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For a second I was thinking about putting a post together called fan fiction (see above) but it would be Fan Fiction about fans (you know, the type you use in the summer to keep cool? What, you have air conditioning? Well aren't you a fancy bastard.) and what they do in the winter when they aren't being used. But I figured that would be far too cheesy, and I couldn't come up with a good ending for the the story. Also, it's a dumb idea.
Instead I give you two short shorts I wrote in college. I recently edited one down from 350-ish words to only 200 words. The other one stands as is. They aren't brilliant or anything, but right now they are my favorite things I've ever written, and the only pieces I've been consistently proud of since their inception. So I give you my short CORRESPONDENCE, and THE WOULD BE ANGEL
The fight ended when Pa came out to dance. The sheep were the first to join, with their bleating and lack of any rhythm. Then the cows partnered up. It seemed silly at first, them on two legs with their udders flapping for the world to see as they danced the jitterbug in their pens. The chickens, arguably the best dancers, even better than Pa, started to swing with the roosters on the loft in the barn over the hay.
The goats wouldn’t dance, beneath their dignity I guess.
The ducks danced ballet and their pirouettes were the finest I’d ever seen.
Just as the pigs brought out their breakdancing mats, Ma came out of the house and smacked Pa on the back of his head.
“Don’t you get the animals riled up again, remember what happened to your horses.” She said.
Pa lowered his head and walked back into the house, caressed lovingly by Ma. The animals stopped dancing, only the goats seemed satisfied.
The fight was all drained out of us as we remember what happened to the horses. Last we heard they were performing on Broadway but we aren’t sure cause they don’t send us postcards anymore.
And:
An Angel decided to see what it was like being a man so it grew a penis and went to Earth.
“Hey, look at that funny looking angel.” A little boy said to his sister.
“I’m not an angel, I’m a man, look at my penis.” The Angel retorted.
“No you aren’t.” The sister said. “Men don’t walk around naked.” So quickly the angel put on some pants.
“See, I’m a man.” The Angel said now dressed.
“No you aren’t. Men don’t have wings.” The brother said.
“Oh.” So the Angel took off it’s wings and placed them on the ground. Quickly the brother and sister each took a wing held hands and started to fly.
“Hey! Where are you going with my wings?” The Angel asked.
“Your wings? They can’t be your wings.” The airborne couple replied.
“Why not?” The Angel asked angrily.
“Because men don’t have wings.” The siblings said as they flew up to heaven.
“I guess not.” The man admitted as he watched the two children grow smaller in the distance.
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Interested in a life of crime?
I hope not because crime doesn't pay.
Unfortunately, neither does being a comic book writer who can't draw.
I know that nobody really reads this blog anymore, and I barely even update it, but on the off chance that there is someone who reads and knows other people, or someone just stumbles upon this using the Next Blog button on the top of the page, here is a ad I posted on a few webistes searching for an artist. If you are an artist, or know an artist, feel free to drop me a line, or pass this ad (and website) along.
I can't draw to save my life. Literally, if I a gun was put to my head and I was told to draw a straight line I'd have a bullet in the brain before I finished. This would be a shame, for I have a pretty, pretty brain, with pretty, pretty ideas, and a bullet would take that pretty brain, and those pretty ideas, and turn them to mush.
I would like to share my brain, and my ideas, especially those comic book related, but as I said I can't draw. That's where you come in.
If you are an artist who can save multiple lives with your straight lines (also crooked lines, really all your lines, whatever shape they might be in) but would like a bit more direction then I suggest we should, in comic book lingo, have a Team Up.
I have stories in multiple genre's and would also be interested in developing new original ideas.
I would like to come up with something presentable to publishers. This is a no-pay gig, unfortunately, at least not until publication. I know that sucks, and it sucks not being able to pay, but this is something temporary issue which will be offset in the long run. Ownership of the property (whatever we produce) would be split down the middle, and all that entails.
I'm friendly, personable, and am not a zombie, werewolf, vampire, or other creature of the night. If all this seems amenable to you, please contact me and we can see if a collaboration is possible.
Unfortunately, neither does being a comic book writer who can't draw.
I know that nobody really reads this blog anymore, and I barely even update it, but on the off chance that there is someone who reads and knows other people, or someone just stumbles upon this using the Next Blog button on the top of the page, here is a ad I posted on a few webistes searching for an artist. If you are an artist, or know an artist, feel free to drop me a line, or pass this ad (and website) along.
I can't draw to save my life. Literally, if I a gun was put to my head and I was told to draw a straight line I'd have a bullet in the brain before I finished. This would be a shame, for I have a pretty, pretty brain, with pretty, pretty ideas, and a bullet would take that pretty brain, and those pretty ideas, and turn them to mush.
I would like to share my brain, and my ideas, especially those comic book related, but as I said I can't draw. That's where you come in.
If you are an artist who can save multiple lives with your straight lines (also crooked lines, really all your lines, whatever shape they might be in) but would like a bit more direction then I suggest we should, in comic book lingo, have a Team Up.
I have stories in multiple genre's and would also be interested in developing new original ideas.
I would like to come up with something presentable to publishers. This is a no-pay gig, unfortunately, at least not until publication. I know that sucks, and it sucks not being able to pay, but this is something temporary issue which will be offset in the long run. Ownership of the property (whatever we produce) would be split down the middle, and all that entails.
I'm friendly, personable, and am not a zombie, werewolf, vampire, or other creature of the night. If all this seems amenable to you, please contact me and we can see if a collaboration is possible.
Friday, March 06, 2009
Nothing is nothing
So I was getting a little uncomfortable keeping that video at the top of my blog for so long, thus I'm entering a new entry just to knock it away from being the first thing anyone might see.
If you are looking for something interesting to read, feel free to check out a short story I wrote here. Or don't.
And if you are in the mood for something I thought was really clever and had absolutely nothing to do with, check it out
If you are looking for something interesting to read, feel free to check out a short story I wrote here. Or don't.
And if you are in the mood for something I thought was really clever and had absolutely nothing to do with, check it out
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
idea for a story
Main character starts off as an evil bastard. Comes from a very shakespearian background. Step father killed his actually father to take over the family business (something verging on mob related with out actually going into mafia styled cliche). Main character was abused by his real father, but left with enough dough never to have to work, ever. Thinks he's bad-ass, really just a bit psychotic. Decides to kill his step-father and mother for having his father killed (even though he hated his father, this guy is the kind of fucked up that it doesn't matter).
His plan fails miserably, and he gets shot in the head by his step-father after being tortured for a bit.
He wakes up alive a few days later where ever his body was dumped (swamp, shallow grave, river, whatever). He is completely unharmed, as if he was never shot in the first place.
He tries to go back to his life, but has a new sense of calm that he never had before. he starts taking the time to figure out who he is, what sort of guy he was and who he wants to be. A real soul searching. He is not the same guy he was before he was killed. He meets a girl of course. A girl who he knew back before he died. She was the only one in the local coffeeshop/diner/wherever that he went to regularly that dealt with him. All the other employees hated helping him. She hated it too, but would bear it because she's just a very nice person. He's changed and he apologizes and they start talking. Through the story, though it isn't a love story, she helps him find himself. They don't fall in love. More of a mutual understanding. He helps her with some sort of problem she's having. I don't know. Crazy ex-boyfriend, back payment on student loans, something pretty common to all people, the shit we all have to deal with, only for her multiplied a bit.
His parents wanted to cash in on his small fortune, thinking that he's dead. they discover he's still alive somehow. He starts interacting with them a bit, as if nothing ever happened. Freaking them out. He's torn. Does he want to try and move on with his life or does he want his revenge?
His step-dad attacks, and this takes him back to all the old shit he had to deal with. he can't get in contact with the girl, and decides that he's going back for the step-dad.
epic fight, this time though he wins. His step-dad is at his mercy. He has one final option, kill him, or walk away. He kills him. Shooting his step-father through the head just like he was shot.
He walks away, feeling satisfied, when he feels a trickle of blood down his forhead. he reaches up and discovers that the wound that killed him in the beginning returns just as magically and mysteriously as it left. he falls down dead.
He leaves his money to the girl and this helps her solve whatever big problem she had.
Themes to touch on: the purpose of self-discovery, can someone ever really change, and revenge as not only useless, but detrimental.
Nothing that original, which is why I'm posting it here in this form instead of really trying to write it out. Maybe as a short story. I don't know. Needs a lot of work.
His plan fails miserably, and he gets shot in the head by his step-father after being tortured for a bit.
He wakes up alive a few days later where ever his body was dumped (swamp, shallow grave, river, whatever). He is completely unharmed, as if he was never shot in the first place.
He tries to go back to his life, but has a new sense of calm that he never had before. he starts taking the time to figure out who he is, what sort of guy he was and who he wants to be. A real soul searching. He is not the same guy he was before he was killed. He meets a girl of course. A girl who he knew back before he died. She was the only one in the local coffeeshop/diner/wherever that he went to regularly that dealt with him. All the other employees hated helping him. She hated it too, but would bear it because she's just a very nice person. He's changed and he apologizes and they start talking. Through the story, though it isn't a love story, she helps him find himself. They don't fall in love. More of a mutual understanding. He helps her with some sort of problem she's having. I don't know. Crazy ex-boyfriend, back payment on student loans, something pretty common to all people, the shit we all have to deal with, only for her multiplied a bit.
His parents wanted to cash in on his small fortune, thinking that he's dead. they discover he's still alive somehow. He starts interacting with them a bit, as if nothing ever happened. Freaking them out. He's torn. Does he want to try and move on with his life or does he want his revenge?
His step-dad attacks, and this takes him back to all the old shit he had to deal with. he can't get in contact with the girl, and decides that he's going back for the step-dad.
epic fight, this time though he wins. His step-dad is at his mercy. He has one final option, kill him, or walk away. He kills him. Shooting his step-father through the head just like he was shot.
He walks away, feeling satisfied, when he feels a trickle of blood down his forhead. he reaches up and discovers that the wound that killed him in the beginning returns just as magically and mysteriously as it left. he falls down dead.
He leaves his money to the girl and this helps her solve whatever big problem she had.
Themes to touch on: the purpose of self-discovery, can someone ever really change, and revenge as not only useless, but detrimental.
Nothing that original, which is why I'm posting it here in this form instead of really trying to write it out. Maybe as a short story. I don't know. Needs a lot of work.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Don't make me angry, or horny, or make me physically exert myself, you wouldnt like me if I did any of those things
Just came back from seeing the Hulk, but I've been up since five this morning (no not waiting on line for tickets, I had to open this morning at work). I'm too sleepy right now to write a review, but one will be forthcoming before the weekend is out.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Do I really suck that bad?
I've been converting all my old files from my old computer onto my new one (a bit of an annoying process) going through what I should keep, and what I should just dump. I've come across a few gems and much more than a few really old crappy essays and stories which I promptly dumped. I found more duplicates that I was aware that I had (why did I let them take up the space on my hard drive, who knows?).
In any case this is an opinion article I submitted to a small newspaper in boston that was accepting open submissions. It was rejected, but very nicely encouredging me to try again. I never did because, I don't really know why. The point is, I know it's not even a little bit timely. In fact it's very dated, and it's a bit standard (I totally understand why it didn't it), but it isn't bad. So instead of just dumping it into the trash I figured I'd post it here as a dumping ground, so I can feel like it got used in some way in my life. I did spend some time on it, so why not make use of it. Right?
Anyway, here it is, feel free not to read it.
So there you go. Who knows what other pointless crap I can find to take up space on this blog?
In any case this is an opinion article I submitted to a small newspaper in boston that was accepting open submissions. It was rejected, but very nicely encouredging me to try again. I never did because, I don't really know why. The point is, I know it's not even a little bit timely. In fact it's very dated, and it's a bit standard (I totally understand why it didn't it), but it isn't bad. So instead of just dumping it into the trash I figured I'd post it here as a dumping ground, so I can feel like it got used in some way in my life. I did spend some time on it, so why not make use of it. Right?
Anyway, here it is, feel free not to read it.
11/18/2003
As I turned my TV on Tuesday morning, the first sound that echoed from the speaker was a news anchorwoman informing me that gay marriage had just been legalized in the state of Massachusetts.
Like the majority of heterosexuals in this state I was aware that there was a case at the state supreme court in this regard but I also knew that it had been in trial for a few years, and figured that it would be a few years more before anything was actually established.
Well, something was definitely established, and though this ruling realistically affects only a minority of the population, the majority of us will be up in arms, either for or against, even though it does not affect our lives. This is not a law that ensures cleaner drinking water, not a law helping fund our schools, and not a law repealing any tax or tax cut. If this ruling went the other way our lives wouldn’t have changed. Luckily, the supreme court legalized gay marriage, and you know what, us heterosexuals can still get married like before, schools are still underfunded, there’s still toxins in the water, and I haven’t seen a penny of that tax cut. I can barely tell the difference between now and then.
This ruling was a long time coming and is just the next natural progression for a free and civil society. This is the whole “All men are created equal” bit we’ve been hearing about so much since we first studied the Constitution back in grade school. We are either all created equal with the same protection under the law or we’re not. The Massachusetts Supreme Court upheld the belief that we are.
Though this ruling may not affect our lives in the secular world it will be perceived to have an impact on the religious one. I doubt I’m the first to say that the courts decision should in no way affect how marriage is upheld in as a religious ceremony. Whether or not gay marriage is something that should be instituted by the various religious institutions is not up to the state. Likewise, how a legal marriage is defined by the state should not be up to any religious group, or groups. As a religious Jew I don’t know how comfortable I am with a religious gay marriage ceremony. But the fact remains, my religious beliefs in regards to a religious marriage should be completely separate from the state’s definition of a legal marriage.
Unfortunately many people can’t make this sort of distinction. America is a secular country, regardless as to how many Christmas advertisements you might see. And as a secular country it is very important to put the secular needs of the people ahead of any religious dogma.
Hence, in keeping with the upcoming holiday spirit it’s important for us to remember, as Rabbi Hillel once said, “Do not do unto others as you would not want them to do unto you.” This means, for those of you out there who disagree with the courts ruling, you don’t have to go out of your way to embrace the gay community, just allow them to live the same rich full life you yourself wish to live.
-Amichai Greene
11/18/03
So there you go. Who knows what other pointless crap I can find to take up space on this blog?
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
I should hold onto my thoughts
So I was thinking about a political entry, only I realized I just put down all my ideas in a comment on Rawbean's blog and putting them up here would be redundant. So I was going to do a food blog instead, talk about the food system in this country, but then I realized I ranted about that not so long ago in a comment on Amber's blog, leaving me with very little to write about now.
So, instead of what could have been well thought out essays on current events you're stuck with my less well thought out rants on those previously mentioned blogs, and a bit of the rest of the random thoughts that are currently floating through my head.
I am getting totally burnt out of working at Starbucks. All my energy is just gone. Like a zombie going through the motions. And it doesn't help that I've been getting mostly closing shifts and that just kills the entire day.
Was invited to an underwear party that I couldn't go to because of my previously mentioned gripe. I probably wouldn't have gone to said party if I was able because I don't so much like people, especially strangers, and I would have known no one at said party save the hostess. And though I wouldn't mind seeing the hostess in her underwear (she's crazy hot and she knows it), I don't know how comfortable I would have been letting everyone else see me in my underwear. But it became a moot point, which is the part that's bothering me.
I liked the Iron Man movie. It was kinda predictable (who is he gonna fight but another big Iron man?) but was fun anyway. Not too keen on Gwenneth Paltrow, liked how they changed Jarvis from a human butler in the comic to a computer ai system in his house. Am interested to see where they go with the Ten Rings terrorist group and how they link it to The Mandarin without seeming racist in the next movies. Also think it's funny that Samuel L Jackson played Nick Fury as Nick Fury in the Ultimate Universe is modeled after Sam Jackson. Weird meta-fiction post-modern stuff going on there.
Can't wait for Indiana Jones. Am a little worried about it though. The previous movies are so good (Well the first and the third ones are) and it's been so long and so much build up that if this one is anything but amazing it's gonna be a disappointment.
Weired out a bit after talking to a co-worker about the batman movies. It turns out that the first michael keaton batman film came out a year before she was born (she's only 18). I remember seeing that in the theater.
Got a new computer a while ago (a macbook pro laptop) and having been having fun using it. Only I don't really need all the applications that it comes with and don't do music or movies, and feel like I should have just bought a regular macbook instead. On the plus side it was about 600 dollars cheaper because I was able to get one on clearance (only 2.2 ghz instead of the newest model which is 2.4) through the NYU computer store using my brothers student discount. I spent what I was planning on spending on a regular macbook, but could have definately saved a lot more money (and I really don't have that much to spare).
Another brother just got engaged. I don't remember if I posted bout this or not, and am too lazy to go back and check. I'm happy and excited for him. I just wish people stopped assuming this would make me unhappy for some reason as he is younger than me (they assumed the same thing when my other brother who just got married about two months ago, who is also younger - I have three younger brothers, I am the eldest). What kind of ass hole do people think I am that I'd be sad because my younger brothers found happiness first? I'm a bit jealous (not that I want to be married, but it'd be nice not to be single) I won't lie about that, but it's not an angry jealous, it's more like a be inspired jealous to make me get off my ass a bit more. And compared to the happy, the jealous is infinitesimal. And I'm psyched for the wedding. The last one was just so much fun.
In the same vein, I wish people would stop asking me when it's going to be my turn to get married. It's like they want to depress me by dredging up my singleness (this goes double for the people that mention J_ in the same sentence, as if talking about my ex who I was crazy, madly, head over heels in love with and who broke up with me, is supposed to somehow make me feel good about myself and my life? Assholes).
I just finished a short story that I'm kinda proud of and want to maybe send it out to literary magazines. But I'm still looking for some readers to give me some feedback. So if you are interested in helping me out, and reading it and letting me know what you think I'd be happy to send it to you. I'm not posting it in my fiction blog because I want to do something with it and that's just for random ideas and work I don't care as much about.
That's it I guess. Thanks for reading
Suckers.
So, instead of what could have been well thought out essays on current events you're stuck with my less well thought out rants on those previously mentioned blogs, and a bit of the rest of the random thoughts that are currently floating through my head.
I am getting totally burnt out of working at Starbucks. All my energy is just gone. Like a zombie going through the motions. And it doesn't help that I've been getting mostly closing shifts and that just kills the entire day.
Was invited to an underwear party that I couldn't go to because of my previously mentioned gripe. I probably wouldn't have gone to said party if I was able because I don't so much like people, especially strangers, and I would have known no one at said party save the hostess. And though I wouldn't mind seeing the hostess in her underwear (she's crazy hot and she knows it), I don't know how comfortable I would have been letting everyone else see me in my underwear. But it became a moot point, which is the part that's bothering me.
I liked the Iron Man movie. It was kinda predictable (who is he gonna fight but another big Iron man?) but was fun anyway. Not too keen on Gwenneth Paltrow, liked how they changed Jarvis from a human butler in the comic to a computer ai system in his house. Am interested to see where they go with the Ten Rings terrorist group and how they link it to The Mandarin without seeming racist in the next movies. Also think it's funny that Samuel L Jackson played Nick Fury as Nick Fury in the Ultimate Universe is modeled after Sam Jackson. Weird meta-fiction post-modern stuff going on there.
Can't wait for Indiana Jones. Am a little worried about it though. The previous movies are so good (Well the first and the third ones are) and it's been so long and so much build up that if this one is anything but amazing it's gonna be a disappointment.
Weired out a bit after talking to a co-worker about the batman movies. It turns out that the first michael keaton batman film came out a year before she was born (she's only 18). I remember seeing that in the theater.
Got a new computer a while ago (a macbook pro laptop) and having been having fun using it. Only I don't really need all the applications that it comes with and don't do music or movies, and feel like I should have just bought a regular macbook instead. On the plus side it was about 600 dollars cheaper because I was able to get one on clearance (only 2.2 ghz instead of the newest model which is 2.4) through the NYU computer store using my brothers student discount. I spent what I was planning on spending on a regular macbook, but could have definately saved a lot more money (and I really don't have that much to spare).
Another brother just got engaged. I don't remember if I posted bout this or not, and am too lazy to go back and check. I'm happy and excited for him. I just wish people stopped assuming this would make me unhappy for some reason as he is younger than me (they assumed the same thing when my other brother who just got married about two months ago, who is also younger - I have three younger brothers, I am the eldest). What kind of ass hole do people think I am that I'd be sad because my younger brothers found happiness first? I'm a bit jealous (not that I want to be married, but it'd be nice not to be single) I won't lie about that, but it's not an angry jealous, it's more like a be inspired jealous to make me get off my ass a bit more. And compared to the happy, the jealous is infinitesimal. And I'm psyched for the wedding. The last one was just so much fun.
In the same vein, I wish people would stop asking me when it's going to be my turn to get married. It's like they want to depress me by dredging up my singleness (this goes double for the people that mention J_ in the same sentence, as if talking about my ex who I was crazy, madly, head over heels in love with and who broke up with me, is supposed to somehow make me feel good about myself and my life? Assholes).
I just finished a short story that I'm kinda proud of and want to maybe send it out to literary magazines. But I'm still looking for some readers to give me some feedback. So if you are interested in helping me out, and reading it and letting me know what you think I'd be happy to send it to you. I'm not posting it in my fiction blog because I want to do something with it and that's just for random ideas and work I don't care as much about.
That's it I guess. Thanks for reading
Suckers.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Superman Returns, Again
Because I have some spare time right now, and lack of anywhere else to focus my imagination, and because sequels and superhero movies make money, I give you my thoughts as to how I would write the next Superman movie.
Ideally I would be able to start from scratch, leaving the 1978 Richard Donner Superman movie and 2007 Bryan Singer sequel/remake mythology out of it completely.
But as this is far from an ideal world (just ask Plato) for the sake of this pointless exercise, let's assume that I'd have to make it directly connected to the most recent incarnation (see Bryan Singer's sequel/remake link above).
I'm also going to assume that any reader of this entry has seen the most recent Superman movie. If you haven't, this is going to be something of a spoiler.
If you haven't seen it and are still reading because you are so completely fascinated with me, or just don't care if it's a bit ruined, here is a recap of the ending of the previous film. Superman ripped a man-made island composed entirly of kryptonite (built by one Lex Luthor) out of the Atlantic and hurled it into outer space. He nearly dies, but recovers only once he finds that he, not Richard White (Lois's fiancé) is the biological father of Lois's son Jason. Lex Luthor loses all his henchmen save Kitty and is stranded on a teeny tiny island in the middle of nowhere, with nothing but his girl Kitty, a small Pomeranian dog, a palm tree with six coconuts, and a helicopter without any fuel. The End.
And without any further ado, my thoughts for a sequel. This is only a rambling treatment, which of course would need a few polishes and revisions, but as it stands in my head right now:
We start on a boat anchored many miles off the coast of Metropolis. Here we have treasure hunters deep sea diving looking for any remnants of the Kryptonite Island that Lex Luthor built. They have no desire to kill Superman, but know that Kryptonite is an alien mineral, and have been hired by a private research firm for a tremendous amount of money to bring the mineral back for further study. Their motive is purely for profit, not for evil. Low and Behold they find a few small chunks of Kryptonite that fell off the Island as it was flung to outer space. One the way back from their successful search, coincidence of coincidences, they notice a helicopter stranded on a teeny tiny island and decide to investigate. Bum, bum, bummmmmm.
Now cut to Superman doing superman type stuff. Saving kittens from trees, Rescuing people from earthquakes, putting out fires, foiling bank robbers. That sort of thing. All the while, between each mission, flies by Lois and Richard's house checking up on his baby and baby momma so to speak. Richard, though a genuinely nice guy, starts getting a little pissed and a little jealous. He realizes very early on who Jason's real father is, as, since the first movie, Jason's Kryptonian powers start kicking in randomly, and kicking out equally as randomly. Of course Lois tries hiding it from Richard, which only puts that much more of a strain on their relationship. Jason has no idea what's going on and none of his parents, biological or in Richard's case, adoptive, tell him. Thus he's pretty freaked out.
Clark is sent by Perry to cover the newest press conference of one Professer Emmet Vale. Vale is on the forefront of robotics and is discussing his newest invention. A human like robot covered in artificial skin (think like Arnold Schwarzenegger in T1 through T3) to be sent into space and deep-sea expeditions in lieu of humans. The key is that the robots containing no intelligence of their own would be directly controlled by a human operator via some sort of remote control that was linked to their thoughts - sort of like a virtual reality machine. Using only one's brain one would control said robot over thousands of miles of distance ( yes I know that sort of radio control is impossible as instantiations transmission is physically impossible without breaking the speed of light, but if we can believe a man can fly, hopefully we can believe this sort of remote control is also possible). The only drawback to his design is the simple fact that the robot eats up a tremendous amount of energy and they haven't designed a small enough energy source capable of powering the robot for extended periods of time. Vale in the course of the press conference hints that a solution for the problem is forthcoming, and the final prototype will be unveiled by the end of the fiscal year.
Lois, crack reporter that she is, is doing research for a new story on Intergang. A shady organization focused on exploiting new technology for all its criminal needs. They don't focus on drugs, prostitution, gambling, or other protection rackets like regular organized crime. They focus on high-end weapons, computer programs, and what not in order to hack banks and government organizations, as well as break into banks and so forth. Superman is back and regular bullets and the like don't work. These guys are the 21st century of organized crime. She tracks down one of Intergang's main enforcers John Corben to try and get him to talk, but he brushes her off and threatens her that if she keeps on digging bad things may start happening to her loved ones.
Now, the boat we saw in the beginning comes into dock (yes I know it's been a long time, but this is a movie, stuff like that happens all out of order). Now, instead of the treasure hunters we met in the beginning Lex Luthor and Kitty walk ashore disguised as the treasure hunters. Lex is happy and confident. He's back in Metropolis and has the Kryptonite he needs to get his revenge. Before he can get anywhere he is confronted by Vale. Vale was the one who hired the treasure hunters in the first place, and assumes (due to the disguise) that Lex is a member of the team. Lex takes advantage of the mistake and follows Vale back to Vale's Lab (Lex is a fugitive and has no where else to go at the moment). At the lab Vale reveals that the kryptonite is intended to be used as a power source for his new robot, which he calls Metallo. There is a cavity in the Robots chest that has been retrofitted to house the kryptonite and convert the k-radiation into energy. It's not quite finished yet, however, he needed the actual kryptonite in order to finish it to the correct specification needed. Until then, the robot is actually powered by Uranium, which is not only incredibly expensive, but due to the robots power usage, goes through the uranium far to quickly to make it practical or ecologically sound.
Re-enter John Corben. He breaks into Vale's Lab in order to steal his invention, as is intergangs modus operandi. There is a struggle, Corben kills Vale, but Lex gets the drop on Corben and mortally injures him. As Corben lays dying, Lex steps over to finish him off, looks at Metallo, then at Corben, and smiles a diabolical smile. Bum, bum, bummmmm (once again).
Richard finally confronts Lois about Jason, and the frequent flyby's by the Man of Steel, but Lois won't have any of it. He earnestly wants to try talking it out, working through the hardship, but Lois plays a game of avoidance and denial, saying she can't talk now, she's too busy with her Intergang story. She's close to breaking it wide open.
At the same time Superman, due to his frequent flybys knows Jason is starting to exhibit his powers, and begins to secretly train his son. Not so much to fight crime, but to control the powers that are freaking Jason out so much. Jason, being a pretty bright kid, has very strong suspicions that Richard is not his father as he previously thought.
Lois manages to track down the head of intergang Bruno "Ugly" Mannhiem. Because in the movies Lois is impetuous (and kinda stupid) she decides to confront Mannhiem herself for her story. The exchange is heated, and Mannhiem realizes he can't let her live. He sends some of his goons after her. A bit of a chase scene, and right when everything looks the bleakest a figure from the sky crashes down and saves her from the goons. She turns and is about to say something like "thank you Superman" but realizes it's an entirely different man of steel (jeepers, am I clever!). It's Metallo who just saved her life. "I told you to stay away." Metallo says with John Corben's disembodied voice, but as he reaches to kill her he stops suddenly and voilently, as if he is not in control of his own movements. Then he grumbles something like "fine, I'll let her live, for now." before he knocks her out and bounds off for the bossman Ugly Mannheim. Metallo easily dispatches Mannheim and there is a new boss of Intergang now.
It's only then that Superman swoops in and now we have our first real super battle. It's quick, it's brutal, but Metallo is quickly running out of energy, so he uses Lois as a decoy and quickly escapes as Superman rushes to save her.
Metallo returns to Vale's Lab. There he argues with his master, Lex Luthor. He tries to attack Luthor but freezes up. Luthor has an override for his metallic assassin. It is at that time we learn that Luthor saved Corben Removing his brain and attaching it to the virtual reality device that controls the robot. Luthor used Corben because he wanted Corben's inside knowledge of Intergang. It's Luthor who's really in control.
Lois and Richard learn of Jason's secret training and they are not happy. This puts a strain on Superman and Lois's relationship. It also puts a strain on Richard and Lois's relationship. Lois and Jason become a bit emotionally distant because he knows that she lied to him about his biological father. Jason and Superman become distant again, as Lois forbids the training. The only relationship that grows stronger is the bond between Jason and Richard. Richard loves Jason just like a father (biological or adoptive) should, and Jason's love for his adoptive father only grows in admiration of Richards continual support.
Lois forbids Jason from using his powers, and Superman then agrees. Jason then becomes estranged from his biological father.
Clark does a follow up to the Vale story only to find that Vale is dead. Doing a bit of research, he finds out that the death of Vale is directly related to Intergang, and Perry assigns Lois and Clark to team up on the story. Lois is consumed with the story using it to avoid her personal life. Clark becomes the only real stable thing in her life and for the first time she starts to really appreciate him. He is safe as compared to her son, her fiancé or even her love with Superman. The love triangle gets more complicated.
Using Intergang and Metallo, Luthor starts taking over the entire Metropolis underworld. Superman begins fighting back, saving people and such, slowly catching on that it's all organized. Not realizing that Luthor is setting him up for the kill. Luthor finally is able to assemble the kryptonite energy converter to the proper specifications and carefully removes the uranium and replaces it with the kryptonite as Vale originally intended.
We're closing towards the end.
Lois, the crack investigative journalist that she is, discovers Luthor is behind the new wave of crime hitting metropolis.
She of course is taken hostage, as was Luthor's plan all along. It's up to Superman and Richard to save her.
Superman swoops in as he tends to do but is confronted again by Metallo, this time far more powerful as the Kryptonite proves to be a much stronger power source. The two men of steel duke it out. The full on sort of action that we wanted so much in the first one. Big special effects, big explosion, big hits, ect. When it looks like Superman is on top Metallo rips open his chest, exposing Superman to the deadly kryptonite held within. Richard tries to help and shield Superman from the K-radiation, but is put in mortal danger as well. Lex gets to watch it all through the monitors back in Vale's lab seeing through Metallo's eyes. He forces Lois to watch what appears to be the end for both of her lovers.
Back at the scene of the fight, Jason rushes forward wanting to help, torn between his two father figures. His powers are acting up and he can only save one of them, the other is going to die. Richard tells him to save Superman while Superman is too weak to do anything. Jason zooms forward and saves.... bum, bum, bummmm his step father Richard.
Superman remains slowly dying.
Back in the lab Lois, fearing for Superman’s life, struggles once again and manages to get free, running to the controls and remotely shutting Metallo's chest.
Superman gets up, beats back Metallo, and uses his heat vision to seal the chest cavity shut. And puts down Metallo.
The ending I'm a little unsure of. Somehow we need to get all of our characters in the same place. Superman, Richard, Lois, Jason, and Lex. Lex still has a little Kryptonite left, and for the first time, now that his powers are starting to kick in the Kryptonite affects Jason.
Of course there is a struggle, Kitty (you haven't forgotten about her have you, she was around the entire time, mostly to provide witty repartee with Luthor) lets her conscious get the better of her just like the first one, and helps save our heroes. Luthor escapes (because Luthor always escapes) and in the confusion, the machine that hooks Corben's brain the the Metallo machine is destroyed, and traps Corben's consciousness forever inside Metallo.
We end with Lois publishing the story of it all, how it was Luthor behind it all. Her relationship with Richard is almost at an end, her relationship with superman is just as strange as it always is, but now her relationship with Clark is stronger than it ever was. And on that odd note, perhaps leading the two of them to a romance in the third movie, we end leaving everything back to the status quo (with Lois of course realizing that for Jason's own safety she has to let Superman continue to train him).
Epilogue: Luthor on the lamb has a lot of cool tech and files he raided from Intergang and Professor Vale. On one such file is named: "Codename: Brianiac", and thus we end giving us a straightforward segue to the next picture.
The end.
Not the best, perhaps, but just some thoughts as to how I would do it if I was forced to work with the established source material. How I would do it from scratch is a completely different story that I suppose I'll save for another time, if anyone is actually intersted.
Ideally I would be able to start from scratch, leaving the 1978 Richard Donner Superman movie and 2007 Bryan Singer sequel/remake mythology out of it completely.
But as this is far from an ideal world (just ask Plato) for the sake of this pointless exercise, let's assume that I'd have to make it directly connected to the most recent incarnation (see Bryan Singer's sequel/remake link above).
I'm also going to assume that any reader of this entry has seen the most recent Superman movie. If you haven't, this is going to be something of a spoiler.
If you haven't seen it and are still reading because you are so completely fascinated with me, or just don't care if it's a bit ruined, here is a recap of the ending of the previous film. Superman ripped a man-made island composed entirly of kryptonite (built by one Lex Luthor) out of the Atlantic and hurled it into outer space. He nearly dies, but recovers only once he finds that he, not Richard White (Lois's fiancé) is the biological father of Lois's son Jason. Lex Luthor loses all his henchmen save Kitty and is stranded on a teeny tiny island in the middle of nowhere, with nothing but his girl Kitty, a small Pomeranian dog, a palm tree with six coconuts, and a helicopter without any fuel. The End.
And without any further ado, my thoughts for a sequel. This is only a rambling treatment, which of course would need a few polishes and revisions, but as it stands in my head right now:
We start on a boat anchored many miles off the coast of Metropolis. Here we have treasure hunters deep sea diving looking for any remnants of the Kryptonite Island that Lex Luthor built. They have no desire to kill Superman, but know that Kryptonite is an alien mineral, and have been hired by a private research firm for a tremendous amount of money to bring the mineral back for further study. Their motive is purely for profit, not for evil. Low and Behold they find a few small chunks of Kryptonite that fell off the Island as it was flung to outer space. One the way back from their successful search, coincidence of coincidences, they notice a helicopter stranded on a teeny tiny island and decide to investigate. Bum, bum, bummmmmm.
Now cut to Superman doing superman type stuff. Saving kittens from trees, Rescuing people from earthquakes, putting out fires, foiling bank robbers. That sort of thing. All the while, between each mission, flies by Lois and Richard's house checking up on his baby and baby momma so to speak. Richard, though a genuinely nice guy, starts getting a little pissed and a little jealous. He realizes very early on who Jason's real father is, as, since the first movie, Jason's Kryptonian powers start kicking in randomly, and kicking out equally as randomly. Of course Lois tries hiding it from Richard, which only puts that much more of a strain on their relationship. Jason has no idea what's going on and none of his parents, biological or in Richard's case, adoptive, tell him. Thus he's pretty freaked out.
Clark is sent by Perry to cover the newest press conference of one Professer Emmet Vale. Vale is on the forefront of robotics and is discussing his newest invention. A human like robot covered in artificial skin (think like Arnold Schwarzenegger in T1 through T3) to be sent into space and deep-sea expeditions in lieu of humans. The key is that the robots containing no intelligence of their own would be directly controlled by a human operator via some sort of remote control that was linked to their thoughts - sort of like a virtual reality machine. Using only one's brain one would control said robot over thousands of miles of distance ( yes I know that sort of radio control is impossible as instantiations transmission is physically impossible without breaking the speed of light, but if we can believe a man can fly, hopefully we can believe this sort of remote control is also possible). The only drawback to his design is the simple fact that the robot eats up a tremendous amount of energy and they haven't designed a small enough energy source capable of powering the robot for extended periods of time. Vale in the course of the press conference hints that a solution for the problem is forthcoming, and the final prototype will be unveiled by the end of the fiscal year.
Lois, crack reporter that she is, is doing research for a new story on Intergang. A shady organization focused on exploiting new technology for all its criminal needs. They don't focus on drugs, prostitution, gambling, or other protection rackets like regular organized crime. They focus on high-end weapons, computer programs, and what not in order to hack banks and government organizations, as well as break into banks and so forth. Superman is back and regular bullets and the like don't work. These guys are the 21st century of organized crime. She tracks down one of Intergang's main enforcers John Corben to try and get him to talk, but he brushes her off and threatens her that if she keeps on digging bad things may start happening to her loved ones.
Now, the boat we saw in the beginning comes into dock (yes I know it's been a long time, but this is a movie, stuff like that happens all out of order). Now, instead of the treasure hunters we met in the beginning Lex Luthor and Kitty walk ashore disguised as the treasure hunters. Lex is happy and confident. He's back in Metropolis and has the Kryptonite he needs to get his revenge. Before he can get anywhere he is confronted by Vale. Vale was the one who hired the treasure hunters in the first place, and assumes (due to the disguise) that Lex is a member of the team. Lex takes advantage of the mistake and follows Vale back to Vale's Lab (Lex is a fugitive and has no where else to go at the moment). At the lab Vale reveals that the kryptonite is intended to be used as a power source for his new robot, which he calls Metallo. There is a cavity in the Robots chest that has been retrofitted to house the kryptonite and convert the k-radiation into energy. It's not quite finished yet, however, he needed the actual kryptonite in order to finish it to the correct specification needed. Until then, the robot is actually powered by Uranium, which is not only incredibly expensive, but due to the robots power usage, goes through the uranium far to quickly to make it practical or ecologically sound.
Re-enter John Corben. He breaks into Vale's Lab in order to steal his invention, as is intergangs modus operandi. There is a struggle, Corben kills Vale, but Lex gets the drop on Corben and mortally injures him. As Corben lays dying, Lex steps over to finish him off, looks at Metallo, then at Corben, and smiles a diabolical smile. Bum, bum, bummmmm (once again).
Richard finally confronts Lois about Jason, and the frequent flyby's by the Man of Steel, but Lois won't have any of it. He earnestly wants to try talking it out, working through the hardship, but Lois plays a game of avoidance and denial, saying she can't talk now, she's too busy with her Intergang story. She's close to breaking it wide open.
At the same time Superman, due to his frequent flybys knows Jason is starting to exhibit his powers, and begins to secretly train his son. Not so much to fight crime, but to control the powers that are freaking Jason out so much. Jason, being a pretty bright kid, has very strong suspicions that Richard is not his father as he previously thought.
Lois manages to track down the head of intergang Bruno "Ugly" Mannhiem. Because in the movies Lois is impetuous (and kinda stupid) she decides to confront Mannhiem herself for her story. The exchange is heated, and Mannhiem realizes he can't let her live. He sends some of his goons after her. A bit of a chase scene, and right when everything looks the bleakest a figure from the sky crashes down and saves her from the goons. She turns and is about to say something like "thank you Superman" but realizes it's an entirely different man of steel (jeepers, am I clever!). It's Metallo who just saved her life. "I told you to stay away." Metallo says with John Corben's disembodied voice, but as he reaches to kill her he stops suddenly and voilently, as if he is not in control of his own movements. Then he grumbles something like "fine, I'll let her live, for now." before he knocks her out and bounds off for the bossman Ugly Mannheim. Metallo easily dispatches Mannheim and there is a new boss of Intergang now.
It's only then that Superman swoops in and now we have our first real super battle. It's quick, it's brutal, but Metallo is quickly running out of energy, so he uses Lois as a decoy and quickly escapes as Superman rushes to save her.
Metallo returns to Vale's Lab. There he argues with his master, Lex Luthor. He tries to attack Luthor but freezes up. Luthor has an override for his metallic assassin. It is at that time we learn that Luthor saved Corben Removing his brain and attaching it to the virtual reality device that controls the robot. Luthor used Corben because he wanted Corben's inside knowledge of Intergang. It's Luthor who's really in control.
Lois and Richard learn of Jason's secret training and they are not happy. This puts a strain on Superman and Lois's relationship. It also puts a strain on Richard and Lois's relationship. Lois and Jason become a bit emotionally distant because he knows that she lied to him about his biological father. Jason and Superman become distant again, as Lois forbids the training. The only relationship that grows stronger is the bond between Jason and Richard. Richard loves Jason just like a father (biological or adoptive) should, and Jason's love for his adoptive father only grows in admiration of Richards continual support.
Lois forbids Jason from using his powers, and Superman then agrees. Jason then becomes estranged from his biological father.
Clark does a follow up to the Vale story only to find that Vale is dead. Doing a bit of research, he finds out that the death of Vale is directly related to Intergang, and Perry assigns Lois and Clark to team up on the story. Lois is consumed with the story using it to avoid her personal life. Clark becomes the only real stable thing in her life and for the first time she starts to really appreciate him. He is safe as compared to her son, her fiancé or even her love with Superman. The love triangle gets more complicated.
Using Intergang and Metallo, Luthor starts taking over the entire Metropolis underworld. Superman begins fighting back, saving people and such, slowly catching on that it's all organized. Not realizing that Luthor is setting him up for the kill. Luthor finally is able to assemble the kryptonite energy converter to the proper specifications and carefully removes the uranium and replaces it with the kryptonite as Vale originally intended.
We're closing towards the end.
Lois, the crack investigative journalist that she is, discovers Luthor is behind the new wave of crime hitting metropolis.
She of course is taken hostage, as was Luthor's plan all along. It's up to Superman and Richard to save her.
Superman swoops in as he tends to do but is confronted again by Metallo, this time far more powerful as the Kryptonite proves to be a much stronger power source. The two men of steel duke it out. The full on sort of action that we wanted so much in the first one. Big special effects, big explosion, big hits, ect. When it looks like Superman is on top Metallo rips open his chest, exposing Superman to the deadly kryptonite held within. Richard tries to help and shield Superman from the K-radiation, but is put in mortal danger as well. Lex gets to watch it all through the monitors back in Vale's lab seeing through Metallo's eyes. He forces Lois to watch what appears to be the end for both of her lovers.
Back at the scene of the fight, Jason rushes forward wanting to help, torn between his two father figures. His powers are acting up and he can only save one of them, the other is going to die. Richard tells him to save Superman while Superman is too weak to do anything. Jason zooms forward and saves.... bum, bum, bummmm his step father Richard.
Superman remains slowly dying.
Back in the lab Lois, fearing for Superman’s life, struggles once again and manages to get free, running to the controls and remotely shutting Metallo's chest.
Superman gets up, beats back Metallo, and uses his heat vision to seal the chest cavity shut. And puts down Metallo.
The ending I'm a little unsure of. Somehow we need to get all of our characters in the same place. Superman, Richard, Lois, Jason, and Lex. Lex still has a little Kryptonite left, and for the first time, now that his powers are starting to kick in the Kryptonite affects Jason.
Of course there is a struggle, Kitty (you haven't forgotten about her have you, she was around the entire time, mostly to provide witty repartee with Luthor) lets her conscious get the better of her just like the first one, and helps save our heroes. Luthor escapes (because Luthor always escapes) and in the confusion, the machine that hooks Corben's brain the the Metallo machine is destroyed, and traps Corben's consciousness forever inside Metallo.
We end with Lois publishing the story of it all, how it was Luthor behind it all. Her relationship with Richard is almost at an end, her relationship with superman is just as strange as it always is, but now her relationship with Clark is stronger than it ever was. And on that odd note, perhaps leading the two of them to a romance in the third movie, we end leaving everything back to the status quo (with Lois of course realizing that for Jason's own safety she has to let Superman continue to train him).
Epilogue: Luthor on the lamb has a lot of cool tech and files he raided from Intergang and Professor Vale. On one such file is named: "Codename: Brianiac", and thus we end giving us a straightforward segue to the next picture.
The end.
Not the best, perhaps, but just some thoughts as to how I would do it if I was forced to work with the established source material. How I would do it from scratch is a completely different story that I suppose I'll save for another time, if anyone is actually intersted.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Fodder for potential stories (and other links of interest)
This is more for my own personal files than it will be for your reading pleasure, though if you want to know the type of stuff that grabs my interest, please enjoy this list of links to various news stories.
Some are bits that spark ideas to be used or modified for future fiction I might conceive, whilst the others are just kinda neat. I haven't verified or done any real fact checking, yet. Needless to say that if any wind up in a story idea more research will be done.
ps3 smarter than supercomputers (wired.com)
this is just more mean than ironic, but talk about false advertising...
Slacker sex comedy maybe? Anything about breasts usually sells (thelondonpaper.com).
not synaesthetic , but seeing eye tongues (scienceblogs.com).
the real TIE (twin ion engines) fighters. (wired.com)
plants that clean as they grow (enviromentalgraffiti.com)
They grew Hitler's brain (not really but still sounds better than they grew a tiny brain in a petri dish - which actually does sound pretty cool the more I think about it). This is definitely story-worth, science fiction meet science fact (cnn.com)
there is a comic book story waiting to grow from this (the discovery channel online, I think)
KABOOM! (youtube.com)
Slightly older news but still pretty cool (time.com)
there is a story in this somewhere, especially, the bit about the abandoned but fully stocked life raft but I need to verify from a more reputable source. (damninteresting.com)
so congress doesn't completely suck (editorandpublisher.com)
I guess he never watches futurama and heeded the warnings of the space pope (ananova.com)
I guess that's all for now, hope you had as much fun as I did.
Some are bits that spark ideas to be used or modified for future fiction I might conceive, whilst the others are just kinda neat. I haven't verified or done any real fact checking, yet. Needless to say that if any wind up in a story idea more research will be done.
ps3 smarter than supercomputers (wired.com)
this is just more mean than ironic, but talk about false advertising...
Slacker sex comedy maybe? Anything about breasts usually sells (thelondonpaper.com).
not synaesthetic , but seeing eye tongues (scienceblogs.com).
the real TIE (twin ion engines) fighters. (wired.com)
plants that clean as they grow (enviromentalgraffiti.com)
They grew Hitler's brain (not really but still sounds better than they grew a tiny brain in a petri dish - which actually does sound pretty cool the more I think about it). This is definitely story-worth, science fiction meet science fact (cnn.com)
there is a comic book story waiting to grow from this (the discovery channel online, I think)
KABOOM! (youtube.com)
Slightly older news but still pretty cool (time.com)
there is a story in this somewhere, especially, the bit about the abandoned but fully stocked life raft but I need to verify from a more reputable source. (damninteresting.com)
so congress doesn't completely suck (editorandpublisher.com)
I guess he never watches futurama and heeded the warnings of the space pope (ananova.com)
I guess that's all for now, hope you had as much fun as I did.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Life might not totally suck
For various reasons that I'll mention if it turns out life doesn't suck. If life does suck then we already know why.
Also, please check out my pal's Charlie's blog. She's a hundred times better at this than I am, also more interesting and smarter. (The fact that she's a far superior writer also helps).
I'll hyperlink it here, when I'm less lazy, but for know it's already linked on the side column where I have all my blog links. Enjoy you crazy readers.
Also, please check out my pal's Charlie's blog. She's a hundred times better at this than I am, also more interesting and smarter. (The fact that she's a far superior writer also helps).
I'll hyperlink it here, when I'm less lazy, but for know it's already linked on the side column where I have all my blog links. Enjoy you crazy readers.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Dear jerks on the New Jersey highways who cut me off in the passing lane then slowed down
Don't Do That! God I hate New Jersey. It's a fine place to be from, but I honestly have no idea why anyone would want to live there.
So the internet in my house hasn't been working, which explains my absense from the blogosphere (grahh! I can't believe I actually used that term and that I am considering myself part of it. I think I might need this t-shirt from here - second one down). Anway, I'm back and good to go.
Stuff happened, but we move on. Saw J_ this past weekend. Visited her up at her college (Upstate NY - five hour drive). Felt very old when hanging out with one of her freinds who still needs to wear braces. It's funny, when I was there I had a very hard time falling asleep in her bed being that it was a dorm room bed and not nearly big enough for the both of us to sleep in comfortably. But when I got home, last night, I found I had an equally hard time falling asleep without her next to me. Irony abounds.
For those curious, the newest draft of my screenplay TALES FROM ATOM CITY has been uploaded on Triggerstreet.com. I plan on finding some compititions to send said script out to, only I wanted the feedback just to make sure that it is solid.
If you would like to read said script, I have found a way around the Triggerstreet system and just by CLICKING ON THIS LINK* you will be directed to an online pdf version of the script.
Once again, just CLICK ON THIS LINK**
This is a limited time offer. I plan on taking down the link in one week from today, just because I get to nervous having my work uploaded all over the place. It is a wga registered script (which is akin to getting it copywritten) but still, I get nervous. Thus, if you care to read it, and you are under no obligation to do so, I hope you enjoy.
Oh yeah, terms of note: INT.=Interior; EXT.=Exterior, I/E.=Both Interior and Exterior (the director gets to choose which parts of the convesation are filmed from which angle); MONTAGE = a series of shots juxtaposed to tell a larger story; (V.O)=Voice Over; (O.S)=Off Screen. And I think that's all you need to know. And for those curious, the general rule of thumb is one page in a script = one minute of screen time.
And I goofed on the title page. It says "Something into Nothing" which was the old working title. Tales From Atom City is the new working title. If any of you actually do read this, and have a brilliant idea for a real title, please let me know. I am crap when it comes to coming up with titles.
Cheers for now.
*Though it took me a while, I finally followed through on my threat (or reward depending on whether or not you liked the script) and the link has been taken down.
**See previous footnote.
So the internet in my house hasn't been working, which explains my absense from the blogosphere (grahh! I can't believe I actually used that term and that I am considering myself part of it. I think I might need this t-shirt from here - second one down). Anway, I'm back and good to go.
Stuff happened, but we move on. Saw J_ this past weekend. Visited her up at her college (Upstate NY - five hour drive). Felt very old when hanging out with one of her freinds who still needs to wear braces. It's funny, when I was there I had a very hard time falling asleep in her bed being that it was a dorm room bed and not nearly big enough for the both of us to sleep in comfortably. But when I got home, last night, I found I had an equally hard time falling asleep without her next to me. Irony abounds.
For those curious, the newest draft of my screenplay TALES FROM ATOM CITY has been uploaded on Triggerstreet.com. I plan on finding some compititions to send said script out to, only I wanted the feedback just to make sure that it is solid.
If you would like to read said script, I have found a way around the Triggerstreet system and just by CLICKING ON THIS LINK* you will be directed to an online pdf version of the script.
Once again, just CLICK ON THIS LINK**
This is a limited time offer. I plan on taking down the link in one week from today, just because I get to nervous having my work uploaded all over the place. It is a wga registered script (which is akin to getting it copywritten) but still, I get nervous. Thus, if you care to read it, and you are under no obligation to do so, I hope you enjoy.
Oh yeah, terms of note: INT.=Interior; EXT.=Exterior, I/E.=Both Interior and Exterior (the director gets to choose which parts of the convesation are filmed from which angle); MONTAGE = a series of shots juxtaposed to tell a larger story; (V.O)=Voice Over; (O.S)=Off Screen. And I think that's all you need to know. And for those curious, the general rule of thumb is one page in a script = one minute of screen time.
And I goofed on the title page. It says "Something into Nothing" which was the old working title. Tales From Atom City is the new working title. If any of you actually do read this, and have a brilliant idea for a real title, please let me know. I am crap when it comes to coming up with titles.
Cheers for now.
*Though it took me a while, I finally followed through on my threat (or reward depending on whether or not you liked the script) and the link has been taken down.
**See previous footnote.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
All ideas sound stupid when written out
As if hit by an epiphany, or if nothing else, the big fat stupid-stick, the workings of a new story are bubbling in the back of my mind. It's not a particularly good story, and it is by no means a complete story. In fact, I would classify it more along the lines of an idea for a story. I don't think I particularly enjoy this idea; but like the spinach I still have stuck between my teeth from my salad last night, I can't disloge it. Hence, for your reading pleasure and in the hopes that once it's written down I can forget it, I give you the idea.
In the future, when mankind is no longer tethered to Earth, in the furthest reaches of the known galaxies - the last outposts of the human empire reside. In these outposts both Justice and Injustice are found through the barrel of a gun. A place that's short on law and long on vice. Just like the cliched old westerns, all arguements are settled through a duel. This brings us to the as of yet (because I haven't come up with one) named MAIN CHARACTER, the quickest gunman in all the outposts. He's only 32 but that's old as most gunmen die young. For years he's been challenged by younger gunslingers hoping to claim his title as their own and for years he always won. During breakfast right before his most recent duel, after taking his thrid bite of bacon, he begins to have a nervous breakdown, which only grows even greater after barely surving the duel. Throughout the as of yet undecided plot he grows more and more insane believing his now erratic inner monologue to be a seperate voice than his (it isn't) that helps him predict the future (which it doesn't).
I don't have any more than that, but now that it's out, hopefully I can put it to rest.
On a side note I'm off to some book store at Columbus circle. Sarah Vowell will be either 1) signing or 2) reading from her book, or maybe both, or perhaps 3) something else all together. I'm not entirly sure, but I was told she'd be there so that's where I shall be as well.
In the future, when mankind is no longer tethered to Earth, in the furthest reaches of the known galaxies - the last outposts of the human empire reside. In these outposts both Justice and Injustice are found through the barrel of a gun. A place that's short on law and long on vice. Just like the cliched old westerns, all arguements are settled through a duel. This brings us to the as of yet (because I haven't come up with one) named MAIN CHARACTER, the quickest gunman in all the outposts. He's only 32 but that's old as most gunmen die young. For years he's been challenged by younger gunslingers hoping to claim his title as their own and for years he always won. During breakfast right before his most recent duel, after taking his thrid bite of bacon, he begins to have a nervous breakdown, which only grows even greater after barely surving the duel. Throughout the as of yet undecided plot he grows more and more insane believing his now erratic inner monologue to be a seperate voice than his (it isn't) that helps him predict the future (which it doesn't).
I don't have any more than that, but now that it's out, hopefully I can put it to rest.
On a side note I'm off to some book store at Columbus circle. Sarah Vowell will be either 1) signing or 2) reading from her book, or maybe both, or perhaps 3) something else all together. I'm not entirly sure, but I was told she'd be there so that's where I shall be as well.
Monday, January 09, 2006
The good and the bad (the ugly is on a much needed vacation)
I have caught a cold. It's one of those really annoying completely bearable colds. It's just enough to make you feel lousy, but not lousy enough to skip work, or any other aspect of life to rot in front of the TV with a box of tissues and hot soup. This is me drinking tons of OJ, sucking down halls vitamin C drops (strawberry flavored) and drinking cup after cup of chamomile tea. For dinner on Friday I made an egg drop soup (super easy) and a rice and spinach casserole. The egg drop soup was good - though kinda a cheat. It's just about a quart of chicken stock (fake chicken stock for us vegetarians) a tablespoon of soy sauce, and a tablespoon of tomato sauce. When it's all boiling you drop two eggs (already scrambled) into the soup and whisk vigorously for thirty seconds. Serve immediately with some chopped scallions to garnish. It's not filling but it is definitely soothing.
My brother made the astute and oddly accurate remark that the casserole was both bland and spicy at the same time. Yes I know that sounds impossible, yet with my culinary skills (or lack thereof) I have achieved this dichotomous feat. Needless to say we have a lot left over in the fridge.
I have a new script up on Triggerstreet available for anyone to read. The bad news, you have to become a member of Triggerstreet to actually read any of the scripts posted there. The good news, membership is free, and they really don't give out any personal information. I've been a member for nearly a year and all my info has been kept completely and utterly confidential. The script is called Nothing into Something (working title only) and has gotten three reviews starting it off at number 96 on the site. For those of you unfamiliar (have yet to read my rants about triggerstreet here, here, here, here, here, here, and here) Triggerstreet is a forum and to a lesser extent competition for amateur screenwriters and film makers to post their work and get feedback from other members (technically it's also Kevin Spacey's production company). The feedback one receives comes in the form of reviews thus giving one's script a ranking. New rankings are compiled nightly based on any new reviews. As I see it 96 is a very respectable starting point as there are 2317 ranked scripts on the site. Being in the top 100 is great, though I wouldn't mind this one hitting the top ten. I just have to wait for more reviews to pour in.
If you are curious as to what my screenplays might be like feel free to join Triggerstreet and check for yourself. I would make them downloadable from my blog if only I knew how.
My brother made the astute and oddly accurate remark that the casserole was both bland and spicy at the same time. Yes I know that sounds impossible, yet with my culinary skills (or lack thereof) I have achieved this dichotomous feat. Needless to say we have a lot left over in the fridge.
I have a new script up on Triggerstreet available for anyone to read. The bad news, you have to become a member of Triggerstreet to actually read any of the scripts posted there. The good news, membership is free, and they really don't give out any personal information. I've been a member for nearly a year and all my info has been kept completely and utterly confidential. The script is called Nothing into Something (working title only) and has gotten three reviews starting it off at number 96 on the site. For those of you unfamiliar (have yet to read my rants about triggerstreet here, here, here, here, here, here, and here) Triggerstreet is a forum and to a lesser extent competition for amateur screenwriters and film makers to post their work and get feedback from other members (technically it's also Kevin Spacey's production company). The feedback one receives comes in the form of reviews thus giving one's script a ranking. New rankings are compiled nightly based on any new reviews. As I see it 96 is a very respectable starting point as there are 2317 ranked scripts on the site. Being in the top 100 is great, though I wouldn't mind this one hitting the top ten. I just have to wait for more reviews to pour in.
If you are curious as to what my screenplays might be like feel free to join Triggerstreet and check for yourself. I would make them downloadable from my blog if only I knew how.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
An ever growing portfolio
It's odd, every so often finding myself with nothing to write about. I don't know how people manage to post everyday and continue to be interesting. I'm trying to get back into prose writing, as the past year was mostly spent on screenplays and comic book scripts (had an artist, lost the artist, now still looking for an artist). I've decided to try and send my stuff out (once it's all good and polished and such) to some magazines and wait for the rejection letters to role in. Straight prose fiction has never really been my thing but I'm going to give it a shot.
And in the efforts to build my writing portfolio you can all go to The Noyse and check out my Newest Editoral.
Also, what does <3 mean? I've seen it on a few teen blogs and have yet to figure it out.
And in the efforts to build my writing portfolio you can all go to The Noyse and check out my Newest Editoral.
Also, what does <3 mean? I've seen it on a few teen blogs and have yet to figure it out.
Monday, November 14, 2005
A day of writing
It's been a while since I've updated Symphony of Sweets, and I've been meaning to (for the very few people that might actually be reading it) only I don't like the way it's went and I'm having a hard time getting the next chapter out. I though putting myself in a bind with a structure would help, only now I'm just disapointed with my work. I will get back to it soon (I just started on the first chapter for the seventh time and I think I have something), but until then feel free to check out my newest brainstorm on my Fiction Blog.
Whenever I am stumpted on something I want to write I wind up writing something else far more silly, just to cleanse the my writing palate. It keeps me fresh and keeps the weird fun stuff from infecting the stories I'm more passionate about. It's not a finished work as I don't know what's really going to happen next, and I thought this would be a perfect time to get feedback (if any of you are so inclined to read thet story) so I can mold the story into what it will become. Read it, don't read it, at least it keeps me off the streets yelling at strangers like a crazy old man.
Whenever I am stumpted on something I want to write I wind up writing something else far more silly, just to cleanse the my writing palate. It keeps me fresh and keeps the weird fun stuff from infecting the stories I'm more passionate about. It's not a finished work as I don't know what's really going to happen next, and I thought this would be a perfect time to get feedback (if any of you are so inclined to read thet story) so I can mold the story into what it will become. Read it, don't read it, at least it keeps me off the streets yelling at strangers like a crazy old man.
I love canadians
I do, but that is really neither here nor there.
If you are at all interested, I wrote a review for The Squid and The Whale, which can be read Here at TheNoyse.com.
If you are at all interested, I wrote a review for The Squid and The Whale, which can be read Here at TheNoyse.com.
Friday, November 11, 2005
looking down my nose (but not seeing much because it's so big)
I recently sent of an application to a website to review movies for them (not just out of the goodness of my heart, I'd be paid to do it). The application was simple. First was basically a short bio explaining why they should consider me a Snob (their term for their reviewers). The second part was a writing sample.
I haven't written anything on my blog for a few days, and still don't have much to report or to really say, so in lieu of a regular entry I shall present you with my answer as to why I am (or can be) a film snob. Only now do I notice my mistake: I used the phrase "when it's all said and done" twice, and I probably shouldn't have used it even a single time. Ahh, cest la'vie.
When it's all said and done, I don't think anyone wants to be a snob. What we do want, however, is for people to consider our opinions above those of anyone and most everyone else. The real problem is convincing the world that our opinions are worthy of said consideration. I graduated from Emerson College with a degree in writing and a strong background in media history and theory. If you need a guy to write a article on post-modern, post-structuralist, anti-essentialist, lesbian, independent cinema, I'm your guy. I can get into the history, background, evolution and artistry in film.
At the same time I'm a big dork. I wish it weren't so, but alas. Just because I know the big words and how they're used, and when they should be used, does not mean I only watch films where those "big words" can be applied. I can dig on the pop stuff too. As a fan of comic books I'm usually the first one in line for the next bright, four color, multi-million dollar adaptation. Simultaniously, due to my background, I'm usually also the first in line to see Jim Jarmusch's newest film.
I know movies. I know good movies, I know bad movies, and I know movies that are so bad they're good. When it's all said and done I am a connoisseur of story and that is why my opinion matters - why I should, as you put it, be a snob.
I haven't written anything on my blog for a few days, and still don't have much to report or to really say, so in lieu of a regular entry I shall present you with my answer as to why I am (or can be) a film snob. Only now do I notice my mistake: I used the phrase "when it's all said and done" twice, and I probably shouldn't have used it even a single time. Ahh, cest la'vie.
When it's all said and done, I don't think anyone wants to be a snob. What we do want, however, is for people to consider our opinions above those of anyone and most everyone else. The real problem is convincing the world that our opinions are worthy of said consideration. I graduated from Emerson College with a degree in writing and a strong background in media history and theory. If you need a guy to write a article on post-modern, post-structuralist, anti-essentialist, lesbian, independent cinema, I'm your guy. I can get into the history, background, evolution and artistry in film.
At the same time I'm a big dork. I wish it weren't so, but alas. Just because I know the big words and how they're used, and when they should be used, does not mean I only watch films where those "big words" can be applied. I can dig on the pop stuff too. As a fan of comic books I'm usually the first one in line for the next bright, four color, multi-million dollar adaptation. Simultaniously, due to my background, I'm usually also the first in line to see Jim Jarmusch's newest film.
I know movies. I know good movies, I know bad movies, and I know movies that are so bad they're good. When it's all said and done I am a connoisseur of story and that is why my opinion matters - why I should, as you put it, be a snob.
Sunday, October 23, 2005
for your edification
I just posted the newest chapter of A Symphony of Sweets on my Fiction Blog. I know techinically I'm late but I'm bending the rules just because of the holidays. this month is filled with Jewish Holidays that just slam into you one right after the other. First Rosh Hashana, the new year, two days long. Ten days later Yom Kippur, the day of repentance, one day long. Five days after that, Sukkot, a harvest holiday, eight days long (though only seven in Israel - I'm not going to get into the detials of jewish law here, just trust me on that). The final two days of Sukkot (In Israel just the last day) are holidays within a the holiday. Shmeeni Atzeret (to be honest I'm not quite sure what the deal is, with this one, I think it has to do with rain and such) and Simchat Torah.
Simchat Torah is actually a pretty fun holiday. A chapter of the Torah (five books of moses) is read every week during saturday morning services. Simchat Torah is the day of celebration when we finish the last chapter of the Torah, then start all over again for the new year. It's as big deal. Big party. In your sunday best (for jews I suppose it's our saturday best) you go to synogogue, hear the first and last chapter of the torah, then everyone dances and sings and gets drunk. As the way the jewish calendar works each day actualy starts at sunset so the holiday starts in the evening. As such the biggest party is in the evening. Some streets in Manahattan actually close to traffic so the Jews can empty from the synogogues dancing with the torahs and each other and singing mostly jewish folk songs and such. The drinking is done before, after and during.
So I'm not complaining that there are so many holidays, just that they come with such quick succession It's hard to get any work done. That's why the posting of the newest chapter is a bit delayed this week.
For those wondering Simchat torah starts this Tuesday night, so if you're bored this tuesday, regardless whether you are Jewish or not, you might want to check out what the local synogogue is doing. Services are always free as are drinks (though said drinks are usually schnapps of some sort and or Manashevitz wine). That's what I'll be doing anyway.
Happy holidays.
Simchat Torah is actually a pretty fun holiday. A chapter of the Torah (five books of moses) is read every week during saturday morning services. Simchat Torah is the day of celebration when we finish the last chapter of the Torah, then start all over again for the new year. It's as big deal. Big party. In your sunday best (for jews I suppose it's our saturday best) you go to synogogue, hear the first and last chapter of the torah, then everyone dances and sings and gets drunk. As the way the jewish calendar works each day actualy starts at sunset so the holiday starts in the evening. As such the biggest party is in the evening. Some streets in Manahattan actually close to traffic so the Jews can empty from the synogogues dancing with the torahs and each other and singing mostly jewish folk songs and such. The drinking is done before, after and during.
So I'm not complaining that there are so many holidays, just that they come with such quick succession It's hard to get any work done. That's why the posting of the newest chapter is a bit delayed this week.
For those wondering Simchat torah starts this Tuesday night, so if you're bored this tuesday, regardless whether you are Jewish or not, you might want to check out what the local synogogue is doing. Services are always free as are drinks (though said drinks are usually schnapps of some sort and or Manashevitz wine). That's what I'll be doing anyway.
Happy holidays.
Friday, October 14, 2005
me being me
I'm behind in my plans, slacking, basically just being myself. I am co-writing a short script with some guy in England and we are working entirly over e-mail. The final work is due on Halloween and I haven't even written the first draft yet to send to him to retool. I have to get on that. I also said that I'd update my online novel A Symphony of Sweets weekly, yet I haven't updated it this week yet. That means if I don't write the next chapter today I've already failed my own expecations and goals. So, today, I shall write the next chapter and it will be posted before sunset eastern standard time on my other blog. Why before sunset? Because that's when I turn into a horrid bloodsucking beast from beyond the grave. That, and it's when shabbat (the sabbath) starts and computer usage is a no-no on the shabbat.
I fasted yesterday for Yom Kippur, and today (with out going too much into detail) my stomach and bowels are exacting their revenge for being so horribly neglected. If only I could convince them that it was not neglect rather a spriritual necessity. Alas, my bowels are not spritual by nature and mock my attempt at purity (my stomach just chuckles, always cowtowing to peer pressure from my other organs).
In other news some investment company or something like that saw my resume on Monster and left a message on my machine to schedule an interview. I need the interviewing practice so I shall call them back, but I am a bit scared as the only companies who have found my resume without my prompting seem to be the same companies who want to suck my soul out of my body through my nose (always through the nose, I can think of other places I'd prefer them to suck my soul out through, but it's not very polite mention such things in mixed company). I can't imagine this investment company is much different as I have absolutely no experience in money managment or investing. I figure it's like all the others and they are some sort of direct marketing firm, or want me to cold call people to sell bad investments. I shall schedule an interview none the less because beggers can't be choosers.
So, uh, carry on then....
Edit 5:30 PM
I have now uploaded the newest chapter ( Prelude part two) and it is available for your viewing pleasure. It's not as good as I want it to be, but as I concieved and wrote it in an hour I don't think it's that bad.
I fasted yesterday for Yom Kippur, and today (with out going too much into detail) my stomach and bowels are exacting their revenge for being so horribly neglected. If only I could convince them that it was not neglect rather a spriritual necessity. Alas, my bowels are not spritual by nature and mock my attempt at purity (my stomach just chuckles, always cowtowing to peer pressure from my other organs).
In other news some investment company or something like that saw my resume on Monster and left a message on my machine to schedule an interview. I need the interviewing practice so I shall call them back, but I am a bit scared as the only companies who have found my resume without my prompting seem to be the same companies who want to suck my soul out of my body through my nose (always through the nose, I can think of other places I'd prefer them to suck my soul out through, but it's not very polite mention such things in mixed company). I can't imagine this investment company is much different as I have absolutely no experience in money managment or investing. I figure it's like all the others and they are some sort of direct marketing firm, or want me to cold call people to sell bad investments. I shall schedule an interview none the less because beggers can't be choosers.
So, uh, carry on then....
Edit 5:30 PM
I have now uploaded the newest chapter ( Prelude part two) and it is available for your viewing pleasure. It's not as good as I want it to be, but as I concieved and wrote it in an hour I don't think it's that bad.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
So you think you're cool?
Well there's really only one way to find out.
One day I hope I will no longer need to pimp my own work, but until that day, the scarce readership that I have, please check out my new article What is Hip? featured at The Noyse.
Just remember, whether you are hip or not, I still love you and you're far better off than this guy.
One day I hope I will no longer need to pimp my own work, but until that day, the scarce readership that I have, please check out my new article What is Hip? featured at The Noyse.
Just remember, whether you are hip or not, I still love you and you're far better off than this guy.
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