The Oscars are always an exciting event and an affirmation that the world of Hollywood glamour still exists.
It was exciting to see Birdman win so many awards, including Best Screenplay, because it is an original creation and not an adaptation. It is a good reminder for all of us that screenwriting can be an art form, not just craft.
As a side note, remember it took four writers, one of whom was the director, to get the script written. Don’t be afraid to connect with other creative people to further your own work.
The Imitation Game, which won Best Adapted Screenplay, also has an inspiring history that should spur us writers on to continue to strive. Graham Moore, the writer, wrote this against the advice of his agents, pursued his personal passion and succeeded. In his acceptance speech, he admitted that he had attempted suicide when he was 16 because he felt so out of place, and encouraged others who felt alienated not to give up. He has written one novel and now this Oscar-winning adaptation. The message here is believe in your work and yourself.
The fact that the award for Best Picture went to Birdman, an original story, should make any of you who are writer-directors find new hope and get back to work!
To me the message of this year’s Oscar Awards is: Believe in yourself and your work, and you just might win!
Oscar Winning Technique Exercise
- Set a timer for 15 minutes.
- Write a single sentence about the story you would write or adapt if you believed you could win an Academy Award.
- Set the time again for 15 minutes.
- Write a brief synopsis of the story.
- Using my How to Write a Screenplay in 10 Weeks as your guide, along with this synopsis, write the draft for this story.
Here’s to your successful any happy writing,
Professor Marilyn Horowitz
Copyright (c) 2014 by Marilyn Horowitz
