December 3, 2008: The first 10 pages
A few thoughts on the opening pages...The first ten pages of any script are extremely important because they introduce the main characters and set up the story. They also establish the mood and tone of the story. In this case, we are going for something light, fun and adventurous. Think: Napoleon Dynamite meets Pineapple Express, if that helps.

Based on our movie’s premise we know the main character is going to be an awkward teenager and he (or she) is going to find himself in a situation where he wants to ask this mysterious, supposed ex-CIA agent in his hometown to train him to be a spy. Getting to that point should be the aim of the first ten pages.

So, who is this awkward teenager, where does he live and what is going on in his life as the story starts? Write whatever you think is most interesting and populate his world with interesting side characters. Maybe he has exceedingly embarrassing parents or a school bully that picks on him or a best friend that's even more awkward than he is. Maybe he just got cut from his last possible sport or just found out that he's not going to be able to get into or afford any college after graduating high school.

We know from our premise this awkward teenager is someone that really desires to be a cool, movie-esque spy. All would be right with the world if he could just be as suave, tough, quick-witted, resourceful, respected and cool as Jason Bourne or James Bond and emerge as the exalted hero in some high-stakes, life-or-death situation. Unfortunately, he's just geeky teenager and things seem to be getting worse for him.

But then, an opportunity presents itself: he hears a rumor about or has an encounter with this mysterious, supposed ex-CIA agent. A real-life, super-smooth retired James Bond type is quite possibly living right in his hometown. This could be the chance he has been waiting for his whole life. All he has to do is convince this mysterious guy to train him to be a spy. His resolving to approach that guy could be a compelling spot to end the opening ten pages.

The winner of the first ten pages will play an especially important role because they will be responsible for establishing the characters, their names, the setting and other story defining factors.

Please feel to use the above as a guide or ignore the suggestions completely. The best submission regardless will win out. We look forward to reading your submissions. Good luck.



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