Hi, my name is Tom, and I'm a horror/sci-fi/thriller novelist who would like to learn the art of scriptwriting, which I currently know nothing about. I was hoping someone could point me to the best references for beginning my leaning curve. Because of my financial situation, and my muscular dystrophy, it is impossible for me to attend structured writing couses, as are offered at universities and such. So I'm hoping to get a list of the best books on the subject. If anyone has any ideas and suggestions I'd be more than grateful. I've come across quite a few, but would preferr input from those who know before I waste my time on the wrong ones. Thanks for your time, everyone.
Screenwriting : Where do I begin? by Thomas A. Bradley
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The Screenwriter's Bible, anything by Syd Fields, Save the Cat (the beat sheet), and anything/everything on the web that you can get your hands on. I would also suggest that you watch videos from groups such as Film Courage. Every Sunday, RB Botto gifts us with a Coffee and Content blog post that brings with it a lot of good information.
Thank you. It's always difficult to sort through the pile of stuff you get when you google, so I'm very appreciative of your input. Also, I love Robs Coffee and Content, such great articles.
"Story" by Robert McKee and "Screenwriting 434" by Lew Hunter.
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Syd Field is all you need IMO.
Thank you all so much. It's always hard to get started when you don't even know where to begin. I appreciate all you input.
If you are a novelist you already understand story. You only need to understand the form.
Like Dan said, read scripts. To an experienced writer it will be an easy transition.
Thanks Craig. I do understand story, I get muddled with the beat ... the beat of a screenplay and timing and feel are a little confusing. Not to mention an entirely new set of rules and language. But I'll work it. Thank you.
Thank you everyone. I'm overwhemed by the support. It is so very much appreciated.
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Thomas A. Bradley Might be repeating what others have said, but here's my list:
Writing Screenplays That Sell by Michael Hauge (my first ever read on screenwriting back in late 80s. Written in a very accessible way. A good starting point.)
Story by Robert McKee (bit heavy, but McKee is considered a bona fide guru)
Anatomy of Story by John Truby (again quite heavy for the beginner)
Screenplay by Syd Field
Save The Cat by Blake Snyder
Screenwriting 434 by Lew Hunter
Into The Woods by John Yorke
Making A Good Script Great by Linda Seger
And for formatting, either The Screenwriter's Bible by David Trottier or Your Cut To is Showing by TJ Alex.
I wish you all the very best on your screenwriting journey, Thomas. Do by all means come have a chat with me anytime. My best, Phil
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Thanks Phil, much appreciated. What are your thoughts on Final Draft and/or Trelyb, if any?
Thomas A. Bradley I've sent you a message.
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I'd buy "The Hollywood Standard" by Christopher Riley. It's a very good "how to" screenwriting book. It helped me jump right into the fray. I'd also score some screenwriting software. I use Final Draft and found a tutorial on youtube. And again, was able to quickly learn the basics.
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youtube has tons of videos, anything by Syd Field, Save the Cat, to name a few then read scripts.
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Hi Thomas, I can highly recommend Jacob Krueger. You can participate in live online workshops which will make it easier for you. He was my first port of call when I took time off from my job in Australia to rekindle my creative spirit - his workshops set it on fire! A great start to learning the art and craft of screenwriting. Reading scripts and watching films - lots of them - are also vital learning tools.
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One thing I'd recommend doing is, after you've read some of the good suggestions from people here, is to take some films in different genres - even ones you're not interested in - and closely examine the scripts or finished films to look at their overall structure. Read the script and watch the films and make notes on the way that they are formed into acts and the challenges and successes the main characters have at each point. That will help you see how to translate the ideas in some of the books and resources into an overall story arc.
Thank you all so much, You've all been incredibly helpful and kind. Believe me, I will utilize all your suggestions.
Hey Thomas. I highly recommend The Screenwriter's Bible by David Trottier. We cracked this open and learned everything you need to know about screenplay format. Plus, David is just awesome at answering questions if you reach out to him.
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On one occasion my friend who received the Oscar for a short film told me that he had learned the most about screenwriting by watching the worst movies.