Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon was on TV tonight. Beautiful and brooding. I’d like to write a screenplay someday but I am unsure how to proceed. I’m daunted by an unknown, highly structured format.

I’m told software exists to make the process easier. It all begins with a story, however, and I haven’t written yet what I’d like to make into a script. Guess I’ll go back to the movie.

Notice the difference between the script and what the characters say in the movie clip. Lost in translation? Or was the director adding to the script during filming?

JEN
What kind of Iron Arm are you?

FLYING MACHETE CHANG
You have amazing technique! I am Flying Machete. Are you related to Southern Crane?

JEN
Southern Duck? I don’t eat anything with two feet. Who could remember such long-winded names?

GOU JUN SIHUNG
Li Mu Bai is your defeated foe, and you don’t know his master, Southern Crane?

JEN
Who are you?

GOU JUN SIHUNG
I’m Shining Phoenix Mountain Gou.

JEN
(furious)
Gou? I hate that name. It makes me puke! Too bad you’re named Gou. You’ll be the first to feel my sword today.

Jen leaps up and dives into battle. The men all use different kinds of weapons, but they all succumb to the powerful Green Destiny.

MONK JING
Hold it! Don’t you know Monk Jing?

JEN
A monk, in a place like this? You need a lesson!

MONK JING
Who are you?

She smiles, and leaps again into action after unsheathing the Green Destiny.

JEN
Who am I? I am… I am the Invincible Sword Goddess. Armed with the Incredible… Green Destiny. Be you Li or Southern Crane… lower your head… and ask for mercy. I am the desert dragon. I leave no trace. Today I fly over Eu-Mei. Tomorrow… I’ll kick over Wudan Mountain!