If you want to make it in Hollywood, study successful Hollywood writers' work. Breathe it in and contemplate it. Note your thoughts—mentally or physically. Then do your own thing. In other words, be original through the Hollywood formula—for the best chance at Hollywood success.
To keep audiences watching, your main character needs a false goal and a true goal. What will be the true goal of the story you're developing? What is the conflict that is much different and much scarier (or more interesting, or deeper) than the one the main character tries to resolve during the first half (or so) of your story? A riveting story may depend upon answering this question with originality and great thought.
In independent film, you can do theoretically anything. As you take advantage of such freedom, remember to structure a riveting story. Originality is wonderful. But if your idea is only original—and little else—who will spend money to make it? Distribute it? See it?
Successful screen stories tease the main character and the audience with false goals. When developing a movie idea, think of a goal the main character will chase—convinced it is the solution to the problem at hand—for about the first half of the story. This goal will turn out to be meager, and perhaps impeding—in comparison to the real conflict the main character must resolve.
If you need a movie idea, try reading a wealth of diverse information. For example, start with a novel you wouldn't normally pick up, then maybe a history work, followed by a restaurant menu, various newspapers, and a humor website. Let all the information you collect stew and steep in your head to create a richly flavored idea, and then start writing.
Before you type FADE IN, know your main character (and a few others). The main character is the one who changes the most by the end of your story.
How do I follow screenplay format?
How do I dream up a movie idea?
How do I obtain representation?
Do I have to move to Hollywood?
How do I make a story believable?
How do I add direction to dialog?
How do I get input on my writing?
How do I stay focused on my writing?
What is important to remember regarding creativity?
How do I get into screenwriting?
Do I need to rewrite after my first draft?
What is the upside of the writer´s life?
How do I keep the audience´s attention?
What will I write for Hollywood?
What shows may educate me about screenwriting?
How do I write shots and camera angles into my scripts?
What is my role as a screenwriter?
What would I offer Hollywood as a screenwriter?
How do I use writing to get into acting?
How do I keep the reader reading?
How do I indicate voiceover, or off screen dialog?
Where can I see movies or shows made from good scripts?
How do I give copyright notice?
How do I keep readers interested?
What festivals should I attend?
Where else can I learn more about screenwriting?
Where can I find exposure for my writing?
An agent has asked me to write a "Blurp/Logline" about my screenplay. What is a Blurp/Logline?
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Byron White |