Tagging the Script “You are whatever I say you are!” Hopefully you used one on the programs mentioned under screenwriting that also have related scheduling software. First, you will need to tag all the ELEMENTS in your screenplay in the screenwriting software. (See individual software for tagging options) INT/EXT LOCATIONS CAST EXTRAS SPECIAL…
Rewrite: “It’ll never be perfect! Make it good!” Rewrite! Rewrite! Rewrite! This should not be a scary process but an exciting one. You have finished the script. You have a ton of words on around 100 pages. You think it’s perfect!… maybe it is? But you’ve had it critiqued and it’s probably not, so,…
Critique: “Everyone has an opinion!” Now that you have a first draft it’s time to get some feedback. Let a few trusted friends whose advice you respect give it a read. Ask them to take notes as they read. Anything that strikes their minds could be useful – or not. That’s up to you. Write…
Ending: “It’s gotta end sometime!” It’s your ending just make it good. The end of your screenplay should leave a lasting impression on your audience. It’s up to you what that impression should be. Do you want all you’re loose ends tied up in a nice little bow, or do you want to leave the…
Action: “Stupid is as stupid does! When it comes to writing action there are several different styles. Everything from simple and direct to beautiful and almost poetic. Pick what style works best for you, but always keep it entertaining. Make sure to always keep your action lines in the present tense and keep it snappy,…
Dialogue: “Say what!” It is important to remember the difference between real life conversations and structured dialogue. Characters are made up of what they do and what they say. Dialogue should always be “functional” meaning that it pushes the story forward, makes a statement, incites comedy, or all of the above. Make sure not to…
Film Festivals: “Schmooze and Booze” Film Festivals “Schmooze and Booze” A major portion of gaining awareness about your film is running it through the film festival circuit. Consider this a form of direct marketing where you will be able to get actual audiences to experience your film the way it should be experienced. In a…
Formatting “It goes like this!” Formatting is pretty universal I’m not going to get into details about exact formatting, but a good simple breakdown can be found at: scripped.com – screenplay_basics Definitely get a screenwriting program. I like It’s not free, but it does go along with the entire suite; There are some good freeware…
Characters: “The players!” Characters sometimes come out of thin air, or you can build them piece-by-piece. I recommend spending some time with and getting to know each one of your characters before you begin writing. Write complete backstories for them, their passions and pains, their joy’s and sorrows; the details! The smaller the better, what…
Genre Conventions: “I am whatever you say I am!” When thinking about what you want to write about, take great heed from the classic conventions of genre. This can be a great tool in solidifying what type of film you will be making as well as help you structure the ins and outs of the…