How many pages?

Some of you are probably thinking about contributing to our script this week but don’t know how to get started. One question I’ve been hearing is, “How much should I write?”

The short answer: It depends on what kind of scene you have in mind.

The rules say 1-5 pages, which is a pretty big spread. There are going to be times when one elegant page at a key juncture will turn the story just so, exciting readers with a new take on what’s happened, challenging or enlightening them and inspiring them to pitch in themselves.

Other times, it may take 4-5 pages to string together a compelling action sequence complete with unexpected developments and distinctive dialog.

My own contribution, the first three pages, fell somewhere in the middle. You’ll notice that I could have stopped after the one-and-a-half-page opening sequence that takes place mostly in the tunnel. But this being the setup, I wanted to reveal that the rumpled and possibly shady Napolitano character is in fact L.A.’s mayor. And I wanted to put him in an upscale setting and introduce Celeste, who I think may turn into a main character.

The next pages should… Wait a minute—that’s your job.

Deadline’s Sunday.

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2:07 PM Sat | The funeral for Mark Lacter will be held Sunday, Nov. 24 at 12 noon at Hillside Memorial Park, 6001 W. Centinela Avenue, Los Angeles 90045. Reception to follow.
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