IVETA - Actress/writer
As an actress, when I write, I find it easier to look into a character first. If I don’t know what brought a character to the point where they are in the scene, or at least where they are going, then I really struggle to write a dialogue. It feels like I have so many ideas but how do I connect them and put them on a paper - that is another question.
From my experience writing [the short film] “Sunburn”, I found it helpful to do my research first. The story is based on traumatic experiences and their effects on people, so I needed to dig in more to see what’s the healing process, what are the visible changes as well as the inner feelings, the differences between trauma and depression etc. What specialists see happening more often and how to recognise it. I even picked up a couple of words that I later used in the script. It was also set in a volleyball court which I haven’t played in ages, thus I needed to read about the rules and terminology they use, not to forget the slag that is more commonly used in everyday language.
Another thing that really helped me write the dialogue, which is usually the biggest struggle for newer writers, was to listen to the voices of my characters. And the best way for me to do that was to envision people that I know, in the given (or created) circumstances. As an actor, I like to observe people a lot, question their decisions and body language, and listen to their stories. So it came in very handy when I decided to use some familiar faces and their mannerisms to give my characters voices. Some of this changed in the middle of writing by the way, because I realised they didn’t fit anymore as their voice had gotten different colours and became their own character.
One thing I learned though - feedback is key. It can help motivate you, choose a different direction, make necessary changes or even allow you to prove your point! But most of it - make your script much better and hopefully more successful!
RAGHIDA - writer producer
One of the most important lessons I've learned is not to worry too much about what others think. In the beginning, I found myself so concerned about how others would rate and like (or not) my writing. But with time I realized that the most important thing is to be true to myself and to express my unique voice and style.
In the beginning, I struggled to translate my ideas into a script. I have so many thoughts and stories, but I find it challenging to put them down on paper. But through practicing, I've learned that improvement comes with time. Each piece I write helps me learn from my mistakes. Writing the Morning Pages every morning helped a lot. I also attended the writing sessions on ‘Writers Hour’ (https://writershour.com/) which helped me with the discipline of writing every day.
For example, my first short film was my idea, but wasn’t able to write it myself for a long time. Then the director wrote it, as he is also a scriptwriter but I wasn’t happy with his draft so I ended up rewriting it myself after all. In my next short film, also a very personal and deep story about love and loss, I decided to write it myself from the beginning. It took me almost 1 year, but now I am editing it, and I realise it is still not quite there. Hence I am rewriting it again, and I can see the difference, where my writing is so much better now.
For me creating the right atmosphere for writing is essential for my writing process. I’ve discovered that finding an environment that suits me allows me to go deep into my thoughts. Whether it’s a cosy café, a quiet room at home with dim lights, the right setting helps me be more creative.
By allowing myself to practice without fear, I'm becoming better and better. Be fearless with your writing.
LOUIS - Script writer/script reader
I am a London-based screenwriter seeking to expand my feedback circle through a writer's group. I am looking for a group already established, or to form a group of like-minded screenwriters with similar needs where we can share screenplays for feedback on a semi-regular basis, or more regularly if time allows. In a similar manner, I am eager to help others develop their own work through an established feedback circle.
I have been writing screenplays for the past 7 years. Among the things I have written include multiple feature screenplays and multiple short screenplays. More recently, I have been writing the first series of a 10-episode mockumentary sitcom, as well as an animation short. I have had one live-action short film produced so far. Aside from my own work, I have collaborated on 2 feature screenplays and a series with a friend and regular collaborator. Most of my work is still in the first draft stage, I am seeking feedback for many of these screenplays to improve them as much as possible. I am eager for outside perspectives from people that I have not worked with before.
Aside from writing my own work, I have worked as an external script and book reader for various TV and film production companies for 3 years. My experience with script coverage has made me aware of the importance of feedback and criticism for the development of screenplays and more importantly, for the development of an individual writer's ability.
As much as I would like to get more of my own work made, I am not directly seeking producers and directors to collaborate with this time. However, I would be open to doing so should the opportunity arise. That being said, I welcome the perspectives from directors and producers who would like to participate in this group and to be involved in providing feedback on screenplays also. A range of perspectives is always good.
If you are interested in being a part of a feedback-oriented writer's group, please do not hesitate to get in touch. It would be great to hear from you and get started.
CHRIS -- Writer / Director
I’ve been an aspiring screenwriter since I was a teenager. After leaving university I lost an easily accessible route to a feedback group, and started to hunt for such a session being hosted in London.
It was after a little while of looking around (one group was only for comedy, which is fine but it wasn’t all I was writing, another group was just very cliquey and odd), that I came across one which I have now been a part of for over five years.
What I can hugely appreciate from this group is the passion for film and for the craft of writing that can be found from members, who are always willing to give sincere and honest feedback on a work in a trusting environment. I can definitely say my writing has improved in this time, at least in part from what I have gotten out of this group.
This is not to say I have agreed with every piece of feedback given, or even that I value all person’s opinions equally. This said, it has helped me listen through the noise to see what actionable changes I can make to a script. In addition, if nearly everyone in the room is in agreement that something should change, it almost certainly should.
A downside to the group was it was a step removed from the hard work of getting a film actually made. All of the feature and TV scripts dissected by the group were afterwards going back into drawers, mine included. However, this was also a chance to see how hard things can be for a producer, as for the dozens of scripts I’ve read as part of the group I would have only greenlit one if I had the cash.
A desire to actually see my scripts actually getting made was part of my reason to reconnect with my old uni friend James, and since then we have worked on numerous short films, all of which I am very proud of.
I am still a member of this group, though I am more aware of its limitations as much more a feedback circle than a team with an eye on film production, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in opinion or insight. I’ve also made valued friends in this time, including one who acted as script supervisor on the first short I directed myself.
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