Pre-Production Unit: Looking into Different Screenwriters

Something that I need to do whilst writing my script is to make sure that I keep my characters believable, this is something that I need to focus on if I want to be a success. For this reason I felt it would be a good idea to investigate further into different screenwriters, to see how they wrote in certain situations to make the scripts appealing and believable towards an audience.

An episode of Charlie Brooker's Screenwipe is currently on Youtube and it was very useful towards giving an insight into different screenwriters and how they tackle their subject. Instead of the usual half hour of different subjects, this 50 minute episode was dedicated entirely to TV writing, and Brooker interviewed some very notable guests: Russell T Davies (Doctor Who), Tony Jordan (EastEnders), Graham Linehan (Father Ted, IT Crowd), Jesse Armstrong and Sam Bain. (Peep Show)

(The link works although the picture isn't showing in the video)

They talk about their own writing processes and it's interesting to see the differences in the way they write and approach a screenplay. For some, outlining is imperative, for others it's not so important. Some can't write without exactly the right characters in mind, for others the characters simply evolve into their mindsets, fully formed. I have to say it was comforting to hear about all the times they admitted they had writers block and made mistakes.

It's important to note whilst writing that you don't always get want to want out of an idea, it takes a lot of preparation and patience to get to the point you are happy with what you've got.

Sometimes you might never happy with what you've worked on. This is why i've found it very inspiring and enlightening to find out more from those working in the same field I am working towards. This is why I have had also discussions with other students in my class who are also creating their own ideas. It is good to surround yourself with writers who can help your own sense of judgement whilst writing as well as the competitive streak to always outdo yourself whilst doing so.