I got my first set of notes on the screenplay for Rocketboy, from Marc Samuelson today. I suspect this is an amalgamation of thoughts from himself, associate producer Jessica Parker and a number of readers. It’s five pages in length and very detailed. I was somewhat overwhelmed by the incisive, detailed and empathetic content of this document as I am used to vague or petty likes and dislikes in a script report. But for the first time in a long time, I know I am working with people who really know their stuff. This is VERY EXCITING!

I must admit I was waiting in dread for their script notes. Now I can’t wait to have a meeting with them, nail down a plan, and get my teeth into the next draft.

Of course these notes present one major challenge. There are five pages of great ideas and enhancements to make, BUT we need the script to be 20% shorter! That’s a major challenge considering that I know the script is already very tight. But hey, I also know from experience that there is always room for improvement and reduction. More with less is printed on a note above my monitor.

I am also gearing up for a cast reading of Rocketboy next weekend. Not the final cast, but a group of experienced actors nonetheless. The idea is really just to hear the script out loud, to find what doesn’t work, what could easily be cut and where it’s dragging. I am really looking forward to this and will post a clip of the final performance when done.

Onward and upward!

Chris Jones
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