Are you stuck with the first draft of a script that you don’t know how to rewrite?
We’ve all been there. It’s easy to tell when your script isn’t firing on all cylinders. But it can be difficult to diagnose exactly what’s wrong and figure out how to fix it.
That’s why we’ve created this list of questions. Each question here will challenge you to look at your script in a new way, and help you identify the problem areas in your writing.
These are the same questions we ask when we’re reading a client’s script and I’m confident they’ll help you attack your next rewrite effectively.
That’s why we’ve created this list of questions. Each question here will challenge you to look at your script in a new way, and help you identify the problem areas in your writing.
These are the same questions we ask when we’re reading a client’s script and I’m confident they’ll help you attack your next rewrite effectively.
- Does the main character arc?
- Does the story deliver on its unique concept?
- Does each scene connect to the next with either ‘therefore’ or ‘but?’
- Does the story have a clear theme?
- Is each scene as visual as possible?
- Is there something motivating the hero through every step of their journey?
- Is the action sparse and visual?
- Does every character reflect the hero and his flaw in a significant way?
- Does every scene absolutely have to be there?
- At the beginning of the story is the hero’s flaw adversely affecting those around him?
- Does conflict come from character and theme?
- Does the story you’ve created maximally challenge the hero to grow?
- Is this the movie you set out to write?
- Is the story as simple as it can possibly be?
- Are there enough surprises in your script?
- Does the script utilize visual transitions?
- Does the script match tonally and conceptually?
- Do your B (and C or D) stories reflect the theme?
- Is the plot driven by your character’s need to change?
- Does the story gain momentum as it progresses?
What Now?
After you finish your first draft, take a couple of weeks off to gain a fresh perspective. Then re-read the script with these questions in mind.
If you’re still stuck, check out our script analysis services.
We’ve got experienced screenwrtiers standing by to help you get your screenplay into shape.
Oh and one more thing… If you haven’t already signed up for our email list, sign up now. Free screenwriting tips and insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Plus you get free logline notes just for signing up.
If you’re still stuck, check out our script analysis services.
We’ve got experienced screenwrtiers standing by to help you get your screenplay into shape.
Oh and one more thing… If you haven’t already signed up for our email list, sign up now. Free screenwriting tips and insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Plus you get free logline notes just for signing up.
