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Writing Tips for Beginners: Crafting an Engaging Screenplay
By: Eddy Sanchez, E-Writes Podcast Screenwriting tips
Are you eager to dive into the world of screenwriting? Whether you're a budding writer or someone who's simply interested in storytelling, I’m here to share some valuable tips to help you create a compelling screenplay. Drawing from my experience with short films like "Teddy," I promise you these insights will set you on the right path to crafting an entertaining narrative.
Create an Unpredictable Protagonist
One of the key elements of a captivating story is an unpredictable protagonist. In my short film "Teddy," the main character is a killer with multiple personalities. This complexity keeps the audience guessing and engaged. As a writer, aim to make your protagonist relatable yet surprising. Show their vulnerabilities and inner demons, which they battle throughout the story. Remember, a character that is too predictable can quickly become boring!
Make Your Character Unique
Your protagonist doesn’t need to have superpowers or extraordinary abilities—but they should have a quirky personality that sets them apart. Maybe they have an unusual hobby, a unique way of speaking, or an unexpected talent. These traits not only make your character interesting but also help the audience forge a connection with them.
Show, Don’t Tell
One of the most important rules in storytelling is to "show, don’t tell." Rather than simply stating facts about your characters, reveal their traits and backstory through their actions, dialogues, and interactions with others. This technique keeps your audience engaged and allows them to immerse themselves in the characters’ journeys. For example, instead of saying your protagonist is struggling with inner demons, depict their struggle through a powerful scene that illustrates their conflict.
Craft an Entertaining Narrative
Remember that audiences seek a good story above all else. They want to be entertained and lose themselves in your narrative world. Focus on creating a plot that is engaging and filled with twists and turns. Keep the pacing brisk and maintain the tension throughout the screenplay. Consider how each scene contributes to the overall story arc and character development.
Embrace the Storytelling Tradition
Humans are natural storytellers—it's in our DNA. From the time of Neanderthals painting on cave walls to today’s digital narratives, storytelling has always been a fundamental part of human culture. Embrace this tradition as you write your screenplay. Your unique voice and perspective can add to the rich tapestry of storytelling that has evolved over millennia.
Final Thoughts
As you embark on your screenwriting journey, keep these tips in mind. Craft an unpredictable protagonist, highlight their uniqueness, and remember to show, not tell. Focus on entertaining your audience and embrace the age-old tradition of storytelling. With practice and dedication, you'll be well on your way to writing a screenplay that captivates and resonates with viewers.
Don’t forget to tune in to the E-Writes Podcast for more writing tips and inspiration! Happy writing!
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Link to Eddy's YouTube below
