"Straight from the Can": The Filmmaking Secret that the Studios don't want you to know

Hello? Hello? CAN you hear me? THROUGH THESE CANS?

You're a screenwriter, right? Sure, everyone is. And you read some pretty deep shit, yeah? Yeah you do. That's why you're a screenwriter. Also it's because when you saw 'Lawrence of Arabia' when you were 4 years old it was the most intense experience of your entire life.

So all the pieces are in place but why isn't anyone getting back to me about my spec script for Spooks?

It's the question that niggles at the back of everyone's mind, especially when they've just sent off a spec script for 'Spooks'. Or Luther.

Well listen up "writers", because you're about to uncover the truth you've known all along but couldn't quite put into words. The one tip that will help you take it to the next level, the one sure-fire way to get that writing job on 'Hustle.' It's name? ... The 'Straight from the Can' Technique.

The Straight from the Can Technique, alternatively known as "SftC", "Recluse and Beans" or "Fork in the Tin". And you've probably seen it countless films, TV shows... you might even have done it in real life. (I'm sorry if you have.)

Here's the scenario; you've got a character who doesn't fit in; an outcast, a freak... doesn't fit in. An Outsider. But how do you show he's an outsider? How do you show he's an outsider without having someone actually call him an outsider. You go Straight from the Can, or to spell it out for you; You show him in an empty flat eating beans directly from  can, staring vacantly at static on a TV screen. And it's done. You already know everything you need to know about this character and you can get on with that slick banter you're so good at.

What's on? NOTHING.

So what do we know? Everything. He doesn't have plates. But he does have a fork. And a can opener. But he doesn't have plates. He might have opened it with a knife? Doesn't matter. The TV static shows he is disconnected from society like the TV is disconnected from the aerial. Whereas the beans are the most pathetic thing a man can eat from a can, even tinned ravioli retains some shred of continental dignity. He should also have a gaunt face. Like John Hannah, but moreso. And he should be sat in a fishing chair with no other furniture. If you really want to WOW those bigwigs at Broadcasting House, give the audience a glimpse of other open cans on the floor around the chair - He's done it before. Maybe even today. Is that why he's so gaunt? Probably.

Extra flourishes are always welcome; hunting knife, bomber jacket and if you're feeling like showing off, have him wearing fingerless gloves. Loner.

I do not know who this man is but I already care!

You can use it in anything, there's not a film been made that couldn't have been improved by a SftC scene. But the one thing you must remeber is You Must Never Try It Yourself. It may seem like a good idea at the time, but it's a dangerous road to go down. Why'd you think Mickey Rourke was offscreen for so many years? Method Acting.

Why am I telling you this? Why am I telling you this? Why am I telling you this?

Does not work with female characters.