
Michael Buchanan writes:
Hello from Atlanta,
My co-author, Diane Lang, and I, along with director Jason Winn, wanted you to know how great an influence Blake and his principles had on our screenwriting and filmmaking. Save the Cat! is our bible for working on stories.
We met Blake in LA a few years ago at Pitchfest and this website featured my co-author and I when you did a story about Treasure of the Four Lions. Our YA novel, The Fat Boy Chronicles, published this summer, is in use by schools around the nation for its introspective look at bullying and obesity.
The movie version of it was filmed last summer in ATL. Jason was the director while Diane and I wrote the screenplay. The movie has played to sold-out shows in Charlotte and ATL; we have played several film festivals thus far with many more to come.
Blake gave coverage to us last June-July and loved the story. Some of his suggestions were included in the final script. In tribute to him, we gave Blake special thanks for his input and inspiration in the final credits.
He had told us he wanted an invitation to the first screening of the movie and that he would make sure he was there. He liked the story that much. Well, in so many ways he was there.
And, the biggest news of late is that we have recently signed a distribution deal with Melee Entertainment. The release date will be later this year or early next year. We also received a recommendation from the Dove Foundation.
Watch the trailer and read about our experience thus far at www.thefatboychronicles.com. We welcome your feedback!
on August 20th, 2010 at 6:56 am
I am thrilled to see this subject in film. A tool now used by adults is the “Lap Band” google it. Blake had incredible impathy for people with problems.I can see why he would champion such an effort.
Captain
on August 20th, 2010 at 8:22 am
That’s awesome! Blake’s fingers have touched so many of our projects. Hopefully, we’ll all be seeing your film in a theater near us soon. Congrats on your success!
on August 20th, 2010 at 3:08 pm
Congrats on the distribution! I look forward to supporting your work when it rolls through my town- hopefully it will!
Melody Lopez
on August 22nd, 2010 at 7:28 am
Loved the trailer. So many kids (and adults) will identify with this character - I can’t wait to see the entire film.
Success stories like this confirm that Blake’s Cat! method can really influence projects. Thanks for sharing!
on August 23rd, 2010 at 9:17 am
I got your book from a book store last night and have not finished it yet.It’s a cool way to write a book.I am interested in seeing the transition to screen play,but the strongest impression you make on me is your marketing ability.I am in your region,South Carolina. Do you meet with other writers?The reason I ask is because I’m putting the final touches of a first draft together. It’s about teenagers and I need some feedback before I rewrite.It would be good to meet somebody in Atlanta as it’s in driving range and I have friends there.I’m a retired school teacher,just to let you know why your work resonates so.
Captain
on August 23rd, 2010 at 4:53 pm
Hey Captain,
Write me through http://www.thefatboychronicles.com
And thanks for all the comments! Glad you liked the trailer and the topic.
Mike