How to Write a Movie Script Sample
Early in the 20th century many authors wanted to write the "Great American Novel." That desire has been replaced by some who want to write the next blockbuster screenplay. The script is more than just the blueprint of a movie, it is the entire movie described on paper. Everything that happens, from what the characters do and say to what the audience sees and hears, has to be written down. There are tons of university writing programs and screenwriting workshops that will teach you how to write a screenplay. But if you're a fan of the movies and enjoy reading, you can teach yourself.
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Instructions
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Purchase screenwriting software. There are two dominant programs used in the movie business: Final Draft and Movie Magic. Both of these programs are easy to learn and will allow you to write your script in the proper format. They also have sample screenplays built into their software.
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Read movie scripts. You can read the samples included in the screenwriting software, as well as download scripts from the Internet. When downloading from the Internet, only read PDF files. Other internet files can corrupt the structure of the original screenplays.
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Develop a story idea for a movie. Also develop a theme; this is what your script is about on a deeper level. Structure the story into a clear beginning, middle and end, weaving the theme throughout. Create compelling characters that people will want to watch.
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Write an outline of your movie. This is the road map to your story so that you know the complete order of scenes. The outline doesn't have to include character dialogue but should be detailed enough so that you know what happens in your story from moment to moment.
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Write your script. Type "Fade In:" at the top left of the first page. On the next line, write your Scene Heading. On the line after that write your scene, complete with action and dialogue. Write a Scene Heading each time you begin a new scene. When you've reached the end of your script, type "Fade Out." at the bottom right of the margin. Two lines below that, type "The End." in the center of the page.
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Tips & Warnings
Feature-length movie scripts run between 105 to 120 pages. Comedies and action-scripts tend to run shorter, while dramas are usually longer.
Purchase one or two books on screenwriting that will help you learn the craft of writing.
Celtx is a free screenwriting software program available for download on the Internet. You can write your first draft in this program but you should submit it to others for reading in one of the industry-standard programs.
There are several "story development" software programs to help you plan and organize your story before you begin writing.
Do not start writing your script until you have read enough screenplays to understand how a movie script works.
