The Screenwriter's Toolbox - Top 20 Links (To Read, Study & Learn from)

Sunday 29 April 2018


This list  is absolutely FULL of amazing links for the budding screenwriter and filmmaker! 



Originally this was a guest post I did for the fantastic Lucy V Hay over at Bang2Write, and after discovering it again - I thought it would be the perfect refresher for anybody who's feeling a bit stuck about how to move forward next.

I hope the list I've compiled provides you all the guidance, inspiration and advice you need!

1) Figuring Out Format

Feeling intimidated about writing your first script? Fear no more! Below is a fantastic example of how your script should look and a definition of screenplay terms.

2) The 3 Act Structure

Every screenwriter needs to understand the 3 Act Structure, so here is an in-depth look at each Act and what elements should be included.
The Three Acts by The Script Lab

3) First Ten Pages 

The first ten pages of your script are crucial, but do you know what 5 major components should be included? The link below shares these 5 secrets, as well as several examples of blockbuster opening pages such as Jaws500 Days Of Summer and Inception.
The First Ten Pages by The Script Lab 

4) All About The Logline  

Do you know the difference between a logline and a tagline? How long a logline should or shouldn’t be? Here are 10 tips to help you develop the best logline for your project.

5) Setting The Scene

Here are 37 examples and analysis of scene description seen in films such as AlienBasic InstinctInglorious BasterdsSe7en and Zombieland to name a few.
Scene Description Spotlight by Go Into The Story

6) Choose Your Genre 

Not sure which genre you want to write? Which genres sell more so than others? Look no further, here you can find the most popular genres in Hollywood and the 10 story techniques to include if you want to sell your screenplay.

7) Apps For Filmmakers 

Here are 8 of the best apps for filmmakers to help create high quality material while on the go.
Another app worth mentioning is Table Read. Table Read is every budding screenwriter and director’s dream – an app that reviews and reads your script for you. Check it out HERE!

8) How To Make A Short Film

Want to make a short film but not sure how to get started? Here are 11 tips to help get your project off the ground, so good luck and get filming!

9) Film Production Checklist 

Making a film can be a stressful process, but it doesn’t need to be with this helpful checklist! So grab a pen and a paper and make sure you’ve got everything you need! 

10) Producing A Micro-Budget Feature

For any aspiring and first time producers, this list of 10 tips will help and guide you on your micro-budget feature.

11) Is Script Hosting A Good Idea?
Unsure as to whether script hosting sites are worth the money? This article about The Black List is an interesting read providing the pros and cons of whether it’s the right decision for you.

12) 10 Tips For Writing A Hollywood Blockbuster

13) Supporting Characters

It happens more often than you think – supporting characters are being neglected. Your script will be weaker without strong supporting characters, but this link will help you spice things up in no time!

14) Dialogue 

Stuck in the dark depths of dialogue? We’ve all been there! Want to know a simple dialogue tip that will improve your writing? Click THIS LINK.

15) Enter Competitions

You have a finished script and not sure what to do next? Want to enter a competition but not sure of the criteria? Well here are 12 simple tips for entering Screenplay Competitions, good luck!

16) Networking Tips
These 12 top tips are guaranteed to help screenwriters and filmmakers navigate the networking scene. 
17) Pitching Your Script
Hollywood’s top Script Consultant and Story Expert Michael Hauge shares his 8 powerful steps to perfect your pitch! 

18) How To Sell Your Screenplay

Jason Brubaker is a Hollywood film distribution consultant, and shares his 4 methods to get your screenplay produced in the link below.

19) 6 Tips From A Billion Dollar Duo 

This screenwriting duo share their 6 tips to making and selling your script, and they should know – their films have grossed over a billion dollars at the box office. 

20) Kick Ass Endings

Want to write that perfect ending? While there is no secret formula, there are a few things to be aware of to get the best conclusion to your film. These golden secrets are shared in THIS LINK, so take a look!

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