I do write screenplays! Ones that are somewhat actor driven as well, and I'd love to have Mike Leigh co-author one called the Unfunctionable Family cause I think it's right up his alley. Does anyone know him well enough to run this by him directly? The script is available for download on my site DavesScripts.net along with a 1-page synopsis and 1-page pitch. Any feedback or suggestions would be much appreciated!
David Long
DavesScripts238.net

However he works it, he meets the Oscar criterion. He's up for best original screenplay with every film he puts out.

Yes Mike does write screenplays. But he gets inspiration from workshopping with the actors.

Right, this is how it's done. Mike starts with some kind of story outline. he then gets together the cast, not a difficult thing for him. they then workshop ideas for scenes in a rehearsal space, everyone giving imput. This is done for a while , not sure of exact period. Over this time characters are built by the actors and director, notes are made, bits are recorded and all the while mike is going home typing up scenes inspired by the work the actors have done. This way the actors play a part in the creation of the characters. But it is eventually written by mike before anyone else is on board.

I don't think he's that freewheeling. His method is apparently to stage a scene which has a specific objective and let the cast work out the best way to meet it. Obviously he uses a lot of real locations but if there is a set involved the only limitations are simple blocking problems (insuring the camera doesn't have to point too far up or down or anywhere else that will expose non-existant walls, ceilings etc.) easily avoided but probably a challenge in terms of lighting and sound recording.

I would like to know as well. I am writing a paper on the designer's process through working with Leigh. If you find anything let me know.

I would like to know as well. I am writing a paper on the designer's process through working with Leigh. If you find anything let me know.

Also what I want to know is how to the set designers and costumers know what to design and how many changes of clothes the actors will have since there is no script at all indicating what to wear or what kind of set there should be?

His method is to take most of the cast together and write a script with them through improvisational sessions.