Does it ever get easier?

I mean, seriously. The sheer terror I get when I have to show something I’ve written to another person – it’s kind of crazy. Multiply that panic by a thousand... and that’s the feeling I get when I am writing something entirely new – no matter how much I want to write it.

Take yesterday. I finished my first set of edits on my pilot script.

Brief Aside

One of the outcomes of my three forays at pitching a television show – was the realization that many production companies have no clue what they want. Better to just show them something and let them make a decision based on an actual example (i.e., proof of concept) rather than a pitch. Yes, you need the pitch to get in the door – but offering an example provides a better “visual”.

At the same time, by writing the pilot – I create an example of my own television writing. This gives me more credibility (assuming it’s not awful). So, all in all, a good decision all around.

End Aside

So, back to the pilot. It’s finished and I am now showing it to someone. Fortunately for me, I have a perfect first reader in my brother. He’s been working for a development company for several years. Their current show just got renewed for a second season. He knows what the market wants.

He can give me real feedback on whether it’s any good – and strategic thoughts on how to make it better (assuming it’s not truly awful).

So, why am I nervous?

I wish I knew.

Off it goes...

I finished the first draft edits of my TV series pilot episode tonight.

I feel pretty good about it. I am sure it's going to need a ton of work (assuming it's not awful) -- but I think it's a pretty respectable first draft. Final page count was 56.

We'll see what my brother thinks.

As to what it's about...well, I am still not ready to say what the premise is. But I can give you a hint...

To a degree, this story is my take on the secret societies theme of UNDER COVER OF DARKNESS, although the series (in the very unlikely event it ever actually got made) would be purely mainstream.

I'll let you know what my brother's verdict is.

Day Two -- In a Tight Spot

Had a nice brunch with friends this morning. I managed to ask a few questions of one friend who happens to be an engineer.

This is good because the protagonist in the television show happens to work for an engineering company...which requires a bit of design-type stuff. Right now, I have placeholders like, "Ask XX what those things are called," and "Ask XX if this is even feasible?"

I don't actually need to know a lot -- but I do need enough to make certain scenes work -- which requires some technical stuff on engineering. Eventually the main character will spend most of the episode running, but I need to plant some office "real-life" in first, since it will become important later.

...enough of the rambling.

On the progress counter: I wrote 16 pages yesterday. Not bad, considering I usually spend my first day of writing procrastinating. I did make it to the end of Act 1, although I will need to go back and pepper a few extra scenes in later.

Today? Act 2. It involves a chase scene, some subway antics, and a big eye opener for our main character.

Jana

Day One -- The Beginning

So, today is Day 1 of my Labour Day Writing Extravaganza.

Miracle of miracles -- I managed to keep the weekend free, at least during my peak writing hours.

I've convinced all my friends I am not allowed to go out between Noon and 7pm. So, I am going to see a movie tonight, going for breakfast tomorrow, and pretty much writing the rest of the time.

I've set some reasonable goals I think:

• Day 1: Act 1
• Day 2: Act 2
• Day 3: Act 3 and Act 4

Seeing as the acts get shorter as you go, I figure this will be doable.

I'll post my progress as I go. Wish me luck!

Jana