Moondance International Film Festival

http://moondancefilmfestival.com/moondance-entry-form

•

2. FILM FREEWAY SUBMISSION SERVICE

https://filmfreeway.com/festival/MoondanceInternationalFilmFestival

•

3. WITHOUTABOX SUBMISSION SERVICE

READ THESE INFORMATIVE MOONDANCE E-ZINE ARTICLES HERE!

FINAL POSTMARK DEADLINE FOR REGULAR SUBMISSIONS:

JUNE 30, 2014

…but don’t wait until the last minute! Send in your submission now!

A MOONDANCER WRITES US:

“I would like to thank Moondance for the sponsored Inktip.com subscription. As well, I’d like to share some news: MovieBytes.com has identified GRACE as one of the top ten winning scripts for 2103 in three different categories. You could have knocked me over with a feather when I discovered this!” http://www.moviebytes.com/ws/ ~ Lynda Lemberg, Moondance winner for GRACE, feature screenplay

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT:

photo by ‪www.volusia.org

“A wise man adapts himself to circumstances, as water always shapes itself to the container that holds it.” ~ Ancient Chinese Proverb

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Photo by ‪www.shadowandact.com

“Nothing is so contagious as an example. We rarely do great good without bringing about more of the same on the part of others.” ~ La Rochfoucauld

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“Do not be too quick to fabricate an injurious rumor, to falsely accuse, or lay unfair blame; speak always as though you were giving testimony before the judgment of your God.” ~ Anonymous

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“Love really IS the answer! Nothing else, not controlling, nor bullying, nor cajoling, nor whining, nor blaming, nor any other means of self-protection or self-seeking, is as effective in attaining happiness as is the act of loving with an open-heart. Love is the key to a happy life – but you’ve got to give it in order to get it.” ~ Lynne Forrest (edited)

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Photo by ‪hddesktopwallpaperblog.blogspot.com

“Freedom is that brief instant between when someone tells you that you must do something and when you decide how you will respond.” ~ Jeffrey Borenstein

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Colorado waterfall

“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.” ~ Anonymous

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MOONDANCE RECOMMENDS:

A LIST OF UPCOMING GRANTS FOR FILMMAKERS

filmcontact.com

To give everyone more time to work on your films and scripts and a little less time researching how to fund them find relevant opportunities for your narrative films, documentaries, and screenplays, with deadlines for applying for these grants. READ MORE: http://www.filmcontact.com/africa/south-africa/list-upcoming-grants-filmmakers

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Movie Nation: The Numbers Behind Our Obsession

While the movie industry might be complaining lately about a lack of DVD sales due to piracy, Americans still attend cinema more often than several other popular entertainment options, including sporting events. We look at the numbers behind our movie obsession, including the cost of making movies, the cost of attending. Take a look: http://www.superscholar.org/movies/

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Ben Cahan, the original developer and co-founder of Final Draft®, the  most widely-used screenwriting software on the planet, has created Talentville with the goal of building a global community where  screenwriters the world over can interact, collaborate and ultimately get the  attention of Hollywood insiders.   We already have over 7500 members, 1600 screenplays, 6400 reviews and 150 Industry  members looking for their next project.   If you take your screenwriting seriously, become a Talentville Resident today, and  let’s build a large and influential screenwriting community together. It’s all about connections, right? Well, let’s get connected! http://www.talentville.com

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Resting in Stillness: Integrative Restoration – iRest Yoga Nidra

Amazon.com book listing (Audio CD)

Richard Miller, PhD, author

Yoga nidra or “yogi sleep” is a sleep-like state which yogis report to experience during their meditations. Yoga nidra, lucid sleeping is among the deepest possible states of relaxation while still maintaining full consciousness. Lucid dreaming is the Western term used to denote a practice similar to yoga nidra. The distinguishing difference is the degree to which one remains cognizant of the actual physical environment as opposed to a dream environment. In lucid dreaming, one is only (or mainly) cognizant of the dream environment, and have little or no awareness of our actual environment.

The practice of yoga relaxation has been found to reduce tension and anxiety. The autonomic symptoms of high anxiety such as headache, giddiness, chest pain, palpitations, sweating and abdominal pain respond well. It has been used to help soldiers from war cope with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_nidra

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With a goal of providing the most accurate and up-to-date news and information available, MOTHER NATURE NETWORK covers the broadest scope of environmental news and social responsibility issues on the internet. And, we do so in a way that is engaging and easy-to-understand. MNN is designed for people who want to make our world a better place. Just as your world encompasses many different aspects—your family, your health, your lifestyle, your business, your community, AND your planet, so too does MNN. Every day offers a wide range of opportunities to improve your world, and MNN is here to help keep you informed. Join the MNN community and connect with others who share your interests and passions. http://www.mnn.com

Please join our 5000+ networking connections at the popular

MOONDANCE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL GROUP

on LinkedIn.com!

Check us out on linkedin.com, the professional international networking website!

• How many times Moondance has appeared in LinkedIn searches in just one recent week: 2,663. Moondance has one of the top 1% most-viewed LinkedIn profiles! Moondance now has over 5000+ opt-in connections on LinkedIn! Please consider joining the Moondance International Film Festival networking group there, too.

~~ Thanks for reading & subscribing to the Moondance news blog! ~~

EMAIL: director@moondancefilmfestival.com

* If you click on REPLY, to ask a question or make a comment on this newsletter, please change the subject line. Otherwise, thanks to Google’s strange email stacking system, I have to scroll through the entire newsletter again to hopefully find your message at the bottom! Thanks! ~~ EE

February1620140

A MOONDANCE SPECIAL TRIBUTE & NEWS

C o m e s w i m w i t h t h e M e r m a i d s !

S C R O L L O N D O W N T O S E E :

CALL-FOR-ENTRIES SUBMISSION INFO
A MOONDANCER WRITES US
SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT
A TRIBUTE TO MOONDANCER, DONNA LISA

Send in your submission now, and plan to attend the

2014 Moondance International Film Festival

in beautiful Boulder, Colorado!

M O O N D A N C E 2 0 1 4 S U B M I S S I O N S I N F O :

COMPETITION CATEGORIES: films, (shorts & features, documentaries, narrative, animation), music videos, screenplays, film scores & original music, stageplays, short stories, TV pilots, radio plays, and more!

3 EASY WAYS TO SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY:

(in order of preference) 

http://moondancefilmfestival.com/moondance-entry-form

2. FILM FREEWAY SUBMISSION SERVICE

https://filmfreeway.com/festival/MoondanceInternationalFilmFestival

•

3. WITHOUTABOX SUBMISSION SERVICE

FINAL POSTMARK DEADLINE FOR REGULAR SUBMISSIONS:

JUNE 30, 2014

…but don’t wait until the last minute! Send in your submission now!

PLEASE READ & SUBSCRIBE TO THE MOONDANCE NEWS BLOG NOW: www.moondancefilmfestival.com/blog

A M O O N D A N C E R W R I T E S U S :

“Your non-violence statement (in your previous blog) is wonderful, and needs to be said. For anyone who does not believe that the violence depicted in film has made a definite impression and influence upon society has only to read the daily newspapers. We have all become victims of a violent society. Thank you for doing a really special and un-selfish job of getting your wonderful message out to the public.” ~ Lorna Kanter, Moondance screenplay finalist & artist

S O M E T H I N G S T O T H I N K A B O U T :

Dominique Browning photo

“Opportunities to find deeper powers within ourselves come when life seems most challenging.” ~ Joseph Campbell

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photo: venturebeat.com

“Expect to have hope rekindled. Expect your prayers to be answered in wondrous ways. The dry seasons in life do not last; the spring rains will come again.” ~ Sarah Breathnach

A T R I B U T E T O D O N N A L I S A 4 K I D S :

Photo by Cindy Gold

Moondance has sadly lost a good friend. Screenwriter-songwriter and 7-time Moondance award-winner over the years, Donna Lisa Rothstein, was recently struck by a car in New Jersey, along with her husband, and she passed away a few days later. Such a sad, tragic and unfortunate loss. She will be greatly missed by many, but her legacy will continue on. Please visit her website at: www.donnalisa.com

Donna was a very special friend of mine and of the Moondance, and we spent many happy and productive hours together. Her talent, kindness, generosity and love for all kids will always shine brightly, and will continue to inspire others.

My heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and her many fans. ~Elizabeth

DONNA LISA’S MOONDANCE AWARDS:

“Kheng Kheng Crocodile” (Family Screenplay & title song)

“Koompa and His Crocodile” (TV  Pilot for Kids)

The June Bug” – (TV Pilot for Kids)

“Wheels” (TV Pilot for Kids)

“Bat Cat and Bitsy” (TV Pilot Scripts for Kids)

“Toucan You Can!” (Family Screenplay – Animation)

“Toucans of the Amazon” (Feature Screenplays for Kids)

“The playful quality of Donna’s songwriting & screenplays invite children to share an adventure with her. She takes youngsters on a whimsical journey and they eagerly respond by singing her catchy melodies and tapping into their own imaginations. These tunes & stories engage children and allow them to sing along. Donna’s lyrics & writings are informative , and stimulate questions and learning. Donna’s lyrics paint memorable pictures of animals, places, imaginary characters and activities that intrigue children. Donna Lisa’s nurturing music is perfect for children and parents alike. Her themes and lyrics are so upbeat and enjoyable, they keep you humming the tunes long after hearing them. Donna was a contributing singer/songwriter and A&R Coordinator for “Playful Journeys to Grow On,” a compilation, children’s CD that will benefit The United Way.” (text excerpted & edited from Donna Lisa’s website)

DONNA LISA’S MOONDANCE TESTIMONIAL:

I will always be grateful to Moondance and Elizabeth English for giving me ongoing support and encouragement. I have submitted my writing to Moondance for the past few years. I still remember the first year I entered. I was unsure about the process. Elizabeth patiently explained things and gave me extra time to send in my submission. Each year I entered, I was recognized, affirmed, and given very helpful guidance. I love the fact that the festival makes a special effort to acknowledge the work of women. Moondance offers more awards, in more categories, than almost anyone.

When I attended the Moondance Film Festival, it was an enriching experience. I met writers, directors, filmmakers, producers, and musicians from all over the world. I enjoyed the workshops, the special events, the variety of new films, the consultations, the networking parties, and the awards ceremony. The heart of the festival was, and is, Elizabeth. She’s firm, direct, and very knowledgeable. Elizabeth has a way of nurturing creative people and making each of them feel important. Elizabeth has been a mentor to me and many other writers. She has gone out of her way to give me advice and has helped me make some significant connections.

I really can’t say enough positive things about Moondance and Elizabeth. I highly recommend the Moondance International Film Festival, and contest, to anyone in the creative/entertainment arts. ~ Donna Lisa, January, 2011

~~ Thanks for reading & subscribing to the Moondance news blog. ~~

February620140

MOONDANCE NEWS & CHINESE NEW YEAR WISHES!

新年乐

Wishing you a very happy, healthy, and productive Chinese Lunar New Year of the Horse! I hope it’s good for me, too, as the horse (water horse) is my Chinese Zodiac sign… ~ My Very Best Regards, Elizabeth

In Chinese astrology, Horse year is considered a fortunate year that brings good luck and good things. Magical Horse has supernatural powers, is heroic, strong, and can even fly! Horse year is about freedom, returning to nature, and enjoying life and life’s adventures…you may feel more buoyant and able to tackle things that you have been putting on the back burner.

S C R O L L O N D O W N T O R E A D A B O U T :

2014 SUBMISSION INFO
INVITATION TO ATTEND THE 2014 MOONDANCE
A MOONDANCER’S SUCCESS STORY
MOONDANCERS WRITE US!
BAD & GOOD NEWS FROM HOLLYWOOD
- PETE SEEGER: IN MEMORIAM
- RECOMMENDED THAI MUSIC VIDEO
- SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT
- CONTACT US!

M O O N D A N C E 2 0 1 4 S U B M I S S I O N S I N F O :

COMPETITION CATEGORIES: films, (shorts & features, documentaries, narrative, animation), music videos, screenplays, film scores & original music, stageplays, short stories, TV pilots, radio plays, and more!

EASY WAYS TO SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY:

(in order of preference) 

http://moondancefilmfestival.com/moondance-entry-form

2. WITHOUTABOX SUBMISSION SERVICE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCJi3u_KmQQ

FINAL POSTMARK DEADLINE FOR REGULAR SUBMISSIONS:

JUNE 30, 2014

…but don’t wait until the last minute! Send in your submission now!

Plan to join us at the original, the one and only, Moondance International Film Festival, in beautiful Boulder, Colorado, September 26, 27, 28, 2014!

Top-quality Indie film screenings from around the world
Professional workshops & seminars
Productive networking parties & events
Gala awards ceremony
Meet with Hollywood celebrities in attendance

Foothills of Boulder, Colorado

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT THE WEBSITE: www.moondancefilmfestival.com

Please consider forwarding this news-blog to your friends and colleagues!

A M O O N D A N C E R ’ S S U C C E S S S T O R Y :

“The Diver”, winning animation film by Damon Mohl

Moondance’s multi-award-winning animation filmmaker and artist, and Colorado resident, Damon Mohl, opens an art gallery show of his work. READ MORE:

M O O N D A N C E R S W R IT E U S :

“…you placed my script, “Quantum Leap”, in the Semi-Finalist category in 2010. I sincerely thank you for that because it gave me encouragement to develop it into a much better story…It has gone through endless re-writes and the consensus among all the reviews is that it is an astonishing original story with excellent marketing potential.” ~ Nick Szegedi

“I looked up Moondance and I am so pleased to learn about your festival! …and I have added Moondance to my “watch-list” on withoutabox.com.” ~ Erika Street

“Wishing you great success with the Moondance Festival!” ~ Nicole Dreiske, Executive Director, International Children’s Media Center

B A D “N E W S” F R O M H O L L Y W O O D :

Hollywood’s hidden sexism: How casting notices keep beauty standards alive. Wonder why TV wives are always hotter than their husbands? Hint: It starts before the show is even cast… this discrepancy is lodged deep within the writing and casting processes…READ MORE Article By Victoria Frings, Salon Writer

G O O D N E W S F R O M H O L L Y W O O D :

Harvey Weinstein Has Change of Heart On Violent Content In Films: “The Change Starts Here”, Says He Will Change His Choices In Regard To Violence: Video “You have to look in the mirror, too. I have to choose movies that aren’t violent or as violent as they used to be.” said Weinstein. From www.deadline.com

* Check out the Moondance statement on non-violence in film

• I N M E M E M O R I A M •

Poughkeepsie-Journal-photo

Folk singer Pete Seeger, who established the music as an expression of community, conscience and social justice during a career that spanned eight decades, has died. He was 94. He viewed the sharing of folk songs as a democratic act. To participate in singing songs together – which Seeger encouraged in the group sing-alongs that were an inevitable feature of his concerts – was to participate in the inner workings of the country itself. ~ Christopher Morris, Variety, January 27, 2014

“(He) seemed to always have fun with that great smile, even while singing his protests. He paved the way for Bob Dylan and Joan Baez, and truly was a one-of-a-kind troubadour for the whole world.” ~ John Vizzusi “Ever since he chose his path, he has stayed on it, and walked the walk he talked, and he inspired generations to raise our voices in song, to always think of others, to respect ourselves and all who cross our paths.” ~ David Amram, The New York Times

S O M E T H I N G S T O T H I N K A B O U T :

Windmills at Mykonos, Greece

“You can be right, or you can be happy. ~ Gerald G. Jampolsky

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“To say yes, you have to sweat and roll up your sleeves and plunge, with both hands, up to the elbows, into life.” ~ Jean Anouilh

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Ajanta Caves http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajanta_caves

“Every morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.”― Gautama Buddha

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“Kindness and love is the language that the blind can see and the deaf can hear.” – Mark Twain

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‪hdwallpapercollection.com

“How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours.” ~ Wayne W. Dyer

SERENE MUSIC VIDEO RECOMMENDED:

The Thai Buddhist Forest Tradition, Thudong: Forest Monks and Hermits of Thailand

~~ Thanks for reading & subscribing to the Moondance news blog! ~~

COMPETITION CATEGORIES:

January2720140

HOLLYWOOD IN THE ROCKIES @ MOONDANCE 2014!

Send in your submission now, and plan to attend the

2014 Moondance International Film Festival in Boulder, Colorado!

MovieBytes.com lists the Moondance International Film Festival

as one of the Top Ten competitions worth the entry fee!

SCROLL ON DOWN TO READ ABOUT:

2014 SUBMISSION INFO
ARTICLE: EARTHING: RECONNECTING
A MOONDANCE WRITES US
MOONDANCE RECCOMENDS
SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT
CONTACT US!

~~~~~Thanks a million for all the great submissions, so far! ~~~~~

M O O N D A N C E 2 0 1 4 S U B M I S S I O N S I N F O :

FILMS (SHORTS & FEATURES, DOCUMENTARIES, NARRATIVE, ANIMATION, MUSIC VIDEOS)
SCREENPLAYS
FILM SCORES & ORIGINAL MUSIC
STAGEPLAYS
SHORT STORIES
TV PILOTS
RADIO PLAYS
AND MORE!

E A S Y W A Y S T O S U B M I T Y O U R E N T R Y :

http://moondancefilmfestival.com/moondance-entry-form/#gf_1

2. WITHOUTABOX SUBMISSION SERVICE

http://www.drsinatra.com/heart-health-earthing-main

FINAL POSTMARK DEADLINE FOR REGULAR SUBMISSIONS:

JUNE 30, 2014

…but don’t wait until the last minute! Send in your submission now!

Please consider forwarding this news-blog

to your friends and colleagues!

A M O O N D A N C E R W R I T E S U S :

“I think of you often and am so grateful for the support you have given me with my screenwriting over the years. You helped to give me the confidence to believe that I could write and tell stories. I will do that forever.” ~ Sally Sutherland, Moondance feature screenplay winner

EARTHING: RECONNECTING WITH THE EARTH’S ENERGY

~~~ Earthing is an amazingly simple concept that involves nothing more than reconnecting the human body with the energy naturally present in the ground we walk on. In a nutshell, here’s how Earthing (or grounding) works: The Earth’s surface contains a limitless number of free electrons that are continually replenished through solar radiation and lightning strikes; your body naturally absorbs these particles when you make physical contact with the ground.

~~~ In the body, these electrons have an anti-inflammatory effect because they reduce the free-radical activity that causes inflammation and chronic pain. (If you remember your high school science, electrons are negatively charged. Inflammation-causing free radicals are positively charged, which means the additional free electrons neutralize the free radicals.) The energy of the free electrons also helps keep your body’s innate electrical circuitry properly balanced. All of these effects are extremely beneficial to heart health.

~~~Without a regular connection to the Earth, people can develop what I call an electron deficiency. In turn, this can lead to imbalances in the body and potentially to significant health problems. For example, chronic inflammation—which is increasingly being identified as the cause of many chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders—may be a result of a lack of connectedness with the earth.

~~~ Fortunately, the connection can be easily restored by regularly practicing Earthing! The dozen or so completed studies on Earthing have proven beyond any doubt that becoming grounded has significant positive effects on our physiology and heart health. Getting started with Earthing is easy. If conditions allow, literally go barefoot outside. Just 40 minutes a day can make a difference. Grass, sand, dirt, and concrete are all conductive surfaces from which your body can draw the Earth’s electrons.

R E C O M M E N D E D :

MICHAEL WEISE PRODUCTIONS

~~~BOOKS FOR SCREENWRITERS & FILMMAKERS~~~

www.mwp.com

Shakespeare for Screenwriters: Timeless Writing Tips from the Master of Drama

by J. M. Evenson

SHAKESPEARE FOR SCREENWRITERS is the first book to use Shakespeare’s works to examine the fundamentals of screenwriting, breaking down beloved characters, stories, and scenes to uncover timeless storytelling secrets. “If you think Shakespeare has no relevance to contemporary filmmaking, you aren’t looking very closely. Excellent!” — Howard Suber, Professor, UCLA School of Film; author, The Power of Film

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Between the Scenes: What Every Film Director, Writer, and Editor Should Know About Scene Transitions

by Jeffrey Michael Bays

Between the Scenes delivers a fresh approach to film directing, screenwriting, and editing. Once you’ve got your scenes planned out, this book steps in by shifting your focus to how your individual sequences and scenes connect…

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Cinematic Storytelling

by Jennifer Van Sijll

Dialog is one of the best known, and obvious, elements in a film. But the language of cinema is more subtle and sophisticated than dialog alone. From Metropolis to Kill Bill, this remarkable reference guide reveals 100’s of…

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Film Directing: Shot by Shot:

Visualizing from Concept to Screen

by Steven D. Katz

An instant classic since its debut in 1991, Film Directing: Shot By Shot and its famous blue cover is one of the most well-known books on directing in the business, and is a favorite of professional directors as an on-set…

ORDER ALL MWP BOOKS HERE: www.mwp.com

S O M E T H I N G S T O T H I N K A B O U T :

‪Photo by misskarenmarquez.edublogs.org

“Life is the perpetual present moment one lives in, and a perception that time is nothing more than the current…an eternal flowing back to the sea.” ~William Least Heat-Moon, author, “River Horse”

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Great Wall of China in Winter, photo by Steve Webel

“Talent is cheaper than table salt. What separates the merely talented individual from the successful one is a lot of hard work.” ~ Stephen King

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“When we are out of alignment with ourselves, it is mirrored immediately – when we are in harmony with ourselves, the world reflects that, too. Accept the lessons offered, and return to serenity.” ~ Lynne Forrest

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Ernest Hemingway in Africa

“The secret to life is to put yourself in the right lighting. For some, it’s a Broadway spotlight. For others, it’s a lamp-lit desk.” ~ Susan Cain

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http://crankypuppy.blogspot.com

“It is better to wear out than to rust out.” ~ Richard Cumberland

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“When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” ~ Zen Buddhist Proverb

~~ Thanks for reading & subscribing to the Moondance news blog! ~~

http://moondancefilmfestival.com/moondance-entry-form/

January1520140

HOW TO GET AN AGENT! & MOONDANCE MID-JANUARY NEWS

“True peace is a state of mind brought about only by peaceful people.”

~ Jawaharal Nehru

M O O N D A N C E N E W S !

BOULDER, COLORADO: Moondance’s long-time home-town of beautiful Boulder, Colorado, is where this internationally known and well-respected film festival started in 1999, and to celebrate all the talent here in Colorado, Moondance 2014 will hold the first, the one & only…

~ ALL-COLORADO MOONDANCERS FILM SCREENINGS ~

…during the 15^th annual September event, in conjunction with all the other fine films selected for screenings from the US and around the world! Moondance will also have a special focus on Colorado writers and music composers, too! Moondance also promises to bring attention to the state of Colorado as a world-class destination for filmmakers to consider shooting their projects here.

The Flatirons, Boulder, Colorado

Send in your submission now, and plan to attend the

2014 Moondance International Film Festival in Boulder, Colorado!

SCROLL ON DOWN TO READ ABOUT:

2014 SUBMISSION INFO
ARTICLE: HOW TO GET AN AGENT!
MOONDANCE RECOMMENDS
SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT
CONTACT US!

M O O N D A N C E 2 0 1 4 S U B M I S S I O N S I N F O :

EASY WAYS TO SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY:

MIFF ENTRY FORM

OR:

WITHOUTABOX SUBMISSION SERVICE

http://www.neckerisland.virgin.com/en/necker_island/things_to_do/animals

FINAL POSTMARK DEADLINE FOR REGULAR SUBMISSIONS:

JUNE 30, 2014

…but don’t wait until the last minute! Send in your submission now!

Please consider forwarding this news-blog

to your friends and colleagues!

I NS I D E R T I P S F O R S C R E EN W R I T E R S :

HOW TO GET AN AGENT!

What Agents Want (and Don’t Want) to See

By Elizabeth English*

First, call, email or write to literary agents who are listed as being willing to look at unsolicited screenplays, or who are looking for new clients. Tell them what you have and would like to send to them, for their consideration. Do not send a script unless you are invited to do so!

HOW TO FIND LISTED AGENTS:

The Hollywood Creative Directory’s Agent/Management directory
Writers Digest
Writers Guild of America (East & West)

GUIDELINES FOR GETTING AN AGENT:

1. Write killer titles, loglines and one-sheet synopses for the all the scripts you want to submit to agents.

2. Write up a one-sheet document with titles and loglines of all your completed screenplays. You may be asked to send these before sending in a screenplay.

3. Presentation of script: be sure to have a plain cardstock cover, front and back; a title page with all your contact info; three-hole punch white paper; two solid-brass brads in the top and bottom hole only.

4. You may be asked to submit your script digitally, via email. In that case, ask if the agent wants it in a screenwriting program, such as Final Draft, or as a .pdf.

5. In any case, always be sure to register your script with WGAw or WGAe, and/or copyright it before sending it out!

6. “Attachments”, in the form of interested actors, director, producer, and most importantly: money, to your project, will always help get almost any agent interested. Mention this, if applicable, in your cover letter. But don’t send a “wish-list” of actors, director, etc.

7. If you’ve had a film or films produced from other screenplays you’ve written, definitely mention this in your cover letter.

8. Getting your screenplay to an agent is a 4-step process. Be patient!

9. Have more than one screenplay completed. At least three of your best screenplays need to be completed and ready to go, when and if requested.

10. In your initial phone call or e-mail, try to find out what genre of story that agent is looking for, at the moment. Agents generally know exactly what the buyers and/or producers want to see, and will usually only request those genres. But needs change all the time, and at a moment’s notice, so let them know what you have, even if they’re not looking for that at the time of your call or email.

11. Story: This is the first thing agents look at, when considering whether to read your script or not. Write a unique story, well-told.

12. Writing ability and style. Everything depends on this.

13. Dialog: your ability to write good, memorable and believable dialog is paramount.

14. Format and structure: in submitting your work to an agent, you should be sure the script is in proper format and structure. There are many books and online articles on these vital subjects.

15. Print out your script and read it in hard-copy, checking every word and every line for typos, edits needed, and etc.

16. Submit a reader’s script, not a production script! No camera angles or technical suggestions. Don’t use (continued) or (con’t.) after every character name and scene or bottom & top of each page.

17. Remember, you’re the writer, not the director, director of photography, costumer, set director, producer, cinematographer, lighting director, editor, music director, and so on.

18. Budget: yes, a screenwriter needs to know about this. Many buyers are looking for specific subjects with very specific production budgets. Currently, a low-budget feature film will be $10-20 million, for example. If your script requires action scenes and/or CGI graphics, double that figure.

19. If you know The Business at all, and have experience and/or good contacts, make the agent aware of this, so he or she will know you are a professional.

20. Let the prospective agent know you are open to re-writes and edits of your scripts. You will always be asked to do re-writes, edits, revisions and polishes, sometimes “on spec”, so prepare yourself mentally and be agreeable to it.

21. Be willing and able to pitch your screenplay to production companies and studios, with the agent, in person. If you live far from L.A., or NY, let the agent know you can arrange to go there for pitching appointments. Try to schedule more than one pitch meeting at a time.

22. Be friendly and easy-going, yet professional and self-confident. Hollywood, even though it’s a “snake-pit” at times, is run on connections and contacts. If they don’t like you, and don’t feel they can work with you, you don’t have a chance there, no matter how good your script is.

23. Be honest! Never, ever hype yourself or your script unless the information is absolutely true & provable. If you’ve won a contest with your script, let them know.

24. And if you’ve been submitting your scripts around to everybody for years, and they ask, tell the truth. Production companies and studios keep lists of what has been submitted to them, and you don’t want to embarrass your new agent!

HOW TO GET “DISCOVERED”:

InkTip.com is a the best website on which to post your scripts, to be seen by many agents, producers, managers, development & acquisition executives
LinkedIn.com is a good social networking site for making entertainment industry contacts & networking
If you live in or near Los Angeles, attend parties, special film screenings, film festivals, and other events where Hollywood types will be.
Enter the top film festival competitions with your best work, and win!
If you do win a contest, add that info to your cover letter!

WHAT SHOULD AN AGENT DO FOR YOU? ~ Send out your loglines and one sheet synopses, and scripts to Development & Acquisition executives at production companies and studios ~ Give suggestions on potential edits, revisions and re-writes that may be needed to sell the script ~ Set up pitch sessions for you at production companies and studios ~ Get the best deal he or she can for you, at or above schedule of WGA minimums. ~ Encourage and inspire you to create new material and projects. ~ An agent should NOT charge you any reading or consultation fees, nor for any expenses incurred for promoting you or your script. The agent will be compensated from his or her 10 or 15 % of the sale of your script. WHAT AGENTS DO NOT WANT TO SEE:

A script sent to them “cold”, with no phone call, e-mail or letter first
A script that is too long (over 120 pages), or too short (under 90 pages)
A script that is bound incorrectly (no brads, no cover, no title page)
A script that is not formatted correctly & has grammatical and/or spelling errors
A cover letter that is more than one page long
A script that is mostly descriptions of people and locations, like a novel
A script with unrealistic or stilted/boring dialog
A script where the real action of the story begins late, after page 10 or 20
A script with more than 100 scenes (each scene costs money)
A script with a prospective production budget over that what is requested
A script that has a lot of well-known copyrighted music noted in the text.
A script that is not in the genre requested
A writer who is unwilling to consider re-writes, revisions and edits
A script that has any typos, misspellings or poor syntax
A script without conflicts in the plot and story-line
A script without interesting, memorable characters
A story without character development
A storyline that has been done a million times
An incomplete screenplay
A script that is not in proper screenplay format
A script that has been shopped around for years
A writer who calls or e-mails sooner than 2 weeks after the agent received the script

If and when you do call an agent, after you’ve sent your query letter, title & logline, and synopsis, then the screenplay, if requested, and waiting at least two weeks to get a response, don’t put the agent on the spot by calling or emailing to ask, “Did you get my screenplay? Did you read it? Did you like it?” Ask, instead, “Have you had a chance to take a look at (title of screenplay)?” If the agent or assistant or intern says “not yet”, and he or she probably will, ask when it might be OK to call or email again to follow up, and then wait to call until that date. IF the agent says “It’s not for us.”, thank them for their time, and ask if you can send another script, or a rewrite.

THE CARE & FEEDING OF YOUR NEW AGENT:

OK, you’ve finally gotten a good professional agent, preferably one associated with the Writers Guild, and who is excited about your work. Congratulations! You need to treat him or her well, don’t call or email all the time to find out what’s going on with your script(s). Your new agent also has many other clients to promote. Be nice, trust your agent. It’s like getting a new best friend, and you want to keep on his or her good side, making sure the person likes and respects you. The agent will work for you to sell your script to a production company and/or studio…that’s how both of you get paid.

SUGGESTED READING & RESOURCES:

Relevant articles, by Elizabeth English:

Titles & Loglines: http://www.moondancefilmfestival.com/Article-16-Titles.html
Pitching in Hollywood: http://www.moondancefilmfestival.com/Article-15-Pitching.html
Making of a Hollywood Film: http://www.moondancefilmfestival.com/Article-13-Hwood.htmlTwo Brads or Three?: www.moondancefilmfestival.com/Article-07-Brads.html
Characters in Screenplays: http://www.moondancefilmfestival.com/Article-06-Character.html
Conflict in Scripts:http://www.moondancefilmfestival.com/Article-05-Dreams.html

Books & Magazines:

Lew Hunter’s Screenwriting 434
Linda Seger’s How to Make a Good Screenplay Great
Linda Seger’s How to Make a Good Screenwriter Great
David Howard’s A Writer’s Guide to the Craft and Elements of a Screenplay
Creative Screenwriting
Scr(i)pt Magazine

*Need a professional script consultation at reasonable rates?

Contact: ELIZABETH ENGLISH

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MOONDANCE RECOMMENDS:

CREATIVE AMERICA is a grassroots organization uniting the entertainment community and others against content theft. Creative America unites actors, directors, craft professionals, editors, cinematographers, small businesses that service the industry, studio employees, and all others making a living in and caring about film, television, and other creative industries, who believe that creativity and innovation deserve to be protected. Join the movement to stop content theft and protect American creativity and jobs.

To be successful in the fight against content theft, we must make our voice heard in Washington and in communities across America. Creative America is supported by an unprecedented coalition of major entertainment unions, guilds, studios, and networks, including CBS Corporation, the Directors Guild of America, IATSE International, NBC Universal, SAG – AFTRA, Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc., Twentieth Century Fox, Viacom, the Walt Disney Company, and Warner Bros. Entertainment. – See more at: http://www.creativeamerica.org/

NECKER ISLAND is a haven for some of the more rare species of plants and animals found in the Caribbean and elsewhere in the world. Recent arrivals have cemented the island’s reputation as a place where nature’s diversity is truly celebrated and protected. From flamingos, soldier crabs and iguanas to our famous red-footed tortoise, Necker’s animal family continues to grow, with more recent newcomers joining the party: 35 Madagascar lemurs in addition to those already resident on island. They’ve also recently introduced a flock of Scarlet Ibis, White Cheeked Pintail and Roseate Spoonbills. Necker Island is Sir Richard Branson’s home and favorite hideaway.

http://www.stage32.com

Lounge Articles:

FILMMAKING – Filmmaking Wisdom From John Cassavettes
PRODUCING – How Does Someone Find a Producer For a Small Indie Film Production?
SCREENWRITING – Writing is Creating, Not Stealing

BEAUTIFUL WILD DOLPHIN SLIDE-SHOW!

http://explore.org/#!/photos/player/wild-dolphins

Wild Atlantic dolphins photo by Atmo, Bimini, http://www.WildQuest.com

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT:

Photo by Jeremy Austin

“People who postpone happiness are like children who try chasing rainbows in an effort to find the pot of gold at the rainbow’s end. But life will never be fulfilled until you are happy in the here and now.” ~ Ken Keyes, Jr.

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“If you believe in what you are doing, then let nothing hold you back! Much of the best work in the world has been done despite seeming impossibilities. The thing is to get the work done.” ~ Dale Carnegie

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“Too often, we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of love and caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” ~ Leo Buscaglia

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“I am not what happened to me; I am what I choose to become.” ~ Carl Jung

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“Winnie the Pooh” illustration by E. H. Shepard

“The way of Tao doesn’t force or interfere with things, but lets them work in their own way to produce results naturally. No stress, no struggle. The mind of Wu Wei flows like water, reflects like a mirror, responds like an echo. It evolves from an inner sensitivity to the natural rhythm of things, like that of water flowing over and around the rocks in its path.” ~ Benjamin Hoff, author “The Tao of Pooh”

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“The ability to see beauty is the beginning of our moral sensibility. What we believe is beautiful we will not wantonly destroy.” ~ Rev. Sean Parker Dennison

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