I wrote a rom com (and I liked it)

The simple joy of trying something new

Recently, I penned my first rom-com. Maybe I've found my real calling.

The experience was fun and challenging. And, quite honestly, the whole process was refreshing.

I squeezed in scenes in early mornings on a quick deadline, and wrote the majority of the dialogue on cross-Canada flights. I scratched out notes at 30 thousand feet on my in-flight meal tray.

Then, I dictated the lines to a voice recording app to maximize efficiency and test some of the lines.

I avoided strange looks for the most part as I whispered dialogue into my phone. But when I couldn't contain laughing out loud—at the absurdity of the situation and, if I do say so myself, some of the best lines—even the lovebirds across the aisle took their eyes off each other momentarily to assess if they should look for the undercover Federal Air Marshal.

Eight hours of time in the air helped me outline and map out the complete screenplay. Then I wrote in the early hours before my day begins, fuelled by coffee and an early morning walk and devotion.

And voila! Now there’s a full-length script to shop around.

Here’s the log line:

More than fame or fortune, they both want true love.

A hilarious and wholesome comedy about a guy who’s got everything except the actress who just wants to sing.

I hope it's more than a Fall writing fling (which is when I started to pen the script). Because, it's a great vehicle for a breakout star with a small, dynamic role for a tried and true A-lister. A feel-good title that would crowd please on streaming platforms and can stand its own on Netflix.

The screenplay is part of a bundle of projects in development at UnveilTV and part of a package of film options we’re presenting to people in the film industry, including our feature Daniel, which we’re currently crowd-funding.

Try something new—it’ll bring you joy

So, Andrew, why are you telling me about this? Good question.

The script is at that awkward stage of creation where all the possibility is before it. Much hard work has been put into it. And there’s not a guarantee in the world.

Today I just wanted to drop into your inbox to extol the simple joys of trying something new.

Of course I’d love big things for this project. And I’ll work toward that goal. But there’s something to be said about doing something new. Much of my writing is more on the nose about faith, creativity, justice. My work for the screen and stage is of the harder-hitting, dramatic kind.

The whole time I wrote a voice was asking, Can you do this?

Why yes, yes I can! And I did. And it was fun.

Like me, you may not feel particularly equipped for a new task. Maybe you’re wanting or waiting for the Blue Fairy to tap you on the shoulder and announce you’re a real boy, like Pinocchio in Disney’s classic film, so that you feel freedom or permission to try something out.

But the secret is: You don't need anyone’s permission. And you don’t have to wait for the perfect time.

Pick up the pen or guitar or the tennis racquet. Join a group. Sign up for the class. Google “how to.”

There’s a simple joy in trying something new. Give it a go.

I’d love to know about something new you’ve recently tried (or want to try). Share what it is in the comments.