Although I don't officially call myself a writer - yet!!!I do write and I find I either can or I can't. Black and white. When I can't I may as well not bother and I usually don't. But when I can it flows and I get hooked on the feeling. In the last 48 hours I have written 1 and a half short scripts and polished another.
Let's just hope there is something there worth reading.
Until then hail to the Black and white!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Top Ten - The Fours
Just had a relaxing day off (Charters Towers Show) and NO I didn't go!!!
Saw Milk, yes Sean Penn was good, although there were a few times I thought I was watching I am Sam. Interesting that Penn acts gay and mentally impaired similarly??
Finished reading another HardCase Crime book Home is the Sailor. Good, clever but not The Gutter and the Grave.
Top Tens - The Fours
Movies
Chasing Amy - What's a nubian?
The fact that I found it so hard to pick a 'quote' tells a story about how many times I seen it and how clever it really is!!
Sure for Kevin Smith's 3rd feature it is a case of 'talking heads'. But I will always take a quality script over stylised camera work. Michael Bay is reading this with a tear in his eye. The difference is Kevin Smith's tear is emotional, see Affleck chewing up the scenary outside the ice rink. Whereas Michael Bay's tear is all about the crystal shape as it slides down the check in slow motion.
I saw this at the cinemas with my brother (Stinkbrown), long story and thought Ben Affleck tore it up. However after many many viewing I think Jason Lee more than holds his own.
This is obviously my favourite of the Smith films and at one point would have sat at number one. The themes of insecurity and friendship really hit at the time.
Songs
How Far Have We Really Come? - Powderfinger
Despite the miseries
And the lessons learned from history
The pattern still repeats
Never to surrender don't you ever retreat
How far have we really come?
Until the ones who are leading us
Make peace their resolution tonight
Make peace your resolution tonight
There's an arms race to be run
Building bigger better dagger headed bombs
So let's drink to the daughters and sons
Never to return to their mother's arms
For every battle lost and won are these the ones that we offer up?
Great lyrics, melody and a good tune to sing along to!
T.V Series
Entourage - Lets Hug it out Bitch
I only found this series 8 months ago. It was aired in an aweful timeslot (much like Arrested Development) and was viewed mainly on pay T.V which I don't have. My bro of the stink variety has all of the seasons on his laptop, I'm assured legally!!! We watched the entire first season in the 3 nights we stayed with him. The next week my wife and I stayed at the beach (Caloundra) and bought season 2,3 and 4. During the course of our 8 night stay we watched every episode and even found time to conceive a baby.
I find Vince 'Vinny' Chase to be vacuous and boring. E is okay and Turtle holds his own but the two stand out characters and probably both are in my top ten characters are Ari Gold, Vinny's agent and Johnny 'Drama' Vinny's more talanted older brother actor.
My lovely wife thinks my anger issues are very similar to Ari's. He has many of the best lines like 'The script's been changed more times than Andy Dick's vibrator' and his many tirades in Lloyd direction.
I am a member of the fan club of Johnny 'Drama' on facebook but that doesn't come close to showing how funny I think his character is. Kevin Dillon has been underrated for a long time and many would be excused for thinking he peaked back in the 80's with his breakout (in my opinion) performance in The Blob. That would have been correct until Entourage premiered. Many of Dramas best moments are reactions of his in the background and the everpresent look of hurt on his face. FREEDOM!!!!!!!!
Books
American Psycho - Bret Easton Ellis
Before I start, opps I already have, I did read this before the movie was made. However Christian Bale chews it up!! yum yum!
This was one of the first book I read that I thought 'Are you allowed to write about stuff like this?' I also dug the conversation it generated about the themes particularly when he goes back to the apartment of someone he killed and the creepy lady talks to him. I still need to read more Ellis so any suggestion on which one would be great!!
That's the fours and the threes will be here within the week.
Bub is approximately 8 and a half weeks.
Until then hail to the four way intersection!
Saw Milk, yes Sean Penn was good, although there were a few times I thought I was watching I am Sam. Interesting that Penn acts gay and mentally impaired similarly??
Finished reading another HardCase Crime book Home is the Sailor. Good, clever but not The Gutter and the Grave.
Top Tens - The Fours
Movies
Chasing Amy - What's a nubian?
The fact that I found it so hard to pick a 'quote' tells a story about how many times I seen it and how clever it really is!!
Sure for Kevin Smith's 3rd feature it is a case of 'talking heads'. But I will always take a quality script over stylised camera work. Michael Bay is reading this with a tear in his eye. The difference is Kevin Smith's tear is emotional, see Affleck chewing up the scenary outside the ice rink. Whereas Michael Bay's tear is all about the crystal shape as it slides down the check in slow motion.
I saw this at the cinemas with my brother (Stinkbrown), long story and thought Ben Affleck tore it up. However after many many viewing I think Jason Lee more than holds his own.
This is obviously my favourite of the Smith films and at one point would have sat at number one. The themes of insecurity and friendship really hit at the time.
Songs
How Far Have We Really Come? - Powderfinger
Despite the miseries
And the lessons learned from history
The pattern still repeats
Never to surrender don't you ever retreat
How far have we really come?
Until the ones who are leading us
Make peace their resolution tonight
Make peace your resolution tonight
There's an arms race to be run
Building bigger better dagger headed bombs
So let's drink to the daughters and sons
Never to return to their mother's arms
For every battle lost and won are these the ones that we offer up?
Great lyrics, melody and a good tune to sing along to!
T.V Series
Entourage - Lets Hug it out Bitch
I only found this series 8 months ago. It was aired in an aweful timeslot (much like Arrested Development) and was viewed mainly on pay T.V which I don't have. My bro of the stink variety has all of the seasons on his laptop, I'm assured legally!!! We watched the entire first season in the 3 nights we stayed with him. The next week my wife and I stayed at the beach (Caloundra) and bought season 2,3 and 4. During the course of our 8 night stay we watched every episode and even found time to conceive a baby.
I find Vince 'Vinny' Chase to be vacuous and boring. E is okay and Turtle holds his own but the two stand out characters and probably both are in my top ten characters are Ari Gold, Vinny's agent and Johnny 'Drama' Vinny's more talanted older brother actor.
My lovely wife thinks my anger issues are very similar to Ari's. He has many of the best lines like 'The script's been changed more times than Andy Dick's vibrator' and his many tirades in Lloyd direction.
I am a member of the fan club of Johnny 'Drama' on facebook but that doesn't come close to showing how funny I think his character is. Kevin Dillon has been underrated for a long time and many would be excused for thinking he peaked back in the 80's with his breakout (in my opinion) performance in The Blob. That would have been correct until Entourage premiered. Many of Dramas best moments are reactions of his in the background and the everpresent look of hurt on his face. FREEDOM!!!!!!!!
Books
American Psycho - Bret Easton Ellis
Before I start, opps I already have, I did read this before the movie was made. However Christian Bale chews it up!! yum yum!
This was one of the first book I read that I thought 'Are you allowed to write about stuff like this?' I also dug the conversation it generated about the themes particularly when he goes back to the apartment of someone he killed and the creepy lady talks to him. I still need to read more Ellis so any suggestion on which one would be great!!
That's the fours and the threes will be here within the week.
Bub is approximately 8 and a half weeks.
Until then hail to the four way intersection!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
The Waiting game
My brother and I have officially submitted a short film script for a pair of producers to decide whether they want to raise money to make it. I find the wiating part the hardest. I find myself constantly checking my emails and wondering if someone else will find the musings of a pair of Lindsays worthy of a full scale production. My first (and only thus far) script to be made into a legitimate film happened so quickly and easily I could be forgiven for believe it's that easy with every script. Admittedly it has opened door for producers to read my work, one of the hardest parts of the process. If we get the go ahead for our lastest you are sure to read about it here!!!
On another note it's half time in the Kangaroos V Lions game and I'm wondering why a struggling club (Kangaroos) persists with players who are consistently not performing. Yes I'll name names. David Hale is our full forward and when he manages to actually be lucky enough have a kick for goal, he needs to be even luckier manage a score. Sam Power's kicking seems to be getting worse and Lindsay Thomas throws himself around like he's Jake the Muss' wife. Thomas cook the man some fu$%ing (sorry trying to keep it clean!) eggs. Plus dropping Grima is a travesty when we (read Kangaroos) need to see where the future is and he's playing quite well.
Bub is due around Grand Final day so at least I don't have to worry about missing my team in September action. Yes that's right as of tomorrow it's only 9 week til till my brood swells.
Until then hail to the youth policy!
On another note it's half time in the Kangaroos V Lions game and I'm wondering why a struggling club (Kangaroos) persists with players who are consistently not performing. Yes I'll name names. David Hale is our full forward and when he manages to actually be lucky enough have a kick for goal, he needs to be even luckier manage a score. Sam Power's kicking seems to be getting worse and Lindsay Thomas throws himself around like he's Jake the Muss' wife. Thomas cook the man some fu$%ing (sorry trying to keep it clean!) eggs. Plus dropping Grima is a travesty when we (read Kangaroos) need to see where the future is and he's playing quite well.
Bub is due around Grand Final day so at least I don't have to worry about missing my team in September action. Yes that's right as of tomorrow it's only 9 week til till my brood swells.
Until then hail to the youth policy!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Hard Case Crime
I've had 2 weeks holiday. Luckily for me that is something I can say every 10 weeks as I'm a teacher. My wife is pregnant and due is 11 weeks so I didn't do a hell of a lot. Sadly no writing (don't ask!!) but I hit Entourage pretty hard and my in-laws visited briefly. I also found a love. I have read at least one Stephen King book every year since 1995. I have met another 'book' I would like to strike up another passion. Hard Case Crime!!! My well read little brother bought me one for X-mas last year. The Colorado Kid by Stephen King, yes I notice the irony! I really enjoyed the book (read it before New Years) but didn't really notice the HCC connection. My Bro then informed me there were many more and quality amoungst them!!!!! So I purchased The Vengeful Virgin and The Gutter and the Grave. In 3 days I had read both and was hooked. I read the former 1st and loved it. I could envision the smoke and the atmosphere. Like a Coen Brothers movies staring Bogart. Very 50's very noir. I then read the latter and fell hard. Clever dialogue and more twists than a fonzie (see Twisties). I have since bought several more and cannot wait to delve into the universe of noir!!
Until then thanks Bro!!!
The Pessimistic venetian!
This might at first sound like boasting (and I guess partly it is!) but too bad.
I'd like to congratulate everyone at Lav Productions (partcularly Lav Bodnaruk and Michale Mier) for there success with their short film The Pessimist. The Pessimist penned by moi has been nominated for 4 awards at the QFNA (Qld New Filmmakers Awards) this year. Best independent drama, best sound, best producer and best director. Sure I'm not up for best writer but I am so happy for everybody involved for how it has turned out!!
Then to cap it off The Pessimist will be screening in Venice. That's right the home of the gondola!!!! For the Circuito Off Venice International Short Film Festival.
Until then hail to the gloater!!
I'd like to congratulate everyone at Lav Productions (partcularly Lav Bodnaruk and Michale Mier) for there success with their short film The Pessimist. The Pessimist penned by moi has been nominated for 4 awards at the QFNA (Qld New Filmmakers Awards) this year. Best independent drama, best sound, best producer and best director. Sure I'm not up for best writer but I am so happy for everybody involved for how it has turned out!!
Then to cap it off The Pessimist will be screening in Venice. That's right the home of the gondola!!!! For the Circuito Off Venice International Short Film Festival.
Until then hail to the gloater!!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Why a 2nd draft is so hard!
Ryan and I have embarked on a mission to write a successful short film script. Ryan gave me the concept and I went away and wrote the script. I sent it on to Ryan who had heaps of changes and ideas and we persisted with this system for about 8 emails each. Once we were both happy with the story etc I did my best to get a producer to read it. I was very lucky last year to have one of my script mades into a quality short which has put me on IMDB and given me some credability as a credited writer. This has given us the 'foot in the door' for producers to actually open my emails and a few producers have said when they have an open window they would be interested in talking to us about a deal.
Two producers have expressed a little more interest with Alex Hartwin from Dark Geometry stating that he is booked up for the next 6 months but if the script is still on the table would be interested in a deal.
Also 2 producing partners in Brisbane, Angela Faria and Sonia Armstrong are interested in seeing a 2nd draft and generating government funding (meaning I will get paid for this one!) and making a real go on the Festival circuit.
To hark back to the title of the blog, I am finding it very hard to produce a 'real' 2nd draft. Why? Because Ryan and I were relatively happy with the first draft and seeing where the changes were needed is much harder. Hence I need an honest appraisement of what works and more importantly what does not work. That way I would be able to focus on a particular character, scene or overall story arc. Anyone interested in giving their honest appraisal can contact me on jlind78@gmail.com
Although Ryan I have come up with a different spin and will do up a version 2 and send it on to you!
On another note Annaliese is 20 weeks pregnant (halfway) and doing very well!!
Until then hail to Big Daddy!
Two producers have expressed a little more interest with Alex Hartwin from Dark Geometry stating that he is booked up for the next 6 months but if the script is still on the table would be interested in a deal.
Also 2 producing partners in Brisbane, Angela Faria and Sonia Armstrong are interested in seeing a 2nd draft and generating government funding (meaning I will get paid for this one!) and making a real go on the Festival circuit.
To hark back to the title of the blog, I am finding it very hard to produce a 'real' 2nd draft. Why? Because Ryan and I were relatively happy with the first draft and seeing where the changes were needed is much harder. Hence I need an honest appraisement of what works and more importantly what does not work. That way I would be able to focus on a particular character, scene or overall story arc. Anyone interested in giving their honest appraisal can contact me on jlind78@gmail.com
Although Ryan I have come up with a different spin and will do up a version 2 and send it on to you!
On another note Annaliese is 20 weeks pregnant (halfway) and doing very well!!
Until then hail to Big Daddy!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Top Ten - The Fives
I'm staring down the barrel of a 4 day weekend! Gotta love teaching!! I get the usual two days off plus Monday for Labor Day and Tuesday is our 18 week scan including a 3D picture of my little bambino. We're also having a 15 month old girl staying with us (including parents) so that will definately go some way to preparing us for what is ahead. But for now we'll have to settle for the top 5!
Top Ten - The Fives
Movies
Good Will Hunting – Gotta Go See About a girl
This is the script I wish I had written. There’s very little I question about this movie. At one point this my #1 on my list but fortunately I’m a much happier person.
Although Ben and Matt probably peaked at the start they have both continued to have quality careers.
This movie is built around an amazing script and layered with an eminent cast and director. And sprinkled with quotes and one-liners like double burger and step forth silent rogue and receive thy prize, not to mention a couple of stirring monologues.
Songs
Angel – Jack Johnson
I've got an angel
She doesn't wear any wings
She wears a heart that can melt my own
She wears a smile that can make me wanna sing
She gives me presents
With her presence alone
She gives me everything I could wish for
She gives me kisses on the lips just for coming home
She could make angels
I've seen it with my own eyes
You gotta be careful when you've got good love
Cause the angels will just keep on multiplying
But you're so busy changing the world
Just one smile and you can change all of mine
We share the same soul Oh oh oh oh oh ohhh
We Share the same soul Oh oh oh oh oh ohhh
We Share the same soul Oh oh oh oh oh ohhh
Oh oh oh oh oh ohhh Umm umm umm uhhhhhhmm
Obviously at this minute I’m very aware of my place in world and what is important to me. This is why this song is in my #5. I knew I would have a Jack Johnson song and there were a few options, Banana Pancakes, Better Together but this earned the right to be here! Just a lovely song to listen to alone and close my eyes. Soft maybe, but I don’t care!
T.V. Series
Arrested development - Never Nude
I know I said the true test of a great series was longevity but 3 seasons of this is better than 50 seasons of Will and Grace. There are heaps of textured characters and tasty scenarios. Between Tobias and all his foibles and George the Magician I can’t pick my favourites. Although I’m looking forward to the movie it’s only if they do it right, otherwise leave it to be the cult it already is! Every episode is tighter than an Eli Manning spiral. Blueman! haha
Books
I am Legend – Richard Mathieson
I grew up as a Lindsay boy and that meant a few things. One of them is an eerily similar taste in movies. Omega Man was one of them. Charlton Heston rocked the shit in it, he even was the first to hook up in an interracial ‘love’ scene on celluloid. Then I found out about 15-20 years ago it was based on a novel. I tracked the novel down and this is it!
I bought it, read it and loved it. I dug the atmosphere and loved the shit out of the ending. It was one of the few times when I read the last line and went ‘oh’. It really made me think!! And NO it did not have the syrupy, Hollywood ending of the Will Smith 3star ending. I am Legend means much more in the book as it should. I have a feeling my venerated brother will write a tome one day that has the same reaction. At least I hope so!
Well I hope that didn't disappoint!
Until then I AM going to see about my girl!
Top Ten - The Fives
Movies
Good Will Hunting – Gotta Go See About a girl
This is the script I wish I had written. There’s very little I question about this movie. At one point this my #1 on my list but fortunately I’m a much happier person.
Although Ben and Matt probably peaked at the start they have both continued to have quality careers.
This movie is built around an amazing script and layered with an eminent cast and director. And sprinkled with quotes and one-liners like double burger and step forth silent rogue and receive thy prize, not to mention a couple of stirring monologues.
Songs
Angel – Jack Johnson
I've got an angel
She doesn't wear any wings
She wears a heart that can melt my own
She wears a smile that can make me wanna sing
She gives me presents
With her presence alone
She gives me everything I could wish for
She gives me kisses on the lips just for coming home
She could make angels
I've seen it with my own eyes
You gotta be careful when you've got good love
Cause the angels will just keep on multiplying
But you're so busy changing the world
Just one smile and you can change all of mine
We share the same soul Oh oh oh oh oh ohhh
We Share the same soul Oh oh oh oh oh ohhh
We Share the same soul Oh oh oh oh oh ohhh
Oh oh oh oh oh ohhh Umm umm umm uhhhhhhmm
Obviously at this minute I’m very aware of my place in world and what is important to me. This is why this song is in my #5. I knew I would have a Jack Johnson song and there were a few options, Banana Pancakes, Better Together but this earned the right to be here! Just a lovely song to listen to alone and close my eyes. Soft maybe, but I don’t care!
T.V. Series
Arrested development - Never Nude
I know I said the true test of a great series was longevity but 3 seasons of this is better than 50 seasons of Will and Grace. There are heaps of textured characters and tasty scenarios. Between Tobias and all his foibles and George the Magician I can’t pick my favourites. Although I’m looking forward to the movie it’s only if they do it right, otherwise leave it to be the cult it already is! Every episode is tighter than an Eli Manning spiral. Blueman! haha
Books
I am Legend – Richard Mathieson
I grew up as a Lindsay boy and that meant a few things. One of them is an eerily similar taste in movies. Omega Man was one of them. Charlton Heston rocked the shit in it, he even was the first to hook up in an interracial ‘love’ scene on celluloid. Then I found out about 15-20 years ago it was based on a novel. I tracked the novel down and this is it!
I bought it, read it and loved it. I dug the atmosphere and loved the shit out of the ending. It was one of the few times when I read the last line and went ‘oh’. It really made me think!! And NO it did not have the syrupy, Hollywood ending of the Will Smith 3star ending. I am Legend means much more in the book as it should. I have a feeling my venerated brother will write a tome one day that has the same reaction. At least I hope so!
Well I hope that didn't disappoint!
Until then I AM going to see about my girl!
Saturday, April 18, 2009
The Carport's up baby!
I have finally done it!!! With some help obviously!! I've laid a slab and now erected the carport. Here are some pics (proof) of my achievement! On a side note Annaliese is 17 weeks pregnant tomorrow, hurray to me!! oh and her!
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