Category Archives: Uncategorized

Guidelines for a New Year

Posted on January 3, 2022 by heidihornbacher

I’ve spent the last year learning hard lessons and getting my creative house in order. 2021 was a slow and painful but hopeful process of taking steps to honor myself and my work, to exit negative situations, and to learn … Continue reading →

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Scene Transitions: A Secret Weapon for Story Momentum

Posted on November 19, 2020 by heidihornbacher

You may already know the fundamental ways of increasing momentum and tension in your script: get into scenes late and get out early; craft scenes around your protagonist’s pursuit of a goal; hold onto your central mystery as long as … Continue reading →

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Motif! Adding Depth To Your Script With Key Details

Posted on November 4, 2020 by heidihornbacher

You’re feeling good about your latest script draft. You’ve crafted a strong story structure and compelling character arcs. But there’s something missing that you can’t put your finger on. A little je ne sais quoi. Threading in a motif–a recurring thematic … Continue reading →

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The Value of Community

Posted on April 19, 2017 by heidihornbacher

This weekend I spent a day ensconced in a fabulous Malibu ranch surrounded by fellow writers. Everyone pitched ideas and gave input on one others’ projects, whether they were fleshed-out series or feature scripts or just an inkling of a … Continue reading →

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Common Script Mistakes: Parentheticals–Let’s Kill the Wrylies

Posted on June 25, 2016 by heidihornbacher

As a contest judge and script coach, I see all kinds of poor formatting, strange style choices, and grammar errors galore. If I can help you to avoid some of these surprisingly common pitfalls, my judging job will be easier, … Continue reading →

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In Production

Posted on May 14, 2015 by heidihornbacher

For the first time in our short production company’s life, we’ve been working on larger projects that are under someone else’s auspices. It’s both thrilling and frustrating. We’ve shot some of the best footage we’ve ever done with incredible sets, … Continue reading →

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Work/Play

Posted on October 13, 2014 by heidihornbacher

The saying goes something like: find what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life. It’s been an incredible summer of love then. Since June my various creative partners and I have: Wrapped, edited and released our … Continue reading →

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