Writers think what their script is about is the events of their story.
Working writers bring me in when something isn’t working and they can’t see why.
Developed projects at Netflix and Apple.
Start the Audit The six things →
Working writers bring me in when something isn’t working and they can’t see why.
Developed projects at Netflix and Apple.
Start the Audit The six things →
Every reader is deciding one thing: can this be resolved? If it can, they pass. Nearly every project that isn’t moving is stuck on one of these. Usually the writer is fixing something else.
The tension can be settled. The pilot closes. The premise runs out.
Your story is built on a series of maybe’s, instead of a definite reason why characters have to act.
Proximity, not necessity. The story doesn’t fundamentally change without them.
No goal that stretches past the pilot. The audience can’t see where this is going, which means neither can an exec.
The premise could happen to anyone. It isn’t cornering this protagonist against their specific fear.
The audience can’t lock on. Or they lock onto a question you never pay off.
Five of the six, in depth. The same framework I use in paid sessions.
“Nick is great at cracking story. Not many people I’ve encountered are as talented at finding great character beats, plot twists and nuanced dialogue as this guy.”
“He’s the first person I think of whenever I need insightful, honest feedback on a new piece.”
“Nick gave me the keys to unlock my story. He showed me how to take what was in my heart and make it universal.”
“...a fantastic collaborator with a solid sense of story.”
“Nick is my go-to story guy if I need to work something out for a client.”
“No one thinks like him.”
Beyond the Script, with Steve Harper (Co-EP, Tracker / Stargirl). Thirty-six episodes on how stories actually work. Start with these.
On personal perspective as competitive advantage
On escalation, “that scene,” and what production companies need
On small wins per episode, and what network buyers need from high-concept
Full archive at beyondthescript.tv →
Two sessions. I read your project before the first and arrive with a structural diagnosis. The second is how to rebuild around it.
I work privately with a small number of people on projects that matter to them. If that’s you, let’s talk.
nick@pageonetv.com
