> The IMDB runs a regular column called "Ask a
>Screenwriter" with screenwriter John August (who
>wrote "Go" and worked on a number of other
>scripts, ranging from schlock like "Charlie's
>Angels" to good stuff like "Minority Report").
>He took sort of a conventional approach to get
>into the business: went to film school at USC,
>worked a crap job as a script reader for two
>years for a studio, made contacts and tried to
>sell his scripts (which he did with "Go"). His
>take is that Hollywood is ultimately a
>meritocracy which really rewards people who can
>do the job.

Sure. Which is why "Robocop 3" got made but OSC's "Ender's Game" has been in development hell for years.


>The fierce competition may make it hard to break
>in, as everyone with the ability to buy scripts,
>greenlight films and cast actors is going to be
>deluged with people trying to win their favor,
>but I don't think it acts as a total shield for
>people who just plain suck.

Then explain: Eszterhas, Joe. Go ahead. Just try.

My explanation? In 1983 he wrote Flashdance which made a lot of money and ever since then he's been strung out on crack and selling his used toilet paper as scripts and making millions.

Sure, one example doesn't make a convincing argument. But man, I hate that guy.

> Oh, speaking of sucking, "Dragonheart" kind of
>did. Connery ruled, but all that crap with the
>prince? Come on.

Is this more "SIGNS SUCKS DUDE!" stuff? What's your beef with Dragonheart?

-- Dave