Don't forget Fark.com -- that's one of the best sources of weird news out there!

Once again, Scott, here's validation that you're in touch with the zeitgeist. Right on the heels of this series of posts, there's this: an announcement about a new place to pitch these "news-derived" ideas/scripts – Academy and WGA award-winner Mark Boal's new prodco, PAGE 1. Here's the link to today's story: http://tiny.cc/vtigfx

Hi Scott, Loved the "How to at screenwriting by really trying" series. I was wondering if you would consider doing a sequel series concerning how to start a career and what it takes to maintain a career (i.e. what managers expect and what it's like to work with one, what's in store after you sign with your first rep in terms of networking, going after writing assignments, how to keep a writing career).

(Apologies if this idea has already been mentioned) I think another cool idea is to switch Genres. Want to write a Western with a twist? Put it in space = Star Wars. A Monster movie that's a Comedy? Harry and the Hendersons. Which has probably made more $$$ than ALL "true" horror movies about Bigfoot, Yeti, Sasquatch and the Abominable Snowman combined. Or how about a Sci-Fi, 3D version of Pocahontas = Avatar. If you're considering writing a depressing Drama about a close friend who has just been diagnosed with AIDS/Cancer/Alzheimer's/Bird Flu/Cooties, turn it into an Action/Adventure where a cure's been found but...it's in the middle of the Amazon Jungle...and is protected by Zombie Gorillas...who use Lightsabers...and only speak French...and love Chili Cheese Dogs. Of course, a depressing Drama might win you an Oscar. Zombie Gorillas who love Chili Cheese Dogs, not so much. [yes, I know their aren't any Gorillas in South America -- not until you put them there, or your Mad Scientist puts them there]