Writing for the Screen: Creative and Critical Approaches

This book is a comprehensive guide for screenwriters, script developers, and teachers, combining creative tools and approaches with critical and contextual underpinnings. It is ideal for screenwriting students looking to expand their skills and reflect on practices to add greater depth to their scripts, and experienced writers and developers looking to find fresh ways of working. It covers key narrative questions of today and offers a range of exercises to address them, integrating creative guidance with rigorous scholarship.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 282 pages
Publication date: 26 April 2019
Publisher: Macmillan Education UK

This comprehensive and engaging book is a must-have for anyone interested in exploring the art of screenwriting. Written by a renowned screenwriter and educator, it provides a deep dive into the craft of storytelling for the screen.

The book begins by exploring the fundamental elements of screenwriting, such as character development, plot structure, and dialogue. It then delves into more advanced topics, such as visual storytelling, narrative techniques, and the impact of technology on storytelling.

Throughout the book, the author shares practical tips and techniques that have helped him succeed in the industry. He also provides examples of successful screenplays and discusses the key elements that make them great.

One of the standout features of this book is its emphasis on theme and structure. The author argues that a well-crafted screenplay should have a clear theme that resonates with the audience and a well-defined structure that guides the story from beginning to end. He provides exercises and prompts to help readers develop their own themes and structures and apply them to their own screenplays.

Another valuable aspect of this book is its focus on the creative process. The author encourages readers to explore their own creativity and find new ways of telling stories. He provides exercises and prompts to help readers generate ideas and develop their own unique voice as a screenwriter.

This book is ideal for screenwriting students, as well as experienced writers and developers who are looking to expand their skills and reflect on practices to add greater depth to their scripts. It will also inspire experienced writers and developers to find fresh ways of working and consider how new technology is affecting storytelling voices.

In conclusion, this revised and refreshed edition of "The Craft of Screenwriting" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the art of screenwriting. With its comprehensive coverage of creative and critical approaches, practical tips, and engaging exercises, it provides a wealth of inspiration for those wishing to work in the industry or deepen their study of the practice. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced screenwriter, this book is sure to help you take your storytelling to the next level.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 211 x 147 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781352006025
Edition number: 2nd ed. 2019