Early feature scripts are typically little more than a rough idea that needs to be fleshed out into a story format that flows well. Although there’s no one correct way to craft a screenplay masterpiece, you do need to be clear and concise about what is happening on the page. A perfectly written film script is seldom perfect, so there is no guarantee that it will turn out well if it is not well-crafted.

According to The Jerusalem Post, many ambitious screenwriters exist and wish to be heard. However, they struggle to write high-quality screenplays. Often, the problem centres on having the right training and motivation to sharpen creativity. You might also find yourself in similar situations where screenwriting becomes a tug of war. So, how can you break beyond this limit to create a blockbuster movie script? 

Create a Logline

Have you ever finished watching a lengthy movie and wondered, “What was the point of it all?” In such cases, the livewire of the movie — the logline — is out of place. A logline nails the entirety of the movie. It defines what the story is all about while encapsulating its plots. Hence, you should put in much effort to be as creative as you can with this element.

A logline should be no more than 50 words long. It specifies characteristics that distinguish your narrative from others. It also explains why your story contains elements such as comedy, suspense, drama, and others. This is coupled with the fact that the logline addresses the protagonist’s position in the story — specifically, how the character is introduced. 

To create a captivating logline, you should focus on conflicts as well. Your story should highlight potential conflicts that will rival the protagonist. Introducing this element will add more dynamism to the plot. As a rule of thumb, avoid using personal names, which may create a spoiler. Rather, use pronouns and adjectives to describe the character. Check out some examples below:

• A Scottish-born gym instructor whose wife was murdered by some notorious assassins is transformed into a superhuman by aliens and vows to go after his wife’s killers.
• After crashing on a haunted island, a group of college students must do all they can to survive and get back home or face horrible deaths.
• In the year 3045 when half of the human race is destroyed by aliens, a young boy discovers a time travel machine, with which he plans to rewrite history.

These examples introduce the protagonist and the conflict while highlighting the theme of each narrative. It becomes easier to create a screenplay.

Write an Outline

At this point, your script starts taking form. Your outline should contain the main events of the script. Ideally, the event should be brief. For example, using the third logline highlighted in the previous section, the main events of your story could include, “Allan finds the time capsule in an abandoned scrapyard,” “Megadeath captures Allan and plans to kill him,” and “Arkyia rescues Allan.”

Your outline should be at most two pages. How important is your outline? Each main event embedded in your outline is pivotal to the flow of the story or script. In simpler terms, it is a game-changer that will give the script’s main plotline a defined form. Understand that screenplays generally involve three acts.

First, there’s the inciting occurrence, which sets the stage for the protagonist’s conflict. There is also a transition or resolution after the dispute. The major storyline is built on these elements.

Create a Treatment

If your thought your outline was better, now imagine it on steroids — that’s what your treatment should look like. It should be able to capture your audience’s interest. With that, you can tell if your script is on the right path to becoming a blockbuster. This treatment should bring your characters and their worlds alive, so much that you could almost see them.

It’s Time to Roll In the Screenplay

What feedback have you received from your treatment? Is it mind-blowing enough or do you need to edit it? If your answer is the former, then kudos! It’s time to get your hands dirty. This is where the main tasks come into play.

To ease the process, don’t focus on editing your work heavily. At the moment, flow with the inspiration you receive, pouring it into your notes. There is always room for adjustments. Also, ensure while you write the screenplay, your subplots are well organized to prevent confusion.

Format and Edit Your Screenplay

Now you have your script ready, it is time to arrange it into a screenplay format. Interestingly, this process is simple. You can find screenwriting software online and even read full reviews about them to know which one serves your needs best. Once you’ve found the ideal screenwriting software, you can start formatting your screenplay.

According to standards, the format settings include:

• Top and bottom margin: 1 inch
• Left margin: 1.5 inch
• Right margin: 1 inch
• Font: 12-pt Courier

You should revise your screenplay to achieve clarity. Consider your script from a third-party perspective. Examine it critically to identify opportunities for improvement. Once done, it’s time to present it.

In Conclusion

Writing a screenplay is a difficult task. This task needs dexterity and patience. However, if you follow the correct methods, you’ll have a brilliant screenplay. 

Photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash