Film script writing: How to write a compelling movie screenplay

Screenplays serve as the foundation for a compelling film. It’s a crucial aspect that every filmmaker should learn about to successfully bring their envisioned stories to life. In the process, it’s important to understand the fundamentals of screenwriting and develop the toolset to create a compelling narrative.

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What is a screenplay?

At its core, a screenplay is the written document for a film, television show, or many other forms of visual media. In the context of film, it outlines the key elements of what you want to see on the screen. It is created to guide filmmakers in creating the visual element they want their audience to see. Overall, a screenplay serves as the foundation for the entire filmmaking process.

The written text: The key elements of writing a movie script

To properly guide the film crew in translating the written screenplay into a visual masterpiece, it needs to convey a clear narrative. As such, it needs to contain crucial elements such as:

Sluglines

When reading a script, sluglines are some of the first things the reader will see. It indicates the setting, location, and time of day the specific scene is taking place. This is to provide the reader context on the when and where of a scene.

The most common way to write this is:

INT/EXT. LOCATION. DAY/NIGHT.

As an example, say the specific scene you’re writing occurs inside the living room at night. The heading should then be:

INT. LIVING ROOM. NIGHT.

Action lines

Action lines describe all the visual and auditory factors included in the scene. It should describe the characters, the setting, the sound, and more to help the reader visualize what’s taking place. 

Character names and dialogue

Everything a character says should be written with the character’s name in BOLD letters, followed by the indented dialogue they’re meant to say. All the lines written in this format are spoken by the indicated character.

Transitions

Transitions dictate how a scene should end. This is a key element to end a scene so the reader can visualize how one scene ends before another begins. The most common transitions you’ll find in scripts include: ‘CUT TO’, DISSOLVE TO BLACK’’, ‘FADE IN/OUT’, etc.

Parentheticals

Parentheticals serve as direct instructions to specific crew members such as the actors, cinematographers, and other reproduction members. This serves as an additional guide for a crew member to capture what’s written and translate it to its visual intent. Typically, this is written by screenwriters who also intend to serve as the Director in the film.

The key to a compelling screenplay: How to write a script

Now that you have the basic tools you need to create your screenplay, it’s time to discuss the key process of making it. Learn more about it below:

1. 1. Start with the basic structure

Assuming you have the basic concept of your story and the key things you want to happen within it, it’s time to decide on the structure. There are various story structures you can use such as the three-act, real-time, multiple timelines, and more.

 You should choose the structure that best suits the story you want to tell. For example, most writers who want to relay the events of a story as it’s happening would use the real-time structure. Some good examples of this are films such as 12 Angry Men, Before Sunset, Rope, and Phone Booth.

2. 2. List the key plot points

When you have the core idea of the story you want to write, there are likely several points in your head. However, it’s important to identify which ones are the main plot points and which ones serve as the subplot. 

To distinguish the two, it’s important to remember that the key point covers the main story arc. Meanwhile, the subplot serves as an element to create story depth. Typically, subplots are secondary and do not always affect the progression of the main arc.

3. 3. Develop character arcs

Here at Phantom Filmmaker, we’re big fans of compelling characters. This is especially the case for the main protagonist who serves as the surrogate for the audience and works to bring them to the completion of the story.

As such, they need to have a satisfying story arc to provide the audience with a rewarding film experience. Since they represent the audience, the character needs to evolve throughout the film as a result of the plot. This helps contextualize the events taking place and guides the audience on how to feel throughout their movie-viewing journey.

4. 4. Outline each scene

To write a cohesive script, it’s important to be strategic in how you develop your script. Before diving into the whirlwind process of writing the script, you must first create an outline. This allows you to break down all the scenes you intend to write and identify how they serve the plot. 

By taking this step, you can discover missing elements that you need to add or remove ones that don’t serve the overarching narrative. 

5. 5. Pay attention to the pacing

Using the outline, check for any inconsistencies in the flow of the narrative. Each scene should serve to move the story along but the transition needs to be cohesive. No scene should seem ‘off’ or out of place. Additionally, when building tension and suspense, make sure to plant seeds throughout the scenes before they culminate.

6. 6. Flesh out your side characters

Side characters serve as an outside perspective from the main protagonist. While they must serve the plot, it’s equally important to ensure they have intriguing qualities outside of the story. Otherwise, they will seem shallow and two-dimensional.

A well-written side character should have depth and complement the protagonist. They can serve as foils or mirrors to the main character, depending on their arc. They can also present opportunities for the protagonist to grow within the story.

Top tips on writing screenplays for aspiring filmmakers

As a final part of our basic introduction to film script writing, the biggest help we can give is the key tips we have on the topic. To begin your screenwriting journey, keep these key factors in mind:

Learn the basic components of screenwriting

You can’t develop a well-written and compelling screenplay without knowing the basics first. Understanding the key components of a screenplay allows you to perfectly capture your readers and allow them to visualize the narrative.

Avoid common narrative cliches

Cliches are cliches for a reason; they’re seen as repetitive, overdone, and show a lack of originality. However, cliches have become so because they are popular among the audience. They’re tried and tested and something about them works for the audience. 

If you intend to use cliched elements in your story, don’t just copy what everybody else has already done. Add your unique twist to it, use it as a guide, or create a refreshing take. This not only shows your creativity but can also add depth to your storytelling.

Study other movie scripts and screenplays

The best way to learn in-depth about screenwriting is to study. That means reading other screenplays, especially those that have been recognized as well-written.  Thankfully, there are tons of resources online that you can use.

Check movie databases and film sites to find the best screenplays around the world. Make sure they’re in the genre you want to write so you can identify the qualities that have made them well-received worldwide.

Learn from an established screenwriter

Aside from learning from existing screenplays, it’s also good to learn from established screenwriters. Their experience and insight into the world of filmmaking can help you understand the process of screenwriting. 

Pen your first screenplay with Phantom Filmmaker!

Mastering the key elements of screenwriting is essential to filmmakers looking to craft a compelling movie screenplay. To achieve this, it’s crucial to remember the key elements of screenwriting, the basic steps of screenplay writing, and learn the ways to improve your skill in writing. Start honing your craft by following our guide and tips here at Phantom Filmmaker.