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2nd Annual Las Vegas Screenwriters Conference

See you next year, was heard from everyone as they departed from the 2nd Annual Las Vegas Screenwriters Conference, held on July 11th through the 14th. They were reluctant to leave, while anxious to get back to their computers and take advantage of their new found knowledge. Enthusiasm and excitement permeated the air and no wonder.

At last count, 30 scripts had been requested by agents, managers producers and other professionals. I think this sets a new standard for screenwriters conferences, and the possibilities they should open up, Michael Herst, Executive Producer of the event said.

The conference was not only about pitching and getting your ideas sold though it did begin to take over as a theme as the rumors of scripts being sent to this person or that circulated. There were also classes on every aspect of screenwriting. Beginners, as well as experienced writers, contributed and learned from one another, under the direction of the experts. There was truly something for everyone.

There were many industry standards, but also the Independent world was well represented and almost revered by all. McKay Daines, producer of Dream Catcher and
Ron Mawell's Joan of Arc was present along with Phil Nemy, Producer - Pancakes and Underwear and many many more.

The list of instructors and guests was impressive. Bob Kosberg, Bill Martell, Richard Stefanik, Richard Krevolin. Open panels allowed for questions and discussions from the participants in a casual, yet serious atmosphere. There were many industry standards, but also the Independent world was well represented and almost revered by all. McKay Daines, producer of Dream Catcher and Ron Mawell's Joan of Arc was present along with Phil Nemy, Producer - Pancakes and Underwear and many many more.

Steve Young, renowned for his prime time television writing since 1994, entertained the group with humorous tips and tricks of the trade at the Award Banquet. Young has received numerous awards for his versified work, including the TONIGHT SHOW with Jay Leno, CYBIL, and many others. He is a contributing editor of the WRITTEN BY magazine, and was winner of the 2000 PRISM award. His credits go on and on.

Herst then introduced the honored guest, George Gallo, one of the greatest writers and directors of all time. Gallos feature films include BAD BOYS I and II, starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence; MIDNIGHT RUN, starring Robert DeNiro and Charles Grodin; WISE GUYS, starring Danny DeVito , Joe Piscopo, and Harvey Keitel; SEE SPOT RUN, starring David Arquette and Michael Clark Duncan; DOUBLE TAKE starring Orlando Jones and Eddie Griffin; TRAPPED IN PARADISE, starring Nicholas Cage, Jon Lovitz, and Dana Carvey; 29TH STREET, starring Danny Aiello and Anthont LaPaglia. Gallo was given the LVSWCs Outstanding Contribution Award, joining Garry Marshall and William Kelley.

So watch for the announcement of the Las Vegas Screenwriters Conference in 2003. Its a must-do event for anyone who is, or aspires to be, a part of this exciting industry.

(For more information about LVSC 2003, check their web site for future detais.)


(c) James Lee

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