May 16, 2006

Giddy

is good. Congrats.

zeprosnepsid · May 18, 2006

Even professional screenwriters have to rewrite to the tastes and needs of executives. It's a part of the job, so if it comes up -- I say re-write.

At the very least, if you do re-write, the production company will know you are easy to work with and will be more likely to give you work in the future.

Make friends, not enemies...

Script Rewrite

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