Outlining Scenes

• The length of an average screenplay is between 80 and 120 pages. Exceptions to this rule exist, but most literary agencies and production companies are strict when it comes to the total page count as this will determine the amount of time and potential cost of creating a movie. When outlining scenes for a screenplay, you will need to ensure that a full story arc can be compiled within this page count.
  
  While the story will change throughout the writing process, outlining the scenes will ensure that the story flow remains consistent, and it will showcase any fluff scenes that can be removed. When outlining the scenes, provide basic details about the actions within the scene and the characters involved.
  
  During the outlining phase, answer the following questions: What are the main characters' goals and how will they be realized? What are the conflicts and struggles the main characters will have to go through? Are there individuals who are causing these difficulties? Why are these characters opposing the main characters' goals? Will the main characters ultimately achieve their goals?
  
  

Story Plot Structure

• Novel writing and screenplay writing are similar when it comes to pacing and the overall story structure. By creating a plot structure, you are able to transform a movie script idea into an actual screenplay that can be sold. The first step to creating a story plot is developing the initial idea. This idea can be as simple as wanting to tell the story of star-crossed lovers. After the initial idea has been compiled, creating the backstory will begin to further develop the story and characters. An example of this would be: Star-crossed lovers come from different parts of the world where, creating obstacles. While outlining the scenes, allow the backstory to be told throughout the duration of the script. This will keep positive forward momentum with the characters and the story while still providing the audience a glimpse into why the story is being told.
  
  The pacing of a story will determine the success of a movie script. As you read scripts, you will notice that as the story unfolds, the drama and intensity between characters begin to grow. By increasing the intensity of a story, it will captivate the viewers and draw them into the situations that are presented. As you outline the story, keep a mental picture of a rollercoaster, with its ups and downs and unexpected twists.
  
  With the mindset of an emotional rollercoaster, add various twists and turns to the story plot. By incorporating unexpected events, it will maintain the forward pace of the script while providing further insight into the dramatics that the characters are going through.
  
  Finally, irony is a key component to a successful screenplay. When you incorporate irony into a screenplay, you are allowing the audience to gain vital information that the main character is unaware of. This will allow the viewers to become emotionally involved; it's as if they are hearing a secret about a person that no one else is aware of. An example of irony would be a boyfriend buying a ring so he can propose to his lover, unaware that while he was doing this, she was having a romantic encounter with the waiter from their favorite restaurant.