Authoring & Playwriting

I see so many people say they’ll write when they “have the time.” But the truth is, that time never magically shows up. Life always fills it with something else.

I’ve learned that waiting until things slow down is how regrets are born. You don’t find time — you make it. Even fifteen minutes of writing is fifteen minutes closer to something real.

What helps you carve out time for your creativity when life feels too full?

Hey there, authors!

This lounge isn't just for writing, authoring and publishing... even though that's mostly what I contribute with... It's also to let you know what else is happening around the platform.

I’m excited to share details about our next free Stage 32 webcast, which is perfect for anyone looking to better understand how the film business works - and how to make real progress at industry events.

How to Work the AFM (American Film Market) 2025, Live on Monday, October 13th at 1:30 PM PT

Free Registration Link: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/how-to-work-the-afm-2025

Why it matters:

The American Film Market® (AFM®) is one of the most important events in the global film industry. Every November, thousands of producers, distributors, sales agents, financiers, and other industry professionals meet in Los Angeles to make deals, showcase projects, and forge connections that can truly transform careers.

Whether you’re a filmmaker trying to land distribution, a producer looking for financing, or a screenwriter or actor hoping to understand the business side more deeply, this webcast about AFM is a goldmine of opportunity.

I'm going to tune in and check it out - if you can't make it live, you can always listen on demand.

Rejection hurts - no matter how many times we tell ourselves it’s “part of the process.” But here’s the thing: it IS part of the process.

A “no” doesn’t always mean your work isn’t good enough. It could mean:

They already have something similar on their list.

The timing isn’t right for that genre.

They’re working with a known author whose project overlaps with yours.

Or maybe… your story just hasn’t found the right champion yet.

I personally know number 3. I was rejected for my story because the publishing house went with a well known author who they knew would sell with a similar story. Did it hurt? Yes. But was I OK? Absolutely YES! I was compared to a best selling author - #win!

Every rejection means you’re in the game. You’re learning, growing, and daring to share something personal in a world that often plays it safe.

Keep writing. Keep submitting. Keep improving. Because every “no” is a step closer to the “yes” that changes everything.

What’s one piece of advice that’s helped you push through rejection?

In our busy world, life moves so quickly that we often forget to pause and celebrate our achievements. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a testament to your passion and dedication.

We invite you to share your Success Story! Tell us how Stage 32 has transformed your filmmaking journey. How have the resources, connections, and opportunities helped you grow? Your story can inspire others and remind us all of the power of perseverance and community.

Let’s celebrate your journey—because your success deserves to be recognized! Post your story today and be part of a community that uplifts and encourages each other.

Remember: Every great filmmaker started somewhere—your story could be the spark someone else needs to keep going.

#CelebrateYourSuccess #Stage32 #FilmmakingJourney #InspireOthers

In character development of a story , what are some of the tips and trick you use, and have perfected over the years

1. Develop a Backstory:

2. Define Clear Goals and Flaws

3. Create Distinct Voice and Personality

4. Show Growth and Change

This model has guided me in creating, and helped me a lot.

what are some of your tips

It recently occurred to me that, as writers, we find ourselves in a wonderfully unique, magical and powerful position. Whilst working on my debut novel, there was a part I was not overly happy with. There was something that just didn't resonate and it bothered me. Having got a little deflated I tried to explain the issue to my wife.

She retaliated with a light bulb moment for me that I hope sparks that excitement back into other writers that get stuck in a rut...she said "It's your book, surely you can just change it?"

As obvious as this is, it was the exact impetus that I needed to bounce back and it got me thinking what a powerful position we are in as writers, we have the ability to influence, guide, emote, excite. We can install fear and dread, make readers fall in love, detest characters, reason with themselves. It's an important job in the morality of humanity we play.

Thumbs up to all those finding themselves in this position x

Hi, not sure if this is the correct place to post but I'm after some advice.

I wrote a book a few years back and published it through KDP and (very) long story short the book, and all subsequent versions) are no longer available via Amazon.

From what I can gather Amazon bookshelves are now full of either books written by already established authors, or TV celebrites, or the millions books generated by someone using Ai.

I've been looking at releasing my book again but wondered how you publish your work now? Do you self publish? Play the long game with publishers (not the vanity ones), or do you use your writing skills in a different field now as the author space is just rammed.

I'm keen to know what you do, and any/all advice is welcome.

This is the link to my book for context - https://www.amazon.co.uk/ALPHA-VULTURE-DEFEATURE-Marc-Jaytin/dp/B08QLV53JF

Thank you Stage 32 for another opportunity to learn from the experts.

Today’s Free webcast (Composer + Filmmaker Relationship: How to Make Your Indie Film Successful) not only educated us on how music and sounds enhance a film’s story; the presenters verified my belief that choosing a team / cast / crew with positive vibes who are fun and pleasant to work with is an important consideration in staffing your film.

I have a strong opinion that building partnerships with pleasant people elevates your film - and the mood on set transfers to the screen with the lighting and sound.

Do you consider the personalities of your cast (of course), but have you chosen producers, directors, film crew, etc. based partially on gut feelings and a sense of connection with them? Please share your most uplifting story.

It’s always exciting to see a beloved book series make the leap to the screen, especially when it’s one that captures the magic of childhood imagination and mystery.

StudioCanal and Strong Film & Television are developing a new TV adaptation of Robin Stevens’ Murder Most Unladylike, a series often described as Enola Holmes meets Agatha Christie. The story follows two rebellious 1930s teen detectives, Hazel and Daisy, as they solve murders with wit, humor, and sharp intuition.

The six-part series is being written by Anna McCleery (Free Rein) and directed by James Strong (Vigil), with plenty of room to grow thanks to the 12 books in the series. You can read more about the project here:

https://deadline.com/2025/10/studiocanal-developing-murder-most-unladyli...

As a lifelong book lover, I find these kinds of adaptations so inspiring, especially when they bring strong young characters to life for new audiences.

If I could see any beloved book from my own childhood adapted into a film or series, it would have to be a Junie B. Jones kids’ show. Her quirky personality and hilarious honesty would make for such a fun and nostalgic adaptation.

What about you?

If you could see any childhood favorite adapted into a film or TV series, what would it be and why?

Hey Stage 32'ers,

I came across something fascinating today - did you know the 1983 film WarGames was so realistic it actually influenced U.S. cybersecurity laws after President Reagan watched it? All because a story hit the right cultural moment with the right research behind it. Incredible, right?

It got me thinking about our own work. Do you tend to pay attention to market trends when you’re writing, or do you focus on the story you want to tell and worry about the market later?

I’d love to hear how you all balance creativity with “what’s selling.” Here’s the blog post that sparked the thought if you want to check it out:

https://www.stage32.com/blog/coffee-content-what-hollywood-hackers-the-m...