On making contact with Mitchell German, the American producer and script doctor who has designed the programme, it became even more obvious that I was dealing with an industry professional who not only knew what he was talking about, but who could also appreciate the tough times writers often go through.
I can now report that, thanks to Mitch, a review copy of Plot Control is installed on my computer and that I’ve had a couple of days to play with it. While the download was fast and easy, I did encounter a small hiccup when I realized that I needed a Microsoft programme called Silverlight version 4 before installation. It’s a free download from the internet (http://www.microsoft.com/getsilverlight/Get-Started/Install/Default.aspx).
Then install, activate and get ready to be creative.
The programme launches with what really is a software application to map out and structure your story and develop your characters. From there it leads you to explore the core elements of your story before looking at the story triangulation. This was the most interesting part for me as it reveals how the story structure has a domino effect on the main character and his personal goal, and forces you to relate all the different story elements and plot points back to the character’s primary objective.
The programme then looks at the three act story structure and spells out the major turning points, allowing even novice writers to quickly fashion a script or screenplay which is structurally sound and has all the elements to make it successful.
I found Plot Control to be extremely helpful in keeping track and utilising all the different story elements to their best ability. It really is a handy tool for all writers and, for newer writers who have not had the luxury of attending a Sediba course or specialized scriptwriting school, this programme is worth its weight in gold."
I taught screenwriting and novel writing for a decade or more at university and was Chair of the Australian Writers Guild for two terms so my expectations for Plot Control were high. Even at version1.x.x the software is perfectly useable, reliable and gestalt in its tightly woven form. It could stand as it is with no further development but with the spiffing development you have planned for it I can see it being adopted by screenwriters, novelists and writing faculties in universities and colleges.
Yes indeed, a lot to like."
Reviewing the site, the content, the software, and considering how you translated it to a format that is user-friendly, even for beginners, but also a refreshing re-introduction to the craft (plus art) of screenplay development for professionals -- is a remarkable achievement. The software compliments the content flawlessly. It is an engaging mix of craft and creative ingenuity. And the means with which you interrupted complex story elements and break them down with practical examples from movies supports and reaffirms every statement you make, and the power of Plot Control.
In fact, I'm so impressed with this wonderful man and his program, that we are recommending it to everyone we know, in the writers guild, here in Australia, and the Producers Association as well, plus fellow colleagues. Thank you."
(Important Disclaimer: Testimonials and feedback from industry professionals and Reelwriting students are REAL and have been provided willingly and without any compensation in return. Use of the methods taught in this program do not guarantee any specific results. Individual results will vary based on the amount of effort and creativity that is invested.)