[Nancy Lucas]

What I learned doing this assignment is to map out each of of the main characters transformational journey, in order to het the marks in the story.

Each character’s Transformational Journey contains:

For him:
1. Initial state: Cynical, unsure of the success of his job, long hours, asks himself if it is worth it, lost his girlfriend from traveling so much- thinking about settling down, He is tech- savvy- but feels his present job does not utilize his skills.
2. Meet-Cute moment: They meet in the bakery where he is cranky about something going on with the satellite/ internet work.
3. Initial challenges: Trying to be happy and helpful to others in the holiday spirit, especially since his firm is failing at what they promised to provide- plus he has a deadline to meet in order to get to the next job.

4. Major conflict / Obstacle: (unsure) how to slow down and be helpful. He is also finding 'small town' things 'silly ' and states that outloud- and upsets our heroine.
5. Self-Reflection: when pushed to the brink by his boss, he is forced to re-examine how he is living, his own happiness and what he wants to do with his life. Should he continue in this position.
6. Acceptance and Growth: He realizes he wants a more stable job and likes the small town feel. He likes how he feels with her.
7. Demonstrate the change: He brings his tech skills to help (unsure) the HS students win money for their trip to a competition, (or something)
8. Reunion: He foregoes the promotion offered to him and leaves the job with the Energy company in order to stay in Spruce Point.

I am working on HER side of all of this, as I am still not sure what she wants. (ugh)

• This reply was modified 9 months ago by  Nancy Lucas.

[Nancy Lucas]

ASSIGNMENT 4
What I learned in this assignment is that, while there is a ‘story in a story’ there still has to be the 7 stages of love that occur in the rom-com.

1. Create the 7 Stages of Love for your two lead characters.
The 7 Stages of Love:

• 1. Meet-Cute—She is engrossed in her Bakery but also working on trying to figure out how to get the HS students she mentors – to a regional STEM Competition. – He ( I think) will be parking his car- and blocks the bakery truck from an important delivery—where she ‘meets’ him by questioning why he is parked as he is and his competency in general
•
• 2. Attraction/Flirting—he comes in to her bakery asking for the dessert the bakery is famous and shares his ‘history’ of the dessert with the owner. (maybe?)
•
• 3. Denial- The two families have been at odds for years= like the Hatfields and mcCoys

• 4. Separation/Forced Together-Disagreements about the history of the dessert and the need to work on Stem related things for the HS kids force them together – along with the ongoing community problems of the loss of power and internet
• 5. Working through Issues/Differences—( I do not know how to handle this yet)
•
• 6. Hate/Betrayal/All Hope is Lost—The girl overhears him criticizing the way she is handling the stem project , and the Christmas festival of lights in a general way.

• 7. Love Happens—when He comes back to make sure things succeed with the HS students, they also overcome the family differences, and help to see that the festival is a success.

• This reply was modified 10 months ago by  Nancy Lucas.

[Nancy Lucas]

What I learned doing this assignment is – that if I flesh out my scenes – I have a better idea of how the story will be layed out. That being said- I am still not sure of my romance angle. But I am working on it. Having the story board—or beat board in Final Draft really helps!! 😊

1. Brainstorm at least 5 ideas for each of these and select the one or combination you like best for your bigger story.
• A. What interesting world could this movie/show be set in? A small mountain town
• B. What major conflict could be happening? I was thinking it would be the conflict of new technology meeting old school/ simple life – and how the simple life solves the problems the old fashioned way
• C. What intriguing situation could these characters be engaged in?—ugh- I am still trying to figure that out. I think he works for the tech company and she is trying to help the STEM students with getting into a contest or going to an event…. (hint: he will need to step in to help)
2. Turn that bigger story into a 3-Act or 4-Act structure.
Act 1:
• Opening: The “project- no town left behind’ is being installed in town- everyone is getting new tech equipment for their stores and homes
• Inciting Incident: It all fails
• Turning Point: We find out this town is really the guinea pig for the tech company.
Act 2:
• New plan: Townspeople take control of their own situation
• Plan in action: Restaurants take control, the bakery takes control, there is no bank—(it turned cashless)—so an ex-teller is trying to find a solution
• Midpoint Turning Point—(unsure)
Act 3:
• Rethink everything: Millenials discovering the old folk may have been on to something
• New plan: Trying to keep the festival of lights alive with monopoly money?
• Turning Point: Huge failure / Major shift: We lose electricity due to the snow storm
Act 4:
• Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: Townspeople solve their own problems
• Resolution: They fall in love somewhere during this story!

[Nancy Lucas]

Nancy’s Rom Com Project.
Lesson / Assignment #2
What I learned doing this assignment is the importance of each of them having something they 'need' that the other can help fulfill. This really helps to clarify the story.

• Who is She?
In my story, Debra is in her early 30’s and owns her own bakery in a small (mountain) town. Her business is located on the town square. She loves what she does and is trying to find ways to grow her business.

• Who is He?
In my Story Jason (not sure if I am keeping the name) comes from the next town over. They had not met up until now, where he is in town due to the installment of internet satellite for the town. He is a ‘field supervisor’ and is in sales for the company. After 5 years of living in NY, while also traveling for the company, bringing him back to his ‘hometown area’ will make him realize how much he desires a simpler life, with family, friends, a sense of community and purpose.

• What makes them lovable?
What makes Debra loveable is her desire to make each cake so special for each customer. To make sure people are happy and will go out of her way to do something special for others. She is hard working, and the town knows this and appreciates her.

• What attracts them to each other?
He is attracted to her because she represents the simpler life he thought he was ‘better than’ when he moved away after college to go to NY. She finds that, although he is somewhat ‘worldly’ he is very much accustomed to this mountain-town life and ‘down to earth’

• What needs does each fulfill for the other?
She would fill his need for stability, and a simpler life. Regaining his sense of purpose and making a difference for his family, friends and community.
I am still working on what she wants and how he can play a role- I think that it could be that he can grown her business with internet sales- but I do not know if that would be a good fit.

• This reply was modified 10 months, 4 weeks ago by  Nancy Lucas.

[Nancy Lucas]

Nancy Lucas Rom Com Project
Lesson 1

What I learned in this assignment and from watching the ‘Introduction to Class’ video (which I thought was great) is that, besides a romance- you also need a story in a story.
I have watched a lot of Hallmark Romance and I have realized this is a very important factor. There are always several stories being told at once during the movie. So, As I work though my characters, I ask them what it is that they WANT or need to overcome.

I will need to post all of the ‘elements’ of the story/plot later- as I have not figured all of them out yet—I feel like I may have too many characters in the script (but more minor than major) so I am trying to sort through the true story of the romance.

[Nancy Lucas]

Nancy Lucas Marketing Campaign

What I learned in this assignment is to focus on what will work BEST for MYSELF. It is good to know which first step I want to take- but I am also sketching out my back-up plan, or to know where I am going next.

This is truly an excellent course—Thank you for offering this. This gives me a fresh way to look at my marketing as it relates to my WRITING. To know the most interesting things and the most critical points. Because these must be in the writing first—to know how it can all be in a successful pitch!

I believe my marketing goal is to get an Agent. But this will take steps beforehand. I will need to create my social platform, as well as my webpage or LinkedIn platform. I will go over my writing to make sure it is the best it can be, and once I am confident- I will attend Pitchfests, or conferences to meet and network with persons that I believe can either represent me—or, if given the opportunity, I would go straight to the Producer.

Thank you again Mr. and Mrs. C- for an excellent course! 🙂

[Nancy Lucas]

Nancy Lucas Query Letter, Draft ONE

TO MY FELLOW CLASSMATES– I WELCOME COMMENTS! I added my hook at the end and don’t know if I should use that- or if it is even any good. Thank you for critiquing!

Good day, Mr. Sullivan

I met you at the conference where you stated you were looking for Christmas themed made-for-TV Scripts. I thought you might enjoy A Tropical Christmas.

A small-town 2nd generation motel owner is pressured by a developer to sell, and they are stopping at nothing to take the beach property. Nicole struggles to keep her sunny disposition after finding late tax payments her sister was hiding; the motel’s wedding planner is busy with a sick child, and a city lawyer comes to town 5 days before Christmas and needs a beach wedding that isn’t even his, all during high season!

How does a big city lawyer overcome his need for logic when given with the sudden task of arranging his best friend’s Christmas day wedding…which is in 5 days? Peter realizes all the planning in the world couldn’t have prepared him for a cocktail at sunset on the Gulf of Mexico at the Flip-Flop Motel.

If you like the concept, I’d be honored to send you the script.

Nancy Lucas

[current address]

[email]

[cell phone]

My hook:

A big city lawyer re-discovers the magic of Christmas while planning his best friend’s wedding at a vintage beach motel in a small town.

[Nancy Lucas]

Assignment 10

Nancy Lucas, Target Market

What I learned in this assignment is to dig deeper at the IMBD website to find producers who might be interested in my manuscript.

[I also wish that IMBD had a link to the SCRIPT that you could download. I would pay a premium for THAT !!]

A TROPICAL CHRISTMAS

MADE FOR TV ROMANTIC COMEDY

A big city lawyer re-discovers the magic of Christmas while planning his best friend’s wedding at a vintage beach motel in a small town.

5 movies similar to mine:

Christmas Next Door:

Director: Jonathan Wright, Mr Wright has an EXTENSIVE filmography, and many of them are made-for-tv movies. I feel he would be an excellent person to try to pitch to.

Stars Jessee Metcalf, Fiona Gebelmann

Christmas Under The Stars:

Director: Allan Harmon, who has also Directed The Christmas Calendar

Another Director: John Bradshaw

Stars: Jesse Metcalf ad Autumn Reeser

Christmas Under Wraps

Director: Peter Sullivan. Mr. Sullivan has an EXTENSIVE filmography and nearly all of them are made-for-tv and a good portion are Christmas movies. I feel Mr. Sullivan would be and EXCELLENT choice to try to pitch to.

Additional: J. E. Logan, producer

Stars: Candace Cameron Bure and David O’ Donnell

It Was Always You

Director: Michael Robison. Mr. Robison has an EXTENSIVE filmography- and a very great list of many of them with Hallmark. I feel Mr. Robison would be an EXCELLENT choice to try to pitch to. He has also Directed a number of my favorite movies- and would perhaps, give it the ‘flavor’ needed for a successful Rom-Com

Stars: Erin Krakow and Tyler Hynes

The 9 Lives of Christmas:

Director: Mark Jean While there was not a particular list—his BIO is incredible ‘More recently, Mark has been directing a steady stream of MOWs for Hallmark and Lifetime, consistently delivering highly rated, well-crafted films, on time and on budget.’

‘Mark Jean is a versatile and seasoned television director who has helmed more than 30 MOWs over the last decade, and has directed many hours of episodic television for several major networks. Mark has also made independent features, documentaries, television pilots, and PSAs, as well as an interactive exhibit for a major theme park. He has taught filmmaking at USC School of Cinematic Arts.’

I feel he would make an excellent choice to try to pitch to.

Stars: Brandon Routh and Kimberley Sustad

[Nancy Lucas]

N Lucas Assignment 9

Phone Pitch

Oooo! I really like this one because your pitch needs to be strong in 15 seconds!

I would like to pitch my move to Producer/Writer/Director Peter Sullivan of Hallmark fame.

1) I would lead with my title

2) Hi, I’m Nancy Lucas and I have a Made for TV- Romantic Comedy entitled A Tropical Christmas I’d like to tell you about

3) The Budget range is Low Budget- under 5 million. It’s set in a fictional coastal town in Florida.

4) For the leading roles I see XXX and XXX as they are well recognized in productions done in similar made-for -tv romantic comedies

5) There are 60 pages in the script and you are the first Producer I am bringing it to because I have seen your work in the many Christmas films you have produced. I feel this film would complement your style and your vast experience would bring a level of expertise to the story being told.

6) The movie ends with the family-owned mid-century modern motel being saved by the developers by the grand gesture of the city lawyer who originally came to Cupid’s Cove to set up his best friends beach wedding on Christmas Day. The film’s story takes place in a periods of 5 days. It is a fun, fast-paced spin on a Christmas Wedding.

[Nancy Lucas]

N Lucas Create your entire Pitch Fest Pitch. Assignment 8

What I learned was that I think this pitch is even more complicated than Assignment 7. I definitely need clarifications on characters – their journey and ending as well as the set up/ pay off in order to have the most effective hook.

Hello, I am Nancy Lucas published author of romance; I’ve read and reviewed hundreds of books in the romance genre for publication.

I have a romantic comedy made for television entitled ‘A Tropical Christmas’

Pressured by a neighboring developer to sell, Nicole, owner of the mid-century-modern Flip-Flop Motel in Cupid’s Cove Florida, struggles to keep her sunny disposition after finding the late tax payments her father was hiding. Doubling as hotel receptionist and wedding planner she fights to keep the business of a demanding city lawyer tasked with planning his best friend’s beach wedding on Christmas day -which is 5 days away. While also keeping the reasons for visits from the health department under wraps.

The budget range is low budget: 500k to 5 million

In the lead roles I envision Alison Sweeny and Ryan Paevey. Both have great notoriety and recognition by being in some of the most popular Hallmark Movies.

There are three acts which follow the 4 phases of the Romantic Beats to a successful story. (I know I need to write these out–)

Set up: Peter is a planner who finds spontaneity very discomforting. In the end, ‘All the planning in the world couldn’t have prepared this lawyer for a cocktail at sunset on the Gulf of Mexico at the Flip-Flop’

–Please let me know if this length of pitch is too long! I don’t know where to shorten it without losing the story…

Thank you

[Nancy Lucas]

Nancy Lucas Query Letter

What I learned from today’s lesson is to keep the Query Letter short and concise highlighting key /interesting parts of the story in order to provoke them to request your script.

Good day, Mr. Sullivan

I met you at the conference where you stated you were looking for Christmas themed Made-for-TV Scripts. I thought you might enjoy ‘A Tropical Christmas.’

A small-town 2nd generation motel owner is pressured by a developer to sell, and they are stopping at nothing to take the beach property. Nicole struggles to keep her sunny disposition after finding late tax payments her father was hiding, the motel’s wedding planner getting sick and a demanding -but cute-city lawyer who comes to town 5 days before Christmas and needs a wedding and it isn’t even his!

How does a big city lawyer overcome his need for logic when given with the sudden task of arranging his best friend’s Christmas day wedding…which is in 5 days?

Peter realizes all the planning in the world couldn’t have prepared him for a cocktail at sunset on the Gulf of Mexico at the Flip-Flop Motel where “couples who drink the house limoncello martinis are making plans”

If you like the concept, I’d be honored to send you the script.

Nancy Lucas

[current address]

[email]

[cell phone]

[Nancy Lucas]

Assignment 6 Synopsis and Hooks.

Nancy Lucas Synopsis Hooks

What I learned from today’s assignment is that it is the hooks that will sell the story to the producers. The hook is needs to be strong enough that the producer will WANT to read the script.

* * * *

*****Like Laura, I was having a bit of difficulty in understanding what a synopsis is- what it seeks to accomplish and how long should it be?

Is it a few paragraphs? An elevator pitch?

If you could please give us definitions of what each of these things are—it would be greatly appreciated.

For instance—this pitch goes to :_____? ******

* * * *

Title: A TROPICAL CHRISTMAS

Written by Nancy J. Lucas

Genre: Made for TV G- Rated Romance/Comedy

(I think I would like to approach Peter Sullivan to produce this.)

Great news, Peter, your best friend is getting married!

How does a big city procedural lawyer overcome his need for order when planning his best friend’s wedding? Peter has lived his entire life with strategic decisions and intentional moves. When Dan, his best friend, and a newly- minted partner at the law firm they work at, asks him to be the best man at his wedding, Peter happily accepts until he discovers he is responsible for more than he bargained for.

Peter Duncan returns from a trip abroad to discover his best friends’ engagement. After several mishaps, it is Peter who is tasked to make the arrangements of a Christmas Day wedding on a beach.

*Upon arriving in Cupid’s Cove, Florida, Peter Duncan, finds that the last room available to him is at the mid-century modern Flip-Flop Motel, located next door to the very upscale Clarkston, which, is where the entire rest of the wedding party is staying.

*Cupid’s Arrow Wedding Planners came highly recommended by the motel’s beautiful Italian receptionist, Nicole. But…

*Sophie, the actual wedding planner gets sidelined with a sick child so, Nicole steps in as the Wedding Planner until…

*The local Health Inspector shows up just as key coworkers are in the lobby. Peter is alarmed that the Health Inspector knows Nicole by her first name because “she has been working with her so much lately,” causing Peter to second guess his choices and desperately wants to use the wedding planner at the Clarkston since he just found out…

*the owner of the law firm was invited to the wedding – and he and his wife are used to the finer things in life…..so Peter is worried… and unsure of Nicole’s competency at wedding planning.

*Peter also has to deal with a lost wedding dress, a noisy construction site, an Italian Restaurant owner and getting Christmas cookies baked before he realizes…

*sometime, the best times are spontaneous.

[Nancy Lucas]

Nancy Lucas: High Concept/ Elevator Pitch

What I learned in this assignment is that the better you know your characters and story – the better you are able to be confident in crafting the pitch. The depth of the character – when put into a dilemma that makes the story interesting, with an interesting twist- and ending–will catch a producer’s attention.

High Concept: How does a big city procedural lawyer overcome his need for order when the most import and decisions that call for a succesfuloutcome are thrown into chaos demanding decisions on the fly

Elevator Pitch: A big city procedural lawyer going for partnership in the firm, is sidelined when he is tasked with planning his best friend’s wedding, who is already a partner in the firm, and failing in getting the job done- but learning some procedures can’t be followed if you want the desired outcome.

• This reply was modified 3 years, 1 month ago by  Nancy Lucas.
• This reply was modified 3 years, 1 month ago by  Nancy Lucas.

[Nancy Lucas]

Nancy Lucas Assignment #4, 10 Most Interesting Things

What I learned about doing this assignment is: that, in learning the pitch FIRST- I know I need to create interesting and compelling characters who have depth. It is in that way- the story reveals their depth and their own struggles that they will ‘overcome’ in the story. In a Hallmark-type story- it will be: they change the way they look at things

A) The most unique things about the H1 and H2. HE is a successful lawyer, doesn’t believe in being spontaneous. His life has been carefully planned in order to become successful. His choice of Law School, the law firm he has a job at, and he is doing extra work to become a more valuable partner at the firm. No time for love- or a relationship-

H2 (SHE) has her set of goals. Believes strongly in taking care of family, taking care of the motel that has been in the family for years. But her passion is cooking and baking. Her passion is to open the Italian Restaurant that her family had up and running years ago, which had closed when her mother passed away. She has been remodeling it- but due to the financial constraints their family has- she has no idea if she will see her goal come true. She believes that may decisions in life are just spontaneous- based on a gut feeling- and that you don’t always need to question a motive—it is just a solid desire that is acted upon.

B) Major hook of the opening scene is when the H1 just came back from international travel for the law firm and his best friend announces his engagement to a tropical location to where he has to fly to- then several disturbances happen to where he is now tasked to plan the wedding. It is his best friend- so his desire to make it spectacular comes into conflict with the choice of the wedding planner he picked who gives him doubts she can get it done as he envisions.

C) Turning points happen when the health inspector shows up. When a group of co-workers from the law firm show up- (one of them being a woman who is after H1) and then the Head of the law firm shows up. Also—the bank hints at foreclosure for the property to be auctioned off.

D) Emotional dilemma: Spontaneous, hard decision, vs well planned and purposeful decisions.

E) Major twist: The head of the law firm shows up with his wife and (spontaneously) buys a condo, The best friend he is planning the wedding for—who he thought was very level headed- and a planner—continually is doing things spontaneously…

The bank comes to tell the family that its year end and the payments are due- and there are others that want to buy the property for cash. They need to act fast if they want to keep the motel.

F) Set up/ Reversal a) st the start of the story when he is led to believe there is a legitimate wedding planner on the premises- (which there IS) but it ends up being HER- who has no experience in planning a wedding b) Set up/ Reversal: During an afternoon stroll, in the quaint village, the Groom orders flowers and chocolates for his bride-to-be, only to discover his best friend delivering them to the hotel and reading the private note he had for his bride. (Jeopardizing the friendship) c) Set-up/Reversal: H1 is forced to join the group while the bride-to-be needs to find a wedding dress due to lost luggage, which he does NOT want to do – but find a small town network of friends get everything done and he accidentally lets out his feels by telling H2 that she looks beautiful.

G) Character betrayals: H2 discovers H1 has a history with Daphne, a co-worker, after he was warming up to H2 and working closely with her in planning the wedding as he tries to make it all turn out spectacular.

H) Big Surprises: Daphne get the promotion instead of the H1. He is upset but is offered something different by the head of the firm- spontaneously.

[Nancy Lucas]

Nancy Lucas, Marketability Components

As I continue my assignment using ‘A Tropical Christmas’ as my Project, what I learned from this assignment was that – it is the uniqueness of the characters, and yet the ‘commonality ‘of a problem or dilemma – that will drive the marketability of this sort of script. I know I need to work on the Log line and also a much easier tag for this. I need to really pull strong words from the description to tie it into a concise sell.

Log Line: What happens when a successful lawyer is tasked with planning his best friends wedding, on Christmas day, in Cupid’s Cove, Florida, where developers have threatened to buy the mid-century modern motel at auction and turn it into a high rise the day before the wedding.

The 10 components:

A) I think it is unique, as I have watched MANY of these movies- and, while the Christmas sub-genre of the romance movie is very popular- I think the twist of having it set in a tropical location, during high-season, with the goal being on a compressed schedule -yet BIG day– adds element that this particular audience would find appealing.

B) I feel the title is strong- but will also- rework with other ideas as I go along.

C) Not a True Story

D) Timely: Not necessarily timely–but seasonal. Hallmark creates another 40 new of these movies every year. Other Streaming services are buying them up in an effort to take some of the marketshare from Hallmark– and they are open to producing films that do not necessarily have snow- or the usual elements of a ‘Christmas film’.

E) Not- a first–but a VERY POPULAR genre and seasonal sub genre (Christmas)

F) Ultimate- no.

G)Wide Audience Appeal: Most definitely. The G-Rated romance market is wide open. Netflix has joined the fun by having a romance film with all of the ‘beats’ necessary for a great film- starring Brooke Shields and Carey Ewles just last year. Again- I feel this market is wide open for a fresh approach.

H) Adapted from a book– No.

I) Box office success– No, but Made-for-TV movie Success- YES!

J) Great Role for a bankable Character? ABSOLUTELY. Many Hallmark movies have major Actors in supporting roles, cameos, etc. I feel this story could incorporate many beloved actors from the past.

[Nancy Lucas]

I have decided to work this course through a different project, so I apologize– I am “starting over’ on my responses for the assignments

For the project I am choosing a ‘Hallmark’- type romance that I have written and would like to translate to a screenplay.

Title: A Tropical Christmas

Genre: ‘G’ -rated Hallmark Christmas Romance (made-for-tv)

Concept of Story: single, up-and-coming Lawyer is tasked to plan his best friends Christmas day wedding in a tropical location. After several setbacks from a hotel room and wedding planner, our man finds that living life a little less ‘planned’ and a little more spontaneous can lead to love.

The most attractive things: The tropical location, the email MC is Italian, Strong family bonds, strong friendships, twists with head of the firm coming to the wedding, and many other twists along the way.

Pitch it to : I would like to pitch it to several current Hallmark producers who have worked successfully with this type of story

[Nancy Lucas]

Nancy Lucas Producer/ Manager Assignment

What I learned by doing this assignment is that I will take the time to PRACTICE and understand the goal of my pitch to these different persons.

Imagine you have two meetings set up — with a producer and then with a manager. What would you say and do differently based upon this model?

Answer two questions:

1. How will you present yourself and your project to the producer?

I would remain completely professional for the meeting. Even if the meeting doesn’t not go my way- I know that people remember you and they will remember your professionalism. I would prepare for my meeting by making sure the producer I am meeting is interested and successful in my genre. I would research the movies they had done in the past and be knowledgeable about the pitfalls or problems that would happen in this type of genre. (I would do this to prepare for conversations/questions) I would thoroughly prepare my pitch and make sure I cover they type of movie it is (contained? ) and share whom I envision to play the lead. I would highlight the marketable points that would make it successful and fundable. I would be thorough and succinct- pleasant and remain calm. I take all criticisms kindly and with curiosity as to know how I can explain it better or re-write it to their liking. I would practice, practice, practice my pitch! * What I forgot to mention was that I would bring my ENERGY to the meetings. I want them to know how I feel about it– my enthusiasm and excitement!*

2. How will you present yourself and your project to the manager? I would remain completely professional for the meeting. Even if the meeting doesn’t not go my way- I know that people remember you and they will remember your professionalism I would build a relationship with the Manager. I would need a level of trust and confidence that we would both need from each other for the business relationship to work.

Prior to pitching my project to him/her – I would initially give him/her a bit of my background and experience, but focus the meeting entirely about the project, my other projects, my work ethic, my production timeframes and also what I need/ expect from the relationship.

• This reply was modified 3 years, 2 months ago by  Nancy Lucas.

[Nancy Lucas]

N. Lucas Marketable Components Assignment

1. Tell us your current logline. – I am working on this

2. Look through the 10 Components of Marketability and pick one or two that have the most potential for selling this script.

• A. Unique. I think so- No TV show or series has taken a comic look at being a female State Health Inspector.

• B. Great Title: “Out of Temp” I think it’s a solid title. The Health Inspector takes temperatures of everything when they are in the back of the house- and will undoubtedly use this line in every episode.

• D. Timely – A perpetual and daily routine. Who hasn’t worked in food service at some point in their life? The situation which many adults are finding themselves in right now- may be working in a restaurant – becoming a delivery driver, or taking on waitressing or bartending to make ends meet. Pandemic restrictions and guidelines can be weaved in, as well.

• E. It’s a First: Tackling food service events/ behind the scenes/ back of the house/ humor, mental health, categorical stereotypical chefs —Mexicans are cooking in the Italian restaurant. Cubans are cooking in the Greek one up the street, etc. There is a lot to work with here.

• G. Wide audience appeal.- Everyone has familiarity with food service and would be drawn to know ‘what goes on in the back of the house’. Just as we are drawn to ‘bar rescue’ and other type shows- we like to see the inner working of a restaurant.

• J. A great role for a bankable actor.- I’m thinking Jane Lynch. I think it is stellar that she is 62 now- because she has the energy of someone younger, but can draw baby boomers who are still working. Big Name / Bankable Star

3. Do a quick brainstorm session about ways to elevate those two components for this script and tell us how you might pitch the script through the two components.—…..I have to decide which components would be the most important to highlight and expand on – so I am working on this.

[Nancy Lucas]

Title: (I am not sure) However it has to do with being a State Health Inspector- I am working on this

Tag Line: Food Code with a side of fries

Genre: Situational Comedy

Concept: Comedy/ Food Inspection A group of State Health Inspectors work out of an office located in a vacation/ resort area. This comedy series follows the exploits of Alexandra Lucas and her diverse team of coworkers who are headed by Tapman Chase, their near- retirement supervisor who hates upper management and is just trying to get his team to ‘make the required numbers’ for HQ so he can get a bonus.

I would like to target the producers / production company that also produced ‘Brooklyn 99’ which I believe is Fremulon, Dr. Goor Productions

What I learned today was that marketing is everything. I need to have a highly marketable idea and I keep the excitement that I generate in a pitch- running throughout my script.

[Nancy Lucas]

Hi, Everyone!

My name is Nancy Lucas, I have written 2 scripts, both of them are still ‘works in progress’ that are under revision. Both of them are from Screenwriting U courses: The Contained Movie Script and the other from Writing the 30 day Screenplay.

What I hope to get out of the class is to better understand the industry.

<font face=”inherit”>I also hope to learn: (a) how to build relationships in this industry, (b) how to research and find the right </font>producers<font face=”inherit”> to pitch to, (c) What forums are the best to follow/join for more exposure to the screenwriting industry/process and to learn from others.</font>

<font face=”inherit”>As Hal had mentioned in the Friday Class ‘What it takes to Sell Your Script’, I would also like to learn the necessities for a script to sell- and all the other great information that was in that Friday Class!</font>

<font face=”inherit”>Following this class I plan to enroll in your Subtext Secrets course. I truly believe that the story isn’t about 2 people on the journey – it is about several people and I would love to learn how that story of them, along with the theme of the story, is woven effectively.</font>

<font face=”inherit”>Something unique about me: Ice cream </font>connoisseur. Seriously, if you were to cut me- I would bleed ice cream.

I look forward to this course! 🙂

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</font>

[Nancy Lucas]

Nancy Lucas

I agree to the terms of this release form.

• This reply was modified 3 years, 2 months ago by  Nancy Lucas.

[Nancy Lucas]

ASSIGNMENT 6, N. Lucas Delivering Multiple Layers/ Layers that Fascinate Us!!

1. Brainstorm potential plot layers.

Major scheme revealed (What is the Mayor REALLY trying to accomplish)Mystery revealed Thought it was one thing, but it is another<div>

Major shift in Meaning

Hidden history “history “of the ‘family’ of the crew told by pictures hanging in the back of the store.

Hidden plan (not sure yet)

2. Brainstorm potential character layers. (still working on this- certain employees with have ties to people in high places—I am working on each character)

Secret identityIntrigue layers</div>

Hidden relationships and conspiracies

<div>

Hidden Character history

3. Brainstorm potential location layers.

Real Operation, is the ice cream stand, however to all the employees it is much deeper. It is a Family and they talk to each other about their problems and other teenage dilemma.

Hidden operation: Employees also have very strong connections to Town ManagementDeeper meaning: Employees bring a fresh perspective to problem solving.Trap to draw preyUnique sub-world: In a small town everyone has a connection, and many people hold grudges.

4. Tell us about the layers you’ve chosen. Use this format with each of them:

Surface Layer: Its Parade day.</div>

Beneath That:

How Revealed: Revealed in the end when we see them all gathering in the parking lot of the ice cream stand. Notable people show up.

[Nancy Lucas]

ASSIGNMENT 5, N Lucas Character Journeys!

What I learned from doing this assignment is the importance of each charaacters journey. And.. I really DID like doing this assignment. This provides more of an ‘outline’ to envision each characters story line.

1. For each of your main characters, create a 3-Act Structure of their journey.

So, I did it for my main character- the Store Owner

Beginning: Normal ‘Parade Day’ Chaos at a local

Turning Point: Discovery of Mayor’s speech

Midpoint: Machines break at store or other setbacks.

Turning Point 2: Love interest arises for several characters

Dilemma: Don’t have the equipment or manpower to pull the foil off—and what if someone finds out?!

3rd Act Climax: Trying to get the job done- but set backs ensue

Ending: End of parade—love ties complete- end of day at the store- the crew celebrates with other town officials…..

[Nancy Lucas]

ASSIGNMENT 4 N Lucas Character Depth 10/27/2021

1. With each of your characters, go through all of these questions to see which might fit for your story.

Internal Character Depth Store Owner

Motivation: Sees the opportunity for retribution against the Mayor of the Town<div>

Secret: Hates the Mayor and how the town runs wants to see a revolution of sorts to change things

<div>

Wound: Is perpetually treated horribly at Board meetings or Social Functions by Mayor

Subtext: Wants to date a certain other Trustee

Layers: She is also a Trustee in the town. Elected as an ‘independent’ because of ‘out of the box’ thinking

Character to character

Conflict: Being involved in a plot against the Mayor could have conflicts in their professional jobHidden </div><div>

Agenda: Some one wants to date someone else (? ) this happens with multiple characters

Conspiracy:Intrigue: Could be several levels of romance intertwined

Character Situation

Dilemma: Is she bad for drawing so many people in on the plot. Who will be the untrustworthy one?</div><div>

Secret Identity: Is really a cool and fun person and not always so bitter to people or mean

I couldn’t get all of the characters done because i want to get caught up with other assignments …. :/

</div></div>

[Nancy Lucas]

ASSIGNMENT 3, N. Lucas Right Characters!

What I learned by doing this assignment is how important each character is to the story. Each character has to bring something specific to the story to contribute to the movement of Plot or Story Arch.

Compare your concept to your lead characters to find unique ways for them to fulfill the concept.

Think about your Concept Hook and Contained Setting.

** Still working on this**

2. With each of your main characters, how can they uniquely fit with the Hook?

Each Character will play a specific part in planning to foil the Mayor’s plans—or add to the backstory of the Day’s events.

Thinking about the conflict that hook creates, how does each main character enhance or cause that conflict?

Owner of Ice Cream shop: Will have a lot of connections or people that want to help because they have known her for so long and have been coming to her business for so long. These people may include Workers from Public Works who have heavy equipment, etc

Employee A: Father is the Chief of Police in the town

Employee B: Brother is a Police Officer

Employee C: Has a pick up truck and lots of Comic-con type ‘out-there’ friends

Assistant Manager: Against all of it out of fear.

(other characters not fleshed out yet)

Tell us what makes these characters the “right ones” for this story?

Each has a story to contribute to make a connection to the desire for retribution

Post your assignment in the forums at https://www.screenwritingclasses.com/forums/

Subject line: (Your name’s) Right Characters!

QUESTIONS

How can this character deliver on the hook? How can this character bring unique conflict that fits this hook? How can these characters cause problems for each other?

I want to develop this idea/concept to further enhance the story

[Nancy Lucas]

N. Lucas Assignment #2

What I learned from this

How did this process work for you: It made me think more about the high concept and the hook that can create the interest in this story.

The intriguing setting is going to be a small, home-town ice cream stand. (My story is a fast-paced comedy, of sorts)

Unique Device: I am not sure if I understand ‘device’ correctly, but, if it means ‘premise’ then – it is a group of people foiling a mayor’s plan

Nemisis: The Mayor

Impossible Goal: Not to let the Mayor find out who caused the chaos.

Unique Layers: Each character brings something to the table. Each facet of a small town plays a roll in how something can get done and change the future. Whether it is an ice-cream employee, public works, fireman, etc…. each plays a roll. While having fun doing it.

High Concept:

Having to do with __small town politics__ what haven’t we seen yet?

(I am not sure if I am posing this question correctly)

[Nancy Lucas]

Hello, Hal, Cheryl and fellow classmates!

I am Nancy Lucas and so far, I have written two scripts. I took the ‘Write a Script in 30 days’ with Screenwriting U-and I absolutely LOVED it. I love the expertise of Screenwriting U, and I love the Free Class Fridays that give me ‘additional education’ about the Industry.

I am so excited to be part of this course! I have purchased the Final Draft scriptwriting software, to be sure it comes out ‘professional.’

I know I need to develop more of a story arch for my idea, and hope to finish my project on time! I am so happy to meet all of you!

Hal and Cheryl: Perhaps considering with Screenwriting software companies to offer discounts? Or Editors? Talent Agencies? You have so many connections!! Thank you!

[Nancy Lucas]

I, Nancy J. Lucas, agree to the terms of this release form

[Nancy Lucas]

Assignment 1 N. Lucas

What I learned in this assignment was to look at the ‘big picture’ of production costs/needs and how they can be modified.

The movie I chose was Casablanca

As they did it:

A. People: Medium-Large size case

B. Stunts: very few—some shootings

C. Extras: LOTS of extras

D. Wardrobe: complex with several different Uniforms. Specific countries clothing; additionally ‘dress attire’ as well as simple clothing for those ‘waiting to get out’

E. Hair and Makeup: seems to be kept relatively simple

F. Kids and Animals: None

G. Quarantine: Yes, large cast and crew & several locations

COVID GUIDELINE VERSION

A: People: Stick to main cast, keep extras to a minimum. Will need to cut some extraneous (‘explaining’) scenes and tell more of the story in dialogue.

B. Stunts: can be kept the same

C. Extras: keep to a minimum by cutting scenes

D. Wardrobe: needs to be kept the same, but when you cut people, you can cut some wardrobe.

E. Hair and Makeup: Can be kept the same

F. Kids and Animals: None

G. Quarantine: Yes, but can be kept to 2 locations, Ricks and the airport, and less people subject to quarantine

[Nancy Lucas]

Assignment 17. Act 3- rethinking N. Lucas

Hal and Cheryl, this is still in ‘story’ form, complete with typos- but it is the point where he is confronted that someone else may care for Nicky and he realized his jealousy. And he also realizes he does not care for Daphne’s type. He wants to change his life his circumstances- and environment and that opportunity is right around the corner–

Great news- the sister has everything set up . we are looking forward to a friends and family diner at the the elegant stupid — and on Saturday morning—We are doing a late morning wedding on the beach

“Well that sounds beautiful”

Her wedding dress is having its final alterations done and, with the sunshine on our side—I think the day will be beautiful.

“wont you please join us, Nicole? You are like family already—you have been such an aid to us all”

Well—let me see – I mean someone will have to cover here – I would have to check with my sister. And its Christmas eve—

You know what – how silly of me—it is! I have an even better idea—how about your sister and her whole family come! It would be so wonderful! Let the kids run around—who cares—all that matters is the moment!

“well, I..” Nicole hesitated until Daniel insisted. Sure. I ‘l mention it to my sister—that is so gracious of you. Thank you so very much.

(Dinner—what happens? Daphne? A dance beween them” at the dinner—the sister has a phone call and needs to get back to the hotel?

The sister and her family leaves – the kids need to go to bed so santa can come

At the dinner—

Well im so happy the couple is ready

I think it is all settled, we have the arch, the flowers,

Did the bride decide on a wedding cake? Its fine. It will all work out.

The song that is playing Eros Ramizotti Piu Che Puoi “all you can” more than you can.

nicole takes a phone call – but looks over to tell Peter she needs to leave. She sees him dancing with Daphne—who is laughing with Peter and happens to glance over to NIole giving her a shrewd look.

Nicole looks down at her plate- to see her reflection. She doesn’t need to get into a boxing ring to fight for love—that is not how it works. Brandon, a good friend of the groom, asks her to dance. Astonished, she is happy to and out of the corner of her eye, she finds Peter looking at her. Brandon gives her a kiss on the cheek thanking her for the wonderful dance and complimenting her on her dress. You look absolutely beautiful –

He asks her if she would like a cocktail – and she accepts—they find their own corner–,and peter sees him and her in a corner – both drinking a martini—her raven hair long an flowing – but then, realizing the time, Nicky needs to leave…

Now Peter is dancing with daphne—

Daphne says: “look at those two they are drinking martinis as though they are making future plans” she laughed at him – who is peter is now just staring at them—yes so silly

Well we have a full life up there in Chicago

Who knows what lies ahead for us.! We have the world by the tail- you know—im excited for you to become permanent partner at the firm—it s just down the street—maybe we can have lunch together now and then.

Sure that sounds like a great idea.. peter nods while still looking away.

peter steps up his game but to no avail. Daphne gets in the way somehow

Nicky takes her car back home. She checks on the hotel and puts on her sweats and heads to the restaurant.

There she begins decorating the restaurant and making the surprise wedding cake for the happy couple.

And a vegan, and a gluten one and a carrot cake for the lucky man.

[Nancy Lucas]

Assignment 14, N. Lucas

What i learned was that i need to flesh out ow he can fail. I believe he will need to try to structure the wedding according to what would be a dignified , black tie affair that has a lot of class, with full – on pictures and fancy cake because that would be the best memory you would want for your wedding.

As he tries to fight the tide of impulsive decisions all around— his plans keep failing because the groom is not helping in the wedding planning and everything is left to a last-minute decision. HIS DECISIONS. This is giving him a lot of anxiety. Chosing colors, chasing beach or banquet hall,

Soon- the wedding dress will get lost – which leads for the opportunity for him to go along with the group to find the bride to be a new dress. this will be the opportunity to (impulsively) tell Isabella that she is beautiful (when she tries on a dress at the store (not a wedding dress)

[Nancy Lucas]

KEY 2 Reaction to TP 1

Assignment 13 N. Lucas

I think my TP 1 is the first meeting between Isabella (Motel Manager- daughter of owners) and Peter, the BF of the groom looking for a wedding planner. She is subbing in for her sister, Sophia, the REAL wedding planner— and this fills him with doubts about her competency, how nice the wedding will be— and he is actually still sort of angry that all of this — an important event is taking place so haphazardly. So- impulsive. The quick decisions are grating on him and Isabella is flippant on the matter insisting to him that sometimes love doesn’t wait.

Peter extolls on how he could not be that way and that important events are planned out in detail like a day in court. or a business contract. you can’t leave out even the smallest detail.

Peter is steadfast in his feelings- Isabella pays it no mind and knows the truth.

What I learned is that i need to give Peter more emotion and detail out where he would not ‘be impulsive; i will need hard instances mentioned in dialogue where this defines his character— and shows this as his ‘old ways’ .. they just ned to be more pronounced in order for them to change!

[Nancy Lucas]

QUESTION: CHERYL OR HAL, Will we be getting any feedback on our assignments as we go along? or at the end? Thank you!

Well, I realized I made a mistake and this needed to be an opening scene— I took one of my TE’s and wrote out the scene…

Assignment 9 – 30 Day Script N. Lucas 06/18/2021

Step 1. Copy the scene from your beat sheet.Step 2. Outline the scene.Step 3. Write a minimum level first draft.

This is a scene from the script–

· INT: FLOWER SHOP- DAY

·

· TE1: Isabella sees an hears a handsome man at the counter ordering flowers and chocolates to be sent to the Clarkston. He starts talking about his wedding and she begins asking him questions to fill in the blanks of the type of wedding he wants

· TE2: Isabella is friends with the flower shop owner, and the candy store owner, runs into Peter at the coffee shop. Peter invites her to sit down. They discuss her doing so much – doubts her abilities.

Outline:

Dan enters the flower shop door- is browsing around

Isabella is already in there discussing Wedding Flowers with the owner and her friend Karie

Dan steps up to the counter skiing about flowers for his bride-to –be to be delivered to the Clarkston—telling her how he is getting married on Christmas..asking if she can include chocolates.

Isabella steps up to the counter next to him asking him innocent questions abut his wedding –knowing that this is the Groom she is working for.

Dan orders the flowers and chocolates—Isabella winks and tells Karie she can deliver it all since it right next door to her motel.

Isabella leave to get coffee and runs into Peter. Peter invites her to sit and have coffee—it is a semi-rushed conversation –where the two of them decide to deliver the flowers and chocolates together to the Clarkston.

BEAT SHEET (SCRIPT) Version

INT. FLOWER SHOP-DAY

DAN

I would like to order a bouquet of flowers to be delivered to the Clarkston. Can you deliver them this evening? Oh, Could I enclude a box of chocolates I could send to my fiance’s room along with the beautiful flowers?!

KARIE

Absolutely! We aim to please! And what kind of chocolates were you looking for? Does she like Carmels? Coconut? Is she Vegan? Or do you think she likes dark chocolates? Is she allergic to nuts?

DAN

(responding nervously)

Whoa! That’s a lot of questions! No dietary restrictions. Just a large box of the mixed ones, I guess, caramels and creams…the best ones they make! We are going to be married on Christmas and I want her to feel indulged and loved as soon as she arrives!

ISABELLA

A Christmas wedding! I’m planning one now right over at Cupid’s Arrow! (motions toward the motel with her thumb)

DAN

(disinterested in what Isabella has to say)

(Isabella nods looking away)

KARIE

I always use chocolates from Luscious Confections, and most certainly I will be happy to deliver the flowers and chocolates right away! Delivery is always free..you said a pound? I’ll gift wrap them and have them there in a few hours.

ISABELLA

(moving up to the counter)

So you are getting married on Christmas?

DAN

Yep! My fiancé wants a Christmas wedding. You know, I am not even sure what time the wedding is- my best friend is setting it up! I guess I should find out all those things. Haha

(steps away from counter looking at the Christmas bouqets)

ISABELLA

So, what kind of wedding will you be having? A sun-set beach wedding with dinner to follow? Or, a Chritmas morning wedding with a brunch to follow?

DAN

Beach? (Dan seems astonished) Are Christmas wedding popular?

ISABELLA

Well, not so much popular as they are special. So, what does your bride-to-be like… beaachy or fancy?

DAN

You know, her and I just love fancy!

ISABELLA

Me, too! They are just lovely!

Dan exits the store and both women follow him with their eyes until the door closes. Turns to Karie

I need to order flowers for a wedding… the fancy package, ma’am!

Both women laugh

[Nancy Lucas]

What I learned in this assignment is that I needed to add the theme throughout the story. I spent 3 hours yesterday evening and wrote out the story using the Slug lines and TE. I am slowly learning the IE. I also realized I need to tighten the story and script. Too much detail is not necessary. And lastly, While knowing the theme from the get-go— I also realized i needed to find more character who comment on the theme.

Theme: that being impulsive/spontaneous is not a bad thing, and can sometimes change your life for the better.

(Im not posting the whole thing here— as i am trying to get all caught up) 🙂

[Nancy Lucas]

N. Lucas Assignment 7 This is not all complete- I think i need to be writing one-line captions. I will continue to work on this.

INT. OFFICE -DAY

TE 1: Dan announces he is eloping and going to Sarasota, FL . Tells Peter he is the best man, and shoulders him with the responsibilities of getting hotel rooms and planning a wedding which will take place in one week—on Christmas Day.

INCITING INCIDENT: Peter struggles to get hold of his emotions as he hears the announcement of his best friends wedding. He does not like dating. Does not believe in love. Peter prides himself with ‘getting the job done’ so he is sure to accomplish all that Dan wants him to do: Get hotel rooms, help to plan the wedding, all of it—

TE2: (does the boss walk in ?)

INT. MOTEL LOBBY -Evening

TE1: Frustrated they are out of rooms at the Clarkston, Peter discovers there is a room available next door at the 1960’s-style Motel and is forced to stay there to be close to his friend

INCITING INCIDENT: Peter goes into the mid-century-modern small hotel- which is located next to the Clarkston (Ritz) To book his room. There are no rooms left at the Clarkston, where Dan and his bride-to-be are staying. There he meets the hotel manager (daughter of owner) the beautiful (Italian) Isabella

TE2: Peter goes to his room, but then comes back out on the deck , bordering the bay, and watches the sunset over the water. For a moment he pauses at the beauty of it all.

TE 2: Finds Isabella charming but more worried about getting wedding events together. Calls the hotels wedding planning services.

[Nancy Lucas]

Assignment 6 The 30 Day Script

N. Lucas

What I learned in this lesson is that – I am literally building my story from scratch! I love this class! I just cant keep up! This is like putting the bricks in place to tell the story—love it.

2. Start with the Character Arc and the list of Old Ways and New Ways.

Concept : ‘Hallmark’ type romance set in tropical location Main Conflict: Main Character, who does not like weddings, dating, or being impulsive is named Best Man for his (best) friend’s elopement in just a matter of days. He has also been tasked to find the hotel rooms, wedding planner, cake, etc. En route, he finds himself falling for the hotel manager/wedding planner and the tropical sun.Old Ways: loves structure, following a charted path, success, planning well in advance, loves Chicago, all the seasonsNew Ways: finding himself becoming more spontaneous, outside forces make him think for the ‘now’ and forced to make decisions that could affect him for the rest of his life. In this story he will see a few other people make big decisions (that will affect their life) spontaneously and with ease and he is now forced to do the same.

3. Make a list of 6 – 8 changes or steps that need to happen for that character to go from who they are in the beginning (Old Ways) to who they are in the ending (New Ways).

Changes/Steps:

Realize Daphne, the co-worker that is after him, is not the type of ‘successful woman’ he wants.

Realize his helpfulness and skills are life changing to Isabella- who just needed help.

Realize being impulsive isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

Realize he is attracted to Isabella – has a lot of respect for her- she is a self starter and not afraid to try new things—and work to make her dreams come true

Realize the most expensive things aren’t necessarily the best. The simple hotel, the simple yet beautiful wedding, the care they give to their customers, getting chocolates and flowers. Are all very special.

Realizes Isabella is very happy because she is close to friends and family- together they help each other. He has never felt that kind of support.

4. Sequence the steps from easiest to most difficult. This will imply the journey the character takes. — I need to do this—but I also need a few more steps to add.

5. Brainstorm dramatic events or tests that could cause those changes for the character.

Dramatic event would be if one of the partners of the company offers Peter a more prominent position in the company in Chicago. But Peter finds out that he is also planning on opening an office in Sarasota. Finds himself thinking he would rather take the opportunity to build the legal namebrand here than take a more prominent position.

6. Add these transformational events to your four act structure. ( I need to do this)

[Nancy Lucas]

Assignment 6 The 30 Day Script

N. Lucas

What I learned in this lesson is that – I am literally building my story from scratch! I love this class! I just cant keep up! This is like putting the bricks in place to tell the story—love it.

2. Start with the Character Arc and the list of Old Ways and New Ways.

Concept : ‘Hallmark’ type romance set in tropical location Main Conflict: Main Character, who does not like weddings, dating, or being impulsive is named Best Man for his (best) friend’s elopement in just a matter of days. He has also been tasked to find the hotel rooms, wedding planner, cake, etc. En route, he finds himself falling for the hotel manager/wedding planner and the tropical sun.Old Ways: loves structure, following a charted path, success, planning well in advance, loves Chicago, all the seasonsNew Ways: finding himself becoming more spontaneous, outside forces make him think for the ‘now’ and forced to make decisions that could affect him for the rest of his life. In this story he will see a few other people make big decisions (that will affect their life) spontaneously and with ease and he is now forced to do the same.

3. Make a list of 6 – 8 changes or steps that need to happen for that character to go from who they are in the beginning (Old Ways) to who they are in the ending (New Ways).

Changes/Steps:

Realize Daphne, the co-worker that is after him, is not the type of ‘successful woman’ he wants.

Realize his helpfulness and skills are life changing to Isabella- who just needed help.

Realize being impulsive isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

Realize he is attracted to Isabella – has a lot of respect for her- she is a self starter and not afraid to try new things—and work to make her dreams come true

Realize the most expensive things aren’t necessarily the best. The simple hotel, the simple yet beautiful wedding, the singular care they give to their customers, getting chocolates and flowers. Are all very special.

Realizes Isabella is very happy because she is close to friends and family- together they help each other. He has never felt that kind of support.

4. Sequence the steps from easiest to most difficult. This will imply the journey the character takes. — I need to do this—but I also need a few more steps to add.

5. Brainstorm dramatic events or tests that could cause those changes for the character.

Dramatic event would be if one of the partners of the company offers Peter a more prominent position in the company in Chicago. But Peter finds out that he is also planning on opening an office in Sarasota. Finds himself thinking he would rather take the opportunity to build the legal namebrand here than take a more prominent position.

6. Add these transformational events to your four act structure. (need to do this)

7. Answer the question “What I learned doing this assignment is…?” and put it at the top of your work.

[Nancy Lucas]

Assignment 5

N. Lucas

Create a first draft of your 4 Act Transformational Structure.

1. Give us the following:

Concept : ‘Hallmark’ type romance set in tropical location Main Conflict: Main Character, who does not like weddings, dating, or being impulsive is named Best Man for his (best) friend’s elopement in just a matter of days. He has also been tasked to find the hotel rooms, wedding planner, cake, etc. En route, he finds himself falling for the hotel manager/wedding planner and the tropical sun.Old Ways: loves structure, following a charted path, success, planning well in advance, loves Chicago, all the seasonsNew Ways: finding himself becoming more spontaneous, outside forces make him think for the ‘now’ and forced to make decisions that could affect him for the rest of his life. In this story he will see a few other people make big decisions (that will affect their life) spontaneously and with ease and he is now forced to do the same.

2. Fill in each of these with the answers you have right now.

Act 1:

Opening: Dan, his co-worker at the law firm is eloping and named him his best manInciting Incident: Meets the Hotel Manager, who will help him with all the plans- and become a love interest against all odds.Turning Point: Thinks he should abandon her hotel/wedding planning services for somewhere more upscale. He has to decide to ‘trust his gut’

Act 2:

New plan (I don’t know)Plan in actionMidpoint Turning Point

Act 3:

Rethink everything (I don’t know)New planTurning Point: Huge failure / Major shift

Act 4:

Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: Knows he can become partner if he goes back to Chicago, success would come faster. Not sure what will happen staying in (what he feels is) a sleepy resort town. But also realizes that he really enjoys helping the girl – fixing things around the motel, and the restaurant. Likes to see her happy and gains satisfaction in knowing he has contributed. Resolution: he finds a place in the village – a perfect spot for the new office near the realestate office. But also, he discovered, a space for him to rent, and buy a truck and start up a side job of being a Mr. fix-it (a job he grew up doing, as, his father was a contractor)

3. Once you have created the 4-Act Structure for your Protagonist, go back over it to see if there is any big picture points you need to add to represent your Antagonist.

[Nancy Lucas]

Assignment 3, 30 Day Script

N. Lucas

What I learned in this assignment is that the more clearly defined my characters are, main and otherwise, the better I hear their voice and know what they want. This gives me a better direction and ideas for more ‘actions’ that can depict their struggle.

MY struggle is A) keeping up with this every day! (Could this be changed to a M-F Class?!) AHHHHHH and B) I am also really struggling with ‘trusting the process’ …

I want it all to be perfect and know more about my story—and not sound stupid to everyone else! So I am trying so hard just to keep my thoughts together and keep moving toward the goal line.

Traits: Good looking, successful corporate lawyer, trusted friend, self- starter, doesnt mind working long hours to get ahead.

Subtext: Jaded about relationships because last GF only cared about his status and his $$

Flaw: Doesn’t realize that there is more to life than just working in the corporate world. Doesn’t realize in staying focused on work- he may be missing out on unique opportunities or ‘impulsive’ fun things.

Values: Success, having money to do things and get the things in life that he wants. Loyalty to his friend

Irony: Doesn’t want to become impulsive, but will wind up doing it for love and to gain the opportunity of a relationship in a tropical location.

[Nancy Lucas]

N. Lucas, Romance Genre (Holiday Romance)

What I learned doing this assignment: I learned that I can give each of my essential the clear purpose that will help to drive the story forward.

Each of these characters can push the story forward with dialogue.

I am not sure that the Holiday Romance fits the genre’s listed—I feel that it is more of a ‘Hallmark’ type romance that will have to have essential ‘markers’ (see “Romancing the Beat” by Gwen Hayes) I think this assignment will really help me to clarify my characters goals and the part they play in telling the story.

My protagonist will be a ‘runner’ – running away from marriage- or things that will interrupt the ‘plan’ he has for his life. Work, being a successful lawyer. Earning the respect of his coworkers.

My Antagonist will be his friend that is getting married and (maybe) his boss. They will be agents of change—they will drop lines of dialogue that will get him to change how he thinks.

Other characters are the

Main girl he will find himself falling for.

Her 2 girlfriends

Daphne, a co-worker that is after him and his money.

The head of the law firm

And other minor characters

Genre: Holiday Romance

I have no idea what makes these people special. But, Im working on it! 🙂

[Nancy Lucas]

What I learned in doing this assignment is, that if I line up the Old/ New ways the character arc becomes MUCH clearer and also clarifies my objectives. I had too many other ‘things’ I was adding to the story that were not essential—the dialogue needs to tell the story.

I appreciate the ‘empowerment’ message from Hal. I also discovered that having the right mindset can be the key to my success!

Romance Genre

My Main Character is Peter. He is a lawyer for a firm in Chicago. Type-A personality who will discover that ‘letting loose’ a bit from conformity can be fun and rewarding.

Old Ways:

Likes routine, likes cold(er) weather, doesn’t veer out of his comfort zone too often, last girlfriend left him because she thought he was ‘boring.’ He feels he is solid, reliable, dependable. Not sure being impulsive is a good thing to be—or that it leads to good decisions. Likes doing things alone

New ways:

Challenges himself to embrace spontaneity Questions himself as to why he isn’t more impulsive (he becomes more impulsive to fun opportunities) Find that he likes warm-weather sports, Acts kinder. Falls for the girl… J

[Nancy Lucas]

Hi, Lenore,

I think your idea is great and your letter shows that you are an expert in this field. You may want to consider putting your credentials at the beginning- to show you are an expert at telling THIS story.

You may want to consider reading through your letter- and pull the points that are the absolute most important – the ones that are the most interesting– and use those. Shorten up your letter to make it read very quick and tight.

I think you have an interesting story- and I would be sure there are plenty of producers who would look at your script. Definitely women’s angles such Lifetime/ Oxygen or others like this.

Great work– and a very thoughtful story!

Best wishes!!

Nancy

[Nancy Lucas]

John,

I completely agree– the bio is short, to the point and excellent. The pitch is clear and succinct. Kensington loves thrillers like this if you have it in book -form, but i am sure there are many producers who would be interested in this as — it has a unique storyline!

Best Wishes!

Nancy

[Nancy Lucas]

ACT 2 TP- Midpoint Assignment 15 and 16, N. Lucas

“What I learned doing this assignment is…?”

Dear Hal and Cheryl: don’t me mad I am looking like a schmope in this class. This story is written and I am trying my darndest to keep up with this class! I am in the middle of a move and in training for a new job… but I promise I am keeping all my lessons and will expertly execute them – “maybe not today, or tomorrow, but soon….” (you can laugh at that.. ) but I am listening to every word you say—and I am working on these lessons! Hal, you have the best voice- ever! Also—Thank you for continuing the Friday lessons! YAY!!!

1. Outline your Key Scene 4: The Midpoint.

I am not too good at outlining right now—I think I need to ‘tell the story’ before I can figure out how to outline it.

So, in this part of the story—the 5 of them: Peter, Nicky (possibly named Isabella in other episodes—because I cant decide her name) and Dan and Sandra (whose wedding is on Christmas) and Sophia—our wedding planner—all go to a Women’s Boutique named Foxy Lady Fashions—which, of course, has tropical, club attire, upscale everything and in the back—wedding dresses! I think I chose this scene as my turning point- because Peter, the main character, realizes he is falling for Nicky- the Motel manager and daughter of the motel owner. She represents fun, excitement, energy, and impulsiveness that he is becoming aware that he is missing in his life. For those that care to read it- there are plenty of typos for you to enjoy…

Hey – speaking of good times—I think we need to pick up one lucky lady and take her Foxy Lady Fashions….. they giggle and she takes off her apron to head for the door with the kids in tow. All of them with trays of decorated cookies.

Peter and Nicky return to the lobby and meet up with Dan and Sandra.

(Dan and Sandra just got through meeting up with Sophia, Nicky’s sister, who is the real wedding planner)

Everything is good then—all the plans are in place?

Wonderful—Peter you picked a wonderful place to plan a wedding! Sophia is so nice – I believe it will all be beautiful.

Sophia says: Well I’ll go get the car and we can all take a drive up to The village—I know a great place for Dresses.

Thinking that they were going to a mall or an actual bridal shop—Peter sends Nicky a questioning look – when they pull in to Foxy Lady Fashions.

“C.mon—lets go in – I haven’t been here in ages!!!” Nicky excitedly opens her car door and hops out of the car

“Nicky—this is not a bridal boutique” Peter gets out of the car- but begins admonishing Nicky for her choices—or seems to–

“Oh, heavens no—no its not, its something much better than that….” Nicky laughs racing up the stairs.

Dan and Sandra had followed in a separate car with Sophia?—they continued talking about the wedding – and they all go in to the store.

Peter: How is it that we are at foxy lady fashions.. anyway It seems like an odd place for a wedding dress…

Sophia: Let me tell you why….. “because I know the owner!” and she walks toward the back of the store where she opens a door and sees a row of wedding gowns all with plastic coverings

Sophia tells Sandra: .. your not the first woman to fall in love in paradise! And they have gorgous , on-of -a-kind pieces here…. I promise you, that!! Now… lets get you a few to try on !”

Dan to Peter: We really need to learn to trust the locals

Nicky whispered to Peter…. hey… she pulls him over to the fancy shoes. “Oooo! These are fun!”

“Do you come here often?!” haha, peter asks in a sheepish way. How do you know about this place.

“Foxy lady?! It classic. They have everything for the woman who wants to look fabulous, she can get her hair done right there. Shoes, jewelry, the perfect outfit” its all great.

“so, you come here often?!!”

“Me? No. afraid not. Im a little busy—and quite frankly—haven’t had a date in a while”

{Banter about dates and ex-loves}

Nicky tried on some high heels. And began scoured over dresses on a rack. A sales lady brought over earrings and a necklace to match “these are beautiful!” She exclaimed, smiling. I haven’t been here in ages! This place is so fun! I forgot how fun it was!! It’s a place where you dream about fancy dates and yacht parties! She said, laughing!

“What about you? Who is your date to the wedding? Is she flying in on Thursday?”

“Me, no. Im not really the dating type.”

Nicky shook her head backing up a half step. “What? That’s an odd thing to say. I mean … you don’t really have to be a ‘type’ do you? You just haven’t found the right woman?

“Well, the last girl I dated nearly broke me. I guess my choices over time have not been worried about how much cash I spend on them.

“I see. A bit guarded are we?”

Peter stammered… “well, wouldn’t you be?”

“Shh! I love this song!” Immediately Nicky began swaying her hips to the 80s beat of ___(?)

Listen. I think I want to buy this dress. Im going to go try it on.

Peter made his way to where her sister and Sandra stood before three large mirrors where Sandra had found the perfect dress. It was three quarter length with a short lace train. Peter had never seen anything like it, yet it stated beach elegance. The sales woman waited on her hand and foot and brought her a double strand of Mikimoto pearls and clasped them around her neck..

She slid into the perfect white silk kitten heeled sandals and stood before the mirror giggling.

“well, peter, what do you think?” sister asked at the same time Nicky waltzed out of the dressing room in a beautiful wrapped seafoam dress, with chunky copper jewelry earrings and a necklace with inlaid turquiois e stones. The turquois sandals match exquitily.

Peter’s head turned instantly to the bride – “you look…” and in an instant Nicky appeared at his side, with heel brought her to his eyes . the seafoam green brought out her beautiful blue eyes where she stared at Sandra enveloped in elegance. “oh my word, Sandra! You look….”

Peter turned to Nicky there beside him, taking in her auburn hair, fair skin and deep blue eyes, glowing in happiness from the music and the dress and realized what he had been missing.

“beautiful” he said. Right into Nickys ear.