I am the author of a popular best selling eight book science fiction fantasy series, The Chronicles of Caleath. At present I am looking at learning how to turn them into a screenplay. I guess I am in for the long haul. Great to meet everyone.
Introduce Yourself : Storyteller beginning to study screenwriting. by Rosalie Skinner
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Sadly, the first thing you must understand about adapting a novel to a screenplay is that a screenplay is only about 100 to 120 pages long. That means that the first thing you must do to a 300 page novel is to throw out 200 or more pages. It can be a cruel and unforgiving process. If you intend to combine 8 books into a single overarching screenplay, you're going to have to get rid of a lot of pages. If you're planning to do each book as a single project, you're going to have to go through a lot of marketing activity (unless of course your first attempt makes a ton of money).
The challenge of reducing an epic story to its bare bones actually appeals. As you say, it can be cruel and unforgiving, so who better to take on the task? At least if I do a course on the 'how to' side I will understand what is involved and can give it my best shot. I would do each book as a single project. If I get through one book with any success, I will be thrilled. Making tons of money would be lovely, but exploring another medium is enough for now.
Don't worry about making a ton of money, I was referring to the film making money (not much of which will filter down to you). The old rule of thumb is that it is fairly possible to make a first film, it's the second one that's really hard. It requires the first one to make some money. If you're looking for some "how to" information, may I suggest that you start by investing in Final Draft screenwriting software (I am not connected with them in anyway). It will automatically give you the proper format, which is incredibly important in the screenwriting world. It will also make the process a whole lot easier.
LOL... No, not worried about the money. I have heard of Final Draft... recommended by a friend who is encouraging me to try screenwriting. Thanks. I also think the process of cutting back to bare bones of a story will encourage better plotting and storytelling. Is that the case?
I use Final Draft and love it. Rosalie, I'm a grad student at Full Sail University. They have an excellent MFA in Creative Writing for Entertainment program that is completely online.
That's the sort of thing I am looking for. Online is perfect. I have been looking at several. Knowing which come recommended is terrific. Thanks.