I was just reading an article an I said to myself, "what are the steps I can take to make my screenplays great, error free?" In other words, what should I do first? For me would be to get a proofreader, because I simply keep missing words. BUT, what next? A script consultant? Script coverage? Because let's be honest other writers just give you different points of view and in instead of helping, it becomes a detriment. I have one screenplay read by a pro here and this person was excellent in helping me in improving that particular story with professional development notes. I got lucky. So again, I ask, what are the first steps once I finish my rewrite? ERIK or SADIE, hope you get to read this, would appreciate your advice. Below is the link to the article I cited in case you missed it. https://screencraft.org/2016/07/27/producers-share-five-ways-to-get-your...
Screenwriting : How can screenwriters make their script great? Error proof? by Jorge J Prieto
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Great stuff! Thanks for sharing
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@Jody always grateful. Glad you liked it.
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Great share, Jorge! I especially like the bit about not worrying if someone will steal your idea. Don't be precious - get your work out there in front of as many eyes that you trust as you can! As for your question, I'd suggest our Development Notes - the format and technical aspects of the script are always addressed, so you're bound to learn something new each time. Plus, you can compare the notes you've gotten to track your progress across drafts!
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@Matt, the whole "someone will steal my idea" is one of my biggest pet peeves. This was a convo in another thread, that the people most worried usually have scripts that aren't worth stealing anyway. Lol.
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@Matt, thanks. I will do that. Have to get four screenplays proofread, one at a time and as soon as the first one comes back, step 2, S32, development notes and finally Skype pitches. Hey, I think between you and I, we figured out the steps to follow. Thanks a mil. Hope the conversation continues and other fellow screenwriters find all this helps them as well. Peace.:)
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Hey Jorge, I might suggest getting notes from people who KNOW what execs are looking for before you actually submit to execs as you only get 1 chance with them. As a former exec, I've been there. at No BullScript, I do comprehensive notes and also proofreading/editing/formatting, as well as more in depth polishing. I definitely suggest pitching your project but make sure it's ready first. But message me and I'm happy to help if you're interested!
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Screencraft has some very informative articles with great advice. It does pay to have someone with experienced insight to review any material before it gets submitted or passed around. Like Danny and others say, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. So make it a stellar one.
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Awesome article Jorge! Thanks for the link.
Didn't read the article, but want I have found are errors can sometimes be objective. I had a producer say he liked that I gave actors some insight such as "she knows she was just beaten". An actor can act that with a slump or a look. The same script got a comment of being a bit novelistic, a good read but has unfilmables.
Danny, thanks for the offer, didn't know you guys had proofreading service, accompany by editing and polishing. I will compare prices and really hope we can work together. I...I have 5 spec screenplays that I really can use a proofreader first and foremost. David thanks as well. Craig, thanks for your comment. Brittany, #grateful for your kind words. Your request is humbly accepted. I'm honored, girl friend. BTW, love that you love It's a Wonderful Life. Capra was unique.
Was going to post something but I noticed this topic. I'm looking for a prof read service that won't break the bank, anyone know of a some?
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Hey Erica, I provide a proofreading/editing service that I'm sure will be in your budget. I've sent you a friend request so we can discuss this if you like.
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S32 member Tammy Gross did great work for me last year at www.proofmyspec.com.
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Here's an editor's Your Stage post about her services, Rosalind Winton, who often edits for Stage 32: https://www.stage32.com/lounge/promotion/One-Voice-Literary-Agency-Editi.... :)
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Jorge, if you haven't used the Final Draft assign voices, speech control tool, I really advocate that you try it. It really helps me catch omitted words and awkward dialogue etc. It's a fantastic tool. For me, that makes Final Draft worth the extra dough.
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Yes, I have Final Draft and utilize all its tools too. They're great! Personally, I edit/proofread my own work. If/when I do seek review or notes, I'm more interested in solving any possible story, plot, or character issues. :)
Movie Magic voice sounds horrible. Maybe is because my is from 2007? Can't say for sure. Nothing replaces the human feeling and emotions actors emote when reading a screenplay or play. Dan thanks.
Great information. Thanks for sharing
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I print out a hard copy and go line by line with a pen... I'm just able to catch things I may have otherwise missed.
Reading line by line out loud always helps me catch everything, but I'm a long-time writer/editor obsessive type. That reminds me....I have to go over my menu for my 2022 New Year's Eve party.
Hey that´s a good idea Erik ! On the screen you easily miss typos or spaces.