Xixax Film Forum

The Director's Chair => Paul Thomas Anderson => Topic started by: depooter on October 30, 2003, 06:04:07 PM

Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: depooter on October 30, 2003, 06:04:07 PM
I'll be forwarding via email some questions for Paul to answer. Please post your most thought provoking, intelligent, relevant questions here..

Thanks
Greg
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: SoNowThen on October 30, 2003, 06:05:47 PM
Dearest Paul,

How many movies do you watch a day?
What are your top 3 favorite films of all time?


Sincerely,

fanboy#75 SoNowThen
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: TheVoiceOfNick on October 30, 2003, 06:31:36 PM
Dear Paul,

What's the definitive answer:  Did Phillip Seymor Hoffman really get hurt in the Matress Man commercial or not?

With greatest respects,

Nick

P.S. I loved you in Minority Report
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Finn on October 30, 2003, 07:08:20 PM
Dear Paul,

How do you spend your time when you're not writing or directing?

Thanks,
Sydney
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on October 30, 2003, 07:16:35 PM
Lovely Paul!

What do you feel about the violence in your pal Tarantinos films? We all know your attitude towards Fight Club.

Xixaxer Kotte
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Alethia on October 30, 2003, 07:24:02 PM
paul,

what do you love about movies?  

if you were not a filmmaker, what would you be doing right now?

sincerely,
eric ward

xixaxer eward
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on October 30, 2003, 07:25:41 PM
Paul!

A question we all are afraid to ask...

Any tips for aspiring filmmakers concerning writing, directing, breaking in etc?

Xixaxer Kotte
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on October 30, 2003, 07:26:46 PM
What about those frogs?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Jeremy Blackman on October 30, 2003, 07:32:34 PM
What are the chances of a collaboration with Radiohead?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on October 30, 2003, 07:35:52 PM
Quote from: Jeremy BlackmanWhat are the chances of a collaboration with Radiohead?

Mogwai or Sigur Ros?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Jeremy Blackman on October 30, 2003, 07:39:15 PM
Quote from: kotteMogwai or Sigur Ros?

No, just Radiohead.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Weak2ndAct on October 30, 2003, 07:48:22 PM
I guess the most obvious question is: what's next?
- What movies/filmmakers are you currently digging?
- Was Lena originally an alien in PDL (still sticking by my story on that one)?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: MacGuffin on October 30, 2003, 07:48:32 PM
Dear PTA, finish these sentensces:

1.) You might be surprised to learn that I can...

2.) One thing I can't live without is... (refrain from saying movies, music, television, etc.)

3.) I don't get it. They can put a man on the moon, but they can't...

4.) I'm not obsessive-compusive, but I always have to...

5.) Besides "A warm gun," Happiness is...
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Alethia on October 30, 2003, 07:59:01 PM
my favorite meal is...
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on October 30, 2003, 08:08:13 PM
Quote from: MacGuffinDear PTA, finish these sentensces:

1.) You might be surprised to learn that I can...

2.) One thing I can't live without is... (refrain from saying movies, music, television, etc.)

3.) I don't get it. They can put a man on the moon, but they can't...

4.) I'm not obsessive-compusive, but I always have to...

5.) Besides "A warm gun," Happiness is...

That would be great if he answered those... :)


Quote from: Jeremy BlackmanNo, just Radiohead.

Don't tell me PTA wouldn't do wonders with a Sigur score...
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Sleuth on October 30, 2003, 08:12:40 PM
Quote from: kotte
Quote from: Jeremy BlackmanNo, just Radiohead.

Don't tell me PTA wouldn't do wonders with a Sigur score...

I think Radiohead is of interest because Radiohead are fans of PTA and vice versa (they were even at a screening of PDL)
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on October 30, 2003, 08:14:34 PM
Ok, I see the Radiohead frenzy around here.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: aclockworkjj on October 30, 2003, 08:15:02 PM
ok...

We know you will only direct films you write.  Hypothetcally speaking, if you were to direct another's words, who's words would you wanna direct?

luv,
me.

ps. lunch or brunch?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Jeremy Blackman on October 30, 2003, 10:17:21 PM
Quote from: Slobh
Quote from: kotte
Quote from: Jeremy BlackmanNo, just Radiohead.

Don't tell me PTA wouldn't do wonders with a Sigur score...

I think Radiohead is of interest because Radiohead are fans of PTA and vice versa (they were even at a screening of PDL)

I ask that because Radiohead was at a PDL screening, and they talked with PTA for a while afterwards.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: NEON MERCURY on October 30, 2003, 10:30:48 PM
....PTA....,

what are your opinions  of aronofsky and lynch..?

YOUr interstellar fan.
NEON MERCURY
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Gold Trumpet on October 30, 2003, 10:32:36 PM
Seriously........gun to his head and all info possible on this very cloudy project he says he is working on.

~rougerum
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Gsus4 on October 30, 2003, 10:56:30 PM
1) socks: left first, or the right?
2) art's: salmon bagel with a side harrison?
3) egyptian: private or public?
4) cookies: dunk or dry
5) swimming: dunk or dry


hope the hills are standing tall tonight, still......

-Gsus4
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: sickfins on October 30, 2003, 11:25:05 PM
whats going on with largo/jon brion collaborations?  i see largo has a spot reserved for pta movies coming soon...

i know you have a lot of footage from your movies that you never used, alternate takes and the like...what do you do with all that stuff?  shove it in a closet it?  burn it later?  does it get lost in the frantic process of trying to put together a movie?  kubrick kept all his stuff in a vault and had it burned after his death.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: SHAFTR on October 30, 2003, 11:27:29 PM
1.  Film Movement whose films you were most inspired by?
2.  Favorite Horror Flick?
3.  What kind of genre films do you have interest in making some day?
4.  Actor/Actress that you would like to work with that you have yet to work with?

Thanks

-Rob

PS> I might be doing a paper about David Bordwell's definition of an "art film" and how it applies to films of today, I plan on looking at Punch-Drunk Love.  For the record, do you consider it an art film, and why/why not?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: TheVoiceOfNick on October 31, 2003, 10:52:03 AM
Dear Paul,

I don't care about your next project... what's the project after that one?

Sincerely,

Your fan, Nick (of pernisco.com, check it out, and you'll like it)
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: boombanglarrabee on October 31, 2003, 11:48:53 AM
Quote from: sickfinswhats going on with largo/jon brion collaborations?  i see largo has a spot reserved for pta movies coming soon...
.

I think those are just tapes he's shot while there.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: SoNowThen on October 31, 2003, 11:53:46 AM
Dearest Paul,

Whilst researching Boogie Nights, did you get it on with any hot pornstar chicks?

Yours in creepy fanboy-dom,

SoNowThen
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Vile5 on October 31, 2003, 12:52:08 PM
ok, maybe i'll make the most embarrassing question:

Paul, would you like to be a XIXAX member :oops: ? say yes please!!

...and continue making magic, thanks
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: boombanglarrabee on October 31, 2003, 01:16:32 PM
Quote from: kottePaul!

A question we all are afraid to ask...

Any tips for aspiring filmmakers concerning writing, directing, breaking in etc?

Xixaxer Kotte

He has said to go to a production office every day and ask if they need a PA.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Fernando on October 31, 2003, 01:24:22 PM
1. Name a recent film that you thought was amazing, and why do you consider it that way.

2. What did you think of Mulholland Dr.?

3. Which directors have recently inspired you?

Ghostboy, you should ask something here, I'm sure that you as a filmmaker can come up with something clever that hasn't been asked before.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Mellow Fellow on October 31, 2003, 01:33:15 PM
Dear Awesome Paul,

I've heard you might be doing some type of global adventure film next, and are also interest in adapting a book.

With that in mind, have you read "You Shall Know Our Velocity!" by your literary equal Dave Eggers?

You two guys are the kings of everything magical and lovely in my opinion, and well, if you made a movie of Y.S.K.O.V it just might be the most fantastic thing to happen in the world, ever.

                 Yours Musically, Mellow Fellow
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Cecil on October 31, 2003, 02:11:30 PM
paul,
are you interested in collaborating with someone on a screenplay? if so, who?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Redlum on October 31, 2003, 02:46:30 PM
Dear Paul,

Andy Serkis has expressed a strong interest in working with you. What did you think of his work on the character Gollum in Lord of the Rings, and what are your feelings about the effect that computer generated special effects are having on cinema.

redlum
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: aurora on October 31, 2003, 03:38:31 PM
I asked this question last time and not got a reply so I'll try again:

Paul,

When looking closely at the Boogie Nights poster you see all the characters in the film (some characters numerous times) except 'The Colonel'. Did you leave him out on purpose or was it a mistake?

Cheers mate.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: boombanglarrabee on October 31, 2003, 05:47:02 PM
I might be a real dolt for not knowing this, but what was the connection between Sidney and John's father (why did Sidney kill him)????
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: RegularKarate on October 31, 2003, 06:00:52 PM
Paul Thomas Anderson,

Do you fish?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: MrBurgerKing on October 31, 2003, 07:46:52 PM
How do you feel about the recent fast food revolution involving their attempts to go 'healthy'? I'm especially ashamed by Burger King recently hopping on the salad bandwagon. I guess they want to attract the middle aged pricks who's kids always ask for the fast food. I used to say that Burger King has no delusions about where it stands. It knows it's going to hell and is proud of the fact. Now not even BK has that honorable distinction.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: tpfkabi on October 31, 2003, 10:31:35 PM
is there any significance in having 18 wheelers in your movies?

(the PDL scriptbook had one pass during the final scene, as well as, in the actual movie several times........the beginning of Hard Eight.......well, that's all i can think of now)

how was PDL originally going to end?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: meatball on November 01, 2003, 04:03:50 AM
defeated  :?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: ElPandaRoyal on November 01, 2003, 06:06:25 AM
Quote from: boombanglarrabeeI might be a real dolt for not knowing this, but what was the connection between Sidney and John's father (why did Sidney kill him)????

http://www.ptanderson.com/featurefilms/hardeight/deletedscenes/flashback1.htm

and then

http://www.ptanderson.com/featurefilms/hardeight/deletedscenes/flashback2.htm

it might help. As for Paul... I don't really can think of anything he would care to answer.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Something Spanish on November 01, 2003, 07:47:16 AM
Sgt. Hartman: What's your name scumbag!?

PTA: Paul.

Sgt. Hartman: Paul? I don't like that name. Only faggots and communists are named Paul. I have one question, just one fucking question you maggot. Do you suck dicks!?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Sigur Rós on November 01, 2003, 08:31:17 AM
Quote from: Shaun DigiSgt. Hartman: What's your name scumbag!?

PTA: Paul.

Sgt. Hartman: Paul? I don't like that name. Only faggots and communists are named Paul. I have one question, just one fucking question you maggot. Do you suck dicks!?

Get the fuck out of my crib!
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: coffeebeetle on November 01, 2003, 02:23:09 PM
Dear Paul

What are the chances that you'll use any of ms. Apple's music on a future soundtrack?  And the next question (naturally) is: Could you give us a hint, however cryptic, as to what your next film is going to be about?  Thanks.

coffeebeetle
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Ernie on November 01, 2003, 03:13:07 PM
Paul,

We definitely need some new dvd picks and some news on the next film if you could, just a little bit, just one or two little things. Also, what do you think of the young filmmakers, David Gordon Green (made All the Real Girls and George Washington) and Todd Solondz (Welcome to the Dollhouse, Happiness, Storytelling)? Are there any other fellow young filmmaker's you especially like? And just one more thing - what are some actors you plan/want to work with in the future outside of the regulars...in your next film or your films thereafter?

thanks much. you rock, your the best. thank you so much for coming to rochester ny and screening PDL.
Title: Re: Questions for PTA
Post by: boombanglarrabee on November 01, 2003, 04:42:06 PM
Quote from: depooterPlease post your most thought provoking, intelligent, relevant questions here..

Thanks
Greg

So far, he doesn't have much to go on.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: SoNowThen on November 01, 2003, 04:51:33 PM
I thought my pornstar question was very relevant...
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Fernando on November 01, 2003, 06:02:55 PM
Regarding his new project, more than anything I want to know at what stage he's at, is he finishing the script or is it finished already? And, how soon can we expect him to release a film. My guess would be no sooner than late 2005 (Hope I'm wrong).
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: The Silver Bullet on November 01, 2003, 06:15:45 PM
Paul,

How many drafts do you usually write for each film?

When writing a first draft, do you tend to focus more on plot, atmosphere or character?

How extensively do you experiment during pre-production with the look of the film? The intoxicating [visual] nature of Punch-Drunk Love was surely not just an on-set coincidence.

How long is a piece of string?

m.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Ernie on November 01, 2003, 06:30:01 PM
Oh my god, I'm such an idiot. All this time I've been saying "reVelant" instead of "reLevant" and nobody has ever said anything. Ha, just wanted to say thanks for clearing that up, letting me realize this. People are so polite.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: brockly on November 01, 2003, 07:49:03 PM
What did you think of Kill Bill?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: The Silver Bullet on November 01, 2003, 08:42:36 PM
I thought it was great fun, but inherently flawed.

Oh, you mean Anderson...
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Crash on November 01, 2003, 09:15:29 PM
Paul Thomas Anderson,

Will you marry me?

Love,
Crash

xoxox
Title: Directors
Post by: bob4000 on November 02, 2003, 06:47:43 AM
Which directors/screenwriters do you concider to be (or have been) the most important for cinema in general?

Please name a few.
Bob
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Newtron on November 02, 2003, 08:46:35 AM
Quote from: boombanglarrabeeSo far, he doesn't have much to go on.

That's true. OK Greg, here are the only ones worth considering. Arranged into a sort of flow:

Quote from: Weak2ndActI guess the most obvious question is: what's next?
- What movies/filmmakers are you currently digging? (refer to DVD Picks Question below, Ed.)
- Was Lena originally an alien in PDL?
Quote from: TheVoiceOfNickWhat's the definitive answer:  Did Phillip Seymor Hoffman really get hurt in the Matress Man commercial or not?
Quote from: sickfinsi know you have a lot of footage from your movies that you never used, alternate takes and the like...what do you do with all that stuff?  shove it in a closet it?  burn it later?  does it get lost in the frantic process of trying to put together a movie?  kubrick kept all his stuff in a vault and had it burned after his death.
Quote from: ®edlumAndy Serkis has expressed a strong interest in working with you. What did you think of his work on the character Gollum in Lord of the Rings, and what are your feelings about the effect that computer generated special effects are having on cinema.
Quote from: ebeamanWe definitely need some new dvd picks.

and
Quote from: MacGuffinDear PTA, finish these sentences:

1.) You might be surprised to learn that I can...

2.) One thing I can't live without is... (refrain from saying movies, music, television, etc.)

3.) I don't get it. They can put a man on the moon, but they can't...

4.) I'm not obsessive-compusive, but I always have to...

5.) Besides "A warm gun," Happiness is...

But most importantly:

Quote from: The Gold TrumpetSeriously........gun to his head and all info possible on this very cloudy project he says he is working on.

~rougerum
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: aclockworkjj on November 02, 2003, 11:45:14 AM
paul,
what is the best resource you have found for ideas?...newspaper, magazines, tv, etc.....word of mouth?

Obviously, you will just come across things, remember them, and work them in.  But is there any kinda of specific resource you find yourself turning to more than others to come up with so many original ideas?

luv,
me.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Newtron on November 02, 2003, 12:17:30 PM
Quote from: aclockworkjjway to come up with some questions on your own newtron...

...glad you are here to show what's worthy, while (once again) not adding a  thing yourself.
Hey don't try to make this thread about yourself, OK? Can you handle that, chummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmp?

Quote from: aclockworkjjedit to save space:
I was talking about you (me is nowhere in there), critizing, and again, adding no actual content yourself.  In fact, I will commend you ...cause it must be hard being so unoriginal and not being able to conjure up a personal productive thought, ever.
Edit to save space:
Why do you feel the need to start shit with me here, you worthless piece of shit? Shut the fuck up, OK?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Ernie on November 02, 2003, 12:46:10 PM
I'm cool with Newtron's choices, we do need to narrow it down a little -  although I am interested in what he thinks of DGG and Solondz, I'll admit that I was really getting a little too far away from the point of all this - just one thing though, didn't we already establish that PSH wasn't hurt in the commercial? There was some editing trick or something? It doesn't matter whether or not you keep it in there as it would hurt to hear the answer from the man himself, but I was just wondering. All everybody really wants is some news on the next project, right? I mean, let's not kid ourselves.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: phil marlowe on November 02, 2003, 02:30:33 PM
i want to know if paul still digs porn.

and i want to know if paul would do a hit for me on acjj. descretion needed, cash not an issue.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: cine on November 02, 2003, 02:40:20 PM
Dear Mr. Paul Thomas Anderson,

Casting Adam Sandler was a big shock to many people, yet it paid off for your fans and for Sandler (Golden Globe nod and critics praising him for once). Are you interested in anybody for the future that echoes Sandler for PDL?
Also, exactly how do you feel when you screen your movies privately for an idol of your's such as Mr. Robert Altman? It gives me more hope that maybe one day I'll be screening my movies for you.
Thanks for taking the time to read these questions. It is greatly appreciated.

-Cinephile
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Duck Sauce on November 02, 2003, 03:08:01 PM
ask him if i can stay at his house when im in LA. Im a good house guest and wont bother him.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Something Spanish on November 02, 2003, 05:15:52 PM
Record your own Herlihy Boy commercial and he may consider it...
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Alethia on November 02, 2003, 06:26:48 PM
paul, how does it make you feel when, at screenings and whatnot, you are crowded by ecstatic fanboys like us?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: ©brad on November 02, 2003, 06:33:32 PM
i think we should disregard questions about specific films and directors (what do u think of donnie darko? david gordon green?) and instead ask him more general questions: "who amonst ur contemporaries, who arguably would be labeled as 'the new generation of filmmakers" do u most admire and respect? what movies in the past five years have really stuck out w/ u? etc... keep them general and let him answer instead of asking 'well what did u think of this movie/this director"
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Alethia on November 02, 2003, 06:53:18 PM
god my questions suck.  

my first one i asked only because i had the end of almost famous on and it was the part where patrick fugit asks billy crudup "russell, what do you love about music?"

ill think of a good one....
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Alethia on November 02, 2003, 06:56:02 PM
....
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Sleuth on November 02, 2003, 06:57:15 PM
Quote from: ewardpaul, how does it make you feel when, at screenings and whatnot, you are crowded by ecstatic fanboys like us?

:x

"fucking great"  he already answered that
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Alethia on November 02, 2003, 06:59:10 PM
did he?  when?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: bonanzataz on November 02, 2003, 07:33:20 PM
when i asked it at bam.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Alethia on November 02, 2003, 07:44:55 PM
whoops, my bad.  sorry.  so the search for a worthwhile question continues.....
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Ernie on November 02, 2003, 09:51:08 PM
Quote from: ©bradi think we should disregard questions about specific films and directors (what do u think of donnie darko? david gordon green?) and instead ask him more general questions: "who amonst ur contemporaries, who arguably would be labeled as 'the new generation of filmmakers" do u most admire and respect? what movies in the past five years have really stuck out w/ u? etc... keep them general and let him answer instead of asking 'well what did u think of this movie/this director"

Completely agreed. I should have kept it general. We should remember this for the future Q&A's too, this is the best guideline. Although I do think some QT-related questions could pass for now as they are somewhat relevant (new word) with Kill Bill being released recently. Then there's also that dude that made that movie Camp, the one he's doing PTA's doing a commentary with, a question about that guy wouldn't hurt either I don't think. Anything that's current and PTA related might fit. Whatever though, this is a good idea...it's a lot more simple and easy to follow.

Quote from: Slobh
Quote from: ewardpaul, how does it make you feel when, at screenings and whatnot, you are crowded by ecstatic fanboys like us?

"fucking great"  he already answered that

Ha, really? That's a great question. That's cool too, I'm glad he admits that he likes it - I mean, I was always thinking he'd be freaked out by the fanboys. He's right to admit that it feels good, it must feel good...at least a little bit. Especially for a filmmaker...there's a lot that don't have very many fans at all. Brett Ratner, I am talking to you.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: The Silver Bullet on November 02, 2003, 09:56:10 PM
QuoteBrett Ratner, I am talking to you.
Hey, at least you know his name.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Duck Sauce on November 02, 2003, 09:56:14 PM
just ask him if he regularly hangs out with any other filmmakers and if so what they do?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Ernie on November 02, 2003, 09:58:09 PM
Quote from: The Silver Bullet
QuoteBrett Ratner, I am talking to you.
Hey, at least you know his name.

Yea, but everybody that knows his name seems to hate him. Anybody that likes his movies doesn't know his name. They're mostly Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan fans, or solely Rush Hour fans...which comes close to a Ratner fan but not really cause they aren't aware of it...see what I mean?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: travisbickle1000 on November 02, 2003, 11:43:32 PM
dear P.T.

i personaly hate dreams in movies, but love when weird and strange things happen. as a director & writer you use symbolism and metaphors, but you've never weaseled out and shown quiz kid donnie smith waking up and saying "oh, the frogs were just a dream!" Do you conciously decide to not use dreams? do you hate them as much as i do?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: brockly on November 03, 2003, 04:31:05 AM
paul, do you take cream and sugar?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Wilde on November 03, 2003, 08:14:53 AM
to Paul Thomas Anderson.

...ever been asked the "questions de bernard pivot" from the french series "bouillon de culture" ?
So, here we go :


01. What is your favorite word?

02. What is your least favorite word?

03. What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?

04. What turns you off?

05. What is your favorite curse word?

06. What sound or noise do you love?

07. What sound or noise do you hate?

08. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?

09. What profession would you not like to do?

10. If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?


P.S.: 11. I'm working on a book project about the auditive and visual combination in "Ma-gno-lia" and "Punch-drunk love", would you help me?


Thanks.

Ioronimo Jeydnak
Belgium
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: boombanglarrabee on November 03, 2003, 11:47:25 AM
You have said that going to film school is essentially a waste of time, and that you learned how to make movies by watching them (and eventually, by making them.)  With that in mind, how did you learn to write?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: molly on November 03, 2003, 12:10:24 PM
Quote from: boombanglarrabeeYou have said that going to film school is essentially a waste of time, and that you learned how to make movies by watching them (and eventually, by making them.)  With that in mind, how did you learn to write?

I think the low says that people are obliged to send their children to elementary school :?  :?:
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: ElPandaRoyal on November 03, 2003, 12:28:09 PM
Quote from: molly
Quote from: boombanglarrabeeYou have said that going to film school is essentially a waste of time, and that you learned how to make movies by watching them (and eventually, by making them.)  With that in mind, how did you learn to write?

I think the low says that people are obliged to send their children to elementary school :?  :?:

:lol:
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: boombanglarrabee on November 03, 2003, 12:41:13 PM
Quote from: mollyI think the low says that people are obliged to send their children to elementary school :?  :?:

Then you should be in jail.  Smartass.

Where's your brilliant question?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: phil marlowe on November 03, 2003, 12:43:59 PM
Quote from: boombanglarrabeeThen you should be in jail.  Smartass.

Where's your brilliant question?
give molly a break, it was a funny post.

i hope you didn't try to achieve the same.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: molly on November 03, 2003, 12:44:14 PM
Quote from: boombanglarrabee
Quote from: mollyI think the low says that people are obliged to send their children to elementary school :?  :?:

Then you should be in jail.  Smartass.

Where's your brilliant question?

My parents. Smartass.

correction: The Law
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on November 03, 2003, 02:23:24 PM
Quote from: boombanglarrabeeYou have said that going to film school is essentially a waste of time, and that you learned how to make movies by watching them (and eventually, by making them.)  With that in mind, how did you learn to write?

Great one!!!

Fuck, I wanna know this. How DO you learn how to write good.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: TheVoiceOfNick on November 03, 2003, 02:29:31 PM
Quote from: kotteFuck, I wanna know this. How DO you learn how to write good.

I reccomend this book:

(https://xixax.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.amazon.com%2Fimages%2FP%2F0060391685.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg&hash=0f2dde1c189fcded24740f2ced63a79a263d880b)

Then get this one:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0573699216/ref=sib_rdr_dp/103-5271916-1315069?no=283155&st=books&me=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Both good books and required reading for screenwriters everywhere.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on November 03, 2003, 02:35:19 PM
Quote from: TheVoiceOfNick
Quote from: kotteFuck, I wanna know this. How DO you learn how to write good.

I reccomend this book:

(https://xixax.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.amazon.com%2Fimages%2FP%2F0060391685.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg&hash=0f2dde1c189fcded24740f2ced63a79a263d880b)

Then get this one:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0573699216/ref=sib_rdr_dp/103-5271916-1315069?no=283155&st=books&me=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Both good books and required reading for screenwriters everywhere.

Isn't that a tad bit too much formula?

What makes McKee the master? I believe successful screenwriters make good teacher's and I don't think PTA, Coens, Kauffman etc would teach formulas.

That's why the question is interesting...Is it "read screenplays, get final draft and write it the way you want." Am I too naive maybe...?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Sleuth on November 03, 2003, 02:39:37 PM
Quote from: kotte
Isn't that a tad bit too much formula?

What makes McKee the master? I believe successful screenwriters make good teacher's and I don't think PTA, Coens, Kauffman etc would teach formulas.

That's why the question is interesting...Is it "read screenplays, get final draft and write it the way you want." Am I too naive maybe...?

I think you've got the right idea, Kotte.  Fuck people who tell you how to make your own art
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: TheVoiceOfNick on November 03, 2003, 03:40:16 PM
Quote from: SlobhI think you've got the right idea, Kotte.  Fuck people who tell you how to make your own art

I agree... fuck people who tell you how to make your own art... but, if you want to make it commercial (ie. sell it), then some formula is necessary... not everyone is PTA...
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on November 03, 2003, 03:50:36 PM
Quote from: TheVoiceOfNickI agree... fuck people who tell you how to make your own art... but, if you want to make it commercial (ie. sell it), then some formula is necessary... not everyone is PTA...

That's correct. Even innovators like Charlie Kauffman work inside the frames of standard movie formula...three acts etc etc but beyond that...you're on your own.

We shouldn't try to do our own thing...we should just do our own thing as see were it leads us...

Sorry for taking a detour on this thread... :oops:
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Weak2ndAct on November 03, 2003, 07:51:13 PM
You can't break the rules of the game unless you understand them in the first place.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on November 03, 2003, 07:55:40 PM
Quote from: Weak2ndActYou can't break the rules of the game unless you understand them in the first place.

My opinion is this, rules is something you learn by watching alot alot alot of movies and read screenplays. Not a book written by a guy who shouts 'voiceover is lazy writing'.

I don't think he's all bad...just that there are different ways...some better than others.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: MacGuffin on November 03, 2003, 08:01:42 PM
"Not rules. Principles. McKee writes that a rule says you must do it this way. A principle says this works and has through all remembered time." - Donald Kaufman - "Adapation"
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: depooter on November 06, 2003, 07:06:34 PM
Ok. Guys is this it? slim pickings......I'll try and put something together..

thanks
Greg
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: coffeebeetle on November 06, 2003, 08:25:22 PM
That hurt Greg...that really hurt.  :cry:
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Ernie on November 06, 2003, 09:02:51 PM
Quote from: depooterOk. Guys is this it? slim pickings......I'll try and put something together..

thanks
Greg

Just go by Newtron's thing, that's probably best. Just as long as it has a big bold italicized capatilized question about his next project, I think everyone will be satisfied. Then everything else that Newtron posted is pretty relevant, I'd do that stuff.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Alethia on November 06, 2003, 09:27:54 PM
dammit, i couldnt think of a good question!!!!!!!
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: ABKman18 on November 07, 2003, 01:45:33 AM
PTA, Should an artist have to explain their work or should it be allowed to speak for itself?  I am a beginning film student and this issue has been driving me up the walls as of late.

Adam
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: ©brad on November 07, 2003, 10:20:00 AM
Quote from: Weak2ndActYou can't break the rules of the game unless you understand them in the first place.

exactly. u got to know the rules in order to break them. that's why tarantino's stuff works.

mckee's Story really should be read by all screenwriters. any screenwriting teacher (any good one) will tell u that.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Ernie on November 07, 2003, 04:38:52 PM
Quote from: ©brad
Quote from: Weak2ndActYou can't break the rules of the game unless you understand them in the first place.

exactly. u got to know the rules in order to break them. that's why tarantino's stuff works.

mckee's Story really should be read by all screenwriters. any screenwriting teacher (any good one) will tell u that.

That's cool, I never thought of it that way. I've read books similar to his and definitely gotten some inspiration to go against it, it never occured to me.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Weak2ndAct on November 07, 2003, 04:46:17 PM
Lame, timely analogy:
Think of it like Morpheus' explanation of the Matrix.  It's built on a foundation of rules.  Some rules can bent, others can be broken.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: SoNowThen on November 07, 2003, 04:47:51 PM
Quote from: ©brad
Quote from: Weak2ndActYou can't break the rules of the game unless you understand them in the first place.

exactly. u got to know the rules in order to break them. that's why tarantino's stuff works.

mckee's Story really should be read by all screenwriters. any screenwriting teacher (any good one) will tell u that.

agreed

this was the first movie instruction I ever took (way back in grade 11), and he was a great intro to screenwriting, as well as having really good taste in movies (I made a list of titles he talked about and spent the summer watching). of course now I break most of the "rules" laid down, but as you guys have said, one must try and know them first. he really does have a great point, though. early Fellini, Altman, Bergman is all by the numbers, fairly audience friendly stuff (I mean Altman's tv work). these guys didn't master their form just by fucking around...

My question to PTA is this:

Give us your top 15 movies, and write a little about why for each one (kinda like that article you did for Boogie Nights, the influences one, that had Goodfellas and Singin' In The Rain, etc).

also,

in the forseeable future, will you continue to work with Elswitt, or are you entertaining other DP's for different looks for the next few films (not that I don't like RE, just wondering)?

and this last one's a plea:

please get Tichner back to edit your next film

merci
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Alethia on November 08, 2003, 09:54:06 PM
what excites you in cinema?

what was the last movie that made you cry?

what was the last movie that really scared you?

what was the last movie that really made you laugh?

what was the last movie that you were just absolutely obsessed with (besides your own, of course)?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Weak2ndAct on November 08, 2003, 11:57:40 PM
Quote from: SoNowThenplease get Tichner back to edit your next film
What, do you think Leslie Jones did a shitty job or something?  Explain.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: SHAFTR on November 09, 2003, 12:20:38 AM
If you can get my question about PDL and it being an art film in there...that would help me so much.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: aclockworkjj on November 09, 2003, 11:49:25 AM
after listening to PBH's fresh air interview...I liked hearing how syndey came about.

Working as a volunteer PA.  How did you manage to do this?  Working for free?  Shit, I see pro bono PA work all the time, unfortunately that won't pay my ridiculous rent...

...what was your personal situation like at the time you were able to work at the tv station?  How the hell could you get by?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Pozer on November 09, 2003, 02:37:27 PM
Rich Papa
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Slick Shoes on November 09, 2003, 03:42:22 PM
clockworkjj--good question. i've wondered about this before. cuz pa work is all fine and good but its hard to make a living at it. course you could have another job to pay the bills on the side, but what employer would give you a month off to go work on a gameshow? yes, personal situation, i like that...

real poser--that's speculation. just cuz his pops was on tv doesn't make him rich.

my question: do you watch movies while shooting?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: Alethia on November 09, 2003, 06:39:46 PM
why didn't you shave your head during the magnolia shoot?
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: SoNowThen on November 09, 2003, 11:28:08 PM
Quote from: Weak2ndAct
Quote from: SoNowThenplease get Tichner back to edit your next film
What, do you think Leslie Jones did a shitty job or something?  Explain.

No, but I prefer Tichner's stuff.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: depooter on November 10, 2003, 09:40:52 AM
PTA and I had this conversation before (plus I've read some stuff somewhere). Not only did he have some $$ from a trust fund of sorts, but he was working a few different jobs, I believed he still lived at home and had a gfriend that helped....
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: kotte on November 10, 2003, 09:50:51 AM
Quote from: depooterPTA and I had this conversation before (plus I've read some stuff somewhere). Not only did he have some $$ from a trust fund of sorts, but he was working a few different jobs, I believed he still lived at home and had a gfriend that helped....

some people are lucky...

man, a good trust fund and a hot rich girlfriend wouldn't be out of it's place right now.
Title: Questions for PTA
Post by: modage on November 10, 2003, 11:39:23 AM
Quote from: taz.when i asked it at bam.

i saw you! 8)

also: this is what i get for not visiting the pta forum anymore. i miss out on the q&a. :(