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Have you always dreamed of writing your own movie? It's actually easier than you might think, especially once you've come up with a great idea you can't wait to get down on paper. In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to write your very own story for a movie, including how to brainstorm, draft up your idea, and add the finishing touches.
Steps
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Think about what you want the story to be like. You should sit back and let your imagination run wild. There are many ways to gather ideas for a story, be it inspiration from your life, the world around you, or the works of other film makers but it is important you think outside the box and try to bring something new to the world. Try your best to come up with an idea that you and others would enjoy, ensuring that is worth all the effort writing the script will entail. [1] X Research source -
Decide which elements of the story you want to write. If the plot to the movie is given to you already then build upon that.Steven Spielberg, Film DirectorCraft a compelling narrative that will connect with your audience. "The most amazing thing for me is that every single person who sees a movie, not necessarily one of my movies, brings a whole set of unique experiences. Now, through careful manipulation and good storytelling, you can get everybody to clap at the same time, to hopefully laugh at the same time, and to be afraid at the same time."
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Build a story arc from scratch. If you want ideas then you should read a few books that have to do with the plot of the movie. This will give you an idea of what to write. Possibly the most important aspect of this step is ensuring that the frame of your story has no big conflicting story points or plot holes in it (unless put there intentionally *a dangerous move probably left to the professionals but if it works out, go right ahead*). This simple self criticism could save you hours if not days of hard work in the future trying to rework the tale so that it all makes sense later on when there are already details built upon the faults. [2] X Research source -
Write your first draft of the story. You should review this yourself and decide if it is what you wanted. If it is not what you wanted then write another rough draft. -
Show your rough draft to people you trust for constructive criticism. Have them read the draft and tell you what they like or don't like about it. This way you know what you can correct or what looks good. -
Write out some pages of your story as a sample to share. You should have this around as a sample to show people your work. This will give people you are working with an idea of how the story is coming along. -
Edit your story for clarity and length. After you are done with your story, you can check it over and over again for mistakes. If you have the income take your story to an editor and have him or her review your story. If you have a professional who can review your story for free then go ahead. [3] X Research source -
Contact your employer or any interested producers to get your story filmed. You should call all the important people you are working for or want to work for. Let them know you are done with your story. Setup a meeting and have them review your story.
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Sample Script Outline and Script
Community Q&A
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QuestionWhat if I show my drafts to people and they laugh at my efforts?Community AnswerIf it's supposed to be a comedy, be proud, but if not, be brave and take note of why they are laughing. Make sure that the people you show your drafts to are willing to offer sincere feedback so you do not get involved with someone who wants to mock you instead of help you.
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QuestionI have experienced so many things in my life, and I feel that I can bring something very new and fresh to the people. I am willing to write a story, but I don't know from where I should start, any suggestions?Community AnswerHave a clear picture about what you want to write. Start an outline, but be sure not to include too much, as your story can become convoluted with too many characters and events; your story should focus on a central storyline. Write a draft, set it aside for a week or so to distance yourself from it a bit (so that any errors become more evident to you), review it, and keep editing and polishing it until you're happy with it. Once you feel it's complete and at its best, begin submitting to editors.
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QuestionCan young people write stories for movies?Community AnswerYes. Talk to a teacher for advice or find someone in your community to help you through the process.
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Tips
- Don't get disheartened if you receive criticism of your draft. This is a natural motion in story makingThanks
- Keep your drafts and build on them when you are ready to.Thanks
- Take out a lot of time for yourself.Thanks
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Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about writing stories, check out our in-depth interview with Alicia Cook .
References
About This Article
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Reader Success Stories
- "This is my first time using wikiHow and it is my pleasure to say that wikiHow is going to help us do a lot of stuff. Guys, I know we have to stay indoors but it is great to try a thing or two while we have the time.*Stay home**stay safe*." ..." more
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"This is my first time using wikiHow and it is my pleasure to say that wikiHow is going to help us do a lot of stuff. Guys, I know we have to stay indoors but it is great to try a thing or two while we have the time.*Stay home**stay safe*."
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"This article helped me. I'm not a writer and I'm clueless, but love to tell stories. I guess this is something that I can learn from. It really helps get me moving."
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""You should write drafts and review them yourself to see if it is what you wanted and if that's how you imagined it" helped."
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"I was really encouraged by the good tips just right above to continue with the writing of my story!"
"Inspirational article. Recommended for those who want to become a writer."
