Bulletproof: Writing Scripts that Don't Get Shot Down

-- because it was THAT good! I love Family Man and was ecstatic to get insights of it's creators' process in cooking up great stories that got made in the studio system! Their tone to the reader holds such true sincerity in helping them be the best storyteller. Sure, this is a great book for someone starting out. But even for those who have been in the trenches, it was invaluable. By the way, one of the many treasures in the book is the simple "one pager" outline that helps the writer articulate what the movie is about in ONE page! Not only does the book work from the writers' stand point -- it works from the perspectives of decision makers who green light movies - just check out the high praises from such veteran senior executives! Yes, it's a fantastic book. But most of all, the authentic love and care of the Davids for stories and those who tell them are reflective of their ethos. -- Weiko Lin, author of "Crazy Screenwriting Secrets: How to Capture a Global Audience”

I bought this book after hearing the authors speak during a podcast and the weekly SCRIPTCHAT twitter event. I sent them an email and they even replied despite their busy schedule. Now here’s the review. I’ve read a lot of screenwriting books, but this book actually tells you how to make a marketable screenplay. Don’t get me wrong, other books do the same thing, but they speak from a creative standpoint where “Bulleetproof” gives more of a business point of view. I really though the section on set pieces and character development stood out and was much more comprehensive than other books. Maybe it’s just me, but this book ROCKS! If you have questions, just shoot the authors an email. They are pretty darn friendly to be successful screenwriters.

Weissman and Diamond have done the impossible - made a screenwriting book that's both personal and undeniably resourceful. Their stories from working in Hollywood and trying (and succeeding) to sell their screenplays are grounded and relatable, with no sense of arrogance or fluff in how they recount their stories. The strategies they outline throughout the book are simple to understand and provide good examples using other popular movies to outline their ideas in more specific detail. This is the first screenwriting book I've encountered (and I've read MANY) that I found enjoyable to read on top of being insightful. It's brief length makes it a quick, informative, and impactful read, and I recommend any screenwriter to get a copy. You won't regret it.

They had me at their first sentence: "This book is the product of about five hundred cups of coffee." And from there, the "Davids" gave me encouragement, practical advice, and an occasional kick in the rear. The approachable tone of the book felt like I was sitting at the table with them, having a great conversation, while treating them to Coffee #501 and #502. With Bulletproof, they haven't just written a book--they've invested in other writers. I've sat through scads of seminars, read dozens of books, and yet David and David distilled it down into a succinct, amicable, hands-on way that beckons me to get going on my next script! Truly grateful! If you're an aspiring writer, get this book and become an inspired writer!

Been a WGA member for 38 years and have not enjoyed a screenwriting book this much in a very, very long time. A great read with lots of information to help you along your path. Read it once and found it so helpful and thought-provoking that I am on my second reading now. Get this book. You'll really enjoy it and find it a great help in honing your craft.