If it isn't in the script, it probably won't end up on the silver screen.
And, even if it is - not matter how eloquently or succinctly expressed on the page - it might not either.
Of course, I am referring to the written word!
If an actor or a director attempts to rewrite 'em - on the set, in their trailer, in the toilet room, wherever - a lament from the author will undoubtedly ring out crystal clear from the edge of the great abyss - and harshly fall on all ears within earshot.
"Over my dead body!"
Even so, the almighty word is not always written in stone, once the artful turn-of-a-phrase has been rustled up out-of-the-blue.
I adhere to the old addage that words have power.
Words have the ability to - uplift, instill fear, inspire, cause hurt - you name it.
A wordsmith - with the magical gift to touch or utter up thoughts that resonate to the very core of a sentient being - is a rare and wonderful individual.
In the realm of screenwriting, in particular.
In the hands of a lesser talent - dialogue may end up stilted, a plot line inplausible, the ability to move one greatly lacking in emotion or righteous joy- you betcha!
As a former Literature Agent (who represented screenwriters) I can wholeheartedly attest to that fact!
With that in mind, I offer up my five (5) Top Picks for Screenplay for a feature film (Oscar Race 2010).
Here are the nominees not in any particular order:
Aaron Sorkin
The Social Network
David Seidler
The King's Speech
Joel & Ethan Cohen
True Grit
Michael Arndt
Toy Story
Billy Ivory
Made in Dagenham
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