Chapter 7 From Page to Screen 277Writing: Crafting a Story for the Screen
Using the tools and formats we have studied in this chapter, you will develop
a story and write a script for a short fi lm. Th is script should be fi ve to fi ft een
pages in length in its fi nal form. As you arrive at the fi nal chapters of this text,
you will have the opportunity to produce the most complex projects that you
will have undertaken. Th e script you write here can be used for the projects
included in Chapter 7 and Chapter 8. If your script involves a core of one to
three characters and only one or two locations, it will be used for the project
for this chapter. On the other hand, if your screenplay involves more than
three actors who will be speaking in the fi lm or three or more locations, you
will be producing this script for the project for Chapter 8.
A. Brainstorming – Use the following brainstorming activities to generate
material for a screen story. If you already have a story idea, use these
prompts as necessary.- Characters – Let’s generate some characters! Th ey might fuel
your story.
a. Write character sketches of these people. Include
age, physical description, personality, profession or
occupation, interests, goals, family or friends.
i. A person who makes you laugh
ii. A person who makes you frustrated
iii. A person whom you respect
iv. Yourself through another’s eyes
b. From any of these descriptions, are there traits or
objectives that suggest possible confl icts with other
people or outside forces? Jot down any story ideas that
are suggested by these characters. - Places and Th ings – Consider physical settings or objects for
inspiration.
a. Brainstorm a list of the following locations or objects.
i. Interior spaces where you witness activities being
done
ii. Exterior spaces where you see people interacting
iii. Objects that you use on a daily or regular basis
iv. Objects sitting in your house or at school that never
seem to get used
b. Among any of these places or things, are there actions
you can imagine that are suggested by them? Are there
any particular images that come to mind?
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