Screenwriting Tips for Aspiring Filmmakers

The art of screenwriting is about more than just telling a story—it’s about crafting an experience that resonates with audiences long after the credits roll. For aspiring screenwriters, standing out in a crowded field requires more than just a good idea; it demands structure, memorable characters, authentic dialogue, and a unique approach to storytelling. Here’s a guide to creating a screenplay that doesn’t just tell a story but makes a lasting impact.

1. Master the Structure but Add Your Twist

The backbone of any screenplay is its structure. While three-act structures are traditional, experimenting with structure can set your screenplay apart. Understand the basics—setup, confrontation, and resolution—but don’t be afraid to subvert these conventions. Maybe your story begins with the climax or uses a circular narrative.

Actionable Tip: Outline your script with the three-act structure in mind, but consider starting with a bold event, jumping timelines, or intertwining multiple storylines. Just ensure these choices serve the story rather than distracting from it.

2. Craft Dynamic and Relatable Characters

Characters are the heart of any story, and memorable ones are essential for a screenplay that stands out. Audiences connect with characters who feel real, even if they are fictional. Strive to create characters with depth, personal motivations, and growth arcs. Each character should have a unique personality, with specific desires, flaws, and challenges.

Actionable Tip: Develop backstories and motivations for each main character, even if they don’t make it onto the page. Write character profiles to understand their personalities and how they would react in different situations. Give them qualities that make them relatable yet complex.

3. Write Authentic, Engaging Dialogue

Dialogue is a powerful tool in screenwriting, conveying not only information but also character personality and emotion. Realistic dialogue should sound natural, yet every line should have a purpose—whether it’s moving the plot forward or revealing something about a character. Avoid expositional or “on-the-nose” dialogue where characters state things that the audience can already infer.

Actionable Tip: Read your dialogue out loud to check its flow and realism. Consider how each character would uniquely phrase their words based on their background, goals, and emotional state. Use subtext to create layers—let the audience read between the lines for deeper meaning.

4. Focus on Creating a Unique Concept

To break through the noise, your screenplay must have a fresh concept. While universal themes like love, loss, or redemption appeal to audiences, finding a unique angle on these ideas will make your script stand out. Think about what sets your story apart from others in the genre, whether it’s an unexpected twist, a novel setting, or a perspective that hasn’t been explored.

Actionable Tip: Start by identifying a core theme or concept that fascinates you, then brainstorm ways to twist it. Ask yourself questions like, “What if this happened instead?” or “How can I show this from a new angle?” and incorporate these ideas into your screenplay’s premise.

5. Show, Don’t Tell

Screenwriting relies heavily on visual storytelling. Rather than using dialogue or narration to explain key points, aim to show them through action and imagery. This approach not only respects the visual medium of film but also engages the audience, allowing them to interpret and connect with the story on a deeper level.

Actionable Tip: Identify places in your script where information is conveyed verbally and see if it can be shown instead. For example, rather than having a character say they’re feeling lonely, show them standing alone in a crowd or staring at an empty room. Visual cues can say much more than words.

6. Keep the Pacing Tight

A well-paced screenplay keeps readers (and viewers) engaged. Avoid unnecessary scenes or dialogue that don’t serve the story. Instead, make each scene count by moving the plot forward or deepening character development. Fast-paced scenes should build tension, while slower moments should provide meaningful insight into the characters or themes.

Actionable Tip: Revisit your scenes with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “Does this scene advance the plot or character arc?” If the answer is no, consider cutting it or combining it with another scene. Aim for brevity without sacrificing clarity or impact.

7. Polish, Revise, and Seek Feedback

Once your screenplay is complete, the real work begins. Revising your script will help catch any inconsistencies, improve flow, and refine dialogue. Don’t be afraid to make big changes during this process. After multiple drafts, seek feedback from trusted peers or industry professionals to get an objective perspective on what’s working and what isn’t.

Actionable Tip: Set your script aside for a few days before revising, allowing you to approach it with fresh eyes. When seeking feedback, ask specific questions, like whether characters felt authentic or if the pacing seemed smooth. Use this feedback to fine-tune and polish your work.

8. Find Your Voice and Trust It

Your unique perspective is one of the most valuable assets you bring to your screenplay. Develop a voice that reflects your personality, values, and observations about the world. Rather than imitating popular films or trends, tell stories that genuinely resonate with you. Authenticity will make your screenplay distinct and memorable.

Actionable Tip: Identify themes and story elements that you’re passionate about, and incorporate them into your work. Pay attention to the tone of your writing—whether it’s dark, humorous, or poignant—and ensure it feels consistent throughout. Trust your instincts and believe in the value of your own voice.

Final Thoughts: Standing Out with Substance

Writing a standout screenplay is about more than following formulas or flashy plot twists. It’s about creating a narrative that feels authentic, grounded, and impactful. By focusing on structure, character depth, unique concepts, and refining your work through revision, you can craft a screenplay that doesn’t just stand out but also resonates. Whether you’re submitting to festivals, agents, or production companies, a well-crafted, original screenplay is your best asset in breaking through the noise.

Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!