Category: Uncategorized
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And you thought your idea was stupid…
I happened upon these outrageous film posters (many thanks to The Hollywood Reporter). They gave me a laugh. So if you think you have come up with stupid ideas for a story, think again. And look at it this way, if this crap can get made into a movie, your good story might just have […]
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Premiere of my new play; challenging yourself is always a good thing
Tonight is the premiere of my first play, Tears for Llorona. This is so exciting to see my words come to life. However, the process was a challenge. About two years ago, Carolyn White with the Magic Valley Arts Council, asked me to consider writing a play with Latino themes and culture to open at […]
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Talking memories with Connie
Recently, I returned home from visiting my mom, Concepcion Santos or Connie to her family and friends. At age 86, she is fragile yes, and a little forgetful, but still funny and full of memories. Sitting in her room or taking a drive, we talked about those memories. She talked about how her and my […]
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When you say, ‘Damn I wish I would have written that’
While preparing to take my morning walk before I hit the computer, I switched on TV and “Michael Clayton” was playing. As a writer I always proclaim, “Damn, I wish I would have written that.” Beautifully penned by Tony Gilroy, the film is one of my favorites and in my collection. As I walked, I thought […]
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Bad endings wipe out a good story everytime
You’ve probably heard this before as writers, but it is so true–namely, a bad ending can ruin what you created. Bad endings can trash what came before. Here’s an example. I recently watched a film called “Skyline.” Another one of those bad aliens come to conquer earth type of stories. The premise was good, that […]
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Need research books? Head to your local thrift store
I’m starting a new book and I’m in the middle of research. The floor in my office is already covered with library books, but they will have to be returned sooner or later (Or I pay a fine). However, I discovered the coolest places to find books for research — local thrift stores. They have shelves of books! All […]
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Finding story ideas everywhere
Recently, I had lunch with my writing friend and her son and I was telling him about some of my writing projects. My friend laughed and said that no matter where we go, I always come back with stories. It is incredibly, irritatingly true. I collect story ideas like people collect plates, stamps or dolls. And it […]
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Yes, Dead Poets Society still has something to say
This self-proclaimed movie nerd has an admission. I had never seen Dead Poets Society until this week. Lo and very much behold, it was a very good film–aside from Robin Williams doing his schtick every now and then. People may consider this another coming of age movie, where William’s teacher character encourages his young students to find their passion […]