We Have Some Notes: The Insiders Guide to Notes, Script Editing and Development

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From the early stages of script writing to the final cut, We Have Some Notes provides a detailed overview of the script editing and development process, emphasising the impact of critical feedback, or 'notes', in the creation of successful films and television shows. Through interviews with leading industry practitioners, including Lynne Ramsay, Russell T Davies, Sally Wainwright, Edgar Wright, Lone Scherfig, Ben Wheatley and Simon Beaufoy, Venetia Hawkes explores the writer, director and note-giver relationship. The interviewees discuss the most productive and harmonious ways to give and receive feedback, and the role notes play in a fruitful creative process. Respected note-givers, such as Tessa Ross, Eva Yates and Pippa Harris, provide advice on nurturing successful development relationships. Inter-chapter sections pose key questions, such as "Whats one thing never to do if youre giving notes" and "How do you deal with rejection or critical notes" Providing illuminating, practical guidance on ways of working successfully with notes, for both writers and directors. With its wealth of first-hand reflections, expert advice, and historical context, We Have Some Notes is a vital read for students, industry professionals, and anyone interested in the making of acclaimed films and television series.

Reviews

A must-read for anyone interested in the development of film and television, We Have Some Notes... demystifies what some of the UKs biggest screenwriters really think about receiving story notesand how they embrace this collaborative process to better their scripts. -- Matthew Evans, University of Georgia, USA
At last, a book that uncovers the true workings of the story development process from the perspective of successful writers, editors and directors, illuminating the creative collaborations and forensic analysis that occurs in the shared pursuit of delivering the best story possible. Jam packed with useful nuggets for anyone interested in the development process this book is a celebration of the importance and impact of collaboration within the film and TV industries. -- Philip Mathews, Bournemouth University, UK
We Have Some Notes... is an invaluable insight into the process of screenwriting as a collaborative art. Getting notes is often painful, sometimes confusing, always invaluable. Hearing how those at the top of their game handle notes helps all of us swallow the angst and make our writing much better. -- Philippa Burne, University of Melbourne, Australia

Author Bio

Venetia Hawkes is Executive Producer for masterclasses and bridge to industry films at the internationally acclaimed National Film and Television School, UK. She was formerly a member of Right Angle, the script and series editing company behind animated adaptations of classic stories for BBC, Channel 4 and HBO, which won BAFTAs, Emmys and an Academy Award nomination. She has been part of the BAFTA jury for short animation and a member of the British Independent Film Awards sub-committee for screenwriting and directing.