Venetia Hawkes
Hello, I’m a Script Editor & Story Developer, writer of ‘We Have Some Notes… The Insider’s Guide to Notes, Script Editing and Development‘, and NFTS Executive Producer for Masterclasses & Bridges to Industry. I also write non-fiction articles and devise and deliver talks sharing advice on the art of ‘notes’.
Previously, part of Right Angle, the script and series editing team behind animated adaptations of classic stories from around the world for BBC, Channel 4 and HBO, which won BAFTAs, Emmys and an Oscar nomination. Experienced at writing non-fiction articles and interviews for publications including Screen International.
I’ve been a member of the BAFTA jury for Short Animation, and part of the British Independent Film Awards sub-committee for Screenwriting and Directing.
Script Editing & Story Development
I support writers and directors, across a range of genres and stages of development, to craft their scripts and stories in a way that articulates their vision and resonates with audiences.
“Venetia is a wonder – her notes got right to the heart of the script and its issues. They were detailed, honest, but always positive and solution focussed. She got to the heart of the characters and their motivation, clearly pointing out where that motivation can be made clearer and more direct. The same with story – she had a great focus on plot and how events came to their conclusion, and how it worked. Her notes on where to take things next, and what needed focussing on were extremely useful, and very focussed without telling me how to write, or what ‘should’ be happening. Very much recommended!”
– Richard Higson, Writer & director
We Have Some Notes… The Insider’s Guide to Notes, Script Editing and Development
“This book is an invaluable resource. Venetia’s expertise shines through on every page.
– David Puttnam, Oscar winning filmmaker
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. 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.”
Through interviews with leading filmmakers, including Lynne Ramsay, Russell T Davies, Sally Wainwright and Edgar Wright, ‘We Have Some Notes… The Insider’s Guide to Notes, Script Editing and Development’ provides insights and practical advice on how to make notes, script editing and development a successful, rewarding and harmonious creative process. Award-winning writers and directors share their expertise and advice, along with behind the scenes stories, to reveal what is, and what isn’t, useful. The book also includes ‘top-tips’ from distinguished ‘note-givers’ – producers, commissioners, development executives and script editors.
Published by Bloomsbury, in association with the British Film Institute (BFI).
“If anybody is interested in film and TV development, this is essential reading! Venetia Hawkes has effortlessly distilled decades worth of wisdom here.
– Ben Murrell, Script Editor and Story Consultant
Don’t walk, run and get a copy – this is what gold dust looks like in book form.“
Talks
I design and deliver talks, both online and in person, sharing advice on the art of giving notes.
I’ve had the pleasure of delivering talks for the London Screenwriters’ Festival, The Scottish Screenwriters’ Festival, NFTS Cymru and NFTS Leeds screenwriting courses, NFTS Documentary and Science and Natural History courses, Nordisk Film in Denmark and featured in an episode of The Director’s Take podcast.
Venetia Hawkes 