Screenwriting
Overview
Screenwriting, also known as scriptwriting, is the art and craft of writing scripts for mass media such as feature films, television productions, or video games. It is often a freelance profession. Screenwriters are responsible for researching the story, developing the narrative, writing the script, screenplay, dialogues and delivering it, in the required format, to development executives. Screenwriters therefore have great influence over the creative direction and emotional impact of the screenplay and, arguably, of the finished film. They either pitch original ideas to producers, in the hope that they will be optioned or sold, or screenwriters are commissioned by a producer to create a screenplay from a concept, true story, existing screen work or literary work, such as a novel, poem, play, comic book, or short story.
History
The act of screenwriting takes many forms across the entertainment industry. Often, multiple writers work on the same script at different stages of development with different tasks. Over time, the process has developed to become less hierarchical and more focused on the writer's creative freedom. Screenwriting software, such as Final Draft, has evolved significantly over the years, providing screenwriters with the tools to focus on the story and dialogue rather than technical issues.
Screenwriting for Film
Screenwriting for film is perhaps the most well-known and financially rewarding form of screenwriting. A screenplay written for film is usually original; however, it can also be based on a true story or a previously written piece, like a novel, stage play, or newspaper article. In the case of a screenplay being based on a book or other long form of media, the writer must first acquire the film rights from the original author.
Screenwriting for Television
Screenwriting for television shows requires a different approach than writing for film. With television episodes, a screenwriter must understand the 'beat' for each act and the overall arc for an entire season. Screenwriters of television series work with other writers and are need to understand the tone, characters, world, and story engine of the show.
Screenwriting for Video Games
Screenwriting for video games is another rapidly growing field. The narrative structure of a game can be more complex than that of a film, as players are able to make choices that affect the story. Screenwriters for games are part of a larger team and must work with game designers, voice actors, and artists to create a cohesive narrative structure within the interactive game environment.
Screenwriting Software
Screenwriting software is an important tool for screenwriters. It allows them to format their scripts to industry standards, including tagging scenes for production-related needs. Some popular screenwriting software includes Final Draft, Celtx, and Scrivener.
Screenwriting Education
There are many ways to learn screenwriting. Some screenwriters choose to pursue a Bachelor's or Master's degree in screenwriting or a related field, while others learn the craft on their own, through screenwriting books or script-writing software. There are also many screenwriting courses available online.
Screenwriting Competitions
Screenwriting competitions are a common way for screenwriters to get their work noticed. These competitions can be very competitive, but they can also provide valuable feedback, industry exposure, and even cash prizes. Some of the most prestigious screenwriting competitions include the Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting, Austin Film Festival, and the Sundance Institute's Screenwriters Lab.