My DIY film/writing school

Naked Samoans speak out

After several weeks out of the movie scene (except for watching them!) I got to jump back into the industry at the Script-to-Screen Writer's Room.

Being interviewed were Oscar Kightley and David Fane of the Naked Samoans, famous for their involvement in Bro'Town and Sione's Wedding.

Some really good lessons, which can be summed up as:

• Collaboration is where it all comes from
• You know fairly early on whether you'll work well with someone
• Good scripts don't write themselves - you need to lock yourself in the room until it's finished
• Get to the punchline sooner than later
• Funny just comes from observing the world around you. If you're willing to laugh at anything, chances are others will find it funny too!

What they didn't say, but what was apparent from their demeanour, was how organic and non-competitive their work was. I'm sure that doesn't just happen - in fact they did mention some pretty unusual conflict resolution tactics involving a knife... ! ... but they're really committed to themselves as a group I think.

Really good to be at this thing. Looking forward to the next one in July.

posted by Simon @ 11:20 am