The Power of Shorts: How and why you should write short films

Most screenwriters jump straight into features or pilots when they start their journey of learning how to write a script. But an alternative to starting your screenwriting journey is to write a short film. Tackling a 90+ page feature or writing a tv pilot that sets up an entire series can be daunting and difficult for new writers. While telling any kind of story is difficult, a short film forces you to keep things small, intentional, and visual, which are tools you must master in order to become a professional in this business. So, let’s go over the how and why you should try writing short films.

Why Starz is good for Black folks…

Let’s just face it; Networks have a hard time with African-American programming. There is a thin line between comedy and shucking-and-jiving. The line becomes even thinner between drama and gospel stage plays.

Writing Staff Titles… What does it all mean?

We want the titles to be super cool and meaningful… I hate to burst your bubble but that’s what I’m here for. Writing staff titles equal seniority and only a little bit more responsibility. But like other things in Hollywood, for some, it’s just a title.

What John Ridley did right…but it doesn’t mean I like it.

Ok… so I wasn’t like a super fan of American Crime like the rest of the world was. I actually didn’t watch it until a few weeks ago. I know, I know. How can I be a TV fanatic and not be up to date on what’s trending…crucify me later.

The question is, Who won’t boycott the Oscars and What shade will be thrown their way?

Alright, sooo… I talk about diversity a lot. BECAUSE IT MATTERS. But I don’t really know where I stand on the #OscarssoWhite issue. I’m really only writing about it because it’s trending and I should have an opinion. So, I’ll make it up as I go. Here goes nothing.

Tired of hearing about diversity in casting?

Yeah, me, too. But in reality, it’s 2015 and there are still many groups of people who cannot turn on mainstream television or go see mainstream movies with people who look like them or have similar backgrounds as they do in it. It’s just a fact.