Thread: Writing video/filming

Sorry if this has been asked before, I wasn't sure how to search for this...

In my novel there are a few chapters dedicated to the filming, and then viewing of an amateur documentary. I really like this idea and think it is interesting as it's not something I've really seen done before (although I'd guess it probably has been, and that's part of what I want to know). I'm struggling with it a little, as there are various ways I could do it. As of now I have one chapter that is sort of a narration/montage of a variety of scenes during the shooting, and then another scene where all the characters sit down and view the film together. This is where you really see how the film turned out.

I was just wondering if anyone could site somewhere this has been done before? I imagine there have to be plenty of non fiction books about film making, but the filming part is really not the challenge. Does anyone know of any good books that have scenes of characters watching a film? I'd really like to read how others have pulled this off, if anyone has.

Thanks.

I have read scenes in other books where the characters are watching videos (none of them are particularly coming to me yet, except for Less then Zero and that's only a few minutes of video). They almost always seem to come back to the viewer and describe their feelings/ reactions to what they are seeing- which sounds similar to your second approach with all the characters getting together to watch the video. This seems to be the traditional way to do it- but it's great that you are experimenting with your own way of doing it. Maybe post a scene or two on the forum and see what a sample of readers say, if they find it easy to follow what's going on or not. It's probably your best litmus test.*

Carrie Fisher

Postcards from the Edge

Amazon.com: Postcards from the Edge (9780743466516): Carrie Fisher: Books

It covers her work in film, her addiction and there is a bit about acting, overdubbing and film editing.

For the second scene, when they're sitting down to watch it, I'd narrate what's going on in the film. Every now and then have one of the characters say something about it, some thoughts from your MC, audience laughter, ect. I'd also note the baby crying incessantly at the back, the moth casting a shadow against the screen, and the rain leaking through the roof that is waterlogging your MC's popcorn.

I agree, Postcards from the Edge

The French Lieutenant's Woman by John Fowles - Probably the most famous book about a film within a film, not a documentary, but should give you some clues. Good film too.

Thank you, very helpful!