Filmmaking / Directing : I have a great idea by Rachel Odonnell

Rachel Odonnell

Student, Director

posted in Filmmaking / Directing Sign in to subscribe

9 years ago

I have a great idea

I have a great idea but I'm not quite sure where to start and could use some help.

Mark Mccoy

3
3 people like this
9 years ago

Write that great idea down.

Vlad Micu

3
3 people like this
9 years ago

Hi Rachel, I've been in your shoes at the beginning as well. If you like, we can chat and I can help you with whatever it is that you need help for.

Tom Chucas

4
4 people like this
9 years ago

I'd say start with either a theme and base characters that fit best with what you're trying to say with the script or start with a main character who has a goal and an obstacle they must overcome. could be external e.g. a dragon, or internal e.g. social anxiety. Or both: wants to fight a dragon but has social anxiety (there's a story there somewhere). Through these obstacles, the characters strive to overcome the conflict. Could apply this to your idea and see where it goes for you. Look at the 3 act structure for a basic outline, this doesn't have to be followed to a fault but good to help get a foundation and edit it yourself :)

Shawn Speake mod

1
1 person likes this
- Debbie Croysdale
9 years ago

Write a one page: a 3 sentence synopsis - beg, mid, and end - and logline. For the logline try this formula: WHEN, the inciting incident happens, A FLAWED LEAD, your hero/antihero, MUST, the objective, OR ELSE, the stakes. Run your idea through those components and see what you come up with. For an example of a One Page see: https://www.stage32.com/profile/185490/Screenplay/Hollywood-ending-2

Debbie Croysdale

2
2 people like this
- Shawn Speake
- Rachel Odonnell
9 years ago

Agree with @All above and add my own thoughts. I think the beauty of a great idea is its in your mind all the time. An old fashioned note book and pen is the key, the stories growth will not come by forced attempts in an institutionalised environment. I came up with an idea for a trilogy of pulps a couple of years back, and one of the sponsors for the first short wanted me to go to their office and write the next two. Not for me. A great idea has a life of its own and inspirational flashes are spasmodic and erratic. I still carry everywhere i go (literally) a rough book and pen. Good luck with your idea.