Screenwriting Research
What is a Screenwriter?
Screenwriters write and develop screenplays for Film and Television. They can base it around original ideas and/or adapting an existing story into a screenplay (Literature, Theatre)
They write to enable people - mostly producers, directors and actors - to imagine the story, emotion and setting and how it will work out on screen. Collaboration with these positions exists to draft and redraft scripts to tight deadlines.
Screenwriters often develop 3 separate drafts, with the 3rd being known as ‘The Polish’. This is the version of the screenplay that is pitched to the producer or studio.
Screenwriters may also be commissioned by a producer or studio to write a screenplay.
When screenplays are picked up, studios can bring in extra screenwriters and a development producer in order to refine it for production. These people can share credit with the original screenwriter and/or can be credited for any additional dialogue or a story consultant.
Occasionally, the original screenwriter may be replaced entirely by another.
They work almost always as freelancers, meaning that connections and networking is key for progressing a career in this sector.
Skills
Screenwriters would need a vast and in-depth knowledge of screenwriting. They need to understand features of screenplays, how to improve and how to amend one. This can be done with consistent practice as well as looking into famous, well-rounded screenplays.
A basic need is a good knowledge of the English language and how to implement written and verbal communication skills. On top of this, they need to think originally and creatively in order to express ideas effectively within a screenplay form.
Screenwriters have to read and have a deep understanding of all different genres of art, consisting of film, tv, biographies, theatre and books. This allows them to use the knowledge to help and aid them into constructing a screenplay. It will also help them to understand the cultural and emotional context within screenplays.
They almost always are given deadlines for their work, so being disciplined and organised is a great way to help reduce stress levels and maintain a healthy working environment. Screenwriters also have to remain persistent. They will stumble across many difficulties and struggles throughout writing, however by staying persistent with their work, it will aid them to overcome the struggles and keep writing.
How To Become
To be a screenwriter, it is advised that they read and write screenplays in a professional format. This can mean downloading and reading over screenplays from famous writers and films. Reading scripts allows you to get to know audiences and how a writer connects the characters to the audience. Using the knowledge and guidance of those screenplays, you can start to write your own and use the professional format.
Doing this consistently, you can build your own portfolio to show off.
Although not essential, degrees in English and psychology are relevant. As Well as a degree in Film and Television Production.
Another option is to become a script reader for a production company. This allows you to critique other work and read a variety of scripts. Developing knowledge of different genres and styles only helps towards writing your own.
Real Examples
Stephen Davis Interview by ‘The Guardian’
“You'll be judged on the quality of your creative work, more than qualifications”
“Basic screenwriting fundamentals can be learned through self-study and a few trips to the library. A screenwriting course is worth investing in only if it helps you develop the critical acumen you need in order to identify the weaknesses in your work and to invent solutions. Most writers also need a network of wise and trusted readers capable of giving constructive feedback on works-in-progress and a university or film centre can be a good place to make those connections”
“Start with BBC writersroom, the one place that welcomes unsolicited scripts and gives feedback on work that shows promise”
“To meet producers contact your regional screen agency; they should be aware of who is active in your area. Most importantly, expect none of this to work, at least the first time”
“Managing rejection is a big part of the process but perseverance pays off”
Edgar Wright
Screenplays include: ‘Shaun of the Dead’ (2004), ‘Hot Fuzz’ (2007), ‘Scott Pilgrim vs the World’ (2010), ‘Baby Driver’ (2017)
In a video with Youtube Channel ‘Outstanding Screenplays’, Wright gives 10 tips on how he wrote his screenplays.
Aim to recapture thrills that you felt watching your favourite films in the cinema
Writing that comes from the heart will always turn out better than what you think you ought to write about
Be methodical about plotting out a screenplay. You need a clear idea of where you’re heading so you don’t get lost or bored on the way
Keep “creatively procrastinating” by researching until your treatment document starts to turn into a screenplay
Use genre films like a trojan horse. Sneak bigger ideas into films that seem superficial at first.
Comedy comes out of character. If a character’s voice and strengths are well defined, comedy will naturally emerge from them
When most of the tools to get films seen are at your disposal and that of your competitors. Focus on being your most unique self to make your film stand out
Having affection for the genre is what will make people take your genre film seriously and not mistake it for parodies
Put a different part of yourself into each character
When co-writing, someone needs to be a “bad cop” and negotiate how much time you can spend in the writing room if the “good cop” spends too much time joking and playing around with ideas
Bibliography
ScreenSkills (no date) Screenwriter in the film and TV drama industries, ScreenSkills.
Screenwriter (no date) Screenwriter | Explore careers | National Careers Service.
Bfi (2020) How do I become a screenwriter?, BFI.
Screenwriter (no date a) My first job in film: What is the role of a screenwriter and how to become one.
7 skills you need to be a screenwriter (no date) GCU.
An insider’s guide to becoming a screenwriter (2011) The Guardian.
BFI Film Academy: Charlie Covell on Script to Screen highlights (2019). YouTube. 9 May.
BAFTA masterclass: Daniel Fajemisin-Duncan and Marlon Smith on writing for film and television (2019). YouTube. 10 May.