I'm an actor turned screenwriter but still love acting. Any tips for a first time feature length screenwriter? And, no I don't want to do short films. I'm writing of past experiences and putting it into a film. It needs to be a feature. I'm gearing towards the Christian film market. Thanks!!
Screenwriting : New to writing by Alice Bowden
Other topics in Screenwriting:
Check out Trending Discussions
Register / Log In
2 people like this
2 people like this
Read a stack pf screenplays until you think in screenplay. Study those screenplays (movies, too) to figure out how they work.
1 person likes this
What my fellow screenwriters said above and watch films with the screenplay on your knees to train your visual understanding. And as William said "a stack", not just one, two, three and I got it. Additionally, watch all the films you already know again with a notebook. Write down at which minute you think there is a twist or when you think you know what the story is about and what this will lead to. Analyze all that, compare it and find a pattern. Some films will break out of this pattern. Why do they and do you like those? Analyze what you like. Find films that tell a story the way you would like to see your story filmed and do the above etc, etc - have fun and good luck!
Thanks everyone! Valuable feedback! Some of these things I'm already doing and have thought about so it's good to see others have the same ideas. Makes me realize I AM on the right track. Thanks again and bless you all!
I do have a question ya'll. How do you find/purchase scripts? Is there somewhere to go to find pop culture movies? thanks everyone!!!
Hi Alice. Sometimes a quick search on Google will yield a script pdf for any given film. Or try web sites like http://www.simplyscripts.com or http://gointothestory.blcklst.com/free-script-downloads/. I hope that helps. :)
2 people like this
Don't just write about YOUR past experiences unless you've done some incredibly extraordinary things. instead, use those experiences and observations to inspire and color a totally new story.
Hie Alice, what kind of genres you into??
If you're aiming for the mainstream market, Danny Manus is right. Typically, you can write a personal story that isn't biographical in order to have a greater shot in the marketplace. Typically.
Hi everyone i thought the advice you have all given id really helpful . Can i just ask where i can read first draft scripts and shooting scripts so i can see the changes that were made. All help would be appreciated guys
Thank you so much for all of the positive feedback!