Screenwriting Tips

Simply put, subtext in screenwriting is the meaning beneath the words.  We say one thing, but mean another.  That could be lying…or it could be protecting the other person from harm.  Subtext can show evil intentions or it can show benevolence — or both in the same scene.

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Even the nicest people think things they don’t say.  That’s subtext.  On the other hand, a con man may hide a whole series of crimes under some of the sweetest of words.  But often, subtext comes from ordinary people who are put in situations where they can’t express something that matters to them.

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In any case, if the writer understands how to have their characters say one thing while the audience gets another meaning, you’ll quickly become a favorite with readers and audiences.  Check out Subtext Secrets screenwriting class.

When you write a screenplay, you are constantly making decisions — from broad strokes to tiny details.  But some of your decisions either make or kill a sale — especially concept, lead characters, opening, and ending.

Concept is how scripts are pitched over the phone.  Lead characters either attract or repel actors.  The opening of your script lures a reader into the story, and the ending creates buzz when audiences leave the theater.  Each are important business decisions.

Choose wisely.

If you want to sell a screenplay, you’ve got to know how…or where.  In this new market created by the Internet, you can sell a screenplay from anywhere in the World.

In some ways, it is easier — because you have more access to online resources than ever before.  In other ways, it is harder — because you are up against more competition.  So, of course, the answer is to write better screenplays and use all the resources available to you to get them to producers, agents, and managers.

A great article that will help is 15 Ways to Sell a Screenplay Online.

Core character traits are where most decisions come from.  They make up the majority of your character’s actions and dialogue.

Choose three or four words that get to the heart of who your character is.   Example:  Is your lead female fiery, intellectual, stubborn, and insecure?  Or is she strong, grieving, compassionate, and deceptive?

Choose core character traits wisely.  The right ones will inspire you, guide you, and could make your career!

 

Again, Concept gets your script in the door, but great writing sells it.  That means an intriguing plot, amazing characters, challenging situations. kick ass dialogue, etc. 

So it all comes back to the writing every time.  And if there was a Tip 3b, it would be “Practice your craft until people are begging to work with you.”  Maybe we will do that one, but it’s here for now.

 

Producers and agents read scripts based upon 2 things -recommendations and great concepts. If you don’t have the 1st, make sure you have the 2nd.

Hollywood loves great concepts. Producers are always looking for concepts that are instantly compelling, universally appealing, easily marketable, and unquestionably unique. Write a concept that can do all that and producers will love you.

And yeah – even Indie producers need good concepts.

Here to offer you some professional screenwriting tips. Whether you’re fresh to the scene or an old school veteran, we’ve got some great stuff for you to help you write and sell screenplays.

Tips supplied by ScreenwritingU.com