scripts

[Chris L]

Hi i'm just interessted at directing a short film for now but if i really wanted to make a go of a film how would i construct a script and how would i know if it would work as a good film or not

please leave a message with your thoughts and help

[Mark Jury]

download some scripts off the net and take a look.

Keep your story simple and your characters interesting. A good beginning will make your audience unable to look away..and a good ending (hardest part of all) is important because a film's success is about word of mouth.

[miker]

And remember, some 'real' scripts look nothing like what you see in 'making of' books.

Here's a good place to start: http://www.teleport.com/~cdeemer/current-new.html

[eddie]

If you want to do it yourself then try this:
Make a list of everything you have access to:
places to film, props, objects, cars, costumes, junk, people who can help....
write a long list.
You can use this as inspiration for the story. Keep the story simple, dont get too flashy or obviously expensive. Make the characters brilliant! and put a twist in the end.
Write it realistically, you might have to compromise your ideas because of budget and experience. That doesnt matter. When you see the final thing on screen it wont matter that you didnt put your BEST ideas in. You did it and thats the most important thing for a first film.
Although I'm loathe to mention it, remember the 3 act 'formula':
1) Introduction -> hurdle/turning point
2) Pass through turning point -> Climax/problem
3) solve problem, head off into sunset.
Each 'Act' could be about a third the length of the final film/story/play - whatever (it doesnt just apply to films)
Write down descriptions of the characters, and let them sit around in your head for a while. Bounce them off each other. How would they react.
Whatever you do make sure you write it within your means and abilitys, other wise you will probably be dissapointed. Dont try to fly before you can walk, and remember that getting your feet to stay off the ground in the first place is the hardest thing about flying. Once you can do that the rest is easy.....;-)