Three of the writers squabble in The Stable's kitchen over travel mugs -- the favorite is apparently being horded by Alison from Alaska, who is up making coffee as early as ten a.m. One writer, Leonard, the one with the bow tie, attempts to redirect their anger by leading a discussion on magical realism. Others watch a boxing match on television "for inspiration."
The next morning the writers get a message outlining their next challenge: they must write the first chapter of a novel while working as a receptionist in a busy real estate office.
The women trim their nails and get to work. Betsy, one of producer John Watergate's favorites, quickly finds the "boss key" on her computer program and is the only writer who isn't caught writing. Alison from Alaska is discovered by the office manager copying her draft on the office copy machine, but is later praised by the judges for finding and stealing several 9 x 5 envelopes.
The men fall short on this challenge. Chase's chapter is only 2 pages long. Roberto has a hard time locating the hold button on 9 different occasions (funny outtakes on that), and Leonard loses 13 calls from perspective clients. Claiming his "writing comes first," to the judging panel, he looks sullen and unrepentent. John Watergate reminds him that writing doesn't pay and he must hold a job to support it, then goes on to criticize his chapter (14 pages long!) as "lacking texture or edges." He is eliminated.
Posted by martha at October 6, 2005 7:03 PM