By Lauren Pizzicaroli
Whether it’s about life’s ups and downs, the mysteries of love, the battles of adversity, or just the mundane details of someone’s day, everyone’s got a story to tell. But weaving those stories into screenplays demands courage—it’s about daring to teach audiences something new, whisking them away to uncharted territories, or breathing new life into age-old narratives.
Consider for a moment the sheer volume of stories you’ve devoured throughout your lifetime. From childhood fairy tales to gripping crime dramas, the list goes on and on. And yet, it barely scratches the surface of the vast number of narratives waiting to be explored, both present and past.
Everyone has something to contribute to the world, and screenwriters possess the unique ability to share it with the masses, one popcorn-filled theatre at a time. However, transitioning from idea to award-winning film requires a pivotal first step: crafting stories that not only ignite your passion but also resonate deeply with your soul. Creating a remarkable screenplay requires unwavering dedication to a central idea, character, or theme—a commitment that spans months, if not years. Without passion for the subject matter, the journey is destined to be short-lived.
Writers need to believe in their narratives, in themselves, and remaining steadfast on our journey, regardless of market trends. This doesn’t mean turning a blind eye to industry standards, ignoring what resonates with audiences, or disregarding what’s winning on the festival circuit. Rather, it’s about creating from a place of authenticity and conviction, steering clear of writing solely to please others.
Understanding the underlying reasons behind the success of certain films empowers writers to provide a fresh perspective in their own unique voice and grants them the opportunity to authentically share a piece of themselves and their passions with the world. Some of the most powerful screenplays not only captivate and entertain but also spark profound conversations among viewers—conversations that might never have taken place had the writer not dared to broach the subject. Take, for instance, ‘American Fiction,’ honoured with this year’s Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Nevertheless, honing one’s craft is essential. And if a screenplay is truly exceptional, it can transcend the market saturation and expectations, as exemplified by ‘Anatomy of a Fall,’ which redefined courtroom drama and earned the prestigious Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Through study, practice, and seeking feedback, writers improve their story telling skills and grow as artists. Embracing this journey and writing from the heart ensures that one’s work evolves over time, potentially earning recognition and acclaim in the future… even an Academy Award.
As the Founder of Source Script Consulting, I take pride in aiding writers on their journey to refine their screenplays and create from a place of authenticity. There’s nothing quite like witnessing someone’s vision transform into a masterpiece, one step at a time. Through my services, I offer comprehensive reports, personalized support, and virtual meetings, ensuring I grasp the essence of the writer behind the story and their vision for the world. When I meet with writers, I simply say, ‘Tell me about your story,’ and that’s when the magic truly begins. To explore how Source Script Consulting can help bring your story to life, visit me at SourceScriptConsulting.com
