Screenwriting : The spec is dead (apparently) by Ian White

Ian White

The spec is dead (apparently)

Maybe we should all focus on writing prequels, sequels and re-boots of existing IP. What do you think?

Richard Gustason

There is some room for originality but yeah I guess the trend sadly is the reboot.

Doug Nelson

Ian, I thought you are in the sunshine state.

Dan Guardino

They been making sequels and re-boots for years now so nothing is new and I don't think it will change anytime soon because it is less risky.

Ian White

Doug Nelson, Yeah, I am.

Anthony Moore

Remember one thing - Every series started out with a spec that someone believed in.

Mike Romoth

I'm hoping that the whole prequel, sequel, reboot thing goes away soon. I understand the commercial demands of the film industry, but as an audience member, I long for something, new and exotic and good. I still remember discovering Star Wars and Alien and Blade Runner as brand new concepts that had never been touched before. It was exhilarating to see something new and fresh. Now, it feels like a diet of leftover leftovers reheated for the fifth go-round...until the end of time.

David Downes

Absolutely not! If you want to have your unique voice discovered, keep writing original content. I can't imagine that the industry is going to reach out to unproven writers to craft their existing IP-derivative stories. Now of course if all of you wish to do that, fine with me! (Less competition) ;-)

Victor Titimas

Will this change in the future?

Matt Otstot

Seems to be true in both TV and film. And that's just sad. But don't see it changing any time soon!

Ian White

I just watched the "Flatliners" remake. Despite heavy plot mirroring the new version, as is all too often the case, lacked any soul. Particularly egregious was the shocking lack of subtext. Like when Jamie (James Norton) just blurts out "today is a good day to die". Contrast that with Labraccio's gloriously understated "Hóka-héy". Oh, the good ol' days.

Kristi Nimmo

The Post was a spec.

Ian White

^ true

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