When Action and Comedy Merge

People love action and they love to laugh. Merge the two and you have a great scene — maybe even a great screenplay. Just so you know, I’m not talking about “slapstick” comedy. That’s one way action and comedy can be merged. But there’s another way that fits more “intelligent comedy.” If you are writing

“There’s nothing wrong with your script.  It just needs a rewrite…” I know, it hurts hearing something like that.  Just when you thought your script was ready, they are pointing to other improvements they want.  But doing the right rewrite can not only elevate your script, but your status as a professional screenwriter. If you

People often write "nice" characters, but many times, a nice character comes across as bland or superficial or even dull. For a nice character to be interesting, it has to have something going on beneath the surface. You want this character to be liked, but you need the character to be interesting, maybe even intriguing.

It is the easiest mistake to make in screenplay dialogue — having your characters tell exactly what is going on in their emotions and thoughts.   The character says they hate a person because they do hate them.  The character tells you the reasons they are doing something…and they are the real reasons.  It is called

If you ask most people about what the ending is supposed to do, you'll likely hear the words "wrap it up."  Without a doubt, that is a very basic requirement of an ending.  But let me add two more important goals of the ending:        1.  Sell your screenplay.        2.  Create buzz with audiences.  Think of it this way. 

How to write a screenplay — Is there a formula?  There's a quote I've heard around Hollywood many times — "Every writer is just one script away from a career." Translated, it means that with the right screenplay, you're in business. So, how do you write that one screenplay that sells?   For some people,

How do you get an A-list actor to fall in love with your characters? I spent a year interviewing major actor's production companies to find out what actors need in a screenplay and how to get your script in the door.   From those 32 interviews, we discovered many insights into what it takes to land

Hey Producers, If you are looking for a consistent source of High Concept and high quality screenplays, please consider the ScreenwritingU Master Screenwriter Certificate writers.   OUR CREDIBILITY:   Hal Croasmun has done over 700 interviews with producers in L.A..   Also, see over 250 deals our SU Alumni have made.  So, we understand what producers need.  Behind the scenes,

Part of being a great screenwriter is finding your optimal creative process — the set of rituals that will have your creativity blossom and your life be happy at the same time. Can you imagine that? As you write each screenplay, you can start identifying what works for you and what doesn't.   Many times, just

QUESTION: When you look at your current script, are you taking each part to its creative limit? Without going overboard, are you entertaining the reader and viewer at the highest level for this story? If not, you probably own a pair of creative handcuffs. The goal of every page, every scene, and every lead character