Robert David Olsen's Lounge Discussions

Very interesting projects, Robert! It's unusual to convert a screenplay into a novel. Usually it's the other way around, yes? Are you thinking of converting it to a "graphic novel" or text-only novel?

It's funny you should mention that, because we ARE in the process of creating a couple different graphic novels to tell side stories to the film. The film is very story and character driven, so there's a lot of side info that I think graphic novels would be perfect for! Thank you for the compliments!!

I think graphic novels for side stories is a wonderful idea.

Exactly!! I'm surprised how many filmmakers don't take advantage of that kind of opportunity to deepen the story they are trying to tell. I guess it's because we're in an age of where the stories aren't as strong in film as they used to be. Filmmakers seem to be very focused on post-production and visual effects to the point that the story starts to suffer...

What kind of psychological thriller? Crime? Drama? Do you have film examples? Do you have a filming location preference? Thanks.

Hi Jennifer, I'm currently working on a psychological thriller spec that I hope to query you with once it's ready. If you're open to a suspense thriller, THE TURNING SEASON is "a somber and yet riveting story...very well executed slow burn suspense thriller that uses restraint, foreshadowing, and appropriately placed payoffs...as it builds to towards its conclusion." https://www.stage32.com/profile/58779/screenplay/turning-season

Hi Jennifer, I have a kick ass psych thriller called INCARNATIONS, aimed at the teenage market. This screenplay introduces the Next Life Corporation which could be the vehical for francise spin offs. Incarnations is a big budget endeavour with huge potential. Let me know if you like to read.

Hi Jennifer. Judging by earlier discussions I have seen, you certainly won't lack for offers of scripts and log lines. Have fun as the world descends onto your inbox.. until it takes on a life of its own....

Hi Jennifer. Are you still looking for a script?

Hi Robert. Just watched the trailer and really like it.Do you have already composer for a full soundtrack?

As a matter of fact I do at this point... Including sound design, I've got someone already on this one, but I plan on many other projects once I get this one off the ground, so I'll definitely keep you in mind! Thank you for showing great interest in the project, though... It means alot to me!

LOL. You're making me laugh first thing in the morning, CJ. thanks.

I usually have an idea/concept, then I birth the characters (and generate their complete back story), I even carry them around in my head for a couple of month and gauge how I presume they would react to situations that I am in in real life, the I build the scenes around the characters that I have created. I this approach I feel I am writing screenplays around my specific characters. So when (not if) it's being cast, they will cast actors that can play MY characters and not rewrite my movie to fit the actors. At least this is the theory.. if the writing is solid, I think it works more often that not. :)

I usually think about what I want to get out of each individual act so I have a beginning, middle, and conclusion first... The details usually build off of that... Especially in the rewrites haha

Thanks for all the info guys and gals. It's good to know that everyone has a different process. I thought I was weird for how I write but good to see there is no straight forward formula that everyone follows. Thanks again.

I try hashing out the plot over and over again, until it's something even I would want to go see! Then I start writing like crazy! Then I go over the plot again--rinse and repeat. Once have the whole narrative down, then I hone in on the character development and dialogue.