Off the Shelf

I mentioned taking some time to read. I did read some great fiction, but I also read "Digital Moviemaking" by Scott Billups. The book is full of technical information which took me a while to get through. Billups comes across as a bit of a prick, but the book is very helpful. I am using the information as part of the decision making process for buying a camera. I have read enough pros and cons about every make and model to make my head spin. I am trying to sort through it right now.

Next on my list is a book by Steven D. Katz called "Shot By Shot".

Giving Up the Ghost?

No. My blog isn't dead and neither am I (sorry to disappoint some of you). I had some down time after writing a first draft of my third feature. I haven't been very focused on writing or blogging, but life is for living! In any case, I am back.

I have been doing research for my documentary. My time has been consumed by studying both my subject matter and the art of documentary making. Whether or not I will be a success is yet to be seen, but I am excited to give it a try. It has been keeping me busy. There is a lot to learn.

I haven't tossed writing by the wayside though. There is yet another delay in finishing up my current spec., but I am holding out hope of having a final draft before the year is done. I am also thinking about working on some rewrites for After Alice, my first script.

Lastly, I joined an online screenwriting group. It is nice to have a supportive group of fellow struggling amateurs to get feedback from. And reading their scripts keeps me focused.

Passing the Time

The greatest part of a writer's time is spent in reading, in order to write; a man will turn over half a library to make one book. - Samuel Johnson

I've been busy reading. Reading will always be my first love.

A Perk

Apparently, there is a perk for being a second rounder in the Austin Film Festival. I was offered a "special discount" - woohoo! I guess it pays to be a crappy writer after all!

I have wanted to attend the Austin Film Festival for three years now. I thought that 2007 would be my year, but it isn't. I just have too much going on in my personal life to take a trip at this time. I am bummed. I was looking forward to learning new things and meeting new people (especially long-time online acquaintances). Oh well. There is always next year.

Victory In Inches

Victory is won not in miles but in inches. Win a little now, hold your ground, and later, win a little more.--Louis L'Amour

Today I had one of those victories that is so minuscule it hardly deserves mentioning. Yet, on a day when I am feeling defeated any victory, no matter how small, is a welcomed gift. I received a letter from the Austin Film Festival notifying me that though I had not made it to the semi-finals I had advanced to the second round. Being in the top 10-12% of nearly 4,000 entries isn't exactly a grand slam, but it gives me hope.

It was my first screenplay. I had rushed it to completion to make the deadline. So, even though After Alice was not a contest winner I am encouraged. Though I have a long journey ahead of me, perhaps, I am headed in the right direction.