Four Screenplays - Syd Field

 I have no idea how to write a screenplay or to write for screen so I looked in A's shelf and found a few books on screenplay. This one by Syd Field analyses four screenplays of successful films - 'Thelma and Louise', 'Terminator II', 'Silence of the Lambs' and 'Dances with Wolves'. As usual with the masters, there is no point trying to review their work - best draw some nuggets for future reference. Here are some nuggets I found.

The art of screenwriting is all about revealing character.
Good screenplay is the art of discovery.
Good screenwriting plays against the grain, against the obvious, against the way you expect things to happen. 
The true test of good screenwriting is the chord of truth it touches within each of us. A universal truth goes far beyond culture, race, age or geographic location.
Art of screenwriting is finding places where silence works better than words, a story told in pictures.
Film is behavior.
Screenplay is a story told in pictures, in dialogue and description, and placed within the context of dramatic structure.
A screenwriter has to learn the art of writing in pictures.Enter the scene late, get out early.
In a screenplay everything is related to everything else. Every scene, every line, every action, every reaction is all related. A screenplay is organic.

Search for another, original way to say what needs to be said, indirectly, to avoid the obvious. Play against the grain of the scene.
The first 10 pages are the most important. Almost everything you need to know about the movie is found here - if you know what you're looking for.
You must grab the reader's attention, setting up critical information that will pay off in the reader's and audience's understanding of the film's opening situation.
Give essential information about the story and the character.
Open with an action sequence or with an expository character-driven sequence.
Most readers need only 10 pages to know whether a script is working. They look for 3 things - the main character, the dramatic premise and the dramatic situation.
What is character but the determination of the incident. And what is  incident but the illumination of character..
In most screenplays the real story begins at Plot Point 1.
All drama is conflict. Without conflict you have no character.Without character you have no action. Without action you have no story and without story you have no screenplay.
Character can be brought out by incidents.
Action in the screenplay keeps the story moving forward.
When you enter the scene becomes important - enter late, get out early. Every scene has a beginning, middle and end. If you design the scene in this way, then you can enter the scene at the last possible moment just before the purpose of the scene is established. Then you can end the scene literally before it ended.
Illuminate the character with little insights.
Pinch 1 - keeps the story on track, literally holds it together. Primary function is to move the story forward.
Act II - all about obstacles.
Sub text is what is not said during the course of the scene.
Scene bridges time and distance, and moves the story forward.
In mythic terms the 1st part of any journey of initiation must deal with the death of the old self and the resurrection of the new, the hero, the heroic figure moves not into outward space but into inward space to the place from which all being comes into the consciousness that the source of all things is the kingdom of heaven within. The images are outward but the reflection is inward.
Visual metaphors reflect the inward state.
Hindi scriptures consider the outside and inside as one - what's inside our heads, our thoughts, feelings, memories, and emotions - are reflected outside in our everyday life. Our mind creates the experience.
To construct subplot, write each line of action separately. Once the progression of events is laid out from beginning to end, each thread of scene, can be intercut.
Plot point is always an incident, episode or event that's dictated by the needs of the story.
To love yourself is to find yourself - kill their past.
Community of emotion is where the audience becomes one.

Break down the book, scene by scene, line of events, Put scenes on cards.
Who's story is it?
Has to die to be reborn - character.
Tell the story with pictures- shots, scenes, sequences.
Focus on what the camera sees.
A scene is defined by time and place. If you change either, change the scene.
In the 2nd 10 pages section, the story line must stay focused on the main character.
Keep the dramatic need intact - dramatic need is what your main character wants to win, get or achieve during the screenplay
Part of what makes us human is our moral code
The 4 elements that make up the visual dynamics of screen character 1) main character must embody a strong dramatic need 2) strong Point of View, the way your character views the world, a belief system, what he believes to be true 3) attitude, manner or an opinion 4) change - does the character change during the course of the screenplay
In 2 pages of the screenplay we know everything we need to know about the main character
Good screenplay allows the main character to discover what's going on at the same time as the audience discovers what's going on
The hero's journey is one of death and resurrection, leaving one way of life and journeying to find another source of life that brings him into richer, more mature condition
Act 1 is 30 pages (set up story, establish who's who), Act 2 is 60 pages (held together with dramatic context called 'confrontation', obstacles, dramatic need, what main character wants), Act 3 is 30 pages (Resolution)
Tension comes when the audience wants the character to know what the audience knows (audience knows, character does not - open ended, both audience and character knows - closed)
Language of film is shots, scenes, sequences
Visual transitions - picture to picture, sound to sound, image to image, word to word, fades and dissolves, last line of current scene over first line of next
Break down the book, scene by scene, establish line of events, what sticks in your mind
Screenwriting is to learn the craft of writing in pictures
Screenplay is a story told in pictures, in dialogues, description and placed within the context of a dramatic structure
Community of emotion - audience becomes one entity, joined together in the fabric of movie experience

Each scene - beginning, middle and end 

From Callie Khouri, writer of Thelma and Louise
'When I was sitting in that room, it was just me and the screenplay and it was the most perfect experience of my life. Regardless of how anybody felt about it, regardless of anyone's perception of it, when I was alone with those characters, it was the perfect  experience.
Writing it was the first real love affair I had with myself. The first time I ever really loved myself.

....

Lovely. Lot of takeaways.

  

     

 

 

Arts Management Course - Feedback from Students

Some feedback from my students at the Arts Management Course, SN School, Department of Dance. University of Hyderabad. The course is about how to manage one's career as an artist - working on skill and expertise, goals, finance, marketing etc. Easily the most enjoyable part of the year for me.

Respected Sir,

I sincerely thank you for the Art Management course. This subject has created a meaningful shift in my thinking, both personally and professionally.

From the very first day, I felt connected to your class when you shared your journey as a cricketer. Since my brother is also a cricketer who has completed Under-19 tournaments and league matches, I could deeply relate to the discipline, practice, and mindset required in sports. That connection made me more engaged and open to your teachings.

One of the biggest transformations for me has been understanding the shift from a fixed mindset to a learning mindset. Earlier, whenever I faced challenges, I used to doubt myself. Through this course, I realized that growth comes from continuous learning, reflection, and improvement. Though I still feel stuck sometimes between my old thinking patterns and new practices, I consciously remind myself of the principles you taught us.

Some of the most impactful concepts for me were:

The Golden Circle (Start with Why) – It helped me rethink my purpose as an artist and understand what I should prioritize.

From 10,000 hours to 20 hours concept (Josh Kaufman) – It changed my perception about skill acquisition and the importance of focused practice.

Process orientation and taking 100% responsibility – This shifted my focus from only results to disciplined effort and accountability.

People Management – 3As (Acknowledge, Appreciate, Ask for Help) – This improved the way I communicate and build relationships.

Learning to take feedback from others – I understood that feedback is not criticism but a tool for growth. It helped me reflect on myself more honestly.

Thinking from others’ shoes – This concept deeply influenced me. It helped me develop empathy and understand different perspectives before reacting.

SMART Goals (20 years to 6 months planning) – It gave clarity and structure to my long-term vision.

ABC Formula and beliefs – I learned how thoughts influence emotions and actions, and how changing beliefs can change outcomes.

Financial management formula (10% savings, 20% investment, 70% living) – This was very practical and career-oriented.

OKR (Objectives and Key Results) – It helped me understand structured goal execution.

This course has not only enhanced my academic understanding but also shaped my mindset, discipline, and career approach. As an artist, I now realize that management, clarity, emotional intelligence, and responsibility are as important as creative skills.

Even when I feel stuck, I remember your words about process, responsibility, feedback, and perspective. I can confidently say that this course has brought positive change in me and will continue to guide me in my personal and professional journey.

Thank you for teaching us lessons that go beyond the classroom and truly prepare us for life.

With gratitude,

K T
...

Good afternoon

respected sir ,

thank you so much for taking the arts management course and guiding me in various aspects .

I will miss your classes sir because ,after every class of yours I used to feel like all my stress had been removed and I felt happy .

All of the practices which you have told me to do helped me realise where I was going wrong and how to fix my path to success ,how to get clarity ,how to set visions without restricting myself.

your suggestions,inputs, made me think about myself ,how to make myself happy by taking 100%responsibility for my own decisions.

Overall my thinking has changed about various things.This class was more like a therapy where I could share everything openly without hiding anything .You gave me hope and also an understanding of how to bring out positivity in any serious ,difficult situations regarding my path towards my success in life .

thank you sir

S.S
...

Respected Sir,

I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the Art Management course. The subject has brought a positive change in my perspective, helping me understand the importance of mindset, planning, and responsibility in both personal and professional life.



One of the most valuable learnings for me was the transition from a fixed mindset to a growth-oriented approach. I realized that challenges are opportunities for learning and improvement rather than reasons for self-doubt. The course encouraged me to reflect on my thoughts and work consistently towards progress.



Concepts such as starting with purpose, process orientation, focused practice, SMART goal planning, and people management techniques gave me practical guidance for career development. Learning to accept feedback, think from others’ perspectives, and manage goals systematically has improved my confidence and decision-making.

Overall, this course helped me understand that success as an artist requires not only creativity but also clarity, discipline, emotional awareness, and management skills. The lessons learned will continue to guide me in my future journey.

Thank you for your valuable guidance and support.

With gratitude,

A P
...

Respected Sir,

I hope you are doing well.

I wanted to sincerely express my gratitude for your Art Management classes. This subject has taught me so many valuable lessons, not only about management but also about discipline, professionalism, and emotional maturity in the field of arts.

The way you explain each and every concept so clearly and neatly makes it easy to understand and remember. Your teaching style is very structured, professional, and at the same time deeply connected to real-life experiences. The examples you shared in class made the subject more meaningful and practical. I truly believe those lessons will stay with me for a lifetime.

Personally, what I appreciated the most is how this course has helped me become more organized, focused, and self-aware. From the beginning of the semester until now, I can see a positive change in myself. I am working on myself more seriously and professionally because of the guidance I received in your class.

Thank you so much sir, for your dedication, clarity, and constant encouragement, I will forever miss being a part of your sessions, It has truly made a difference in my learning journey.

With sincere respect and gratitude,
JD
...
When the NEP framework introduced optional courses in the 4th semester, I was confused about which one to choose. After asking my senior Sneha, she suggested Arts Management, saying it would be a good option. I enrolled without having any clear idea about the course, and I carried several doubts—whether it would be useful, how the classes would be, and whether I would benefit from it. With these uncertainties, I attended the first class, and within a short time all my doubts disappeared.

The classes brought a real transformation in me. Earlier, I used to fear thinking about the future, even though I had routine aims and goals. I often undervalued myself, felt

demotivated, and believed I could only achieve something if someone else motivated me. I rarely spoke to others and avoided expressing myself. Through this course, however, I began to analyse myself, value my strengths, and gain clarity about my life and goals. The classes gave me space to think, reflect, and communicate. I started engaging with people, appreciating them, and acknowledging their efforts, which helped me grow personally and professionally.

I now have clarity about my aims and how to begin working toward them. I learned how to manage finances responsibly, regained confidence and strength, and felt as though the classes were a form of therapy that helped me reconnect with myself. Sir’s classes gave me direction as an artist and helped me understand how to move forward in life, and that is something I will always carry with me.

I am deeply, sincerely grateful to Sir—not only for teaching, but for helping me rediscover myself. Sir’s classes gave me strength when I had lost it, clarity when I was confused, and hope when I was afraid of the future. What I received was more than knowledge; it was guidance, encouragement, and a reminder of my own worth. I will always remember this as one of the most meaningful experiences of my academic journey. Thank you so much, Sir,

...

Me, I enjoy reading this and feel good about it. All the best to you all.

Hyderabad by Walk - Unseen Osman Sagar

Deccan Archives announced an 'Unseen Osman Sagar' walk and I was curious. Osman Sagar or Gandipet as we know of it more popularly is a lake named after the seventh Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan.

Viewing place

Viewing tower

 The other lake nearby called Himayath Sagar is named after his son Azam Jah or Himayath Ali Khan. Anyway I had been to one of the Osman Sagar walks before but I was curious about the unseen parts as I always am, and went.

View of the lake

Sibgat gave a bit of history about the lake - how the Musi began at some spots near Vikarabad (he should know, he's written a book on the Musi), flowed some 70 kms till it reached this place and onwards to Hyderabad, how it was temperamental enough for people to be scared to build around it, extreme floods and then dry as a bone in summer, until the devastating 1908 floods which claimed some 15000 lives and washed away half of Hyderabad.

Gandipet Lake View as it looks now (Rs 50 entry)

Can see Masjid-e-Osman (1920) in the foreground

 It was during the seventh Nizam's time that Sir Mokshagundam Visweswarayya (also there first Bharat Ratna, Sibgat as slips in little tidbits like these) was hired to provide a solution to the capricious river and its extreme flooding and complete dry summers, and he provided a simple solution, a barrage. 

Entrance to Gandi Maisamma temple

Biggish group

We walked to the view point near the lake, where he spoke about the Musi Valley which was quite lush and which he said offered scope for paddy cultivation causing many affluent farmers from Andhra to move along the Musi. The Musi joins the Krishna at Wazirabad.

How the aqueduct looks under your feet

 Interestingly he said that the Musi is older than the Himalayan rivers, and was perhaps gurgling along even during the times of dinosaurs. No wonder it's grumpy.

Aqueduct from Osman Sagar sluice

Musi has a tributary called Esa or Esi, both being named after Prophets, on which Himayat Sagar is dammed. The two join and flow merrily along. 

Old milestone

Interesting rocks 

From the sheet rock, which he lamented was also being turned to powder thanks to development, we looked down at the Gandi Maisamma temple which is why the village is named Gandipet. A distant view of the Golconda and we started a long trek back towards the village and then into the temple premises. 

Shiva temple - with water flowing from broken aqueduct

Along the way we stopped at the Dak Bungalow, so named during the British times as a bungalow that had a postal address. Many government buildings this became Dak bungalows. Now the Dak Bungalow is in the hands of some very wary water works people who were worried about going viral and asked us not to take pictures and so on.

A little further and we saw an old milestone that showed the way to Hyderabad and to Osman Sagar and the Deccan Archives people were thoughtful enough to give us all key chains modelled in the ancient milestone.

Right there we spotted a building with the name Rustomfram and I remembered the famous Rustomfram Bar in Koti. Must be the same people. 

Dak Bungalow

We turned off the main road and headed into the temple premises. Being a Sunday many devotees were arriving with goats and chickens to sacrifice. The Gandi Maisamma temple's deity protects the bund of the lake from breaking. It was constructed around the same period just as Masjid e Osman close by for workers in the lake and the bund - 1920.

Gandi Maisamma temple

Shiva idol

Beyond the temple was the actual unseen part - an aqueduct of those times that carried water to the city. Apparently water from Gandipet was considered good for the gut so the privileged sections saw to it that they got it for themselves. The aqueduct is broken in places but we walked on it till as far as we could and returned. Not easy to find it unless you know where it is. Even now it apparently carries water to some of treatment plant that he mentioned. Other interesting sights included a public toilet which was nicely locked up, an interesting stone, the aqueduct itself.

Public Toilet - Locked up safe and secure, Swachh

Large group. Very hot. It was a tough walk back. But like always, lots of interesting information, just enough and not too much, lovely people, great fun.

Acts of Love - Love is Sharing a Quiet Moment

It's a big thing to share these moments. Grand children who want the outdoors, a grandfather who has limited energy but makes the effort. Kids playing, grandpa watching. Any moment that you can make another person's heart expand, feel free, feel smiley is an act of love. Just by your presence. 

Look at the kids. 

Nice Quote in the book 'Four Screenplays' by Syd Field

Syd Field seems deeply influenced by Hindu scriptures and quotes from them every now and then. Such as this one; 

'A river doesn't drink it's own water, 

A tree doesn't eat it's own fruit, 

A man who gives his life for another

Is God

Walking this earth'

Makes you want to consume yourself in a bigger purpose.

The Mangalore Diaries - Martin's Bar, Ideal Cafe, Cochin Bakery

I guess I can't end the Mangalore experience without mentioning some of the spots that gave us much pleasure.

Ideal Cafe was a great respite from the  heat with its fabulous ice creams - it's famous gadbad ice cream being one to go for repeats. I tried their special fruit salad and banana split as well but it's their Gadbad icecream that wins. Mangalore is also known as the ice cream capital or something like that.

Martin's Bar which was across the road from my sister's place provided great respite in terms of fillers - a quick stopover for a beer and some good food.

 A good time was had by all my nephews and nieces and we all had a jolly good time going there almost every day. 

Cochin Bakery was another place that Shrinjay recommended and Ajay and Abhishek and me went there for some brilliant appam and stew, followed by superb coffee. They make some good biryani we heard but couldn't taste it as it got sold out pretty fast. Their ghee cakes are very famous too.

That's it for this trip then. The walks, the family outings with the younger lot, the discoveries. Shrinjay's engagement, it was all well worth it. Until December then.

The Mangalore Diaries - Mangala Devi temple, Kadri Manjunatha temple, Pandava Caves

After dropping A at the airport I had time before checking out so decided to drop in at the 9th century Mangala Devi temple after whom Mangalore is named. Other names for the city include Kudla (Tulu), Kodial (Konkani), Maikala (Byaari) and 'Mangalapuram' (Malayalam). It was a small temple but very popular as many visitors kept walking in. Mangala Devi is a form of Shakti.

Mangala Devi Temple

One tale is that it was originally built by Parashurama and that later Kings developed in it. 

The Railway Station, Mangalore 

I was going to Kadri Manjunatha temple when I spotted the old lighthouse on top of the hill and couldn't resist taking a picture of it. It's a pretty ancient lighthouse now in disuse and in a park.

Old Lighthouse

The Kadri Manjunatha temple was constructed in 1068 AD and is considered to be one of the oldest Shiva temples in India. 

Kadri Manjunatha temple entrance

The temple premises are surrounded by hilly areas so we climb up to these seven tanks in which devotees bathe, another temple higher up, and then a long climb up to the Parashurama ashram, the Kadri Jogishwara Mutton and way beyond, the Pandava Caves.

Seven tanks

It was a beautiful experience, with trees, quiet, clean and well maintained. There was this person meditating by himself and he opened his eyes enough to guide me to the Pandava Caves. At the Pandava Caves, where the Pandavas reportedly stayed, a sudden influx of barking dogs told me that I had outstayed my welcome. I made soothing noises and slid past them (five of them).

Hanuman

On the way down stopped at the Manjunatha temple which also houses some of the most beautiful bronze statues of the 10th century period.

Pandava Caves

Interior of the caves - through the gates

Also witnessed a beautiful kacheri sung by a group of beautifully dressed old ladies and I just loved how they went about singing with great devotion. 

Kacheri by ladies

Another interesting day in Mangalore. Didn't expect to visit these places but it just happened.