“I can say without hesitation that this book is an invaluable resource. Venetia’s expertise shines through on every page, making it an essential tool not only for students in film schools but also for anyone who loves and appreciates cinema.
– David Puttnam, Oscar winning producer
Her thoughtful approach to script editing and development is both accessible and insightful, offering readers a rare insider’s perspective on a crucial part of the filmmaking process. ‘We Have Some Notes…’ is sure to become a go-to guide for anyone who wants to improve their storytelling skills or gain a better understanding of the intricate work that goes into creating great films.”
Hello, I’m Venetia Hawkes, the author of We Have Some Notes… The Insider’s Guide to Notes, Script Editing and Development published by Bloomsbury in partnership with the BFI. The book examines the art of giving and receiving notes in film and television drama through interviews with award-winning filmmakers, including Lynne Ramsay, Russell T Davies, Sally Wainwright, Edgar Wright and Simon Beaufoy, who share insights and advice on how to make it a succesful and rewarding process.
I work as the Executive Producer for Masterclasses & Bridge to Industry projects at the UK’s National Film & Television School (NFTS) and was formerly a member of Right Angle, the script and series editing company behind animated adaptations of classic stories for BBC, Channel 4 and HBO, which won BAFTAs, Emmys and an Academy Award nomination. Independently I provide script and story development advice for a small number of writers and directors, and write select non-fiction articles, specialising in filmmaking, heritage and the countryside.
We Have Some Notes… The Insider’s Guide to Notes, Script Editing and Development
We Have Some Notes… provides detailed insight and practical advice on working with ‘notes’ – the analysis, feedback and discussion that happen throughout the filmmaking process, from the early stages of script writing to the final cut. It examines how notes, script editing and development can most effectively contribute to the creation of succesful films and television dramas.
It explores how to achieve a fruitful and harmonious writer, director and note-giver relationship through interviews with award-winning writers and directors: Lynne Ramsay, Russell T Davies, Sally Wainwright, Edgar Wright, Lone Scherfig, Ben Wheatley, Amma Asante, Simon Beaufoy, Michael Pearce, Corin Hardy, Tomm Moore, Alice Lowe and Krysty Wilson-Cairns and advice from respected note-givers, including Tessa Ross, Eva Yates, Nicola Shindler, David Sproxton and Pippa Harris.
Inter-chapter sections pose key questions, such as “What’s one thing never to do if you’re giving notes?” and “How do you deal with rejection or critical notes?” Providing illuminating, practical guidance on ways of working successfully with notes, for both writers and directors and anyone who gives notes.
Further information about We Have Some Notes… The Insider’s Guide to Notes, Script Editing and Development
“An incredible resource and insight into the process of script development from the industry’s leading figures in both film and TV. Not only invaluable but also an inspirational read, Venetia has created a book that is a must read, for anyone with an interest in storytelling for screen.”
– Lewis Arnold, BAFTA winning director, Time, Des, Sherwood, The Long Shadow
“At last, a book that uncovers the true workings of the story development process from the perspective of successful writers, script editors and directors, illuminating the creative collaborations and forensic analysis that occurs in the shared pursuit of delivering the best story possible. Jam packed with nuggets for anyone interested in the development process, this book is a celebration of the importance and impact of collaboration withing the film and TV industries”
– Philip Matthews, Bournemouth University
“Invaluable to anyone wanting to work in development!
If anybody is interested in film and TV development, this is essential reading!
– Ben Murrell, Duck Soup Films
Venetia Hawkes has effortlessly distilled decades worth of wisdom here.
Not only does the book contextualise how the role of a script editor arose in UK TV, but it examines how to be an effective and successful script editor / development executive / note giver. By interviewing some of the country’s best writers (Sally Wainwright, Russell T Davies, Lynne Ramsey, Edgar Wright, Alice Lowe and many more) Hawkes has managed to create a book full of tips, insights and anecdotes that will feed into the way you work with writers to craft outstanding stories.
Don’t walk, run and get a copy – this is what gold dust looks like in book form.“
Venetia Hawkes 