70 ESSENTIAL Literary Devices to Aid Your Screenwriting

literary devices
Are you trying to write your first screenplay but don’t know how to give your screenplay flair? Or perhaps, you’re a budding screenwriter looking for some new techniques to elevate your work. In this article, we’re going to break down techniques that help stitch together but also elevate your screenplay: literary devices. What is a Literary Device? Literary devices are the techniques that writers use to add meaning and depth to their work. Without them, stories would be far less coherent, compelling

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What are the 15 Worst Short Film Cliches You MUST Avoid?

Short Film Cliches Reflection
Short films are as prominent as ever as an effective form of expression for emerging filmmakers. However, a constantly used form runs the risk of certain techniques becoming overused and cliched. There are certain short film cliches that will instantly turn off audiences and those in the industry. With limited time and usually budget, it can be easy to fall back on these cliches to fill in gaps or force the film to progress. But remember, the foundation of a short film

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How Do You Write a Screenplay Prologue? Dodge These Key Pitfalls

The Dark Knight Prologue
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

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What is a MacGuffin? The KEY Points and KEY Examples

Vincent with the briefcase
Table of ContentsWhat is a MacGuffin?What is the Purpose of Using a MacGuffin?The Different Types of MacGuffins1. Object MacGuffins2. Background Props3. Mechanical Device Props4. Character MacGuffins5. Conceptual MacGuffinsDifferent Filmmakers and Their Use of MacGuffinsHitchcock & the MacGuffinTarantino & the MacGuffinThe Coen Brothers & the MacGuffinJames Cameron & the MacGuffinIn Conclusion: How to Use a MacGuffin in Your Screenplay What is a MacGuffin? A MacGuffin is a type of plot device that is essential to driving the plot but not necessarily

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