I recently received notes from my managers on two big projects. Both sessions went very well as far as notes sessions go because I’m lucky to work with an amazing duo who roll their sleeves up and make every effort to help me deliver the best final product possible with no bullshitting, no wasting time and lots of laughing. That said, this is still how I wish every single notes session would go. 

Hi Jessie – is now a good time to talk about your script? Great.

I want to start by saying that I loved it – no – I f-ing loved it. I cannot believe you churned out something this strong in under a decade frankly. If there was ever a question in your mind about whether or not you’re going to make it as a writer you throw that dirty thought out because it’s rubbish. This is gold, you’re gold, and together we’re going to make tons of gold. Kappish? Great. But just to be very clear, based on this script you have a major career ahead of you, so go ahead and book that thousand-dollar-a-day make-up artist for your wedding, girl, because you’re going to make it all back a gabillion fold, this year.

Now, could I sell this script right now as is? Of course I could. But I want to push you to a genius beyond the genius already in this draft. Right now I feel like we have your typical successful romantic comedy on our hands, and while that’s plenty impressive, I think we’re one pass away from When Harry Met Sally.

As far as I can see there are three and only three things you could tweak to get us there. I know this is a lot of work I’m suggesting, so why don’t you use my assistant to help with anything life-wise as you’re getting through this next draft. Okay? Great. Let’s dive right in.

Number 1: You might think about changing the protagonist’s name. I feel like Tess conveys a softness whereas something like Jenna or Ava has more of the edge we’re going for here.

Number 2: Your script currently spans from Fall through Winter to the following Spring, but I think shifting to start in Spring then move through Summer finally ending in Fall would kick it up a major notch.

Number 3: Everywhere your love interest says, “yeah” let’s go in and have him say, “yes.” You’ve painted him to be such a strong, lovable, men-want-to-be-him-woman-want-to-f-him type and I feel like “yes” is more in tone with what that kind of guy would say.

I realize all three notes affect the entire script, but on the bright side there are absolutely no typos – go you again! Why don’t you just take the next however long you want to turn a new draft. In the meantime I’ll call Jen Lawrence’s people to make sure she’s on hold for a good chunk of 2015. Good? Great.

Well bravo again Jessie. Of all our clients you are our favorite of all time and we never ever doubt signing you and we never ever will.

Have a great day!