8 Screenwriting Tips: Unlocking LA Screenplay Hacks a la Pedro Pascal with a Twist
Imagine this: It’s 2 AM, and I’m hunched over my laptop in a 24-hour diner, the aroma of coffee and the sound of clinking dishes in the background. That’s when it hit me – not the caffeine crash, but the realization that writers block is real. I have been writing screenplays since I was 16 years old. Trust me, I know all about writers block. Over the years I began to do a daring thing: Ask for help. Some of us writers struggle with our ego. More on that later. All the great ones ask for help and eventually develop a unique HACK (Helpful, Actionable, Creative, Knowledge-based).
Before you are eight of the top tips that have shaped my screenwriting journey, shared by the pros in the biz who have helped me get here. You're probably asking yourself, "who are you to share your tips with the ranks of us?" To which I'd say, I'm just a writer sharing information that's been passed down to me, that's all.
Drum roll please. . .
Tip 1: Embrace Your Unique Voice
Your script is your soul printed on paper. Early in my career, I learned that trying to mimic others only led to mediocre scripts. It wasn't until I embraced my Peruvian/Italian heritage and my unique life's experience that truly helped foster the unique voice. Your unique voice is your superpower; wield it with pride. Trust me. It'll come in handy!
Tip 2: Master the Art of Structure
A screenplay without structure is like a house without a foundation – it simply won’t stand. Whether you swear by the three-act structure or prefer to mix things up, understanding the bones of your story is crucial. One of the best teachers I've had along this journey is someone who I would have loved to meet in person! Do yourself a favor and check out Blake Snyder's Save the Cat. A Phenomenal and super helpful book where he breaks down every part of a screenplay, down to the very smallest detail. Trust me. If you don't care to read on this blog post, that's okay. Buy the book!
Tip 3: Cultivate Discipline
Writing isn't always about waiting for inspiration to strike – it's about showing up. Set a schedule, find your ideal writing spot (even if it's a diner at 2 AM), and stick to it. Consistency is key. One of my best works and the screenplay that got me started was written at a diner in New York, no less. Trust me, it works. Even if you think you write better within the confines of your small world, go out to the real world. It has a way to gift you nuggets of quality material.
Tip 4: Understand Your Characters
I can't tell you how many times I hear some of my fellow writers - me included - never starting to write because we have no idea who it is we want to write about. I tackle some of these difficulties sharing my favorite free-hand writing hack. Deeply knowing your characters allows their actions to drive the plot, making for a more authentic story. But you're never going to find a memorable character if you don't ask the important question. "What's at risk? Who is after them? Where do they need to go?" I like to imagine interviewing my characters, asking them their deepest fears and desires. It's a technique that has never failed to add depth to my narratives.
Tip 5: The Power of Rewriting
Don't be afraid to re-write the entire thing if that's what is needed. First drafts are just the beginning. The real magic happens during rewriting. I once revised a script 12 times before it felt right. Each draft peeled back another layer, bringing me closer to the story’s heart.
Tip 6: Seek Constructive Feedback
Going back to that ego thing, well, here it is. No writer is an island. Constructive criticism is invaluable, offering new perspectives on your work. So, suck it up and pretend to be the stupidest man in the room. A fresh pair of eyes can catch things you've glossed over and push your script from good to great.
Tip 7: Stay Inspired
Inspiration can come from the most unexpected places. A snippet of overheard conversation, a bike ride through Nashville, or even the soundtrack to "Prometheus" – stay open and curious. Your next great idea could be lurking just around the corner.
Tip 8: Network and Collaborate
The screenwriting journey can be solitary, but it doesn’t have to be. Connecting with fellow writers, attending workshops, and embracing collaboration can open doors you never knew existed. Remember, the screenwriting community is vast and full of opportunities.
Conclusion
Screenwriting is an art, a craft, and a journey. These tips, born from my own trials and triumphs, are designed to guide you through the highs and lows of storytelling. Embrace them, along with the HACK method, and let’s tell stories that resonate, captivate, and inspire.
Ready to dive deeper into the world of screenwriting? Subscribe for more insights, share your journey in the comments, and let’s embark on this storytelling adventure together. Remember, every word counts when you’re writing the next page-turner or box-office hit.