‘CSI’ writer conducts workshop

AARON Thomas, the supervising producer of “CSI: New York,” visited Manila for a two-day writing workshop at the Ateneo Professional Schools last March 26 and 27. Producer Tanya Yuson brought in Thomas, who has also written for “Friday Night Lights” and “Numbers.”

Yuson shares, “We don’t really do procedural teleplays, which is what you call shows like “CSI: NY,” in the Philippines—but, that doesn’t mean we can’t learn from this different genre.”

Director Lino Cayetano notes, “It’s interesting to hear a working writer talk about producing procedurals. Our local shows are often character-driven. This workshop is enlightening, because as we learn new ways to tell stories.”

Hierarchy

Robert Quebral adds, “I appreciated how he discussed a series’ hierarchy—the Showrunner (executive producer) is also the writer. They combine creativity and production management—which are spearheaded by the writers. Adopting that practice here makes sense.”

Rody Vera observes, “We need to contextualize where that craft is coming from and integrate it into a working system.”

For Filipino writers dreaming of penetrating Hollywood, Thomas advises, “Turn to the Internet to create a buzz, perhaps on YouTube. You can also get recognition from film festivals or create webisodes to draw people’s attention!”