Essential Skill Sets Screenwriters Need To Write Professionally - Corey Mandell [FULL INTERVIEW]

Introduction

This tutorial outlines the essential skill sets that screenwriters need to develop in order to write professionally, as shared by Corey Mandell in a recent interview. Whether you're a novice or an experienced writer looking to refine your craft, these actionable steps will help you elevate your screenwriting skills.

Step 1: Understand Story Structure

• Familiarize Yourself with Common Structures: Learn about different story structures such as the three-act structure, the hero's journey, and others. Understanding these frameworks can help you craft compelling narratives.
• Analyze Successful Screenplays: Read and breakdown popular screenplays to see how structure is applied in successful films. Pay attention to how the story unfolds and the pacing of the narrative.

Step 2: Develop Strong Characters

• Create Detailed Character Profiles: Develop in-depth profiles for each character, including their backgrounds, motivations, and arcs. This helps in making characters relatable and engaging.
• Focus on Character Relationships: Explore how characters interact with one another. Relationships drive the story forward and create conflict, which is essential for engaging narratives.

Step 3: Master Dialogue Writing

• Listen to Real Conversations: Pay attention to how people speak in real life. Use this observation to write natural-sounding dialogue that reflects your characters' personalities.
• Read Your Dialogue Aloud: Hearing your dialogue can help you identify awkward phrasing or unnatural speech patterns. Revise as necessary to improve flow and authenticity.

Step 4: Cultivate Your Voice

• Experiment with Different Styles: Try writing in various genres and tones to discover your unique voice. This experimentation can also help you find what resonates with you as a writer.
• Write Regularly: Establish a consistent writing routine to hone your skills. The more you write, the more your voice will develop.

Step 5: Seek Feedback and Revise

• Join a Writing Group: Engage with other writers to exchange feedback on your work. Constructive criticism can provide new perspectives and help you improve your script.
• Be Open to Revisions: Embrace the revision process. Good writing often comes from rewriting, so be prepared to revise multiple drafts before achieving the final product.

Step 6: Learn the Business of Screenwriting

• Understand Industry Standards: Familiarize yourself with industry formats and standards for screenplays. This knowledge is crucial for presenting your work professionally.
• Network within the Industry: Attend workshops, festivals, and other events to connect with industry professionals. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities in the screenwriting field.

Conclusion

By focusing on these essential skill sets—understanding story structure, developing strong characters, mastering dialogue, cultivating your voice, seeking feedback, and learning the business—you can significantly enhance your screenwriting abilities. Start implementing these steps today, and take your writing to the next level. Happy writing!