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IonMoon -> Script writing? (6/9/2008 6:58:01 PM)

Has anyone done any script writing? I have really felt led to get into film... Not expecting to direct a blockbuster or anything :) but I love independent films and I would love to get into that... And I have a few stories I am working on that I think might translate well to film...

I just found out we have a local film makers group (well, it is in "the city" for me- so an hour from home, but around the corner from work). For yearly dues you can use a ton of equipment for free. You do need to show proficiency to use any piece. They also have classes... But I thought it might be a great way (as soon as I am done with school in December) to meet some people making independent films in my area.

Tara P



ScarletFury -> RE: Script writing? (6/10/2008 10:55:10 AM)

Scriptwriting is very fun! And in some cases, much easier than novel writing/story writing, because you don't have to focus too much on the details.

I did this year's scriptfrenzy just for the fun of it. You can visit their site and read some of their tips, etc. They also have free programs you can download that cut down on figuring out all that formating, etc.

www.scriptfrenzy.org

Let me know of that helps-I had a blast working on mine! [:)]



the_captain -> RE: Script writing? (11/8/2008 10:18:14 PM)

I've been writing screen plays now for about three years. I have "finished" three of them, two of them were originally stage productions I did at church.

If you want to write a screen play you need to understand the format and rules of screenwriting. I suggest the book "The Screenwriters Bible" by Dave Trottier. About $20 bucks but worth it. You need to read the whole book before you write anything.

Also understand that about one if a hundred spec scripts that are written are ever produced, even independently. Money is the key, you need to be able to sell your idea to people willing to take a risk and invest in your project.

good luck with your writting.



writerchick -> RE: Script writing? (11/18/2008 6:19:36 PM)

It sounds like the group in your area is a marvelous place to start. For all the classes and equipment and networking, you really can't beat what they offer.

On the writing side, you can look into zoetrope.com. It's an online community where you can post your completed scripts to get feedback. Just remember, not everyone gives great notes. You should be well versed in the basics of screenwriting to help you focus on helpful critiques.

Another book you can look into is Blake Snyder's Save the Cat. He dissects lots of movies and boils them down into the necessary beats each one has in common. These beats tend to cross multiple genres. It's a truly amazing book.

If you're looking to go the contest or submission route, here's an interesting article about mistakes that beginning screenwriters tend to make.

Ten Things New Screenwriters Do to Get Their Script Tossed

I know a lot of things in there seem to be pretty facetious, but they are dead on.

Best of luck!!!



techne -> RE: Script writing? (11/18/2008 9:46:06 PM)

screenwriting for dummies is also a pretty good resource.

and sometimes DVDs even have the screenplays as one of the special features (like pulp fiction).



techne -> RE: Script writing? (11/18/2008 9:54:21 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: IonMoon
I have really felt led to get into film... Not expecting to direct a blockbuster or anything :) but I love independent films and I would love to get into that... And I have a few stories I am working on that I think might translate well to film...

I just found out we have a local film makers group (well, it is in "the city" for me- so an hour from home, but around the corner from work). For yearly dues you can use a ton of equipment for free. You do need to show proficiency to use any piece. They also have classes... But I thought it might be a great way (as soon as I am done with school in December) to meet some people making independent films in my area.

my first question is: what is your background/ experience with film? how involved have you been with film-making ventures in the past? what do you know about the mechanics and process of making (as well as writing for) films? in fact, how involved are you with writing in general (since screenplays are really another literary genre)?



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