Years ago, when I was nothing more than a film fan with dreams of directing, and long before I even considered taking a stab at screenwriting and producing, I picked up a copy of William Goldman’s classic, Adventures In The Screen Trade: A Personal View Of Hollywood and Screenwriting. I expected a fluffy read, peppered with cute anecdotes of larger than life screen stars and cartoonish studio moguls. Man, was I off. Adventures pulled no punches. Sure, Goldman combed over the easy triumphs, but he hovered over the seemingly endless challenges, many of which ended in soul crushing defeats. There was no ambiguity. He named projects. He named names.
Looking back at articles written during upon Adventures release, it’s hard to find anyone covering the industry who didn’t believe Goldman had created career suicide. Goldman was always colorful and diverse in his responses to such beliefs, but the message was static: For a screenwriter working in Hollywood, what’s on the page trumps all. Opinions mean shit.
Turns out he was right. Over the next twelve years, Goldman would have twelve screenplays produced. That’s produced … not just bought and stashed away. He would be hired by the very same people, working at the very same studios he spoke about, at times none too kindly, in Adventures. He would adapt the highly regarded works of some of America’s most popular novelists including King (Misery, Hearts in Atlantis), Grisham (The Chamber), and Baldacci (Absolute Power).
And then, in 2001, in response to the those in Hollywood who grumbled at dinner parties that he was full of it, Goldman released Which Lie Did I Tell?: More Adventures In The Screen Trade. The sequel was even more bodacious. The tales more explicit. The insight revelatory. I read it twice in a week and when I finally put it down, I was certain of two things: William Goldman was my hero and I wanted to write screenplays.
Over the last half dozen years or so, my life has intersected with the film industry on a variety of levels. As the editor of Razor Magazine, I found myself on many a movie set interviewing or profiling talent. More recently, as a producer, I’ve been exposed to the business side of what I like to call “the Big Dance.” And, as a screenwriter, I have dealt with prospective producers, managers and agents. My experience has taught me this: Telling you what you want to hear is the Hollywood way of giving you the truth. People literally find a sort of inner peace speaking in generalities. And for some, the fail-safe is for their generalities to have, well, generalities. Over time, you come to not only accept this reality, you learn how to navigate the waters. It becomes part of your skill set. The game becomes second nature. And, occasionally you meet with some other industry friends, usually over dinner and a drink, and vent. Lament how you wish it were different. Curse the lack of integrity and stand-up people.
And then a guy like Doug Richardson enters the picture.
I first became privy to Doug’s internet existence - I had been well aware of his Hollywood existence and string of screenwriting successes - through a mutual friend, Jeanne Veillette Bowerman. Jeanne, a screenwriter, journalist for Script magazine, and author of the extremely popular and aptly named blog, Balls of Steel, led me to Doug’s site, specifically instructing me to check out Doug’s blog.
I was blown away. It was William Goldman redux.
Here was a hugely successful screenwriter, the first to sell a spec for seven figures no less, pulling back the curtain and taking you in the meeting rooms, on the sets, and into the star’s trailers. Here was a guy still getting assignments detailing the raging insecurities that run throughout the industry, from the third AD to the studio heads. Like Goldman, Doug covered the triumphs, but really sought to educate (and, make no mistake, entertain) by illustrating the challenges and breaking down the failures in naked detail. And he wasn’t afraid to name names. Needless to say, I was an instant fan and an even greater admirer.
Over the last few weeks, nearly 25,000 Stage 32 members have read some or all of Doug’s exclusive series: “Writer Held Hostage”. The feedback has been voluminous and overwhelmingly positive. Many of you took advantage of Doug’s availability (and guileless generosity) to ask some extremely insightful questions. Many of you chose to comment on the series in a private message or email … I thank you for the support.
I have to share one letter that I received. The sender is someone I’ve known for a while. Someone who has toiled in the Hollywood jungle for many years and, as most, has had her share of riding rainbows and being fondued in boiling cauldrons. She wrote simply: “RB, please tell me Doug is for real. Give me something (someone) to believe in!” Yes, for a Hollywood vet, this question is asked with the same wide-eyed desperation of a 6-year-old whose starting to find flaws in the Santa/2-billion-chimney-drop-in-one-night blueprint.
Well, Virginia (and the rest of you), it’s true, the Doug Richardson you see is the Doug Richardson you get. The subtle lessons which inform “Hostage” - family first, work second is one that comes to mind - are, for him, tenets by which he lives his life. Rare is the man, especially in this business, who is so willing to share his experiences for the greater good of those that follow. I couldn’t be more thankful to him for giving us the gift of this series.
Thanks for reading.
RB
PS - I urge all of you who are interested in pursuing a career in film, television or theater - and if you’re not, what the hell are you doing here! - to continue following Doug’s blog. Further, if you enjoy Doug’s work, you simply must read his new novel, The Safety Expert. You know the saying “It reads like a movie”? Well, that’s The Safety Expert. It’s a page turner. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
Lest you think I’m whoring for Doug, The Safety Expert has a 4.5 out of 5 star rating on Amazon AND was on The Huffington Post’s list of top independent novels of 2011
The Safety Expert is available from Amazon in paperback for only $10.99. The Kindle edition is only $7.99.
Comments
"Stay Real", something I've always tried my hardest to do. As I'm sure many of us do RB, and it does not sit well when we have to compromise. William Goldman and Doug Richardson have managed to do just that. It's refreshing to know there are such people in this business, maybe it will catch on.
RB, you and Curt have done an incredible job with this website. The design and pertinency of Stage 32 creates utility for all of us involved in the business of acting/film, etc. Thank you both.
"Stay Real", something I've always tried my hardest to do. As I'm sure many of us do RB, and it does not sit well when we have to compromise. William Goldman and Doug Richardson have managed to do just that. It's refreshing to know there are such people in this business, maybe it will catch on. RB,…
looking forward to "lounging"
Hey Robin...Kind of cool, huh? People hanging around, just kicking back, shooting the breeze. I'm loving the vibe over there. Look forward to lounging with you.
The website is doing good and the founders egos are growing bigger. Be sure to check in at that "Ego Gym"! LOL. There is a lot of creative talent in south Central LA also. What can you give back?
RB, Just wanted to thank you for the service and refreshing words about keeping it "positive and real" at the same time. I pride myself on the fact that there ARE real and genuine people in the industry and that we don't have to sacrifice our integrity to get it "in the can". So, thank you. I truly hope that we are able to continue a budding dialogue here at Stage32, or even possibly on a set somewhere! Best wishes, Ken
RB, Just wanted to thank you for the service and refreshing words about keeping it "positive and real" at the same time. I pride myself on the fact that there ARE real and genuine people in the industry and that we don't have to sacrifice our integrity to get it "in the can". So, thank you. I tru…
Thanks for the note, Ken. There ARE real and genuine people in this industry. When you find them, you have to hold on to them like grim death! And, yes, we'll keep the dialogue going. In fact, the chatter has increased ten-fold here on the site with the opening of the Stage 32 Lounge. Some great discussions happening.
I run a script edit and critique service for screenplays. A writer I did a few edits for told me about this site. So I was wondering could my service be listed under your resources for screenwriting. I joined the site today. I'm working on my profile. I am going to write up a resume to list in my profile. Thank you for your time.
Hey Frances...Welcome to the site. We will be offering premium list advertising in the near future. For now, our resources offer free services. But, you are, of course, more than welcome to let the community know about your services in your profile and within your resume. Appreciate you being here!
Thanks for this, RB. I've just arrived. Thanks for the site, and for loving one of my heroes (too), Goldman. I'll click on Doug's blog. And thanks for the invite, whoever you are.
Welcome to the movement, Dave. And thank you for the note. Plenty to get caught up on...Doug's blog is terrific. Rex's is as well. Check out our new discussions area also. Great place to introduce yourself.
Its like BACK LINKS. nothing is what it seems. Inspirational stuff here, common sense and open-minded should be law and universal.
GREAT READ RB! Righteous!
Peace
We try to keep it positive and uplifting around here, Tony. Thanks for adding your enthusiasm to the mix. Much respect.
Just the way i like it RB thank you for sharing and keeping it as such, really enjoying Stage32.. Respect!
Back at ya, Tony.
Dig it! Thanks.
This town should be built on heroes such as this. I call for an occupy Hollywood movement to stamp out the inauthentic!
Think you'd find a ton of support here, Leslie! Thanks for the note!
Thats REAL
http://MOBB4U.com
That's the way we like to do it around here, Akbar.
Thanks for the honesty and insight to real people that have impacted your belief system of comradery. It's comforting to know that success doesn't have to change your principals. Also Kudos to Jeanne for her divine intervention.
Appreciate the note, Darren. I think one of the things I've learned is that you can't get too high and you can't get too low. As long as you keep your compass pointed north, everything tends to fall within the rational boundaries you set for yourself (or hopefully have set for yourself).
One of the challenges I've encountered is finding credible resources (books, programs, etc) Thanks to all the contributors here who make valuable and time saving recommendations.
That means the community is serving its purpose...Thanks, Phyliss.
Great genuine insight, thank you for sharing with us! x
My pleasure, Azzi. That's what it's all about. Very much appreciate you taking the time to read and to comment.
Enjoyed your article.
Thank you, Muriel!
Great article, Rich.
Appreciate that, Steve...And I appreciate your contributions to the network. Always have something constructive to bring to the party. Thank you.
Very good.
Thanks for reading, Tom.
Thankyou for sending blogs and stories. I recently watched movie, Sanctum. I enjoy most of all the stories based on real events, base on true stories of real people lives. I really do try and find the time to connect and network in building relationships in networking. My great disadvantage is time and resources. Long story. Kevin
Well, Kevin, I hope we've helped to eliminate one of those disadvantages. I think you'll find the networking here free and easy. This should allow you to make the best use of your limited time. Best of luck!
Thankyou Richard!
Absolutely, Kevin.
Hi RB, this page is great! Gives me a glimpse of the film business. And makes networking much easier! Thanks! Annelie
You made my day, Annelie. That means what we're trying to do is working. Thank you for the note.
Awesome article dude!
I appreciate that, brother!
❤ Thank you RB
Why, thank you, Lana...
Nice introduction blog. Encouraging as well.
We like to keep things positive around here, Terrance. I have no room in my life for negativity. It's the enemy of those who choose to create. Thanks for the good words.
Thank you for your great blog link. It encourages me on. Like Janelle Hooper, I am new to Stage 32 and learning. .
I appreciate the note, Sam. Thanks for being a part of this fast growing community.
Thanks for the link to your blog. I've read Goldman's 'Adventures in the Screen Trade' borrowed off a friend a very long time ago and then bought a copy to read again - I'll now be picking it up very soon as well as the sequel! Also cheers for the recommendation of Doug's blog, too.
Hey Andrew...I think both books should be required reading. As it's been said a million times, there's no one road to success. And as Goldman so aptly illustrates, there's no one road to navigating the waters. I believe Doug is a torch-carrier in spirit and message. Thanks for the note, my friend.
❤ wow ❤
Nicest compliment I've had all week!
First, Doug's read was something I really waited for with baited breath. It's been a long time since I've had that feeling of desire to read anything. In addition and more to the point, this forum provided it and I anticipate even higher the next gem that will come from the blogs here.
Here's to keeping it real.
Thanks, James. Doug's series was truly special. He does this every week on his blog. Amazing. The guy is a giver. Rare in this biz. Now keep it real and add a damn headshot! :) Like knowing who I'm taking to.... RB
William Goldman's book got me through my film module for my degree :o)
Goldman's books are timeless. The movies he talks about may have aged, but because nobody seems to learn anything in HW, the stories remain fresh. For someone looking to enter the jungle, his books are a survival tool for the backpack. Thanks for the note, Kerry.
Yay! RB. Yes love Doug's blog.
Thanks, Laren. Appreciate the read...And the "Yay!"
Wonderful read RB nice one!!
Thanks for the kind words, Colin. Much appreciated!
THANKS... I ENJOYED IT!!!
Thank you, Karin!
Such good stuff. I appreciate that artists hone their marketing chops. Doug picking up the mantle of co-marketer is the right idea, I think (even without the poultry outfit). I teach this stuff to actors (http://www.scribd.com/doc/47961283/Bobby-Reed-s-SuperMarketing-for-Actor...) and I think all people involved in selling their artistic wares should be aware of how it's done. Maybe even do it for themselves? Hell, when I make something that's worthy of note, I shout it from the rooftops. Great blog, and so wonderful Doug is so open to sharing. Thanks for this. Bobby (www.bobbyreed.com)
Such good stuff. I appreciate that artists hone their marketing chops. Doug picking up the mantle of co-marketer is the right idea, I think (even without the poultry outfit). I teach this stuff to actors (http://www.scribd.com/doc/47961283/Bobby-Reed-s-SuperMarketing-for-Actor...) and I think all pe…
I agree, Bobby. Many creatives forget, or don't take the time to learn, that they are a product. And that product needs to be marketed. There's a great scene in My Week With Marilyn where Monroe is out on a quiet "date" and comes upon a group of adoring fans. She turns to her companion and says, "Should I be her?" and proceeds to transform into the Marilyn everyone remembers from the screen. Even back then, the big stars knew how to market their public persona. Imagine if MM had the internet to work with back in those days...Man alive.
Dear Rb. Thanks for letting me know about this. What a good read! Do you know yet how often you'll post? And do you notify your readers? I'm new to Stage 32 and don't know how things are done yet. Thanks again! Janelle
Hey Janelle...First off, welcome to 32! Wonderful to have you here. I post from time to time, usually in between our very talented guest bloggers. And, yes, we will notify you of new blog posts. Since you are new to the site, I might recommend checking out our blog archives on the upper right hand side of this page. As you probably have figured out, we just finished running a compelling series from Doug Richardson, the screenwriter of DIE HARD 2, BAD BOYS, MONEY TRAIN, HOSTAGE and many more, as well as the writer of the new novel THE SAFETY EXPERT. Last month we ran a series from Rex Pickett, who wrote the novel SIDEWAYS and its sequel VERTICAL. Both are tremendous reads. I appreciate your kind words regarding my post. And I look forward to seeing you around 32! RB
Thanks, RB.
My pleasure, Janelle.
Doug lost points with me for this line on his blog though: "Nor was I much of a Star Wars fan—though " ...yeah and HE gets to meet George Lucas --- NOT FAIR! :) R
If only Doug had met Lucas early enough to stop the prequels...Oh well.
Well I read Doug's blog now and glad to have found it too! (thanks to this site Stage32) Doug not only answered all the follow up questions, he answered them thoughtfully -- not off the cuff, not plattitudes... he led us to Balls of Steel, off a question I had on getting honest feedback early on...an article there that let me know several ways to get, encourage and also deal with real live, gut wrenching , brutal, down right cringe-worthy --- but I wander... anyway how to get and actually love real criticism... which I used that insight right away i discussions with friends and family that had just read my first draft of Chasing Bees. When one said she'd NEVER forgive the hero for a somthing he did (made a house of cards with her sympathy cards!) I wasn't crushed; when another loved the lead male, but not so much the lead female.. I didn't defend, argue etc... I said really? Tell me why, tell me more... so I can find out what is not rubbing the right way -- and fix it! Before the Balls of Steel article, I always tried to get the reviews in writing, so I could suffer in silence (or not) ... but now I want to face the critics, ask the followup questions, see their face as they discuss what they like, as well as what they don't like or don't "get." I see that the good comments and the bad are ALL part of the process, and both equally important... good tells you what is working , do that; bad tells you what may not be working -- take a second look at that stuff..... Anyway, Doug did one amazing thing... he took the questions I threw at him that were about my writing , my frustrations and my desire for hones feedback, as seriously and as important as the curious question I had for him about HIS experiences, his successes, his mis-steps/ lessons learned. Many people have such ego interest that if it's not about THEM, they are not interested... not Doug.
Also on stage32, I see that same spirit of openness -- I've read and given notes, others have answered my questions, they've befriended, invited, supported and uplifted... can't ask for more than that... I am happy to read for anyone needing second eyes, and maybe we could have a page here that says "requesting feedback on spec script, email for PDF of screenplay" with a place to put a need by date in case it's for a submission to agent , prod, or contest??? A field for: Please address these issues or questions might also be helpful, if the writer wants specific sort of feedback? Sorry , long post! Robin
Well I read Doug's blog now and glad to have found it too! (thanks to this site Stage32) Doug not only answered all the follow up questions, he answered them thoughtfully -- not off the cuff, not plattitudes... he led us to Balls of Steel, off a question I had on getting honest feedback early on...…
I'll summarize...Doug is a gem :) Really appreciate the letter, Robin...You clearly "get it". You realize what the true spirit of this site is all about. Think it's terrific that you've taken the time to examine the work of others. You are a true asset to the community. I also appreciate your suggestions...We are in the process of revamping our discussions section. We can certainly add some of the categories you've listed above into the new screenplay section. More as it happens. Thanks again!
Wow, RB. You are one hell of a writer. I mean, I've read your intros to the blogs, but this writing was different - it was so heartfelt. I appreciate you sharing your thoughts with us. Thank you for bringing us Doug's series. It's like Goldman 2.0! This community is so special and I just love coming here for inspiration. All these "gems" are uncovered on this site and it truly is a pleasure to come here every day. Again, thank you for your post - your positivity back to this community is admirable.
Wow, RB. You are one hell of a writer. I mean, I've read your intros to the blogs, but this writing was different - it was so heartfelt. I appreciate you sharing your thoughts with us. Thank you for bringing us Doug's series. It's like Goldman 2.0! This community is so special and I just love co…
She likes me...She really likes me! Can't thank you enough for the note. This was an easy blog post to write given the subject. Even though I'm involved in the day to day of running this network, as it relates to being a part of the network, I'm just a peer. So, I looked forward to reading Doug's work with the same anxious anticipation as the rest of the community. I really appreciate the comment about "positivity" - It's one of the things about 32 I'm most proud of. Besides being the most creative network on the planet, the 32 community is overwhelmingly positive. And for that, I am extremely grateful. Doug, with his selfless nature, only added to the vibe.
Really good stuff here, RB. I'm also a fan of Goldman and his ornery combative take-no-bullshit approach and am grateful that you've founded a networking site that respects his values. Thanks for all the work you do and thanks again, Doug, for gifting us with Writer Held Hostage. Looking forward to what lies ahead.
That's a terrific compliment, Burton. Means a great deal to me. I thank you for recognizing what we are trying to accomplish and the high standards to which we hold ourselves.
Doug's blog is excellent--well worth visiting on a regular basis.
I agree Phyllis. All the blogs have been excellent! I'm waiting for the next one. lol
Thank you, guys...
Great blog!
Thanks for reading, Jami.
RB, one of my favorite, most satisfying pimp moments this year was introducing you to Doug. Honorable men I am proud to call friends. Love you both.
Nobody, and I mean nobody, does pimp like you. I assure you, the love is mutual....as is the respect.
Mate, you and Curt, too, have been inspirational, too, none more truer than the pushing and encouraging of talents and the continuous development of this site. I will big up you and the site no-end, man and thank you for flying my flag also. Bigger things; exciting things, are on the horizon, big guy. Your pal. Ben
Thanks, as always, Ben. Again, I appreciate the recognition for the positive vibes we try to supply the network with on a daily basis. A network full of creatives SHOULD be inspirational. It's should teem with energy. It should be vibrant and exciting. That's goal one...If that's in place, everything else falls in line. Thanks again, my friend.
RB, you remain, as always, the man. More talented screenwriters like Doug are sure to come Stage 32's way. Can't wait.
Speechless, RB. You are very very kind.
Rob! Thanks for the note, my friend. And for reinforcing the fact that I am, indeed, the man :) Screenwriters - hell, all creatives - you'd be doing yourself a service to read Rob's insightful blog Heroes Are Boring - www.heroesareboring.com
Doug - Speechless? You? Come on.