graphs and data: a table read debrief
last week I hosted a table read for my feature screenplay, and this week I’m nerding out over the feedback I got. If you're into data and graphs, this post is for you! [film journal #002]
Welcome back to my film journal! Last week, I talked about how the tableread for “Dylan, We Need to Talk” went. This week, I wanted to share with you the feedback I got.
After the read, I had everyone fill out a form (based loosely on Michael Arndt’s feedback questionnaire.)
Going through responses can be tedious—and, let’s be real, a little emotionally taxing.
But treating the critiques like data helps me stay objective.
If you were at the table read or have read the script and, like me, enjoy nerding out on feedback, I thought I’d share a few of the results.
word cloud
One word that stood out the most when asking people to describe the screenplay: fun!
characters
I was so happy to see how many people loved the Sea Hag character.
That said, I know I need to dig deeper into Paloma and Dylan’s dynamic in the next draft—making them more empathetic, even when they’re making questionable choices. I want the audience to understand where they are coming from in the relationship.
scenes
A few scenes didn’t land as strongly—and I could feel that energy shift during the read. The feedback as you see below just confirmed what I already suspected.
soft spots
This just reinforces that the next draft really needs to focus on character development and especially the emotional arc of Paloma and Dylan. I also know the ending still needs work—it hasn’t quite landed yet.
would you watch this movie?
On average, readers said the script feels about 60% finished, and 75% said they’d want to watch the movie once it’s done.
I’ll take that as a sign I’m on the right track—but there’s still plenty of work ahead.
Onward!
lessons learned
Now that I’ve had time to process, here are a few things I’d do differently next time I’m hosting a table read:
I’m wondering if tweaking the wording on the feedback form would’ve made a difference—some questions maybe needed a little more clarity.
Next time, I’d probably assign an MC to help guide the read. It was tough trying to stay focused on the script while also keeping everything on track.
I’d also give a bit more stage direction and be more intentional about casting if I had more prep time.
I’d add a line to the feedback form asking for contact info in case people wanted to chat more afterward.
If you came to the table read—any suggestions for how it could’ve been run better? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Thanks for reading,
xx Gisella
what i’m consuming 🍰
These Taiwanese sticky rice wraps from T&T Market. They are SO GOOD!
who i am
Hi, I’m Gisella! I’m a repped screenwriter based in Seattle. I directed a feature-length documentary and most recently, my pilot Body Brokers was on the 2024 Blacklist Latine List. Follow me on my journey to get my first screenplay green lit 💚