The Craft of Screenwriting
I am not a screenwriter, but I have several friends who are. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with them and ask about their craft. Here are some of the insights they shared:
Develop characters that people care about. No matter how intricate your plot is, it won't matter if the audience isn't invested in the characters.
Show, don't tell. Instead of having characters explain their motivations, reveal them through their actions and interactions.
Use conflict to create tension. Conflict drives a story forward and keeps the audience engaged.
Every scene should have a purpose. Every scene should advance the plot, reveal character, or both.
Write visually. Remember that screenplays are a visual medium, so describe what the audience will see on screen.
Be open to feedback. Don't take criticism personally, and use it as an opportunity to improve your work.
While these tips are specific to screenwriting, they can be applied to any form of storytelling. By creating compelling characters, building tension, and being open to feedback, writers can create stories that resonate with audiences.
-Marshall