Author Topic: Nonfiction script, Need a bit of help SeerSavant
posted 02-12-2001 08:26 AM
I have been working on a Biographical movie of the Virginia court case VA/Turner, it happened in '96, two Navy Seals convicted for a fairly brutal murder. I plan on a screenplay by the end of the summer and to follow that with a bio novel.
Yes, I have gotten permission from the convicted, and no I am not trying to sensationalize, but this case was a truly remarkable study in just how inept some high priced defense attorneys can be.

I have been running down leads and doing research (Hence, my infrequent visits to the forum, yes I miss it here. I try to come as often as possible, but between paying the bills, job and this story, man, time is short. I've even suspended my other projects until I can finish this one.)
The problem I have is that I have been told several times now that a few colleges, and particularly Law courses have begun using this case as an example of how not to try a case.

Question; does anyone here go to college, and if so could you inquire somebody, or perhaps a law professer if they are familiar with this case? No need to get all the details, but if I could get an email, or address to a college that is using this case, I would be extremely grateful.
I have been making the rounds at the nearby colleges, and have had no luck yet.

I no this is unusual, but I am pretty frustrated so far. Perhaps what I was told was only a rumor but I have to chase it down.
(A course in what went wrong in this case could help me greatly. Even after all the obvious mistakes I caught by simply reading the court transcripts...)

Thanks a bunch...

EricM
posted 02-12-2001 02:18 PM
Hey! That could be a real interesting way to start your movie!
Begin in a classroom where the proffessor introduces the case as the way not to run a defense, then go into flashback to tell the story. If there is ever a point where you think more detailed explanation is needed, you can go back to the classroom and bring up interesting points and counterpoints. It's a great way to hide your exposition.

SeerSavant
posted 02-18-2001 12:02 PM
I have the script roughed out and have decided to follow the transcripts through the trial itself, taking each witness into a flashback.
Kind of a rashomon perspective....
I want to keep as close to a bio/documentary feel as possible while tightening up the pace to make it watchable and readable.

DigiteyeZ
posted 02-18-2001 04:15 PM
just be careful with how you use flashbacks. e.g. Snow Falling on Cedars. The book was awesome, the movie was dissappointing (not bad, but could have been better). The flashbacks were too often, too quick and interrupted. If you see the movie you'll understand what i mean. Using flashbacks properly can be a challenge. otherwise, sounds like you have an interesting script! i'll see if i can find out anything about that case...

E. Flask
posted 02-19-2001 03:29 PM
There's a law school where I live. I'll see what I can do.

SeerSavant
posted 03-01-2001 01:59 PM
Thanks E Flask, this project has gotten way bigger than I had ever anticipated. Research alone is taking up a huge chunk of what little time I have.

Any help is a Godsend...

Thanks...

------------------
Okay, who put the stop payment on my reality check???

Bread_12
posted 03-06-2001 01:33 AM
Reality is just a crutch for people that can't handle drugs.

Nevermind. I read that somewhere and just had to write it.

Don't mind me. Good luck on your nonfiction story.

My Two Bits,

Bread

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