CONTACT...

SCRIPT REVIEW    ‘LAST STOP TOKYO’

Hello Nancee, Melbourne Live Indie Film Fest has added a note to your submission:

As a seasoned screenwriter, Nancee LaFayette displays a strong command of storytelling, character development, and pacing. The screenplay’s coherence and attention to detail showcase the writer’s ability to craft a polished and professional narrative.

The premise of obsession leading to a bloody trail sets the stage for a high-stakes and suspenseful story. As the narrative unfolds across 124 pages, the screenplay keeps the audience engaged with its well-paced plot and intriguing characters.

The blend of action sequences and dramatic moments adds depth and excitement to the story, making it a riveting and emotionally charged experience. The screenplay’s ability to weave together different genres seamlessly showcases the writer’s skill in crafting a multifaceted and immersive narrative.

The Las Vegas to Tokyo setting adds an exotic and dynamic backdrop to the events, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the screenplay. The locales and cultures explored in the screenplay add richness and diversity to the story, making it an exciting and visually appealing cinematic experience.

The exploration of obsession as a driving force in the plot delves into the complexities of human emotions, adding layers of intrigue and psychological depth to the characters’ motivations.

You can contact Melbourne Live Indie Film Fest by replying to this email or sending an email to submission.melbournelive@gmail.com.

Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards 02/25: Title: Meeting Director Sam Peckinpah by Nancee LaFayette

The script felt like a vivid tapestry of the film industry, reminiscent of “The Player,” where the behind-the-scenes chaos and character dynamics are central to the narrative. I thought of “Birdman” as well, with its exploration of artistic ambition and the personal struggles of a director, echoing the emotional intensity present here. Additionally, “La La Land” came to mind, as it beautifully captures the dreams and challenges of those in the entertainment world, much like the characters navigating their own paths in this story. Each of these films shares a pulse of creativity and the complexities of artistic life that resonate deeply. 

Sam Peckinpah embodies the archetype of a passionate yet troubled director, driven by his vision but often clashing with those around him. His volatile nature and creative frustrations create a complex character who struggles with authority and personal demons. On the other hand, Nancee feels like a young woman caught in the whirlwind of ambition and emotional turmoil, navigating her aspirations while grappling with her relationship with Sam. Their dynamic reflects a push and pull of power and vulnerability, making their interactions both compelling and fraught with tension.

The execution of the main characters was layered, revealing their complexities through their interactions and conflicts. It felt like each character was grappling with their own struggles, which added depth to their motivations. Sam’s volatile nature contrasted sharply with Nancee’s vulnerability, creating a dynamic tension that drove the narrative. I think the performances captured the chaotic environment of the film industry. Overall, it was a compelling portrayal.

The hero’s agenda is somewhat muddled, reflecting a mix of personal ambition and emotional turmoil. It felt like he was driven by a desire to assert control over his chaotic environment, yet his actions often seemed reactive rather than proactive. I thought there were moments where his intentions were clear, particularly in his interactions with others, but overall, the complexity of his character left me questioning his ultimate goals. This ambiguity adds depth.

Characters feel authentic and fitting for their environment, reflecting the chaotic nature of the film industry in the late 1960s. Their interactions and conflicts resonate with the pressures of filmmaking, and I thought their backgrounds added depth to their motivations and relationships

Word choices and sentence structures effectively evoke the chaotic energy of the film set, immersing me in the characters’ emotional struggles and interactions.

Scenes generally flow well, with each moment building on the previous one through a mix of tension and character dynamics. For instance, Sam’s frustration with the script leads to confrontations that escalate into physicality, reflecting his volatile nature. The transitions between the football game, the chaotic set, and personal interactions feel organic, as they all highlight the pressures of filmmaking. 

ORIGINALITY

The premise is intriguing, blending the chaotic world of filmmaking with personal struggles and interpersonal dynamics. The combination of characters, like the passionate director and the conflicted actress, feels relatable yet unique. The settings, from the Warner Brothers lot to the gritty saloon, add depth to the narrative. It felt like a fresh take on the classic behind-the-scenes story, exploring themes of ambition, vulnerability, and the toll of creativity in a way that resonates.

The core concept revolves around the chaotic interplay of ambition, creativity, and personal relationships within the film industry. It felt like a study of how artistic vision can clash with practical realities, revealing the vulnerabilities and tensions that arise in pursuit of success.

The premise effectively incorporates tension and conflict, particularly through Sam’s volatile relationships and the chaotic film set dynamics. 

Themes of ambition and the struggle for authenticity resonate throughout the narrative. It felt like the characters grappled with their desires and the harsh realities of the film industry. The message about the cost of creativity is delivered subtly, allowing the audience to reflect rather than being overtly lectured.

International Screenwriters’ Association

TITLE: Meeting Director Sam Peckinpah GENRE: Drama WRITER: Nancee LaFayette

OVERALL:    With some good characterization, a very interesting premise, and a plot that promises attraction and emotional entanglement between Sam Peckinpah and a woman that crosses his path, the script for MEETING DIRECTOR SAM PECKINPAH brings us an intriguing tale.

This is an ambitious, intricate, and vibrant drama. It offers a palpably exciting vibe, tense exchanges, and evocative imagery. There’s an engaging plot at work here, one that’s led by an intriguing protagonist and wonderful conversational interplay that reads well.

Set against the backdrop of the filming of the movie, Ballad of Cable Hogue, and featuring one of Hollywood’s most maverick, and controversial, directors, Sam Peckinpah, and his attraction to a girl working on the set, this script screams out with allure and interest. Known for his troublesome antics and stubborn perspectives, having Sam involved immediately draws attention to the script. We are intrigued to read about his enchantment with this girl, Nancee, who is working there on set and curious to know how it all came about.

Sam is at the end of his tether, with the shooting of his film involving issues with the weather, actors, and the production staff. The production is going to hell, and although Sam is no shrinking violet, even his penchant for chaos doesn’t take precedence over his desire to shoot the movie and free himself and everyone involved from the project.

Through the chaotic events of trying to film the movie, Sam meets Nancee, an internally troubled yet outwardly stalwart young woman who shakes his life up the most. Aware of his bullish personality and tough treatment of others, Nancee meets him head-on. Her bold approach succeeds in keeping his beastly personality from hurting her.

However, to her surprise and his, Sam develops an attraction for Nancee. At first, the two have no idea how to react to one another. This leads to some really funny moments including conversations about films and humanity, all of which constitute a pseudo-first date. The writer has given Sam and Nancee a nice amount of chemistry that sees them grow close through bantering with each other. The dialogue flows naturally between them, and it’s nice reading about their interactions.

This is a warm story, which makes it a rare one too, as most accounts of Sam give reference to only his harshness as a person. The writer’s choice to show a side of Sam that many didn’t even knew existed is a wise and inspired decision.

Hello Nancee, Best International Motion Pictures has added a note to your submission: Meeting Director Sam Peckinpah

The opening scene at the Apachieland saloon immediately drew me into the world you describe, setting the stage for the intriguing encounter with Frank Kawaloski and the legendary director, Sam Peckinpah. Your narration is particularly effective in conveying the atmosphere and tension in the saloon, creating a memorable introduction to the characters.

The evolving dynamic between the protagonist and Sam Peckinpah unfolds with a mix of humor, emotion, and tension. Your depiction of the protagonist’s internal struggle, grappling with unexpected emotions for the director, adds depth to the narrative.

The scene on the set, where Sam Peckinpah directs the protagonist to walk by with a cowboy, showcases the intersection of personal and professional challenges. The emotional intensity and Sam’s demand for authenticity in the performance create a beautiful moment that lingers with the reader.

Melbourne Live Indie Film Fest has added a note to your submission:  Treading Water

2025   Awards

2024   Awards

2021 -2023    Awards