Screenwriting : Screenwriter by Andy Silverman

Offensive to who?

I do not see how that character description is offensive. As an actor, I never judge the characters that I play, I try to understand their motives.

not on anyone's radar......?

Not offensive in that description at all, Andy Silllllllllllverman, and I feel sorry for him already.

Andy, i love that description. thats exactly the type of essence you want to get across in your descriptions.

Not offensive. I know plenty of people like this. It is a spectrum, meaning from mild or disabled. The Spectrum has become a term for autism. Is it contradictory, the people I know I wouldn't see as up beat, emotions are their strength.

It's not offensive but a little confusing to me (but of course, I'm old.) I prefer a visual up front like; NAME (28) in casual sport jacket and jeans. The actor and director need to understand the character's persona for sure and you tell 'em in the bio. But if this is the character's intro in the script, don't tell me - show me he's upbeat and awkward or whatever. Filmmaking is a visual medium.

his actual age is irrelevant - The Casting Director will find someone who can "play 28"

Thanks. I'm going with it.

And just to let you know his name is not Adult Male but I was protecting his identity because he'd appreciate that.

Fun description. Not offensive, but "upbeat" doesn't quite make sense. Contradictory. "On the spectrum" refers to developmental disorders such as autism and Asperger's syndrome or other PDDs marked by impairments in the ability to communicate and interact socially. Emotions are typically hard to decipher, understand and communicate for those who are "on the spectrum." It's rather isolating. So "upbeat"—meaning cheery, confident, optimistic, etc—doesn't quite mesh well conceptually with the spectrum reference. Perhaps switch out "upbeat" for something else? Just a thought. :)

Pertaining to Beth Fox Heisinger 's comment, I guess I'd have to see a sample to be sure, but it conveyed to me (in a comic way) a guy who is hyperactive and probably Comedic Relief. The inclusion of the "Spectrum" descriptive came across as sarcastically satirical, but not at all offensive (to me).

As others noted, it's best to show this aspect rather than tell it. It's a great line though! I'd have another character vocally describe him as such in the screenplay, and leave the descriptor physical (male, 28, Tom Green/Howie Mandel -type). ;) :D

Yes, more context would certainly help here. LOL! But hyperactivity seems a bit contradictory too? ...Anyway, IMHO, even in a comedy or a dramedy (I'm guessing?) using medical terms or phrases (hyperbolically perhaps?) for effect work better when they conceptually ring more true or correct. ;) I hope that helps some. Best wishes with your script!

I assumed he was being sarcastic due to the fact that "On the Spectrum" has become a catchphrase amongst a sub-sect of American society; I immediately thought that his comedic aim was to softly mock that phrase and that sub-sect's ignorance of mental health issues, without feeling a need to defend the mentally ill or developmentally-challenged.

I also agree that using it as a descriptor is incorrect, though not necessarily for the same reasons: I think it's a funny line you should showcase within the script, then have that character behave in ways that reinforce it, instead of labeling him as such. :D

(I also <3 Beth Fox Heisinger and others who may or may not agree with my assessment; I don't mean to sound contentious.)

No, no, not contentious. Not at all. LOL! My point is just this: conceptually "upbeat" and "on the spectrum" don't mesh well, IMHO. And I'm just trying to explain why it seems a bit "off" to me. "On the spectrum" makes specific reference to disorders with known behaviors. And "upbeat" is a contradiction to those known behaviors. So perhaps further consideration of that word choice may or may not be in order. And that's it. ;) Again, best of luck with your script!

Chiming in, not sure if it's exactly offensive, I've seen much more offensive characters. But I do agree with putting it into the script through the character's behavior or during dialogue, maybe using similes and analogies -Instead of straightforward descriptions. For instance, if another character says , "He's like a pit bull" or "He's a pit bull," we bring layers of meaning to that description. On the one hand, we presume he doesn't give up. But we might also think further about that phrase, and realize he's mean, he might attack without provocation, or whatever meanings we bring to the breed of pit bull. It means that one sentence has subterranean meanings that rumble beneath the surface.

Although it doesnt sound like that exact analogy would apply to Your character, but just using a recent example from my book.... yes a plug for Writing Subtext:What Lies Beneath ... Shameless I know... Writers LOL

Sounded like a wise-ass who won't shut up to me. lol

I dig the line; strike it as a descriptor and use it in your script instead. Having characters define other characters is one of the three best ways to define your character - Lit 101.

Dr. Seger! Love your book. I recommend it often. Great to see you on Stage 32. :)

Thank You I hope my plug isnt offensive to anyone... ;P

Not offensive, as far as I'm concerned. "Front row seat" implies a voluntary aspect to his awkwardness.

Great point, Rueben. ;)

Thanks again everyone for chiming in. Interesting where this thread has gone. Keep writing all.

No. This description is not offensive in my opinion. In fact, I had a good visual of what this character is so well done Andy.