Writing screenplays or anything else that falls into that general category is a very good exercise. It forces you to focus on small details and good dialogue.
Learning to format a screenplay is tricky. There are several good program options. See a list here. I picked the Celtx program because it was free, looked easy to learn, and didn't take much to download.
I enjoy finding screenplays online and reading them along with the film. This has been the single best learning experience. I also have a slew of books that seem helpful although I haven't got into them near as much as I'd like. I should work up some reviews soon.
There are several social sites for screenplay writers that look helpful. I don't have any suggestions because I haven't joined any. I don't want that sort of distraction when finding time to write is so precious, but I think these sites can be very helpful and encouraging.
If you are a screenplay beginner I would look into Script Frenzy to get a good start. :-)
Let me know if you have any advice or experience in this area.
Thanks for reading,
Miss Pickwickian
Miss Pickwickian
Patience, patience, patience! That is one of the greatest key to screenwriting!! That and being willing to edit a lot! :D
ReplyDeleteTo the KING be all the glory!
Rebekah
Wow, I'm so excited for you, honestly! I've been writing screenplays for YEARS now :P
ReplyDeleteOne piece of advice: really take the time before you write down a scene to visualize it. What is the audience going to see? How are they going to see it? It really helps me, because images (and dialog and other sounds) are the essence of film.
Anyway, yeah-- good luck! I can't wait to hear more as soon as Script Frenzy starts :D
PS Celtx is what I use too ;)
I just began writing my first screenplay today! And I am on Script Frenzy. It is so much fun!
ReplyDeleteI'm defyinggravity13 on Script Frenzy, if you were wondering :)