The Screenwriter's Problem Solver

The definitive guide to identifying and fixing common screenwriting problems from “the most sought-after screenwriter teacher in the world” (Hollywood Reporter)
 
“If I were writing screenplays . . . I would carry Syd Field around in my back pocket.”—Steven Bochco, writer/producer/director, L.A. Law, Hill Street Blues
 
All writing is rewriting. But what do you change, and how do you change it? All screenplays have problems. They happened to Die Hard: With a Vengeance and Broken Arrow—and didn’t get fixed, leaving the films flawed. They nearly shelved Platoon—until Oliver Stone rewrote the first ten pages and created a classic. They happen to every screenwriter. But good writers see their problems as a springboard to creativity. 
 
Bestselling author Syd Field, who worked on over 1,000 screenplays a year, gives you step-by-step instructions on how to make your screenplay shine. With The Screenwriter’s Problem Solver, you’ll learn how to:

•Understand what makes great stories work
• Make your screenplay work in the first ten pages, using Thelma & Louise and Dances With Wolves as models
• Use a “dream assignment” to let your creative self break free overnight
• Make action build character, the way Quentin Tarantino does
• Recover when you hit the “wall”—and overcome writer’s block forever
 
Field provides the professional secrets that make movies brilliant—secrets that can make your screenplay one headed for success . . . or even Cannes.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs