From the Green Room: Hollywood Speak

This morning, the I-Man related a story about Mike Lupica’s first Hollywood experience.  America’s favorite author went out to Tinsel Town to pitch one of his novels to be made into a movie by an interested producer.  They met for a power lunch, Lupie gave his spiel, the producer stood up, slapped his hand on the table, and said:  “It’s GREAT! Let’s do it!”    

He never heard from the man again.

Unbeknownst to Mike, there is an entirely different lexicon and vernacular out on the Left Coast, called “Hollywood Speak.”  Here’s a short Rosetta Stone-style taste, so the next time you’re out in La La Land, you can hold your own with all the fast-talking phonies.  

It’s the greatest screenplay I’ve ever read.
I didn’t read your screenplay. 

I’m developing a very similar idea.
I’m stealing your idea.

This has great box-office potential.
I didn’t read your screenplay.

I’m not sure this is a good fit at this time.
I can’t figure out a way to take credit for this.

We’re prepared to give you a substantial cut of the gross points on the back end.
You will never get paid.

Who do you see playing the lead?
How do we get Tom Hanks interested in this project?

This will get great word of mouth.
You’ll never work in this town again.

We did over $100 Million on the opening weekend.
This movie will never turn a profit.

You have my word.
You’re going to get screwed.