Author Archives: David Spies

Screenwriting and the letter

Posted on May 7, 2013

Incorporating a letter in a screenplay can be tricky, though formatted correctly; it can make your scene stand out. The most straightforward way to depict a letter in a screenplay is to show a character reading the letter and to use dialogue. Continue reading →

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Screenwriting and the Budget-Conscious Script

Posted on April 28, 2012

When you’re writing your own script, one thing that must be considered is budget. You can have a fantastic original story, but if your script is not written with budget in mind, you’ll be putting your script in the category of a Studio option. Discover how other screenwriters approach ultra-low or micro-budgeted filmmaking as a means to realize their artistic ambitions. Continue reading →

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Screenwriting and Story Structure

Posted on March 17, 2012

If you’re new to screenwriting or thinking about getting started in the craft, learning the fundamentals of story structure are key to establishing a solid foundation. Understanding the basics will ensure you’re on the right path before you even begin to write. Stick to a three act formula – act I, II and III, otherwise known as setup, conflict and resolution. Continue reading →

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Screenwriting and Groundhog Day

Posted on March 1, 2012

Déjà vu is a sensation which usually lasts only for moments but the magical emotional connection remains, lingering and irrefutable. The moment when an idea for a story comes to you is a similar experience, almost magical. The best ideas often seem to come out of nowhere… all of a sudden you’re inspired and motivated to write and not stop until your pen runs out of ink. Continue reading →

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Screenwriting and Indie Film Distribution

Posted on January 5, 2012

Indie filmmakers are finding themselves at the forefront of an online distribution revolution. Finding an audience for your independent film has never been easier. There are many platforms for digital distribution to choose from, it’s just a matter of dollars vs. views. What route makes the most sense to each filmmaker? Continue reading →

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2011 in review

Posted on January 1, 2012

Screenwriting in Seattle viewed over 11,000 times in 2011! Continue reading →

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Screenwriting – The Beginning Middle and End

Posted on November 28, 2011

The opening to your story is the most important part of the whole journey. Before you even sit down and start writing, know your beginning, middle and end. Each scene should have a beginning, middle and end. Just as your story has setup, conflict, and resolution, a scene should have setup, conflict, and dilemma. This will keep the audience engaged with every scene and launch the audience into the next scene. Continue reading →

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Screenwriting and Starbucks

Posted on October 26, 2011

Cafés have long been a writer’s best friend. A cliché perhaps, but take it from me, there’s something special about settling into one of those “comfy” chairs and putting pen to paper while enjoying your favorite cup of coffee. It’s been a while since I’ve been on a writing streak and I always seem to find a bit of inspiration while sitting in one of my favorite neighborhood Starbucks. Continue reading →

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Screenwriting and Production Budget

Posted on June 20, 2011

Building a production budget requires a great depth of experience in film production and a general sense of “what things cost”. Each and every script is unique and will ultimately rely on the writer’s vision and attention to cost. All low-budget films have constraints. It’s much better to work around them in the story stage than attempt to deal with them in production. Continue reading →

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Screenwriting and the Shooting Script

Posted on June 2, 2011

The shooting script is created right after your film enters pre-production. Ideally, the director and cinematographer will work side-by-side while determining the desired shots for your film. Think of the shooting script as an elaborate version of your screenplay. Continue reading →

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