I just finished the first draft of my latest feature. This one has fought me more than others -- I started it on August 31, 2003. It seems like ages ago, but to be fair to myself, during that time period I also finished two TV one-hour specs and two shorts. I can't be unhappy with that track record, since I also have a full-time job.

This feature started from a dream, and wanted to be a feature, then a TV miniseries, then back to a feature again. I took it too Sedona with me, and broke through a major block. I've got 11 drafts, and have probably written over 500 pages to end up at my 109 page first draft.

In order to conquer the first pass at the last 20 pages, I had to get through a block of insecurity and doubt. Then, I happened upon one of the extra features in The Mummy DVD-rom which had a script-to-screen comparison. I realized that action sequences need to be brushed with light strokes, and the director & stunt coordinator will fill in the gasps. Once I had that boost, I was able to push to the end.

It's out to my only first-draft reader, then once my logic flaws are exposed, I'll stitch them up and have a draft I can show the public.

Now I have to figure out what's next...