Every writer has their process. And I have mine for analyzing a script.
So here’s what I do.
First I’m going to read the script. I don’t need to know much about it up front since I want to read it completely fresh.
Then I’m going to take a look at your pitchdeck or lookbook, if you have one. I’ll also look at any of your previously produced work as this gives me a good sense of your voice, style and tone. Then I’ll review your comps, films that are similar in genre/tone/style, as this can be a helpful reference point for our conversation.
Then I’m going to read the script again. And probably again.
After that I’ll brew some coffee or jasmine tea, go to Spotify for music and draw on my experience working in all aspects of film and television from script development through to post production and distribution and make extensive notes. I’m going to use knowledge gained from having read numerous screenplays to analyze the characters, relationships, dialogue, structure, story execution and marketability.
As I work I’m going to explore every possible storyline to see if the characters feel fully developed and make sure that everything is coming together in an emotionally cohesive, compelling way. I’m going to break down the plot to see if the piece is structurally sound and moving forward with energy and tension. I’m going to ensure that there is a strong hook, that the premise has been fully exploited and that the piece is marketable. And I’m going to make sure that there’s a clear, meaningful theme that is supported by the characters, the protagonist’s transformation and the main action of the piece.
But perhaps most importantly, I’m going to look for the key elements of the story you want to tell. It’s not about my vision; it’s about yours. It’s also not about fitting into some arbitrary structure or hitting formulaic plot points. Yes there are some elements that have to be in place in order for a script to work successfully but I’m going to let the piece dictate the form. Moonlight would not have worked if it had used conventional structure but Little Miss Sunshine might not have worked as well without it. I’m going to look at the script with your intentions in mind so that my feedback helps you to articulate your vision and tell your story.
Once I’ve completed my notes we will have our 2-3 hour call / Zoom session to discuss your material in-depth. I’m always going to start with the overall character arc and emotional core of the story. This gives us our spine. From there we’ll explore plot, structure, secondary characters, genre, tone and theme. The conversation is fluid with a lot of back and forth. I ask a lot of questions, not because I already have the answers (it’s not a test!), but to help you discover the answers that are inside you. Sometimes our discussion will naturally explore your lived experience and why you’re telling this story. I find when we can uncover the deeper connection you have to the piece the story immediately elevates and decisions around the rewrite become clearer. Our conversation will also usually involve next steps, producibility and career strategies. We’re not developing in a vacuum and I want to ensure I’m helping you in a way that is in alignment with your overall goals.
Regardless of how we work together, the process is designed to give specific, meaningful feedback and useful tools to help you tell your story in such a way that you end up with an engaging, emotionally compelling, marketable script. My hope is that you finish our session with a clear sense of the story you want to tell, know how to keep moving forward, and feel inspired and excited to dive back in. One step closer to bringing your story to life!
