If you’re watching a movie, pay attention to how the screen writer developed the scene, characters, and plot, and you can become a better writer.
Identify the turning points, the unexpected twists and turns that keep you wondering what will happen next. What makes the characters likeable and dislikable? While listening to dialogue, notice the expressions, body language, and actions that add meaning to what is said.
Since today’s audience is so video-oriented, we no longer can tell a story with entirely narrative. Neither can we rely mostly on dialogue. We must show with words the same kinds of details that are important on the screen.
Remember, everything in a scene was put there for a purpose.
If we’re not careful, our descriptions of landscape and weather can be boring. In the movie, watch the surroundings, how the coming storm or headlights shining through the fog changes the mood. Then, when you’re writing a chapter, you’ll have a better idea how to give your character’s environment a sense of purpose.
Capture a movie’s setting, drama, and romance in your writing style, and your readers will love you more.
