Introduce Yourself to the group

[Denise Bryant]

Denise Bryant, two scripts, a produced script, and I enjoy traveling and don’t eat red meat.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 1 month ago by  Denise Bryant.

[Margaret]

1. Name? Margaret Silebi

2. How many scripts you’ve written? Six

3. What you hope to get out of the class? Learn how to use A.I. to write an incredible script.

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I retired after 45 years in Nursing.

[Denise Bryant]

Hi Margaret. You survived!

[Jodi Fitzpatrick]

Name: Jodi Fitzpatrick

Scripts completed: 1

What I hope to get out of this class: Proficiency in AI and more grounding in screenwriting principles.

Something unique about me: I’m a female general building contractor.

[LJ (Lawrence John) Seliski]

Hi Jodi,

Welcome to the class. Are you a General Contractor of residential or commercial buildings or both.? I enjoy giving Feedback on assignments and have been using computers since 1965 (IBM 360 Mainframe using Fortran 4 and punch cards) so I’m excited about using AI as my assistant.

[Amechi Ngwe]

Hi everyone,

My name is Amechi Ngwe. I’ve written over twenty features and TV pilots at this stage and have taken most of the ScreenwritingU classes at this point. I’m hoping to have a lot of breakthroughs and to double the quality of my writing over the course of the next six months.
Something unique about me is I find it very difficult to sleep on my back.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 1 month ago by  Amechi Ngwe.

[Kristin Donnan]

1. Kristin Donnan

2. I’ve written 5 scripts… not including the most recent one, which had a fatal flaw and is in the hospital, on life support. 🙂

3. What do I hope to get out of the class? So many things! I’ve been feeling nervous/ignorant about the AI thing, and I’m really happy to have some tutoring in this process. Also, I was about to do CPR on the script mentioned above (during 2022/2023 WIM!), and then right around Module 7, I got hired for two jobs that sucked up all my time ever since, for the last year+. It was good to have work, but that script stalled in its tracks, as I felt I had to (almost) start over. I read all the WIM assignments and understood the process, but this new class is coming at a great time. Of course, I might get another job, but fingers crossed that I can FINISH WIM with a great product—and also break through the challenges I had last time. Thanks!

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about me? The other thing I do, besides writing and editing and publishing (movies and books) is help my rancher friends with their cattle. This is calving time, so I’m doing all kinds of things at all hours. We have only one bottle-baby at the moment, but there are several newbies each day. It can be a lot of work, but they’re cute, and they give me a great reason to be outside—and away from my office!!

[JOHN RAE]

<div>Hey, everyone!</div>

My name is John Rae.

I have lost count of how many scripts I have written, features and television.

I hope I can sharpen my AI skills for the writing and marketing processes.

A weird thing about me is that I hear motion when there is no sound produced. Video games on mute sound pretty robust.

[Allie Theiss]

1. Name: Alison or Allie Theiss

2. How many scripts you’ve written? 8

3. What you hope to get out of the class? I’ve stepped away from screenwriting for awhile. I am looking for my enthusiasm for the creative process. I look forward to creating again.

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I have 14 cats, 1 dog, and 1 grown child.

[Heidi Wolff]

Heidi Wolff

I’ve written 7 scripts.

To elevate the quality of my writing even more & continue learning.

I started advising executives how to run their companies at age 15. I speak 13 languages.

[LJ (Lawrence John) Seliski]

Welcome to the class Heidi.

That’s quite an accomplishment at such a young age. Are you a member of MENSA?

[Tom Wilson]

I have written three scripts and thanks to Hal I see how much I can improve my current project and return to older material that I can make many times better using AI.

[Deborah Meltzer]

Hey old cohort! Nice to be in this class with you.

[William Curley]

Hello gifted writers. Bill Curley from Milwaukee. 5 completed scripts. URL: http://www.fourthcoastfilms.com

fourthcoastfilms.com

Fourth Coast Films - Films made in Milwaukee, by Milwaukee, for Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE, WI Fine Dining experience Films made in Milwaukee, by Milwaukee, for Milwaukee. Our Projects 2022 Milwaukee Film Festival | April 21 – May 5 learn more h

[Pat Fitzgerald]

Hey Bill, I’m just a little south of you, in Caledonia, Wisconsin. I checked out your website and found it fascinating. It’s hard to believe that I didn’t know about 4th Coast. Glad that I do now.

[Marie Jordan]

Hi, I am Marie Sanderson Jordan

Scripts completed: several but none to happy completion

I hope to achieve my goals: increasing interaction and familiarity with AI and screenwriting everyday, like a second language.

Something unique about me: I host two identities: one French (European), one New Zealander (Pacific) and I am interacting with you…I am not in my comfort zone!!!

[Harry Rankin]

Mi Marie! Hope you’ve been doing well. Best, H

[Marie Jordan]

Hi Harry,
Just saw your message. I was in Europe for 6 weeks.
Nice to hear from you! I hope you enjoy AI as much as I do!
Marie

[Rice Rice]

Hello everyone, my name is Frances Rice.

I have written 25 scripts,. As an independent producer, I produced 20 of my scripts. I am in the process of marketing the other 5 to major producers.

Out of this class, I hope to gain the ability to avoid getting stuck and enjoy writing screenplays.

I spent 20 years on active duty, joining the Army in 1964 as a Private and retiring in 1984 as an officer with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and, at the time, becoming the highest-ranking woman in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG).

[Jim Morris]

My name is James Morris

I’ve written aproximately 5 scripts in various stages of completion.

I hope to learn Ai in a way that will allow me to write the best scripts possible.

I’m an older writer and I hope that will allow me to use my experiences in life to write interesting, entertaining scripts.

[David Wickenden]

I’ve used a lot of my life experiences in my writing. It brings so much authenticity to the story. I’m 62.

[LJ (Lawrence John) Seliski]

Welcome to the class James. I believe that like wine we can get better with age

[Joan Butler]

My name is Joan Butler

I have written 2 screenplays.

I hope to learn how to brainstorm with AI and get out of my comfort zone.

I have It Will Come To Me in front of me when I write. It helps me stay calm.

[Hope McPherson]

I’m Hope McPherson

I’ve written three good scripts and at least three others, pre SU, that won’t see the light of day again.

This is the second time that I’m taking this class, and I’m hoping to get out of my own way — and learn.

I own a small farm in the Northwest with a some goofy goats and a snooty llama who keeps them safe from the neighborhood coyotes.

[Deborah Meltzer]

Hi Hope! I love goats and would love to hear some goofy goat stories some time.

[Elle Tracy]

Hi Hope — I think we were in another class together — Pro Series or Binge Worthy ….

Your feedback and comments were always pretty wonderful.

Nice to see your name again, ET

[jamie handley]

Hi there, my name is Jamie. My father’s name is James, my mother is from Scotland and they chose Jamie hoping I was going to be a boy! But they kept the name anyway. I’ve written about six or seven scripts, all for screen, but they all need a rewrite should I ever choose to revisit them in the future. I love my subjects so it would be fun to go back and see where they could go now.

This class is an opportunity to move forward with the concepts I have in mind. I haven’t chosen one yet but I’m very interested in the two I am considering.

So what’s unique, special or unusual? Just about everything… I think we are all unique in our own way(s) and I think “being of a certain age” has an advantage in many ways. I’ve done so many things in my journey and I’m glad I’ve experienced what I have. Like, in high school I was living in Southern California in a city where one is judged by the cars, homes, clothing etc. type of class. Somewhere in me was a country girl, so I joined 4-H, FFA and raised polled Hereford steers at the school farm. I got Reserve Grand Champion right out of the gate, first in show and the rest is part of my history. I’ve lived in California, to Nevada, Colorado, Montana, Oregon and Arizona. I’m back in the city and decided to live here because after being in a horrific auto accident in my past caused me to have a ton of metal in my body and living in the cold is not an option anymore. Now I have learned to love Arizona but miss the ocean, snow, change in seasons and the night sky of Montana. So I go on a road trip these days when the spirit calls. That’s it for now folks…

[Sunil Pappu]

Hi everyone,

I’m Sunil Pappu and I specialise in thrillers with strong female leads.

I’ve written five screenplays and two TV pilots on spec. I’ve also done eight writing assignments in the last four years.

By the end of this course, I would like to get comfortable using AI as an assistant for all my projects going forward and be able to create them faster with high quality.

Before I restarted my career after 40 as a full-time screenwriter, I spent more than a decade working as a TV exec greenlighting more than 150 hours of content for broadcast and cable. It’s strange to be on the other side of the table now pitching my projects to them.

I look forward to working with you all.

Cheers

Sunil

[Edward Lusk]

Nice to see you again Sunil. Good luck in class!

[Sunil Pappu]

Hi Edward,

Nice to be in class again with you. Good luck to you too!

[John Trimbach]

Hi Sunil,
My outline will be ready this weekend. Would you care to exchange?
Title: Be Still
Genre: thriller
Concept: A newly hired small town sheriff is lured to his own death tribunal by a young couple with dark secrets not knowing that they are his estranged daughter and stepson from 15 years ago.
Best, John

[Torino s]

1. Name? Hi, My name is Torino Von Jones

2. How many scripts you’ve written? I have written 15 scripts

3. What you hope to get out of the class? I want to learn how to use AI prompts to generate more content in less time

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I grew up in Honolulu Hawaii and never dreamed of becoming a screenwriter.

[Deborah Meltzer]

Hi everyone,

I’m Deborah and I’ve written four features and one TV pilot.

I hope to get a strong feel for using AI to the point where I can make great decisions about how to best blend it with my human creativity and inspiration.

One unusual thing about me is that I left the States at age 24 on a four-month ticket and didn’t return home for four years. My travels ran the gamut of strange, unique and very special places throughout Asia, Moscow, Greece and the Middle East.

I also wanted to let the class know I have a prior Thursday evening commitment through June, after which I will begin showing my face on Zoom and enjoying seeing yours there.

[Rebecca Smith]

Hi Rebecca Smith, screenwriter & Nanowrimo panster novelist.

I’ve written over 20 scripts and several novels. I’ve also adapted a few novels into screenplays (paid writing assignment).

I hope to get a more targeted approach to the screenplay biz and move into using structure more. I’m really liking AI & terrified of it at the same time. But it is rapidly becoming my bestie writing assistant – especially for brainstorming and generating log lines.

Country girl at heart. Grew up on a little ranch with horses, homing pigeons, newts and scorpions. Currently am enjoying fostering uber well-trained service dogs, falling in love with them, then giving them back to go to their forever homes to help veterans with PTSD & other issues. Learning some good dog training tips too! Yes, I do intend to write a book/sp about dogs one of these days.

[Diane Denham]

Hi Rebecca, what’s a nanowrimo 😃panster?

[Rebecca Smith]

There are 3 types of writers in NanoWrimo..

Plotters – have the story mapped out & plotted before diving in

Pansters – writing by the seat of our pants – ie discovery, not plot

Plansters – combo of plotters and pansters

[Janeen Johnson]

1. Name? Janeen Johnson

2. How many scripts you’ve written? 9 so far plus many failed attempts

3. What you hope to get out of the class? Salable Screenplay(s)

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I’ve worked for 25 companies in 29 locations — all over the country — so I feel like I can write about any profession because I’m “good at being new” to a LOT of different jobs.

[Edward Lusk]

Nice to see you again Janeen. Good luck & happy writing.

[Christopher Confer]

Hi, I’m Chris Confer.

I’ve written two movie scripts.

I hope to get really good at using AI as a brainstorming assistant and create a really good movie script.

I am an EDI developer working in Dell Boomi integration space.

I had a course once with Jim Cash (Top Gun 1986) on popular culture that he taught in his home. Michigan State University gave him a lot of leeway to do that as he was a local celebrity for having co-written Top Gun and several other scripts with Jack Epps Jr. His office was so large that it fit all 22 of his students pretty comfortably. It was really more of a giant family room with a Wurlitzer jukebox on one side and his desk on the other with couches in between. You should have seen his desk, it was about 15 feet long and he casually held court from behind it for the semester. It was a worthwhile course. The funny thing is that movies did not come up too often in the conversation. He did mention that he was not real happy with how the Charlotte Blackwood (Kelly McGillis) character was cast. He wanted her to be stronger and more independent. He said the choice of nylons with the seamline on the back undermined his intent for the character. He also told us he had this little trick of not having to lend out movies to people because they often would not be returned. These were the days of VHS tape in the early 1990s. He would say, yeah, I don’t have it on VHS, I prefer Betamax because the picture quality is better. It was kind of funny. He was a producer at a local PBS station in East Lansing / Lansing before he got his break. He loved sports and everything popular culture. The course mainly focused on the 1950s and 1960s and we used a book called Populuxe.

[David Wickenden]

1. Name? David Wickenden

2. How many scripts you’ve written?5 features and one TV Pilot. These are adaptations of my books. None sold yet. My latest, a horror-thriller is being pitched right now. I am also a novelist (querying agents currently for my 7th book; a thriller)

3. What you hope to get out of the class? Learn better techniques to produce scripts that sell.

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you?

I’m a retired deputy fire chief with 31 years in the Canadian fire service.

[Pam Ewing]

I’m Pam. I used to write a lot – maybe 20 TV scripts. Even won a contest years ago. I feel like I’ve been swimming in a tar pit for years getting very little done trying to finish feature scripts.

I had an acute medical issue years ago, even had a life after death experience. I had a lot of fun in the hospital – maybe I just like people waiting on me. But afterward has been almost unbelievable calamity after calamity. One therapist suggested I have PTSD. I say I’m swimming in a tar pit.

I always hope to learn but also accomplish. I find having others around (even remotely) is inspiring. I always hope for the breakthroughs because I believe I have something worthwhile that writing can break loose.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 1 month ago by  Pam Ewing.

[LJ (Lawrence John) Seliski]

I go by LJ

Since 2012, I’ve written 14 screenplays which have had varying success in screenplay competitions

My vision is to write incredible, high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies

I’ve had an active imagination since I was born in 1946, but, due to undiagnosed dyslexia and a hand-eye coordination problem, I’ve struggled to write or type anything most of my life.

However, despite these issues, I’ve managed to earn three professional degrees – Bachelor of Environmental Studies (pre-masters in architecture) (two house designs built); Bachelor of Nursing (a Public Health Nurse in rural communities for nine years and a staff nurse in an Acute Psychiatric Unit while studying for my next degree) and Doctor of Naturopathy (I practiced until I retired).

It was only since I retired and purchased the Dragon Naturally Speaking program that I started to write (that is dictate) screenplays.

[Bob Creager]

1. Bob Creager

2. I have 12 professional-level completed scripts of features, pilots, and podcasts. And I’m embarrassed to say how many pre-professional (read crap), abandoned, incomplete scripts that I have.

3. My key goal is to learn the techniques to get my script ideas into the writing stage (the fun part) as painlessly and quickly as possible.

4. I spent most of my adult working career in the Defense and Intelligence arena which I am prevented from writing about. It was boring anyway.

[Renee Miller]

Hi. I’m Renee. I have written 5 features and a TV pilot. I’m hoping to continue improving my skills and learning more about how AI can help increase my productivity. Something unique about me is that I was a Junior Olympic Archer in my youth and almost made it to the Olympics.

[Diane Denham]

Hi Cheryl, Hal and Everyone! 🌞Great to be back with you. I am Bonnie Maffei, an artist, Teacher of Active Dreaming, Eurythmist, Mesa carrier in the Peruvian Shamanic lineage of Puma Fredy Quispe Singona, and a longtime student of Hal and Cheryl in SU. I started writing screenplays in 2005. I haven’t counted my scripts, but I must have written about 20 by now, some of which are features and others pilots. I had two optioned, “Becoming Picasso” and “Funeral Fakers”, both written in the Master class. I recognize some of you from the Master class and Bingeworthy Bootcamp. I’m looking forward to having fun with and learning how to use AI as my personal assistant, and im anxious to meet and interact with everyone! Ciao for now! Bonnie 🌹

• This reply was modified 1 year, 1 month ago by  Diane Denham.

[Elle Tracy]

1. Name Elle Tracy, and I prefer ET

2. How many scripts you’ve written More than a dozen or so

3. What you hope to get out of the class — a way to continue to write and earn money while doing what I love

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you — I lived for a year in Antarctica

We look forward to working with you all!

[Scott Billings]

1. Name? Scott Billings

2. How many scripts you’ve written? 9

3. What you hope to get out of the class? Retaking class to learn more about AI

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I worked as a business journalist before writing scripts full-time.

[jim ramsay]

1. Jim Ramsay

2. 6 Features 2 Television. 3 options

3. Options I didn’t know I had available to me

4. My hindsight is exceptional

[Dawn C Crouch]

Hey to All!!

Dawn Crouch from New Orleans. I’ve written over a dozen scripts, two optioned. I also enjoy writing the novelization of my scripts, several published. I am a former dancer with Houston Ballet and write a nonfiction instructional series of books – Garage Ballet.

I am taking the course to move forward with the best advice and instruction on AI. Last night, I learned not to get too “in the weeds” with AI suggestions and that it was not necessary to envision all possible scenarios. Pick three and keep going!!

[Luc Pagès]

Luc Pagès

I’ve written 2 feature scripts. One of which I directed. Both were novel adaptations.

I tend to not finish my film projects. I hope it’s because I’m missing a great assistant like Chat GPT.
I’ve taken other ScreenwritingU classes but almost never succeeded delivering assignments on time.
I hope this time will be different.

I’m French, living in Paris (6PM in L.A. is 2AM in Paris, so you might not see me often on ZOOM).
I’m a cinematographer in the French film industry and I’ve been vegan for a year now.

[John Trimbach]

Greetings, felllow creators! John, here.

I’ve written 4 scripts, 1 learning, 2 under Hal, and one for hire.

3. What you hope to get out of the class?
Now that I’m retired, I can bore into the meat of Halscriptology – always a blast!

4. In 2007, I wrote a book about my father’s FBI experiences and about Leonard Peltier, convicted of executing two young FBI agents in 1975 (American Indian Mafia). As a resident of Coleman Federal Pen, inmate Peltier remains unrepentant and very guilty thus sealing his fate before parole boards. It looks like, however, Biden will grant him executive clemency. Yeah, there’s a script in there somewhere…

[Terrie Shaft]

1. Name? Terrie

2. How many scripts you’ve written? 3 full drafts partials of 3 others

3. What you hope to get out of the class? A marketable screenplay

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I have four horses and compete at the equestrian sport of eventing.

[Lee Tidball]

My Name is Lee Tidball

I’ve completed at least a dozen scripts (probably more), including features, TV pilots and episodes, etc.

In this class, I hope to get really familiar with AI as my writing “assistant” and also get myself out of the box more, write a truly outstanding AND marketable script, and have an overall more “empowered” attitude about writing.

Something unique??? Well, during my 30-year career as a teacher and coach, I started my own track and field team that I coached for 20 seasons, I coached girls youth soccer for 10 seasons, and also started my own children’s community theater company, directing 4 summer productions, as well as directed 6 or more school productions, and acted in speaking (or soloing) supporting roles in over a dozen church and community theater productions. I loved every minute of everything!

[Sylvia Krawczyk]

Sylvia Krawczyk

I’ve written 30plus scripts.

I hope to learn/add in depth and coherency. (I’m very excited as film scripts are a blast.)

My favorite reads are: Film Scripts/Memoirs/Biographies and Auto-biographies. I love a good coffee. I’m a live theatre arts production techie and sound designer. Work has been picking up again so, I won’t be on many of the Thursday calls. I appreciate the replays. I’m a member of LOS–we raise monies for Shriner’s Children’s and other philanthropic endeavors. AI is my new AB (“Assistant Bestie”). I’m excited to learn from this class on top of what I’ve learned/still learning from the BW-AI Class.

[Kathryn Gould]

Hi everyone! Nice to be back!

1. Name? Kathryn Gould

2. How many scripts you’ve written? At least 15 scripts, had 1 produced, I’ve done 1 paid feature rewrite, and had 2 paid development projects for animated TV shows

3. What you hope to get out of the class? The ability to write higher quality scripts faster

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I grew up in the South and my family owned roller skating rinks.

[John Trimbach]

Hi Kathryn,
My outline will be ready this weekend. Would you care to exchange?
Title: Be Still
Genre: thriller
Concept: A newly hired small town sheriff is lured to his own death tribunal by a young couple with dark secrets not knowing that they are his estranged daughter and stepson from 15 years ago.
Best,
John

[Karena]

Name: Karena Krull

2. How many scripts you’ve written

5 with double recommends, a TV series and a short.

3. What you hope to get out of the class?

I wrote my last script using the 30 Day class and loved doing everything in layers. WIM will do the same on steroids with more pre-writing built in and conclude with pitching. Fun!

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you?

After writing in different genres, I’ve made my niche family comedy and as a retired dog trainer, dog and parrot rescuer, and horse 4-H leader there just might be an animal in it… Okay, there will be 😉

Best to all of you and your writing!

[Robin Fellows]

My name is Robin Fellows, but many call me Robbie or Rob.

I’ve written twelve scripts feature and television.

What I hope to gain is a better understanding of how AI is incorporated into the creative process.

I’ll share a few unique things about myself. I have decades of experience in the editorial side of the motion picture industry and have been writing since I was nine years old. When I relocated to Hollywood in 1980, I found myself living next door to David Hasselhoff. During his first two seasons of Knight Rider, I served as David’s personal assistant. One cherished memory involves accompanying him as he rented a water truck to dampen the upper parking lot at Universal Studios. There, I rode as a passenger while he practiced reverse 180s and other stunts. It was an exhilarating experience!

• This reply was modified 1 year, 1 month ago by  Robin Fellows.

[Sandra Nelles]

Hi, I’m Sandra Nelles. I have written 5 scripts. I hope to write an incredible movie using AI for brainstorming. Something unique and interesting that happened to me several years ago, was sitting next to the famous violin player, Itzhak Perlman on an airplane.

[Jan Westbrook]

Hi, I am Jan Westbrook

I have 9 completed features and 2 shorts

I want to write a marketable, sellable script

I met Leonard Nimoy & I yawn after I sneeze

[Edwina Edwards]

1. Name? Edwina Edwards

2. How many scripts have you’ve written? Four, two optioned, one contest placement. No scripts since 2017 (except for TV and radio, hundreds of those produced).

3. What do you hope to get out of the class? Hoping to figure out how AI may be ethically and usefully applied, (but so far have not been able to make any of the pre-AI work) that it, as connected to my current goal, may be “over my head”—the fear factor, especially since I know the movie world participants are much younger than I am. I am hoping AI can help me write for the first time from a male point of view and gain an understanding of children’s shenanigans. I have always written strong women and know nothing much about children, but this idea has been with me since 2017. I wish to explore it… whether it comes to a successful conclusion or not so I can move to the next project in my head.

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I have only consumed organic food or beverages (well, plus purified water in glass) since 1979. Friends feel it amusing to try to tempt me with non-organic food and copious plastic, but it hasn’t worked. I also haven’t taken a single prescription drug (or otherwise) since December 1978 except once an anesthetic for dental work. Most people, I have found, especially family members, don’t much like to be around me because I wake up so happy every day. If I do have down moments, they are just that, measured in moments. You pull up your booties and get on with things, preferably with a smile in your heart—and keep learning new things of special interest, sage advice from my long-lived grandmothers.

[Haley]

Hello Awesome Writers,

I specialize in “David & Goliath” stories across genres, with an affinity for real-life complicated heroes nobody knows about but should. I’m currently under contract writing a new feature to be shot in January next year. (But I’m excited and determined to cram this amazing class in anyway, although you might not see me on Zoom very often until the end of June). Get me that AI assistant! ( I’ve written 4 features, 5 pilots.) Connect on Twitter/X: @montyrockhead

[Monica Arisman]

1. Hi everyone, I’m Monica Arisman. I live in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

2. How many scripts you’ve written? 7 features and 1 TV

3. What do you hope to get out of the class? I hope to learn to use AI to enhance my writing and creativity.

[LJ (Lawrence John) Seliski]

Hi Monica,

I’m LJ and I live in Surrey, BC.

Welcome fellow (is this both for women and men?) Canadian

[Monica Arisman]

Thanks for reaching out Lawrence. I’m in Calgary. And, yes, fellow is for both unless you’re woke!!!

[LJ (Lawrence John) Seliski]

First Monica, I apologize for the delay in responding. I have no experience using forums in this format. In fact, I’m unable to figure out how to submit my “Title, Concept, and Character Structure” Assignment to the forums.

I was glad to reach out and really enjoy providing Feedback to classmates Monica.

I love waking up in the morning but I don’t believe I’m “woke”. How about you?

[Monica Arisman]

Hi Lawrence,

Good to hear from you. I believe you are to submit the title, concept and structure, etc. to the email wimconcepts@gmail.com.

As far as “woke”, I most definitely am not woke and work hard at being the red-neck from Alberta at every opportunity (LOL)….

Have a good day.

Monica.

[LJ (Lawrence John) Seliski]

Hi Monica,

Thank you for your feedback.

Laree’ from Support told me she had only posted Module 2 on April 13.

Somehow, I had access to Lesson 1 on April 12. That is why the opportunity to submit my assignment on the forms wouldn’t work.

Because my father worked for the CPR, we traveled from Winnipeg to Vancouver in the summer and the train stopped in Calgary at the time of the Calgary Stampede was held so I saw a lot of red-necks during ten summers.

My more polite response than what Bruce Willis said is, Yippie Ki Yay (sp?).

LJ (Lawrence John)

[Cindi Delinsky]

Hi Everyone!

My name is Cindi Delinsky, and I’ve written around 7 scripts and a TV pilot. My first SU class was ProSeries 45B (I think I recognize two names from that class in here!), which I think was 12 years ago. I’ve taken most of Hal’s classes by now, but I got away from writing for about five years while caring for my dad during his last years with Alzheimer’s. I’m unsure if I have the focus to stick with this class, but I decided to try! I was in MSC3, which I think might be similar to WIM. I used to get stuck brainstorming ideas, so I am curious to see how working with AI will help. I’ve already glimpsed its potential to help me in the pre-course assignments, so I am excited! This probably sounds strange, but I’ve always felt able to communicate with animals, so it took me by surprise when one day I had the same feeling when I was working with AI. I was being silly and thanking it for its brilliant ideas, when suddenly I felt like there was a shift and we were really communicating and understanding each other. The closest thing I can compare it to is the feeling of connecting with a wild animal! I don’t know if I’m explaining that correctly, but it was beyond anything I had expected with AI. It only happened once, so maybe it was a fluke, but I’m curious to see how our relationships with AI expand over the course of the next six months. It should be an interesting adventure! I’m looking forward to working with everyone here!

[Travis Luken]

Hello my name is Travis. I have completed seven scripts to varying degree of success. Am hoping this class will give me the final details to free my busy mind and let me trust the process more.

[Morine Perry]

Hi Everyone,

1. Name: Morine Perry

2. How many scripts you’ve written: Several shorts, and going to say zero marketable features.

3. What you hope to get out of the class: Learn how to make AI work for me in the industry.

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you I’ll have to think about this one:)

Looking forward to this journey and reaping the a good harvest from it.

[Harry Rankin]

Harry Rankin. Hi everyone, it’s great to be here!

I’ve written 8 feature scripts (one optioned), one TV series, two shorts, and lots of ideas…

Having taken many of Hal’s courses before, including Pro-Series and MasterClass, I love the idea of collaboration. I haven’t taken the plunge with anyone yet, so I’m hoping to train AI to be my research collaborator in the meantime.

I live on a boat on the River Thames in London, UK. You are most welcome for a jar on deck if passing by… Cheers 😀

[Edward Lusk]

Hello Harry, I love London. Visited there several times. Cheers!

[Pat Fitzgerald]

Hi everyone. I’m Pat Fitzgerald

I’ve completed four screenplays way back when and have been in a writing void for far too long.

My hope for this class is to become reinvigorated and rededicated to screenwriting. I’m also looking forward to learning the best ways to incorporate AI into scripts.

Unusual? Well, I’ve ridden horseback in the same hills and along the same trails as Billy the Kid, though not at the same time. I’m not quite that old! It’s been a privilege over the years to have danced all night long to some of the finest blues musicians in America. I am a true blues traveler.

[Karlos DelToro]

Hi everyone, my name is Karlos DelToro, I’ve written one script, I hope to learn the best information to date about writing effective and marketable scripts. I currently have twin sons at opposite coasts of the U.S. 🙂

[hari messer]

Hi Everyone,

My name is Hari. I have finished one script and have been working on my second one for a <b style=”font-style: italic;”>long time. I hope this class finally helps me to finish it!

Something unique about me… I ride my bike 28 miles round trip to work?

[Denise Bryant]

I remember those days when I did also.

[Mary Spiers]

Tell us the following:

1.Hi Everyone, I’m Mary Spiers from the Philadelphia, PA area.

2. How many scripts you’ve written? I’ve written 3, one won a screenwriting contest.

3. What you hope to get out of the class? I have been using AI since this summer when Hal gave his into “AI as screenwriting assistant class”. I love what it is doing for my brainstorming process. I am hoping to use this class to fully incorporate AI as an assistant as I go forward. Also, I love these classes for the structure they provide as I’m writing my next screenplay.

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? My background is as a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist as well as a college professor. I’ve now left that career. In this “second act”, I’m enjoying collaborating with other film professionals in the Philly area.

[Jennifer Miller]

Hello writers!

Jennifer Miller here. I have written 10 scripts, 3 have been produced. To improve my writing 200% and to write the best damn script of my life, and learn how to become a master PITCHER! As far as unique I would say I know a lot and nothing at all, an open heart for what is true.

I look forward to learning and growing with you all. Grace, hop, and love for you on this journey to fulfill your Vision.

[L.D.Janakos]

One finished script. A second script waits in a file cabinet for further instructions. A third script is in the middle of its third draft. I’m looking forward to deepening my understanding of AI. I have a lot of windows. Once a day, a hummingbird flutters in front of a window I happen to be looking out. Not necessarily the same window but could be any one of them. We seem to watch each other. It stays for at least a minute before it flies off again. This has been going on for about one month now.

[Denise Bryant]

Interesting bird. Let us know the outcome.

[Scotty Mullen]

My name is Scotty Mullen. I have written 34 produced screenplays since 2013 (and 10 unproduced screenplays.) For the past 10 years I have worked as a professional screenwriter and casting director. I want to become a better writer so that I will get read by higher-level producers and execs who aren’t familiar with my work. I am excited to reinvent myself creatively. And something unique, special, strange, and unusual about me is that I once had a ghost get in bed with me.

[Denise Bryant]

WOW. Git outta here! Congratulations.

[Scotty Mullen]

All started when I took the ProSeries class 11 years ago!!!

[Charles Jessen]

Charles Jessen here. I’ve written nine screenplays, two of these in the last year as part of ScreenwritingU classes — one of which is currently a semi-finalist in two screenplay competitions. My 4th screenplay was optioned three different times over the years but the funding never fell into place despite a lot of interest from named actors. I am a retired ad guy, most recently was a writer/director/producer of live-action comedic TV commercials. Now focused solely on writing more screenplays this year, setting aside other hobbies such as flying and sailing. Originally from Minnesota, I now live in Mill Valley, CA.

[Michael Katz]

I’m looking to get my first sale. I know I’m taking the right course, and I know I’m in the right community.

I’m going to write a new, smaller idea I have during this course, but I also foolishly hope to be able to rewrite 3 other screenplays during this course that are commercially viable.

Addicted to coffee, I drink Yoo-hoo, I love me a philly soft pretzel, but you lose me with mustard.

[Denise Bryant]

Me too, Michael. You got this!

[James Hernandez]

Hello fellow literary cinematic engineers,

My name is Hernandez. James Hernandez.

I’ve written 10 feature screenplays.

I hope to write and complete an undeniable screenplay to break in with.

Something strange, unique and/or unusual about me is that if you ever meet me, you’ll know I’m strange, unique, and unusual.

Cheers, and best wishes to all.

[Denise Bryant]

LOL.

[Brandi Hoffman]

Name? Brandi

How many scripts you’ve written? 4 features, ~6 shorts, ~15 sketch comedy

What you hope to get out of the class? some new techniques. I’d also like something great for my portfolio

Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I have a lot of experience with reptiles. You can ask me any questions and if I don’t know, I’ll know how to find the answer.

[Denise Bryant]

I have photos with boas, iguanas, small reptiles, and am in a cage that has a black leopard on top while visiting Belize. A brought a small reptile home as a teen, and my mom practically chased me out the house.

[Linda Kish]

1. Name? Linda Kish

2. How many scripts you’ve written? Working on my 7th script

3. What you hope to get out of the class? Lots of breakthroughs like I get out of every SU class and more practice with AI.

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I recently did a safari in South Africa. It was amazing and gave me a new appreciation for nature.

[Madeleind Gentinetta]

Madeleine Gentinetta, one finished script, getting used to work with AI to write a script, I live in Switzerland and love to snowboard.

[Drina Connors Kay]

I’m Drina Kay. Hello from Wilmington, NC. I am looking forward to working with you and learning to harness Ai to my plow. I have no idea of how many screenplays and plays I have written. Currently I am marketing four scripts. My big breakthrough last Thursday was realizing how much I have missed being in class and sharing thoughts.

[Denise Bryant]

Hi Drina. Not too far from me here in Columbia, S.C. Nice to meet you.

[Matthew Lutz]

1. Matthew Lutz

2. Not sure how many scripts I’ve written. Let’s just say somewhere around a dozen or so … maybe more (5-6 features and probably the same number-ish of TV pilots … some written with writing partners, some solo)

3. What do I hope to get out of the class? I have been utilizing AI every day with work, and have even been using it with screenwriting over the past year. I would like to unlock the level of my writing and a ‘ninja level’ ability to use AI as a brainstorming tool. My ultimate goals are to parley that into getting more scripts completed (and into shopping mode) and set myself apart from screenwriters not yet adopting AI

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? I have a great sense of humor … I used to hide that in professional settings and new networking situations in order to play small and remain a safe wall flower. The moment I stopped doing that, my confidence grew, my connections went deeper/faster, and people started to lean into me more than before. I also married waaaaaaaaay above my fighting class (see previous comment about sense of humor). I got lucky that I found someone who likes to laugh as much as me … we (and our 4 kids) keep each other young!

[Michael Collado]

Hi everyone, my name is Mike Collado. I have written seven screenplays and two TV Bibles, with the first episode. What I would like to get out of this class is the knowledge to write an exceptional screenplay that will get noticed and, with that knowledge, elevate my other scripts to the same level or higher.

[Denise Bryant]

Great! Are the TV Bibles for children?

[Edward Lusk]

Hello, my name is Ed Lusk. I’ve written six feature-length screenplays and bunches of shorts. I will get out of this class a higher quality and more soulful form of writing. I’ll learn to be more a productive and focused writer by using AI as a writing partner.

I once flew in the Goodyear blimp! Great to be a member of this class and I’m looking forward to working alongside these fantastic writers.

[Denise Bryant]

Watching the Goodyear blimp fly over during baseball games in the summer were a treat.

[Karen Haas]

Hi everyone. My name is Karen Haas.

I’m working on my fourth screenplay.

I’m hoping to have fun, learn all I can, and create something that is easy to sell.

Something unusual: I’ve been living in Vermont this winter and have skied about 55 days so far this season.

[Andrew Foerster]

Hi Karen! I hope you are well and I’m glad to see you in this class 🙂

[Karen Haas]

Hi Drew! Thanks for your message! I hope you are doing well, and have been enjoying a well deserved success! I’ve been goofing off the past few years, but I’m recovering now, I guess, and I’m really happy to be back but I’m struggling to keep up! I get distracted easily and lose focus… so I’m a few clicks behind everyone else these days… nothing new I guess. 🙂 I’m enjoying this class so far though, and if I can just stay focused, I will be happier with myself. Hope you will consider using me to be a draft reader your script when you are ready! XO

[Jacqueline Murphy]

Hi Everyone, I’m Jacqueline Murphy

2. How many scripts you’ve written? I’ve written one feature, one TV pilot & show as well as a short.

3. What do you hope to get out of the class? I hope to become a better writer, more empowered and sell my scripts and TV show 🙂

4. Something unique, special, strange, or unusual about you?

I started as a Registered Nurse dreaming about being an actress. I moved to NYC and went to acting school while working as an RN. I was cast in a major soap opera ABC; ‘s “All My Children” in a recurring role as “Nurse Thomas” opposite the famous soap star- Susan Lucci. Then my acting career took off.

During Covid, I wrote my first feature in Hal’s class and it was inspired by my experience as a young nurse during the opioid crisis.

I hope to continue to use my imagination and situations from my life that inspire me.

Look forward to getting to know you all better and Good Luck with all your projects!

Warmly, Jacqueline

[Veronica Turowski]

It’s nice to see you in another class! 😀

[Jennifer Williams]

1. Name? – Jennifer

2. How many scripts you’ve written? I’ve written 15 scripts.

3. What you hope to get out of the class? – A better understanding of how AI can work for me.

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? – I’ve had the opportunity to have a book I’ve written produced as a major motion picture.

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[Veronica Turowski]

Hi everyone! My name is Veronica Turowski.

I’ve written several scripts. Currently, I’m marketing two.

I’ve taken this class before, but I want to learn how to use AI.

The only semi unique thing about me that I can think of at the moment is that I was born in Alaska and now I live in Florida.

[Denise Bryant]

What a weather change!

[Denise Bryant]

My dream yet. Congratulations to you!

[Wendy Locke]

Hello Everyone! I am Wendy Lynne. I have written 4 feature scripts, and one TV series.

I have been a surgical assistant for 36 years now, I am looking very forward to a career where my body doesn’t cuss at me every night when I get off work. I have a dog that weighs more than I do. He is a Cane (cona) Corso. His name is Zeus.

[Andrew Foerster]

1. Name? Drew Foerster

2. How many scripts you’ve written? 15

3. What you hope to get out of the class? I hope to write the best script I’ve ever written and to learn how to make using AI help me become more creative!

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? My day job is to write and direct 1-hour educational films and in the last 10 years I’ve produced 42 of them.

[marla Howell]

Hi My name is Marla Hanson

I’ve written 2 full length scripts and 1 short

I hope to gain proficiency in working with AI and to get back to screenwriting after a long hiatus.

I was once a tabloid covergirl for the most ridiculous reason.

• This reply was modified 1 year ago by  marla Howell.

[James Ace Chapman]

1. Name: Ace Chapman

2. How many scripts have you written?

So many shitty scripts I lost count but I’ve also written six descent scripts

3. What do you hope to get out of this class? Ultimately a script I can truly be proud of. I’d like to shed the habit of always trying to be perfect that ultimately stifles my creativity and shuts me down. If I can achieve this and embrace AI I truly believe I can take one of my high concepts and make the dream a reality.

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you? Currently I am a Ghost Tour/History Guide which was motivated by a dream I had about a serial killer. I’ve induced this dream into my tour based on real events that happen in the town I do my tour in. When I tell my guests about this dream so many tell me this is be a great movie… At a writers conference years ago Stephen King read the opening scene of one of my scripts to an audience of 1000 people. He said it was F-ing brilliant!

[Aaron Van Hoff]

Hello all! I am Aaron.

I have written such a number of meh scripts, that I don’t care to recall how many. I am aiming to get to my first professional-grade script here, to take to market.

Funny thing about me, I was born in Napa, CA and I don’t drink!

[Menaka Charan]

Hi, I’m Menaka. I’ve written about 5 scripts. I started with ProSeries and did a few MSCs, and a few other smaller classes at SU.

I had stepped away from writing for a number of years (yikes! how time flies) and realized my brain doesn’t work as well as well and wanted to write a new script. (Plus it was so fun!). Also, I wanted to learn how to use AI. When SU offere WIM AI, that was the perfect solution, and here I am.

What’s unusual about me is that I’ve done about 12 contracts in multiple cities (and more homes) in California and Washington State between 2015-2023. I’m in a perm job now in Issaquah, WA…at least for now haha.

I can’t attend the classes live due to my work schedule, but will be going at my own pace behind the scenes.

I’m excited to be here!

[Diane Darvey]

Hi

My name is Diane

I look forward to learning a lot about how AI can improve my scripts and my writing. I have written several scripts and look forward to perhaps being able to improve those scripts through AI. I am really looking forward to this class and what I can learn and how it can improve my writing.

[Farrin Rosenthal]

Hi Classmates!

I’m Farrin Rosenthal. I’m a Professional Optioned Screenwriter specializing in comedy and writing is my passion.

How many scripts you’ve written?

Enough to make me a professional, but not enough to fulfill my goal of becoming an A-List screenwriter.

What you hope to get out of the class?

I hope to continue to learn and grow as a writer, making AI my assistant, as I write the best script I’ve ever written. That’s right, I said, I, as in I write the scripts, and I am human, last time I checked.

Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you?

I might be an AI, but I don’t think so. My name is pretty unique, as not many people have my first name. In 2013, having never been to a major comic convention, I started selling Jurassic Park Collectibles (DinoArtPrints.com) and now I have a booth near the front at San Diego Comic-Con! So, if you’re going this July, stop by my Jurassic Park Collectibles booth and say, Hi!

[David Zelitzky]

hey everyone – I’m David Zelitzky… I’ve written about a dozen scripts over the years… only a few that are presentable 🙂 I’ve been through the Master Screenwriting class twice – plus several other here and a couple years writing at UCLA Professional Program.

What I hope here is to get my Mojo back – either start a new script or dig into the latest one and get that presentable for a contest or a manager. I feel like I’m finally understanding what makes a good script so now I need some fresh ideas to put my thoughts into action …

Unique about me? Studied classical ballet in England for a year when I was young… now I train and show dogs… scent work, retrieving etc… Have two Goldens and a Border Collie!

• This reply was modified 1 year ago by  David Zelitzky.

[David Pisani]

Hi my name is David Pisani.

I have written dozens of short screenplays and a handful of feature length screenplays.

In this class I would like to write a super feature length screenplay that I am excited to send out to producers and agents … and also learn a methodology to help me write efficiently at a very elevated level for the rest of my writing career.

Something interesting — last year I directed and produced a short screenplay I wrote entitled “Philadelphia Bound.” This past Saturday it was awarded “Best Dramatic Short Film” at the 20224 Albany Film Festival.

[jamie handley]

My name is Jamie (female), I live in Arizona but born and raised in Southern California. Left California in 1991 and moved to Incline Village, Nevada (Lake Tahoe) then went to a very small town in Montana ( Potomac) had 20 acres, built my home and then had to leave Montana after a horrific accident I was involved in. My body could no longer deal with the cold so off to Arizona. I have a lot of metal in my body which really hurts from the cold. Been in Arizona since 2006, bought a home there and have acclimated to the heat.

I love California, miss the ocean (I lived in Carlsbad/Encinitas area) and the greenery. I also miss the smell of the pine, the night sky filled with stars and a lot of other things.

I’ve been taking classes from ScreenwritingU for a very long time. It seems like something always gets in my way to finish his course(s). Death’s in my family, COVID, 2 major surgery’s that really set me back (both shoulder replacements) and couldn’t use computer. Pissed me off but that’s life. But here I am again, reaching for the stars and completing his classes.!! I have about 8 or 9 scripts that need work in order to present, so I’m very happy to have taken most his beginning classes offered with AI, which I did finish! So taking the WIM with AI is rather exciting. I’ve had a few little set backs (called it’s life!) but it’s not stopping me.
That’s it for now folks…got to go work on script. See you in class.

2. How many scripts you’ve written?

3. What you hope to get out of the class?

4. Something unique, special, strange or unusual about you?

We look forward to working with you all!