Search This Blog

newvine

Showing posts with label Betty Corday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Betty Corday. Show all posts

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Days of Our Lives Christmas















Technorati Tags:
, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Days of Our Lives 12-14-08 Pdf file

Days of Our Lives

Alternative Storyline for Days of Our Lives
Here is the next installment of my alternative storylines for Days of Our Lives.

This is what I previously posted on the NBC Days boards http://geocities.com/tirgana/daysofourlives.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/Days10-16.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-26-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-31-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days11-2-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days11-15-08.pdf

http://geocities.com/tirgana/Days12-2-08.pdf

http://geocities.com/tirgana/Days12-8-08.pdf

The newest entry is at http://geocities.com/tirgana/day12-14-08.pdf


The last three entries aren't in the proper format; I'll fix it later.

If you like what you are reading, please leave me a comment here or on the NBC message boards. Or better yet contact the executive producers at

Gary Tomlin or Ken Corday
Corday Productions
3400 W. Olive Avenue
suite 170 Burbank CA
91505-4630

818-295-2821

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Days of Our Lives 12-8-08

Days of Our Lives

Alternative Storyline for Days of Our Lives
Here is the next installment of my alternative storylines for Days of Our Lives.

This is what I previously posted on the NBC Days boards http://geocities.com/tirgana/daysofourlives.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/Days10-16.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-26-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-31-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days11-2-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days11-15-08.pdf

http://geocities.com/tirgana/Days12-2-08.pdf

The newest entry is at http://geocities.com/tirgana/Days12-8-08.pdf


The last three entries aren't in the proper format; I'll fix it later.

If you like what you are reading, please leave me a comment here or on the NBC message boards. Or better yet contact the executive producers at

Gary Tomlin or Ken Corday
Corday Productions
3400 W. Olive Avenue
suite 170 Burbank CA
91505-4630

818-295-2821

Friday, December 5, 2008

Days of Our Lives: A Letter From a Fan to Dena Higley

This letter was originally posted on the NBC Days of Our Lives Message Board. It has been reproduced with the permission of the author.


Dear Ms. Higley:
I realize that now the show has been renewed for 18 months, and not likely to be renewed again, that you feel that you can write whatever you want, consequences and for that matter fan bases be damned. And I also realize that it is impossible to make every fan base happy. But why do you insist on upsetting every single fan base, and further more the general audience? If you know what the general audience wants to see, why is it so hard for you to take a cue from them, and write in favor of their views? After all, a show is NOTHING without their fans!

Days of our lives as you well know has been on the air for over 40 years, and has a very dedicated audience. All we wish to do is watch a show (that many of us have watched since we were children) and escape reality for an hour and enjoy our soap. However, since you have taken the reigns, it's become increasingly harder for us to do that. The plot point writing and lack of, make that NO direction makes watching this show almost equivalent to a root canal (okay maybe that's taking it a little too far) but I digress.

My request is that you really consider what the audience is asking of you and make these next 18 months the best this show has ever seen! Because I have feeling we are not going to get another chance.

Thank you for your time,
Gina

Monday, December 1, 2008

Days of Our Lives 12-2-08
Days of Our Lives

Alternative Storyline for Days of Our Lives
Here is the next installment of my alternative storylines for Days of Our Lives.

This is what I previously posted on the NBC Days boards http://geocities.com/tirgana/daysofourlives.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/Days10-16.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-26-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-31-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days11-2-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days11-15-08.pdf

The newest entry is at http://geocities.com/tirgana/Days12-2-08.pdf


The last three entries aren't in the proper format; I'll fix it later.

If you like what you are reading, please leave me a comment here or on the NBC message boards. Or better yet contact the executive producers at

Gary Tomlin or Ken Corday
Corday Productions
3400 W. Olive Avenue
suite 170 Burbank CA
91505-4630

818-295-2821

Days of Our Lives: 12-1-08

EXT: LAKE OUTSIDE DIMERA COTTAGE: NIGHT
John treads water a few yards away from the dock, while Marlena does the same a few feet away.

JOHN
You're not going to make this easy.

MARLENA
Nope.

John swims toward her; Marlena easily stays just out of his reach.

JOHN
You're going to make me catch you?

MARLENA
You always could before. Maybe you're no longer up to the challenge.

JOHN
Challenge?
(Annoyed)
So you're testing me again?

MARLENA
Not really.

JOHN
Then what is it?

Marlena submerges. John looks around. He is suddenly startled as she grabs him beneath the water. Marlena resurfaces on the other side of the dock.

You!

MARLENA
(Laughing and splashing)
Me?

JOHN
Two can play at that game.

John submerges. Marlena circles around to the spot where John was; John surfaces were she was last.

Keep it up and we'll be too tired to have fun.

MARLENA
Too tired? Feeling a little old are we?

JOHN
Not likely!

He dives beneath the surface; again, Marlena swims away. She turns to look for him. He doesn't resurface.

MARLENA
John?
(Swimming back)
John?
(Panicking)
John!

He resurfaces and embraces her from behind. Smiling, she turns around and they passionately kiss.

Winston walks out on the dock and looks around. He is surprised to see them in the water.

WINSTON
(Playing it dead pan)
Sir, the staff and I are retiring for the evening.

JOHN
Good night.

WINSTON
Will you or your guests need anything before morning?

JOHN
Like what?

WINSTON
Drinks? Snacks?

JOHN
We'll just raid the kitchen.

WINSTON
If you tell me what you wish, I will prepare it before I retire.

MARLENA
Good night Winston.

WINSTON
It would not be a problem.

JOHN
Good night Winston.

WINSTON
Bathing suits, perhaps?

MARLENA
Winston, you don't approve of skinny-dipping?

WINSTON
I don't approve or disapprove. It's just unwise in a lake over run with snapping turtles--and swimmer's itch.

JOHN
Why didn't you say something?

WINSTON
I just did. Good night.

Winston walks back toward the cottage.

JOHN
Where were we?

MARLENA
Do you think he was kidding?

JOHN
If he wasn't--I'll scratch your--

MARLENA
What's the matter?

JOHN
Did you just touch my leg?

MARLENA
No. Why?

JOHN
I just felt something.

MARLENA
What something?

JOHN
There it is again. You sure it's not you?

MARLENA
(Showing her hands)
It's not me.

John looks down at the water. He flinches and quickly swims toward the ladder. Laughing, Marlena watches. Startled, she flinches and she follows.
CUT

INT: COTTAGE STUDY: NIGHT
Wearing John's shirt, Marlena walks in. John follows; he is wearing his pants and carrying his shoes. They are both dripping.

JOHN
So he wasn't kidding about the turtles.

Towels and a tube of anti-itch cream has been placed on the table. John picks up the cream.

Do you think this will be enough?

MARLENA
(Handing him a towel)
We’ll know soon enough.

Marlena walks towards the hallway.

JOHN
Where are you going?

MARLENA
Sometimes a shower helps.
(Stopping at the doorway)
Care to join me?

Smiling, John follows and they run up the stairs. Moments later, Winston appears with a mope; disapprovingly he looks up the stares and clicks his tongue before wiping up the water from the floor.
CUT

INT: CHEATING HEART: NIGHT
The bar is crowded with people having a good time. Max and Steve walk in. Max looks around

MAX
(Pointing at the bar)
There they are. Duane is the one in the green. Mike is in burgundy.

Steve starts toward them; Max stops him.

Let me. They aren’t exactly the trusting types.

STEVE
I can be subtle.

MAX
They already lied to the cops to protect him.

STEVE
Got it. I’ll be around.

Steve walks around the bar, stopping to talk with one of the guys playing pool. Max walks behind the bar and talks to the bartender for a few moments. The bartender nods and disappears into the kitchen. Max pretend to tidy behind the bar, slowly making his way to the two at the end.

MAX
Mike. Duane. Ready for another round?

DUANE
Not yet.

MAX
Let me know.

MIKE
Where you been?

Steve walks around the bar, talking to people.

MAX
I’ve been helping my ma out at the Pub. What about you guys? Keeping out of trouble?

DUANE
(Angrily)
Us always. Bernie not so much. Cops were asking about him again.

MAX
What for?

MIKE
His ex has been using the cops to harass him.

MAX
I thought your father was the County Sheriff?

MIKE
That’s why she calls the city boys. She’s conned one of their detective into doing her dirty work. He had him locked up for nothing.

DUANE
It wasn’t for nothing. Any man who won’t support his kids isn’t much of a man.

MIKE
She shouldn’t have divorced him.

DUANE
He’s your cousin and all-but he’s still crazy!

Steve sits on the bar stool close to Mike.

STEVE
Give me a draft.

MAX
Coming up.
(Pouring the beer and gives it to Steve
Crazy how?

MIKE
Shut up!

DUANE
No. I won’t!
(To Max)
The court was garnishing his child support. He tried to get Greg to pay him under the table so he wouldn‘t have t pay it. He wouldn’t. Bernie blew up and slugged him. Greg fired him.

MAX
Understandable.

MIKE
Joyce just wants more child support.

DUANE
He was stupid. If he doesn’t keep up with his support, he goes back to jail.

STEVE
My old lady’s like that too. She doesn’t just want a piece, she wants it all.

MIKE
She was never satisfied.

STEVE
They should be made to get a job too. Not just live off us.

MAX
It’s the father responsibility.

STEVE
(To Max)
You married.

MAX
No.

STEVE
Got kids.

MAX
No.

STEVE
Until you do, you can’t understand.

DUANE
I heard he kidnapped his kid.

MIKE
You can’t kidnap your own kid! .

MAX
Do you think he’d hurt him?

MIKE
(Over reacting)
No! I don’t care what anyone says. Bernie loves his son!

STEVE
Whoa! Chill. I understand where he’s coming from. No matter how much you give, she always wants more. No cash--no visitation! There should be a law against it.

MIKE
That’s right! He got a couple of weeks behind and she had him arrested.

DUANE
He was two months behind.

MIKE
His family had to pay up so he could get out.

MAX
Seems fair to me.

STEVE
What do you know? Nothing. I thought about taking my kid and disappearing. Trouble is I got no place to hide.

MIKE
We got a place.

STEVE
Don’t keep it to yourself. I might find the need to flee.

MIKE
(Draining his glass and standing)
I said too much already.

Mike throws some cash on the bar and leaves.

STEVE
(Following)
Damn!

Duane stands to follow; Max grabs his arm and shakes his head.

MAX
Let me buy you a beer.

Uncertain, Duane looks at the door.

You don’t want to go there.

Duane sits back down and Max refills his glass.
CUT

EXT: ALLEY OUTSIDE CHEATING HEART: NIGHT
Mike is walking towards his car. Steve catches up with him.

STEVE
Hey, dude. Wait!

MIKE
(Defensive)
What for?

STEVE
I want to talk to you.

MIKE
I’ve got nothing to say.

STEVE
(Catching up with him)
I just have a couple of questions.

MIKE
I don’t talk to cops I don‘t know.

STEVE
Unfortunately for you dude,
(Throwing him against the wall)
I’m not a cop.

MIKE
(Shoving Steve)
What’s your deal?

STEVE
I just want to know where you cousin took his kid.

MIKE
None of your business!

STEVE
Wrong answer!

MIKE
(Trying to walk away)
It’s the only one you are going to get.

STEVE
I hate when people walk away when I am talking to ‘em.

Steve spins Mike around and punches him. Mike falls against the trashcans; blood trickles out of his nose.

Let I said, where’s Bernie?

MIKE
(Leaping at him)
You son of a bitch!

Steve catches him propels him across the alley. Mike hits the wall. Quickly, he spins around and throws a punch at Steve. Steve grabs his fist. Twisting Mike’s arm around his back, he smashes Mike’s face into the wall.

STEVE
I also hate repeating myself.

MIKE
Go to hell!

STEVE
(Increasing the pressure on Mike’s arm)
Don’t make me ask again.

MIKE
You’ll pay for this! My father is the sheriff--

STEVE
Goody-goody for him. I’m shaking in my boots. Where’s Bernie?

Mike struggles.

When I get bored twisting, I’m going start breaking.

MIKE
You’ll pay for this!

STEVE
I’ve got buck and half that’s not doing nothing.

MIKE
You son of bitch!

Grabbing Mike’s hair with his free hand, he bounces his head off the wall.

STEVE
Don’t insult my mother. It’s rude. Is Bernie at the cabin?

MIKE
You got nothing!

STEVE
I’ll have your ass if you don’t start talking.

Max, Duane and two other men walk out of the bar.

MAX
Steve, I’ve got directions to the cabin.

DUANE
Bernie took us hunting there last fall.

MIKE
Shut up!

STEVE
(Twisting)
That’s not nice way to talk to a friend.

DUANE
I’m not going to stand by and do nothing. Bernie’s crazy. I remember what threatened to do.

MIKE
He was drunk!

MAX
It’s about an hour out.

STEVE
They’d be gone before we got there.

MAX
Not if he didn’t know.
(Indicating Duane and the two other men)
They’ve agreed to keep your friend company until we get back.

STEVE
You see that.
(Releasing him and shoving him toward Duane)
I’m sure they’ll take real good care of you.
(To Duane)
Don’t let him get to a phone.

DUANE
It won’t be a problem. We’re just going to drive around for a while. Maybe go out to Rich’s farm.

MIKE
You won’t get away with this. It’s kidnapping.

STEVE
I don’t see anything. Maxwell, you see anything.

MAX
Me either.

STEVE
Let’s go.

MAX
I’ll call you when we get back.

Steve and Max leave. The three other men surround Mike.
CUT

INT: CONSERVATORY: NIGHT
Tony and Renee sit together on the couch; Andrea Lee watches them from across the room.

RENEE
I’m confused.

ANDREA LEE
You usually are mother.

RENEE
Andrea please!

TONY
I know it is hard to believe.

RENEE
To say the very least.

TONY
It’s true.

RENEE
Emily would never just curse all of Stefano’s children and grandchildren. She wouldn’t hurt me!

TONY
She thinks you’re dead. We all did.

RENEE
What do you want from me?

TONY
Come back to Salem with me.

ANDREA LEE
Why?

TONY
I promised Lee I’d find you and bring you back.

RENEE
You promised Emily’s ghost?

TONY
Renee, darling you have to believe me.

RENEE
(Standing and walking away)
Tony, I’m trying. It just doesn’t make any sense.

ANDREA LEE
Since when did that ever stop you?

TONY
Have you always been so rude to your mother?

ANDREA LEE
Have you always been a bastard?

RENEE
If I go back, she’ll stop?

TONY
Yes. We think so.

RENEE
We?

TONY
Marlena and Celeste. Did you know you have a half brother and sister? Lexie and Elvis.

ANDREA LEE
Elvis? As in Presley?

RENEE
No I didn’t.

TONY
No, as in EJ Wells.

ANDREA LEE
The racecar driver?

TONY
(Nodding)
Lexie is Celeste and Stefano’s daughter. She is doctor. They both live in Salem

ANDREA LEE
It’d be worth the trip just to meet him.

RENEE
I would love to see Marlena again. I have always wanted to contact her, but father said it wouldn’t be a good idea.

TONY
Why? Marlena always cared a great deal about you.

RENEE
Father said they blamed me for your death.

TONY
(Taking her hands in his)
They would never--

RENEE
I bet my funeral was a very lonily affair. Not many people missed me. Bet there were a few who even danced on my grave.

TONY
My sweet Renee--

ANDREA LEE
Stop calling her that!

TONY
(Gently caressing her cheek)
We all missed you. Especially me.

Tony and Renee look into each other eyes.

When you died, my world ended.

ANDREA LEE
Obviously, you got over it.

TONY
(To Andrea)
Could you be a bigger bitch?

ANDREA LEE
For you, sure. I’ll put in the extra effort.

TONY
Don’t put yourself out on my account.

ANDREA LEE
Don’t worry. That’s a debt I won’t mine paying.

RENEE
I never did get a chance to say good-bye to my sister.

TONY
(Confused)
Emily was your mother.

RENEE
I know. But we were raised as sisters.
(Thinking it over)
Okay. I’ll do it.

ANDREA LEE
How gullible can one person be?

RENEE
When do you want to leave?

TONY
Immediately.

RENEE
Why so quick?

TONY
Lee has already hurt two people. She nearly killed EJ’s wife. I don’t know who else she’ll hurt if you don’t come back.

RENEE
(Walking closer to Andrea)
I see. Then I’ll pack right away. Do you want something to eat while you wait?

TONY
No. I’ll eat on the plane. How long before you’ll be ready?

RENEE
An hour. I have to make a few arrangements.

ANDREA LEE
I’ll be ready too.

TONY
You’re going?

ANDREA LEE
I wouldn’t miss it.

TONY
(Embracing Renee)
The plane will be ready.

Tony runs back through the house and out the front door.

ANDREA LEE
Have you lost your mind again?

RENEE
I don’t care what anyone says. That’s not Tony. Tony’s dead. He almost had me. Emily wouldn’t hurt anyone. She couldn’t. The moment he said she had, I knew he was lying.

ANDREA LEE
Then why are you going along with it.

RENEE
I want to see just how far Andre will take it. Besides, I haven’t been able to contact father.

ANDREA LEE
Do you think Andre knows where he is?

RENEE
I’m certain of it. Before I make him pay for murdering Tony, I’m going find out what he did to father.
CUT

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Soap Operas: The Cliff Hanger-The Backbone of the Genre

Soap Operas: The Cliff Hanger-The Backbone of the Genre
By
Theresa Chaze

The cliffhanger has been the both a source of pleasure and bane to soap opera viewer since the genre was created. It is one of the hooks that keep the viewers coming back. From radio to daytime to the emergence of primetime soaps, the cliffhanger has been the one element that has remained constant. However, in the past few years with the movement away from the traditional soap opera format to one that is more titillating, the cliffhanger has also been cast aside.

In the era of multi-media and channel options, cliff hangers have become more important than ever in the success of a soap opera. With so many choices, all shows need to give the viewers a reason to keep tuning in. Historically, cliff hangers have been the genre’s best tools to create loyal fans. According the World English dictionary, the definition of a cliffhanger is:

1. Arts literature ending left teasingly unresolved: an unresolved ending in a serialized drama or book that leaves the audience or reader desperate to know what will happen in the next part

2. Arts drama serial with suspenseful endings: a drama serial that has episodes that often end in suspenseful unresolved endings

3. Tense situation: a situation full of tension or suspense because it is not clear what will happen next

By keeping the audience guessing, the writers insure they will tune in next time to learn what happens to their favorite characters. However, the more invested the viewer is in the characters the easier it is to hook them. Yet on the flip side, it is nearly impossible to retain the interest of the viewers if they can’t identify with the character or if the plot doesn‘t fit within the perimeters the show has already established. The more the viewers care about the characters, the more likely they will be loyal to the show.

Cliff hangers need storylines that are not only well written, but also well thought out and exactly timed. Cutting the scene in the middle of the action is not a cliff hanger; it is a poorly placed cut. In order to be effective, it has to be the logical progression of the plot throughout the episode. By properly organizing and timing the sequence of scenes, the writer builds the suspense and drama. Inter-cutting the primary storyline to build a secondary, not only heightens the tension, but it also initiates the next primary storyline and helps insure the show will end at climatic moment. As with comedy, timing isn't the only thing, it's everything.

Many of the current soaps have given up writing the complicated storylines that are associated with cliff hangers in favor of gratuitous sexual scenes that aren’t based in plot or character. Instead of developing characters or stories the viewers can identify with and care about, the writers have chosen to focus shallow characters and plots that more closely resemble soft porn, which is why the genre has been slowly dying. In traditional soaps, sex was the end result of romance that was gradually created over weeks of teasing, testing and sexual tension. Instant romance and relationships give nothing for the viewer to look forward to since they already know what the end results will be sex. Until the writers return to storylines, which are based on suspense, drama, romance and humor, cliff hangers will be a thing of the past, taking with them the whole genre.

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Days of Our Lives 11-15-08

Days of Our Lives

Alternative Storyline for Days of Our Lives
Here is the next installment of my alternative storylines for Days of Our Lives.

This is what I previously posted on the NBC Days boards http://geocities.com/tirgana/daysofourlives.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/Days10-16.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-26-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-31-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days11-2-08.pdf

The newest entry is at http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days11-15-08.pdf


The last three entries aren't in the proper format; I'll fix it later.

If you like what you are reading, please leave me a comment here or on the NBC message boards. Or better yet contact the executive producers at

Gary Tomlin or Ken Corday
Corday Productions
3400 W. Olive Avenue
suite 170 Burbank CA
91505-4630

818-295-2821

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Viewers' Opinion of Days of Our Lives

I am doing research about what you think about Days both current and past shows. If I can't write for Days, I'll write about it. These questions aren't about me or fan bases but the show in general. By answering the questions, not only will you help me, but through the article you might clue in the executive producers and writers. In order to quote you in the article, I will need your legal name and the state you live in.

How long have you watched Days?

Why did you start?

Are you happy with what you are seeing on your screen? Why?

How many times a week do you watch?

Has your viewing increased or decreased?

When and why did you change your viewing habit?

What has been your favorite storyline? Why?

What has been your least favorite storyline? Why?

In comparing the show from when you first started watching to now. which did you enjoy more? Why?

If you suddenly became the owner of Days, what changes would you make? Why?

What things would you keep? Why?


Is there anything you would like to say about Days?

Friday, November 7, 2008

Gary Tomlin Happy with Days of Our Lives Being 4th

Okay, I'm believer in elves, dragons, and miracle. So I made one final phone call to Gary Tomlin to make my case to join the writing staff. Gary, you guard dog did her job. I was told to please not to call the number again because it is very private.

I pointed out that with Days being in last place more often than not and with their fan bases crumbling that it was time to start thinking outside the box, she told me that they were in fourth and the rest didn't matter. She was more concern about my calling than what I had to say.

So being fourth is good enough and what the fans want....well, you can see that on the screen. Can you just imagine what Betty Corday or Irna Philips would say? Betty loved Days; It was her pride and joy. It's too bad Ken or Gary can't say the same.

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Days of Our Lives

Today, I once again called Gary Tomlin to ask for a job. According to his assistant, he was in a meeting. When I explained why I wanted to talk to him, she gave me very little hope that he would call me back. The show needs a head writer who cannot only do her own work, but who knows the characters and the show's history enough to be able to write storylines that will honor both. Day's used to be able suspense, drama, romance and humor; it hasn't been that way in a long time. I have already proven that I do that. Your kind words and support have proven that you enjoy my work. Unfortunately, I need a job and I need it now. I've done my best to storm the gates both directly and indirectly. I have used time and energy that I could have used to provide for my family to work towards getting the gig. It's not that I'm giving up, I still want the gig; it's just that I'm running out of road. If I wanted to be bitch about it, I would post the phone number of his direct line that I found; however, ethically I can't go there.

I will post more story when time and energy allow me too. But I'm leaving it up to those who love my work and want to see it on the screen to make it happen. Corday's Production line is public knowledge; it is 818-295-2821. The publicity line is 818-840-2810. Sony Pictures number is 310-244-5722.

I'm leaving my destiny up to the Fates and those who loved my work enough to make a difference. Whatever happens, I am very grateful to everyone who have supported me; it has meant the world to me.

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Days of Our Lives

Alternative Storyline for Days of Our Lives
Here is the next installment of my alternative storylines for Days of Our Lives.

This is what I previously posted on the NBC Days boards http://geocities.com/tirgana/daysofourlives.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/Days10-16.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-26-08.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-31-08.pdf

The newest entry is at http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days11-2-08.pdf


The last three entries aren't in the proper format; I'll fix it later.

If you like what you are reading, please leave me a comment here or on the NBC message boards. Or better yet contact the executive producers at

Gary Tomlin or Ken Corday
Corday Productions
3400 W. Olive Avenue
suite 170 Burbank CA
91505-4630

818-295-2821


Technorati Tags:
, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Friday, October 31, 2008

Days of Our Lives

Alternative Storyline for Days of Our Lives
Here is the next installment of my alternative storylines for Days of Our Lives.

This is what I previously posted on the NBC Days boards http://geocities.com/tirgana/daysofourlives.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/Days10-16.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-26-08.pdf

The newest installment is at www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-31-08.pdf


The last two entries aren't in the proper format; I'll fix it later.

If you like what you are reading, please leave me a comment here or on the NBC message boards. Or better yet contact the executive producers at

Gary Tomlin or Ken Corday
Corday Productions
3400 W. Olive Avenue
suite 170 Burbank CA
91505-4630

818-295-2821

Monday, October 27, 2008

Alternative Storyline for Days of Our Lives

Here is the next installment of my alternative storylines for Days of Our Lives.

This is what I previously posted on the NBC Days boards http://geocities.com/tirgana/daysofourlives.pdf

http://geocities.com/tirgana/Days10-16.pdf

The newest installment is at www.geocities.com/tirgana/days10-26-08.pdf


If you like what you are reading, please leave me a comment here or on the NBC message boards. Or better yet contact the executive producers at

Gary Tomlin or Ken Corday
Corday Productions
3400 W. Olive Avenue
suite 170 Burbank CA
91505-4630

818-295-2820

Friday, October 17, 2008

Days of Our Lives: EJ Wells DiMera AKA James Scott





Days of Our Lives: EJ Wells DiMera AKA James Scott

EJ Wells DiMera has become one of the most controversial characters in recent soap history. Originally presented as a mysterious jet-setting race car driver, he arrives in Salem with an agenda that quickly becomes apparent when he exposed to be son of Susan Banks and Stefano DiMera. It is later revealed that Stefano sent EJ to Salem to plant the DiMera seed in a Brady woman and carry out Santo’s vendetta against the Brady family.

From the Black glove crimes to the rape of Sami Brady to all the other acts of violence in between and since, EJ has become an all or nothing character. Viewers either love him or hate him. Both sides are equally passionate and rabid at the same time.

The Ejamies, as the fans who favor the couple Sami and EJ are called, have glossed over, excused and ignored EJ’s behavior and criminal acts. They habitually read between the lines of the dialogue and character behavior to suit their own point of view. For them Ejamie is the endgame, even if it means the end of the Days. In spite of what was said both on the show and interviews by actors, they refuse to see that EJ raped Sami. After two years, the debated is just as heated as when it first began. His fans dismissed or excused his other crimes . For months, many refused to believe that EJ shot John. They blamed Teck or an unknown shooter, even through there was video proving the contrary. It wasn’t until EJ was tricked by John into admitting it, that the controversy ended. Another tactic is to point out the crimes and bad behavior of other characters as a way to excuse EJ. One person’s bad behavior doesn’t excuse another’s bad behavior.

On the other side is the Sami and Lucas fans, who are called Lumi. They are equally as passionate and stubborn about their favorite couple. However, I have yet to read one statement by a Lumi wishing the show would be canceled if Sami and Lucas weren’t together. Sami and Lucas have a long history together as friends, lovers and adversaries. Their relationship has been bumpy to say the least; however, most of their problems were caused by outside forces, including EJ and Kate Roberts, Lucas’s mother. When I do Lucas’s character profile, I will go into more details. But this is not the time or place; the focus of this piece is on EJ.

I see EJ Wells-DiMera as a complex character who is at war with himself. He is more than a handsome face with a cool accent nor is he just Stefano’s pawn. EJ’s formative years were spent with his mother, Susan Banks and step-father, Edmund Crumb. Although Susan could be best described as unique, she had a kind heart and loved EJ very much. When she escaped with him to England, it was her way of protecting him from Stefano’s influence. It was Susan and Edmond’s influence during his first five years which gave EJ his core values and ability to love.

When or how Stefano gained custody would make a wonderful storyline It seems the writers are over looking this character developing plot; however, it is one that I will be using in the near future in my alternative universe storylines. Stefano is manipulative and controlling, whose love is conditional on him receiving total loyalty and subservience. To question Stefano is to be disloyal to him, thereby bringing down his wrath. Although EJ was the crowned prince to Stefano’s empire, he was taught that he was easily replaceable as Stefano played Andre and EJ off one another. Through this endless competition, EJ leaned to set aside what he learned in his childhood in order to survive. To be safe, he needed to be ruthless and heartless towards his enemies, while controlling those he cared about so that they could not be used against him.

While the core of his personality longed for the family he had in childhood, his conscious mind decided to set that dream aside. To bury it along with all the memories and feelings he had for his mother and Edmond. Whether it was a single event or a series, EJ chose to follow Stefano’s example, by taking what he wanted and the consequences were irrelevant because he was a DiMera. His new philosophy became that to love or need another was to give them power over you, which is not the DiMera way. Instead of asking and risking rejection, the DiMera way was to lie, manipulate and control; thereby retaining power and domination over others.

EJ might have been interested in Sami at the beginning, but it was not the reason he became obsessed with her. Stefano wanted a direct heir with a Brady woman. It was the one thing that Stefano wanted that only EJ could give him. Tony wasn’t a blood son. Andre was a nephew. If EJ could fulfill this one thing, he could permanently gain Stefano’s favor and insure his rise to the head of the DiMera family. However, the reality of having a child was much different than what EJ expected. It awakened and re-energized his early childhood memories. Suddenly he was no longer just Stefano’s pawn, but he was also his mother’s son. By seeing the innocence in Johnny’s eyes, he was reminded what it was like to be loved and loved unconditionally--hence, the inner turmoil and outer obsession.

EJ thought the strength to break away from Stefano came from Sami and Johnny. However, it was his own true self emerging--the part that learned trust and love through his mother. When the aspect remerged, the war within EJ began. He doesn’t love Sami for Sami, but for what she represents. Through her, EJ cannot only please his father but she also gives him the family his heart wants. The problem is that EJ knows that the family isn’t real. No matter what he has done, Sami loves Lucas and will always go back to him. In addition, EJ can’t get past the rape himself. Whenever he looks at Sami and Johnny, part of him remembers that December night and the pain he caused. As long as EJ tries to force a relationship with Sami, he will not be free from his past. She will always represent Stefano’s control over him and the pain he caused to so many, including Sami. It will only by releasing Sami and moving on will EJ be able to find peace within himself and a balance between his two halves.

As a character, EJ is best when his wears a gray hat. He will never be the hero, but he also is not good at being a true villain. The problems is that the writers took him too far dark, then tried instantly redeem him into a hero. Stefano is a villain. John is a hero. EJ needs to find his own niche between them. EJ is capable of great love, but he can also be very naughty.

Days of Our Lives 10-16-2008

Here is the next installment of my alternative storylines for Days of Our Lives.

This is what I previously posted on the NBC Days boards http://geocities.com/tirgana/daysofourlives.pdf


http://geocities.com/tirgana/Days10-16.pdf


If you like what you are reading, please leave me a comment here or on the NBC message boards. Or better yet contact the executive producers at

Gary Tomlin or Ken Corday
Corday Productions
3400 W. Olive Avenue
suite 170 Burbank CA
91505-4630

818-295-2820

Friday, October 10, 2008

Saving Days of Our Lives from Cancelation

For generations Days of Our Lives has been not only much loved but the top rated Daytime soap, being the leader in suspense, drama, romance, and comedy, as well as social issues. As the sand fell through the hour glass, we laughed, cried and waited with baited breath for Monday as the cliffhanger left us dangling on Friday. We had a our favorite heroes and villains--couples we cheered for and those we knew who were doomed for failure.

From the Horton and the Bradys to villainous DiMeras, the writers and actors helped us suspend our disbelief through obsessions and possessions. The brain child of Ted Corday, Betty Corday and Irna Phillips, it premiered in 1965. In the decades, since it has become a TV icon that has been satirized and vilified by those who don’t understand the gothic romance nature of the soap. The Cordays never intended for Days to just meet the industry or viewer expectations but to always exceed them by taking their storylines past the limits and breaking the old taboos. Although it was always cutting edge, it was based on the love of family and friends.

However, in the last couple of years, the decline in the writing has been followed by a decline in the rating, bringing the long soap to the brink of cancellation. Even long time fans, who inherited the love of the show from their mothers and grandmother, were turned off by the lack of suspense, drama, and romance. They missed the humor and the weekly cliffhangers, which had been replaced by the never ending triangles and the destruction of beloved couples.

The random murder of beloved characters brought the wrath of viewers down on the executive producers forcing them to rewrite the storyline in such a ways as to say--just kidding folks. It was the beginning of a long line of poorly thought out and badly written storylines that have made it tied for last place in the ratings. Day’s fans can be rabid and obsessive, but they remain loyal until given good reasons not to be.

My mother got my hooked on Dark Shadows back in the late 1960’s. When it was canceled she moved on to Days of Our Lives and I followed. I have been a fan since Doug and Julie were the super-couple. I grew up with Hope and Bo, cried when Tom Horton died, laughed with Eugene--was severely annoyed to see my favorite character Renee DiMera being carried out feet first. I missed two days and it took me decades to actually learned how she died. Back then the stories were forward moving; they didn’t try to exist on flashbacks.

I know the characters and the history, which is why when the current writers proved they didn’t have a clue into either I started writing an alternative universe Salem and posting it on the NBC message boards. It was out of frustration and anger at being treated like an idiot that made me take the time to create my own storylines. Originally, I wasn’t taking it seriously. I had my novels to write and I had just started my own publishing house. Time was a premium, but I just wasn’t willing to let go of one of the constants in my life.

The postings have a great many typos; plus, the formatting didn’t properly transfer. But it was fun and it didn’t matter. However, the other posters really liked my work. Not only did they ask me to continue, but also suggested that I contact Ken Corday for the head writer gig.



Wow!!! That was excellent! And you soooooo got NuJohn's speech down pat! In the past I would have said there was no way we'd get something like this...but, Days has been getting better, so who knows?
Noledays

Interesting.
I'm not a Celeste fan but you have me intrigued. LOL I want to hear more about what is going on at the mansion. lol
Babyfaith

Oh and once it's all finished, save it, print it out & send it to Burbank. I bet once you finish it that it's better than anything the head writer now can come up with.
TarHeeLfan4eva

This story line is way better than the crappy ones that are on the show at this moment. I'm sick of Dool these days I would much rather watch this than what's on right now.
Lilimar

I've been outta town all weekend, so I just got a chance to read...great job!! All the characters are right on point! I'm guessing the lady is Kristen? Not sure, but my only guess right now. Thanks for the great entertainment!!
MSlovinDOOL

I love it you are an amazing writer, it is so suspenseful and i really wish days would do something like this, please finish it oh and your John humor is right on
ilovethebadboys

that story line is GREAT!!! i need for Days to hire you for a writer. Is it Daphne??? Wow very good. Someone call DH and tell her, we have someone for some additional ideas for writing, that won't jack it up like Sheff!
Foxheir82


I am sooooo intrigued!!!! You have GOT to continue this story!!!! I would LOVE to see this play out on screen - too bad TPTB couldn't come up w/ something this great.. You are a brilliant writer ~ I can't wait to see what happens next!


Girl, I think you DO have a chance in hell! I have watched Days for 25 years or so, and this is some of the best s/l's & dialect I have seen in a looooong time! You really capture the "feel" of the show and the characters personalities! I LOVE that you are involving all the characters! I LOVE that you have wonder and suspense - with this mystery woman and the "haunted" part of the house. I LOVE that Doug will be singing again! And I am happy to see Lucas back - yay!

SERIOUSLY - if I were you I would submit this ASAP! LOVE IT!!!! BRAVO!
azgirlygirl


JOHN
It’s like a Klingon and a tribble.

SAMI
You can remember an episode of Star Trek, but you can’t remember your family.



the best lines.. love what you have NuJohn say

Bo & Roman talking about trophy funny too.
Mouse57

JOHN
Elvis, I see you spared no expense when it came to the ring. How long were you at the gumball machine?


JOHN
(Pointing)
Not the Scotch!

I loved reading this story. You had all of the characters down so well. Nice job. I can't wait to read the rest.

Renee alive.. what will Tony do


I choose to believe she's not alive, lol. And if she is he'd stay with Anna. EJ's already been married off to Ava and lost Little Johnny, I'd hate to see my other couple get broken up too, lol.
elvisdimeralover

I really like your writing. You have a lot of great ideas that I would love to see on the show.

I really think they should hire you for the show as the head writer. Since I see a lot of your stuff any way on the show it really is to bad that you aren't getting paid for it.

One of the main things that I like is that with your writing I have been able to read the whole thing with all the characters that you have involved with your story. Were as with the show I fast forward a lot through it.

I wish you good luck, and hope that you get the job!!
Justconfused


Oh, I am so disappointed that you won't go on writing. But, I do understand why and I agree !! No sense in any one getting the credit when it is yours.

I have enjoyed this so much, I have told my sister all about this story line and she keeps asking me more and wanting more!
Thank you so much for what you have wrote.
suzi8310



I have cleaned up and reformatted the script, converting it into a PDF file. What was posted already on the NBC boards can be found at http://geocities.com/tirgana/daysofourlives.pdf

I will be adding to it in the near future but only on this blog--unless Ken Corday can be persuaded to hire me then you will see it on the screen.


I would very much like comments and feedback.




Technorati Tags:
, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,