Matthew J. Kaplan: Screenwriter, actor and filmmaker in Brooklyn, New York.

Due to the shortage of money, I have acted a lot in my no-budget movies. This has helped me to become a better screenwriter and director. When one learns what is problematical for actors, it becomes easier to avoid problems. When one learns what actors like to do, it becomes easier to attract actors.

Bravo! Great insight! Thanks for sharing!

I could not agree more. I know every writer should act to get an idea of what is possible for and actor to perform, and it helps the writer develop scripts that actors can understand and live in the character.

Thank you, Matthew J.

Happy Holidays, Matthew! Great blog! I’ve heard of taking acting classes to become a better writer. I might take classes. I think it'd help. Whether I take classes or not, I’m gonna use your idea (“To create a character’s actions and lines, I place myself in that character’s mindset”) for my scripts. Thanks for the idea!

Good to see another improviser (improvisor? improv dude?) using it to parlay into sketches, writing, etc.

Good advice and good points, Matthew. As I writer, I always value the story I wrote with a working actor who taught me a lot about the things you talk about. Congratulations! and good fortune on your creative projects.

Happy for your wins. I think that you are following a great recipe, for yourself. Creating Content as a vehicle for visibility is what I like to do. I too am an Improviser and the skills adopted makes me more ready than most to act, to send and to receive actions, and story most spontaneously and creatively. The ideas of “Yes,And” , seeking empathy, being vulnerable and supportive of the fellow participants in the scene or story have been great tools that I recall and implement in my writings, as well. You are a great example of getting busy to get it done. Kudos and Write On!

Thank you for sharing these great insights, Matthew! I think that improv is a great activity for creatives to learn how to approach their art from different perspectives and to creatively problem-solve without overthinking. I'm glad that you've had such a wonderful experience with it!

Great blog, Matthew! “To create a character’s actions and lines, I place myself in that character’s mindset.” I’m gonna try that with my next script. Thanks for sharing the ways acting helped you become a better writer.

Love this. Another reason why I'd love to dip my toes into acting. Thanks for the great insight, Matthew!

Extremely helpful.

Hello! I am working on a screenplay and I feel like it can use a few comedic punch-ups. Before I get into any serious talks with anyone, I want to know how that person would be credited. If I have done the lion's share of the work, does the "punch-up" contributor share writing credit? Thanks - Matt

How would you start a screenplay?

Hi, neither new to the industry or New York BUT new to Stage 32. Was recommended this site by a friend who has ended up starting a company with the connections he made here. I have just posted a job up, but am also always looking to make new and genuine connections - mates to see stuff with, mates to help out, new people to work with. Looking forward to what it brings!

So this is my company: Filmatick is pleased to host a virtual lunch & learn on January 6, 2021, from 12 pm-1 pm (EST). Emmy Award-winning director, Mike Gasaway, will be presenting on the importance of previsualization in a post-covid world. We will treat you and a guest to an Uber Eats lunch that you can enjoy during the event. Register today! https://bit.ly/3m0BOLM

Lloyd Kaufman and the crew at Tromavilla are accepting feature screenplays. Has anyone done this or heard about anyone trying to do this?!