So, “Right of Way.” What’s it about anyway?
Today being Wednesday, I thought I’d write a little about our script’s first three pages and what might come next. (Check ’em out by clicking the SCRIPT icon to the right, if you haven't already.) After this first week, I’ll always post new script pages on Wednesdays (on the SCRIPT page, natch), and I’ll post script notes here.
The opening pages set a tone. There’s a junkie in an abandoned tunnel and a movie star at a Westside party. I want to continue to explore the whole range of L.A. neighborhoods and demographics these two represent.
We’ve also got a main character, or at least he looks like one to me: Mayor Russell Napolitano, who bridges all the demos—rumpled but ramrod straight, charming but shady, a leader with a vision for a great American city, but with ethics that allow him to play fast and loose with the public trust.
Which brings us to that envelope. What’s in it? The obvious answer is money, but could it be something more interesting? And if money it is, then to what purpose? Straight-on graft is so Chicago. Napolitano’s got something more complex going on. I don’t know what it is, but I can feel it.
And what about the sexual tension between him and Celeste? Is it just a sly glance or something more? Remember—blood will be shed here somewhere. Maybe not in next week’s pages or next month’s; it’s too soon to tell. Maybe the vic won’t even be a main character. But if I were Celeste (or her husband Larry, for that matter), I’d sure watch my step. Just sayin’.
Then there’s that smell of methane in the tunnel. You’ve no doubt heard that our mass transportation plans were at one time derailed by underground gas pockets. (And if you haven’t, you can get a whiff of the local lore here.) The banner at that Brentwood manse shouts, “L.A. is on the move.” But is Napolitano the man to lead the way, or is he just some sociopath gasbag on the hustle?
We pause to await your contribution while the mayor takes the mike to address an adoring crowd. If we decide to lay in some exposition in his speech, let’s try to do it with style. (Remember that scene in “Chinatown,” where the farmer brings his herd of sheep to the city council meeting because there’s not enough water for grazing at home? Now, that’s how you make a story come to life!)
It’s time to keep building the story's rails—setting up characters, conflict, plot and subplots. We need 1-5 more pages by Sunday night—before then, if you don’t want to be writing through the Oscars.
Who’s on board?
Effective business articles that will improve your business.
Understanding the difference between accidents and incidents is essential for effective risk assessments. Both terms are often used interchangeably, but in the context of workplace safety, they have distinct meanings … Read More
Managing construction projects effectively requires not only skilled labor and quality materials but also the right equipment for the job. For contractors, balancing the need for specialized heavy machinery with … Read More
Choosing the right hosting company and plan is crucial to ensuring your website’s performance, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. With so many hosting options available, it can be overwhelming to know which … Read More
The health and wellness markets are part of a rapidly expanding segment of the global business economy. People are taking a proactive approach to improving their general quality of life, … Read More
Job interviews can be nerve wracking, yet exciting experiences. This is your opportunity to take the next step of your career, but at the same time, you probably have a … Read More
Investing in real estate doesn’t always mean amassing a portfolio of traditional properties like single-family rentals. For some, becoming a landlord may not be their dream. Nevertheless, would-be investors want … Read More
In the modern world where your online footprint matters most, enhancing your business website’s SEO is not just beneficial; it’s essential. With millions of searches conducted every day, your online … Read More
While credit cards are undeniably convenient for everyday purchases, using them to fund your bank account can be a financially precarious move. The high fees and potential credit score implications … Read More
All-on-4 denture implants have revolutionized dental restoration, offering a transformative solution for individuals with missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures. This innovative approach provides a stable and permanent solution by securing … Read More
Nobody likes seeing those flashing red and blue lights in your rearview mirror? Getting a speeding ticket can be frustrating and costly, but don’t lose hope we have some helpful … Read More
