Nailing The First Page of Your Screenplay (exclusive member ebook)
The old cliché goes that you never get a second chance at a first impression. Truth is, if you don’t nail the first page of your screenplay, you may never …
TV
Articles focussing heavily on TV.
Fixing the Worst Scene in Your Screenplay (exclusive member ebook)
There’s a well-known Howard Hawks quote that goes: ‘A good movie is three good scenes and no bad scenes’. Casting aside its direct meaning, it also hits on an interesting …
How to Write a TV Show Script for Maximum Impact
Writing a TV show script requires a strong balance of creativity and structure. A good script is the backbone of a successful TV show, as it sets the foundation for everything that follows—acting, directing, and production. Every great series starts with a well-crafted script, which serves as a blueprint guiding the entire team. Whether you are working on a sitcom, drama, or procedural, understanding the basics of scriptwriting is essential for creating a show that resonates with audiences. The process
What are Character Foils in Screenwriting?
Character foils are the secret ingredients that add flavour and depth to a story. These contrasting characters, often paired with the protagonist, highlight key traits and qualities, enriching our understanding of the main character and themes. Dive into this exploration of character foils, discovering their role, significance, character examples and how to craft them for a compelling narrative. Table of ContentsWhat is a Foil Character?DefinitionWhy are they important?Difference between Antagonist and Character FoilHow to Write a Foil CharacterExamples of Foil
50 Character Flaws to Use In Your Next Screenplay
Master the subtleties of writing character flaws to sculpt stories that resonate with audiences. Our list of fifty character flaws will help you understand how these faults and failings define your characters’ journey and influence a screenplay’s narrative. Explore how each flaw can drive conflict, foster development, and add a layer of realism within your writing. Table of contentsUnderstanding Character Flaws in StorytellingDefinitionThe Spectrum of Character FlawsThe Role of Flaws in Character DevelopmentCrafting Believable Flaws for Your CharactersBalancing Flaws with
Crafting the Perfect Ending Scene for your Movie or TV Show
In the realm of storytelling, the ending scene holds immense power. It’s the climax of characters’ journeys, the resolution of conflicts, and the final impression left on the audience. As a screenwriter, mastering the art of creating a compelling ending scene is essential for bringing a satisfying cinematic experience. In this article, we’ll explore the key elements of an effective ending scene. Additionally, we’ll provide tips for creating memorable conclusions to your screenplays. Table of contentsEnding Scene Element: Closure and
How to Avoid Writing One Dimensional Characters
In the realm of storytelling, characters are the heartbeat of any narrative. They drive the plot forward, elicit emotional responses, and ultimately connect the audience to the story. However, one common pitfall that screenwriters may encounter is the creation of one dimensional characters. These flat, predictable personas can leave audiences disengaged and stories lacking the depth needed to make a lasting impact. Table of contentsWhat is a One-Dimensional Character?The Dangers of One Dimensional CharactersOne Dimensional Characters : Audience DisconnectPredictabilityLack of
How to Create Plot Twist Ideas for Screenplays
Screenwriting is a delicate dance between storytelling and audience engagement, and one of the most exciting moves a screenwriter can make is creating compelling plot twist ideas. Also, a well-crafted plot twist has the power to captivate, shock, and elevate a screenplay to new heights. In this article, we will delve into the art of creating plot twist ideas, exploring the essential elements that make them effective and discussing how they can transform a story. Table of contentsUnderstanding the Purpose
Katniss Everdeen – Truly ORIGINAL Characters Series: Part 24
Welcome to Original Characters, an ongoing series of Industrial Scripts’ articles examining the most original characters to appear in both TV and film. This article will focus on Katnis Everdeen from The Hunger Games (2012). View all Truly Original Characters + Table of contentsWhat is an original character?Who is Katniss Everdeen?The Struggle in District 12Survival Instincts and SkillsNavigating Psychological Warfare and Symbolizing RebellionForming Alliances and Building BondsCatalysts for Unity and Rebellion Beyond the ArenaUnwavering DeterminationA Symbol of Resistance and Hope Amidst Capitol’s Oppression”Conclusion What is an
Roman Roy – Truly ORIGINAL Characters Series: Part 22
Welcome to Original Characters, an ongoing series of Industrial Scripts articles examining the most original characters to appear in both TV and film. This article will focus on Roman Roy from Succession. View all Truly Original Characters + Table of ContentsWhat is an Original Character?Who is Roman Roy?What Makes Roman Roy an Original Character?Roman Roy and Logan RoyRoman and the Roy SiblingsRoman and ShivRoman Roy – Uncomfortable PositionsMature Immaturity What is an Original Character? It’s a character that sticks with you even when they’re long gone from
Why Does Your Screenplay Page Count REALLY Matter?
Trying to hit a certain page count is probably one of the least exciting elements of writing and polishing a screenplay. But for those sitting down to read it, a …
How Do You CREATE and MAINTAIN Empathetic Characters?
There are many important aspects to writing a great screenplay; good dialogue, interesting settings, unique stories, and good characterisation. However, little is arguably more important than creating and maintaining empathetic characters. Empathetic characters are the cornerstones of most great stories. Without an empathetic protagonist, in particular, the audience may struggle to connect to your story, narrative arcs, themes and even setting. Even the seemingly most unlikeable of characters will have something in the way of empathy; a reason to be
Writing a GOOD Workplace Comedy: The VITAL Elements
Do you have an idea for a workplace comedy but are struggling to get it off the ground? Understanding the key aspects and structures of some of your favourite workplace comedies is essential to making sure your script hits all the right notes. So in this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide to the fundamental characteristics that every great workplace comedy shares. What makes a truly good workplace comedy tick? Table of Contents8 Key Elements of Creating and Executing
20 GREAT Jesse Armstrong Quotes for Screenwriters
He’s the creator and showrunner of one of the biggest shows of the last few years, Succession. So we take a look at 20 fascinating Jesse Armstrong quotes to see what this titan of the industry has to say on writing, creating characters and TV. Jesse Armstrong – Seriously Funny It’s perhaps both surprising and unsurprising that the origins of the creator of Succession lie in comedy. Succession, after all, is one of the funniest series on television. But it’s
The KEY Elements to Workplace Dystopias in Film and TV
Over the last few years, there has been a rise in the number of workplace dystopias in film and TV. But what are the essential elements of these stories? And why do writers return to the format again and again? We take a look at the key parts of workplace dystopias in film and TV, their context, inspiration and resonance. Table of ContentsThe Rate Race on Film – What is a Workplace Dystopia?A Brief History of the WorkplaceSeverance – a
The Insider Interviews – with ex-Amazon Head Georgia Brown
This latest iteration of our Insider Interviews Series is with former Amazon Studios Europe Head Georgia Brown, one of the three judges of the third year of Industrial Scripts’ screenwriting contest, The TITAN Awards. Georgia Brown Biography From 2017 to 2022, Georgia Brown was head of Amazon Studios in Europe. In this role, she was responsible for the commissioning of content across the continent, working with local production hubs in London, Paris, Madrid, Munich, Sweden, Milan, Rome, and Amsterdam. Georgia was the first
How to Use Public Domain Properties to Create a Screenplay
In many ways, public domain properties are the film and TV industry’s lifeblood. They’re at least a substantial piece of how stories are created, adapted and marketed. But what are they and how can you use them to inspire your next screenplay? We take a look at what public domain properties are and how you can use them in your screenwriting. Table of ContentsWhat Are Public Domain Properties?Why Use Public Domain Properties?1. Using Public Domain Properties Saves Money2. The Public
20 of the Most Common Screenwriting Mistakes You MUST Avoid
What are the most common screenwriting mistakes that a screenwriter will likely make? What mistakes will be all too familiar to screenplay readers and development executives? Some mistakes are forgivable and some less so. But either way, there are screenplay mistakes that will make readers roll their eyes with their familiarity. So what are these crucial screenwriting mistakes to avoid both for new and experienced screenwriters? And what are the mistakes that will only get in your way? We take
How Do You Write a Convincing and Powerful Death Scene?
How to write a good death scene? This is a question writers may well have been pondering since stories were told on the walls of caves. From Shakespeare to Spielberg, death scenes are ever-present in storytelling. Sometimes death in a film or TV show doesn’t even have to be realistic to have us mourning our favorite characters. Audiences have shed many tears over a fictional, fantastical death before. A great death scene can make or break the legacy of a
Patrick Bateman – Truly ORIGINAL Characters Series: Part 21
Welcome to Original Characters, an ongoing series of Industrial Scripts’ articles examining the most original characters to appear in both TV and film. This article will focus on Patrick Bateman from American Psycho. View all Truly Original Characters + Table of ContentsWhat is an Original Character?Who is Patrick Bateman?Complex, Three-Dimensional CharactersPatrick Bateman’s “Relationships”Jean and Patrick BatemanPaul Allen and Patrick BatemanDetective Kimball and Patrick BatemanEvelyn Williams and Patrick BatemanStruggle for PowerPsychology of Patrick BatemanReality vs. Constructed RealityWas It All In His Head?In Conclusion: What Makes
What is the But and Therefore Rule in Screenwriting?
In every screenwriting class, you are going to learn about many rules. However, the most important one is always the same: give the story energy to keep the viewers engaged. Keeping an audience entertained is, after all, the entire purpose of a story. However, everyone who has ever tried to write a script will have found themselves in a position where maintaining a constant engaging narrative that relates to the audience and has a logical flow to it is hard
Narrative Pacing: The KEYS To Mastering Your Screenplay’s Pace
When it comes to narrative pacing, we all know the feeling of being on the edge of our seats, biting our nails with anticipation for what’s to come. It’s likely you’ve experienced the opposite too – slogging through something miserably tiresome, desperate for it to end or wondering where it’s leading. Both show how narrative pacing is integral to the smooth reading of a screenplay. It impacts the audience’s response, perspective and enjoyment of a story. So how do you
Ruth Langmore – Truly ORIGINAL Characters Series: Part 20
Welcome to Original Characters, an ongoing series of Industrial Scripts’ articles examining the most original characters to appear in both TV and film. This article will focus on Ruth Langmore from Ozark. View all Truly Original Characters + Table of ContentsWhat is an Original Character?Who is Ruth Langmore?What Makes Ruth Langmore an Original Character?Ruth Langmore and the LangmoresRuth and MartyRuth Langmore and Ben DavisA Compelling and Unique Presence What is an Original Character? It’s a character that sticks with you even when they’re long
15 AWESOME Dan Harmon Quotes for Screenwriters
He’s one of the most critically acclaimed comedy screenwriters out there, known most famously for Rick and Morty. In general, Dan Harmon is not afraid to break down barriers and deconstruct the norm when it comes to writing. But how does he do it? Well, we’ve put together 15 Dan Harmon quotes to teach screenwriters about his unique approach to writing as well as his tenacious work ethic and attitude to life. Dan Harmon – Beginnings Born and raised in
The BEST Series Finales and What They Teach About Writing TV
How do you finish writing a TV series? We all know the feeling of being disappointed by a series finale, mourning not only the loss of a treasured show but also an unsatisfying ending. But what about the series finales which leave us with our jaw on the floor (in a good way)? What can these brilliant series finales teach screenwriters about storytelling and about TV writing? We take a look at some of the best examples and analyze what
Kim Wexler – Truly ORIGINAL CHARACTERS Series: Part 19
Welcome to Original Characters, an ongoing series of Industrial Scripts’ articles examining the most original characters to appear in both TV and film. This article will focus on Kim Wexler from Better Call Saul. View all Truly Original Characters + Table of ContentsWhat is an Original Character?Who is Kim Wexler?What Makes Kim Wexler an Original Character?Kim Wexler and Jimmy McGill A Perfect On-Screen Relationship Kim Wexler vs Howard HamlinKim’s Past – How Did She Get Here?In Conclusion – Better Call Kim What is an
5 VITAL Lessons Screenwriters Can Take from Aaron Sorkin Scripts
Aaron Sorkin is one of the few screenwriters whose name alone can get a film greenlit. And Aaron Sorkin scripts not only make great TV or film blueprints but are …
What are A, B and C Plots in TV Screenwriting?
When we watch a film or TV series, we’re often aware there are multiple storylines running concurrently but take them in as second nature. This is the benefit of TV storytelling after all; the ability to cover many different plots within one cohesive story or world. In the screenwriting process, these overlapping narrative threads are typically referred to as A, B and C plots. A, B and C plots descend the alphabet by order of importance. So your A
What Does a Script Coordinator Do? The BEST & SIMPLEST Breakdown
When we think about screenwriting we tend to think about the writer behind the work we eventually see on the screen. But what about all of the other important jobs we don’t see that help the script become successful? A lot of work goes on behind the scenes. And for burgeoning writers, it can be easy to lose sight of the hard graft that goes on to make films and TV shows come to life. One of these crucial job
What is a Showrunner and What EXACTLY Do They Do?
Being a showrunner is one of the most unique and important jobs in contemporary television. The position is a combination of creativity, consistency and managerial responsibility. They’re the behind-the-scenes masters and the ones that make everything happen. But what exactly does the showrunner’s job entail? We take a look… Table of ContentsWhat is a Showrunner?What are a Showrunner’s Responsibilities?Showrunners vs Producers vs DirectorsHow Do You Become a Showrunner?1. Writing2. Writers’ Room3. Some Production ExperienceExamples of Famous ShowrunnersIn Summary What is
How to Write an Anthology Series & The BEST Anthology Series Examples
The wide variety of anthology series that have emerged in contemporary TV can be attributed in part to the success of series such as Black Mirror and The Twilight Zone. And despite the competition, new anthology series’ frequently find success. But how? There isn’t a secret formula to a great anthology production. The greatest advantage is, in fact, an understanding of the format and its potential. So let’s take a look at what it takes to write an anthology series
Rue From Euphoria – Truly ORIGINAL CHARACTERS Series: Part 17
Welcome to Original Characters, an ongoing series of Industrial Scripts’ articles examining the most original characters to appear in both TV and film. This article will focus on Rue from Euphoria. View all Truly Original Characters + Table of ContentsWhat is an Original Character?Who is Rue From Euphoria?What Makes Rue From Euphoria an Original Character?Rue From Euphoria: A Multi-Dimensional CharacterSeason OneSeason TwoFirst-Person Narration Mise-en-scèneRue Bennett’s RelationshipsJules Vaughn and Rue BennettGia Bennett and Rue BennettLexi Howard and Rue BennettFezco “Fez” and Rue BennettRue From Euphoria: A Reflection
How Do You Write a Screenplay Prologue? Dodge These Key Pitfalls
A prologue can be used to introduce the audience to the characters, tone and theme of your screenplay. It should plummet them into the story from the start as you set the scene. But are prologues necessary? And what are the pros and cons to having one in your screenplay? In this article, we will look at examples of prologues in TV and film, and the key elements of writing an effective prologue. Table of ContentsWhat is a Prologue? How
Tina Belcher from Bob’s Burgers – Truly ORIGINAL CHARACTERS Series: Part 16
Welcome to Original Characters, an ongoing series of Industrial Scripts’ articles examining the most original characters to appear in both TV and film. This article will focus on Tina Belcher from Bob’s Burgers. View all Truly Original Characters + Table of ContentsWhat is an Original Character?What Makes Tina Belcher Original?Tina Belcher’s Love LifeTina’s Family RelationshipsRainbows and Erotic FictionTina Belcher – Personality Through Musicality The Lasting Impact of Tina Belcher What is an Original Character? It’s a character that sticks with
How Do You Write BRILLIANT and ALTERNATIVE Teen Drama?
Teen drama is one of the most enduring genres to have graced TV screens since its inception. We’ve all been teenagers at some point. And the heartbreak, emotions, journeys, discoveries, and drama that comes with being a teenager typically makes for highly engaging stories. As a screenwriter, you may be thinking that a teen drama is a perfect way to capture audiences. But how do you write teen drama? Moreover, how do you write teen drama that is alternative or
How Do You Best Convey the Passage of Time in Your Screenplay?
It’s rare that you would find a script without any significant passage of time whatsoever. It’s often a vital part of how a script develops and keeps its audience engaged. Thus, it is important to consider the different ways in which you can portray the changing of time. In this article, we will explore the different ways in which you can incorporate and utilize the passage of time in your screenplay. This is both in terms of format and content.
How Do You Write Highly Realistic Dialogue? The 10 KEY Steps…
One of the biggest humps to get over when writing for film or television is dialogue. Even if you have a perfect story, outline, and characters, bad dialogue can bring the whole operation down. 99% of the time, what you need is to have realistic dialogue. Of course, not every project needs realistic dialogue all the time (see: The Grand Budapest Hotel). But unless your premise and tone align along wacky lines or you have a specific stylistic remit, it’s
Shiv Roy – Truly ORIGINAL CHARACTERS Series Part: 15
Welcome to Original Characters, an ongoing series of Industrial Scripts articles examining the most original characters to appear in both TV and film. This article will focus on Shiv Roy from Succession. View all Truly Original Characters + Table of ContentsWhat is an Original Character?Who is Shiv Roy?What Makes Shiv Roy an Original Character?Shifting LoyaltiesShiv’s Relationship with LoganSibling Rivalries The Gilded CageFashion Sense and ImageIn Conclusion What is an Original Character? It’s a character that sticks with you even when
The Insider Interviews – GLADIATOR Screenwriter William Nicholson
This latest iteration of our long-running Insider Interviews series is with William Nicholson, the prolific screenwriter behind such hits as Gladiator, Shadowlands, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom and Breathe, amongst many others. William Nicholson Biography Though perhaps most known for his work as a screenwriter, William Nicholson is a writer across film, novels, theatre and television. And this breadth was visible right from the start of his career, when he wrote a TV play (Shadowlands), which then became a stage play,
Michael Scott – Truly ORIGINAL CHARACTERS Series: Part 14
Welcome to Original Characters, an ongoing series of Industrial Scripts’ articles examining the most original characters to appear in both TV and film. This article will focus on Michael Scott from The Office. View all Truly Original Characters + Table of ContentsWhat is an Original Character?Who is Michael Scott?Complex, Three-Dimensional CharactersThe Evolution of Michael ScottSeason One Michael Scott:Season Two Michael Scott:The Later SeasonsMichael Scott’s RelationshipsDwight SchrutePam Beesly Jan LevinsonHolly FlaxIn Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Michael Scott What is an
20 INSPIRING Shonda Rhimes Quotes for TV and Film Writers
Since the early 2000s, Shonda Rhimes has been producing amazing, hit TV. But in recent years, she’s cemented herself as probably the most prolific and successful TV producer of the …
What is the Definition of CINEMATIC, in Screenwriting Terms?
Table of ContentsThe Elements of CINEMATIC1. Visual Elements2. Music and Dialogue3. Dynamic Cinematic TechniquesMise-en-scène in the Definition of CinematicUsing Cinematic Language to Achieve “Cinematic”The Definition of Cinematic in TV SeriesIn Conclusion We’ve all heard the term “cinematic”. Film reviews, job offerings, script feedback, award acceptance speeches. Many people in the industry use this term, some of them quite lightly. But what is the real definition of “cinematic”? In the dictionary, cinematic means “relating to cinema”. Plain and simple. But not
An Interview with 2021 TITAN Awards Winner Jared Ruga
About The TITAN Awards The TITAN Awards is a prestigious global screenwriting contest whereby material competes against its own kind for as long as possible over the course of a contest cycle. Horror feature vs Horror feature, Series Bible vs Series Bible, Sci-Fi vs Sci-Fi, 1 Page Pitch vs 1 Page Pitch etc. Even in the contest’s inaugural year (2021), the situation was ferociously competitive and there were a great many writers and projects that impressed. The annual awards are rare in talent discovery terms
The ESSENTIAL Ways to Craft a Brilliant TV Show Idea
Table of ContentsCrafting a TV Show IdeaGenerate A LOT of TV Show Ideas Judge Your Ideas Breaking the Idea DownDeveloping a Brilliant TV Show Idea What Happens in Episode Thirty-Two?Is There Irony?Novelty?Brilliant Characters and Dynamics?Research for a Brilliant TV Show Idea Examples: Stories Behind the StoriesBlack Mirror Big MouthThe Sopranos Fleabag Crafting a TV Show Idea How does one craft a brilliant TV show idea? First, it’s important to understand what exactly that means. Longevity of story is foremost what separates an idea
How To Write an Active Protagonist (and Avoid a Passive Protagonist)
Table of ContentsWhat is an Active Protagonist?Goals and DesiresMatchmaking: Antagonism and the Active ProtagonistEscalation and the Active Protagonist Actioning Dialogue and Avoiding PassivityStakes and Ticking ClocksExamples of Active ProtagonistsRon Woodroof in Dallas Buyers ClubJoe Goldberg in YouRay Ferrier in War of the WorldsAC 12 in Line of DutyProfessional Protagonists What is an Active Protagonist? An active protagonist is a main character who is not merely affected by the world around them, but affects that world too. Their actions, both internal
20 Terrific Ricky Gervais Quotes to INSPIRE Writers and Filmmakers
Comedy writer, director and actor Ricky Gervais has been bracing our screens since the early 2000s. Often outspoken and straight-talking, Gervais has conquered the comedy genre with his broad array of work. He’s also known, however, for his forthright, often controversial comments, particularly on the Golden Globes stage. But this forthrightness also makes his words insightful and unique. So we’ve compiled 20 Ricky Gervais quotes to inspire writers and filmmakers. Ricky Gervais – The Long and Winding Road Much of
Saul Goodman – Truly ORIGINAL CHARACTERS Series Part: 13
Welcome to Original Characters, an ongoing series of Industrial Scripts’ articles examining the most original characters to appear in both TV and film. This article will focus on Saul Goodman from Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. View all Truly Original Characters + Table of ContentsWhat is an Original Character?Who is Saul Goodman?Jimmy Becomes SaulComplex, Three-Dimensional CharactersJimmy and Chuck McGillJimmy and Kim WexlerThe Name BehindSaul Goodman’s DevelopmentWhy is Saul Goodman an Original Character?Saul Goodman: Good or Bad?In Conclusion What is
The Essential Elements of Writing a Fish Out of Water Story
Table of ContentsWhat is a Fish Out of Water Story?The Essential Elements of a Fish Out of Water Story1. Subjective Perspective2. Objective Uses 3. Partial Fish Out of Water4. Don’t Be Afraid of Exposition5. Conflict is in the Nature of a Fish Out of Water StoryThe Fish Out of Water Narrative Structure1. The Introduction of a Whole New World2. Making Mistakes3. Success 4. The Biggest Challenge Yet 5. The FutureThe Fish Out of Water – In Conclusion In Summary What
20 Donald Glover Quotes to Inspire Writers and Creatives
How does Donald Glover manage it? The screenwriter, director, actor, rapper, producer and comedian has a jammed packed awards cabinet and track record of amazing work across many different forms. As with many creatives, Donald Glover has become relatively media-shy the more acclaimed he has become. But we’ve compiled the rare Donald Glover quotes there are. These quotes will give you insight into his creative process and inspire all those aspiring multi-hyphenates out there. What exactly makes such a restless
The 10 Best TED Talks For Screenwriters and What They Teach
There are many TED talks out there for writers, screenwriters and storytellers. In this article, we’ll focus on 10 of the most relevant and best talks for screenwriters and writers as a whole. We’ll take a look at the advice they give writers and how to get the best out of them. Of course, there are many other great examples out there. However, below are what we believe to be the top 10 TED talks for screenwriters (in no particular