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How to become a screenwriter?

I’m interested in pursuing screenwriting for shows and films. What would entering this industry look like? What education/experience would I need? Thank you

#film #television #writing #entertainment

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Ben’s Answer

There are many schools/universities that offer screenwriting courses- but these aren't necessary for entry into the industry. Whilst they will sharpen your skills but 'train' you in the art/craft of screenwriting by the virtue of providing you with lots of experience of writing/getting feedback, they don't guarantee you entry into a paid job in the industry and don't guarantee you a launch for your career.

I suggest you pursue two tracks. First is CREATIVE. Watch TV and film you love: think about it, make notes about what works and what doesn't. Read plenty of scripts (search online for PDFs of produced shows; there are loads online!) and look at how different writers write/execute their ideas. Finally, write yourself. Keep a notebook of ideas for stories/characters/situations and perhaps one day one of them will grow. Write scripts: maybe start small- a little monologue for a theatre or a short film... then challenge yourself to go bigger.

The second track is NETWORK. You will get your first job in TV by a mix of 'right place/right time' and also by making opportunities for yourself- i.e. being pushy/making contact with people ("just for some advice") which hopefully will lead to an entry job which in all likelihood won't be v glamorous!! Keep us with these people for coffees/Zooms and they might remember you if an opening comes up.

Re. education. I'd probably encourage to keep your options open regarding what you study. You might want to change course later in life and something less specific might be more useful. Being a good writer is a lot about life experience too... I studied drama at uni before becoming a screenwriter, but I know doctors who are writers, people who studied all sorts of things who later carved out a successful writing career. So I wouldn't sweat about "choosing" the right college course per se.

But yes, short courses/online tutorials etc will be helpful as it gives you a taste of the industry and gives you some ideas/models too hold onto as you make your first steps.

Hope useful!
Ben
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Susan’s Answer

Screenwriting is an excellent skill to have now because there are so many ways to adapt books to other media - movies, TV series, Netflix, Hulu, etc. There is a certain format, so I suggest doing some research to see the best way to proceed - which schools near you offer courses, for example, or if you can take a quick course online.

You might try attending open and informal events where directors and screenwriters (and possibly authors) are hobnobbing so you can meet people, make connections, and get advice.

Susan recommends the following next steps:

Do some research about what education is necessary to be a successful screenwriter.
Locate a school.
Look for opportunities and events to attend to learn more about screenwriting and to make some connections.
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