Before You Write the Screenplay
Right now I’m creating a couple of new stories. In December, there’s a short SP contest at MoviePoet. And then in January, I’m starting a new feature.
When I wrote my first couple of SP’s, I got an idea in my head and I sat down and wrote it. This method of creation worked.
Now, when I work on a new SP, I make sure I have some kind of outline. It’s a flexible outline, and can be changed as I work. But at this point in my writing life, this method of creation works. Having an outline provides a “smoother” ride.
There is no right or wrong way. Some writer’s use creativity software and some people use index cards. The important thing is to get the story written. Whatever road you travel to get there depends on you. An outline gives me less detours. But then, maybe you like to take the scenic route!
The MoviePoet contest in December is “open”. No assigned genre. No story requirements. The writer chooses what they write without any restraints. I have my title and my logline. I have my outline. But, I’m stuck on something specific to the ending. In this particular case, I can write the story without knowing that “specific”. I’m hoping it will come to me as I write.
The important thing is to write. How I get there, well that’s a matter of personal choice.
