Act Four Screenplays

WHY THE NAME ACT FOUR? BY DANIEL CALVISI

*My method is based on Classical Three Act Narrative storytelling, which is the foundation of 98% of feature films and novels.

*If 98% of feature films are EDITED this way, then I believe your spec script should be structured in this way on the page. The best scripts I read on the job as a professional Reader utilized this structure.

* No writer can be truly objective in analyzing and evaluating their own work. NO WRITER, no matter how much experience.

*Anyone with an interest in writing can complete a first draft. And EVERY writer's first draft is terrible, even that of a seasoned pro.

*But what comes after, to separate the amateurs from the pros? The completed screenplays from the Great Scripts?

*What comes after is...Act Four.

Act Four is the Analysis, Notes, Editing, Rewriting, and
Polishing phase. Since I don't believe that you can see your
own work objectively, I believe that seeking the view of a
discerning and capable Story Analyst is absolutely crucial.

Act Four is possibly the MOST CRUCIAL PHASE,
if you're serious enough about screenwriting to aspire to be a professional.

Act Four also necesitates a strong consideration for the Marketing and
Submission of your work, but the actual execution of these steps
should be considered as the next stage in the life of your screenplay. For now,
let's focus on the craft, because that's what's going to impress the Reader.

So you wrote a screenplay -- I congratulate you on your achievement.

It's a lot of work.

It can be a very exciting process.

You've only just begun.

I can help to guide you.

"If you are looking for someone who combines
expert analysis with incredible credentials and experience,
put Daniel Calvisi
in your script analyst black book."
- Script Magazine

Daniel P. Calvisi has worked for a number of major studios
(Miramax Films, Twentieth Century Fox, New Line Cinema, etc.).
As a Senior Story Analyst at Miramax Films and Dimension Films,
Daniel worked for executives who developed the films Chicago, Gangs of
New York, Scream 2 & 3, sPY KIDS,
Confessions of a Dangerous Mind,
and Chocolat, among others.

Turn your screenplay, TV spec, short, outline or treatment into
a tight focused draft that will blow away professional readers!
Book now to reserve a Consultation Service.

NEWS:

SECRETS OF THE STUDIO READER
(Interview I gave to the RWA)

FALL '08 GROUP CLASSES NOW FILLING!
I ran two tracks over the summer and
they were huge successes!

Act Four is now in Los Angeles!

The strike has lifted and
the spec market is BOOMING,
so NOW is the time
to get that spec
ready for market!

Congratulations to the WGA on a well-deserved victory!

We Support the WGA!

Read my Strike Report photo essay.

My blog contains essays
and photos on movies, screenwriting and
a set visit to an action movie starring
Armand Assante.

Read my essay on the Screenwriter's Voice

Raves and Testimonials

Tip: If you can't do a group class,
email me to book a
Private Workshop.

DISCOUNTS to members of WGA, Inktip, TWB, WIF,
WGC, BAFTA, NYU grads and Hal Croasmun students!