Favorite Writing Resources
Since I have no idea how to write a screenplay, I’ve dug up a few free online resources. I’m fully aware there are one million books in the world to tell you how to write a screenplay, but why spend the money when you can get the same tips and advice FOR FREE from THE EXPERTS. All these writers are working in the business, and doing quite well. Works for me:
Word Player.com
The most comprehensive writing site I’ve found. All killer, no filler, as the kids say. The site is run by Terry Rossio and Ted Elliott, a screenwriting duo that have been working quite consistently in the biz for over 20 years. They’ve had some hits, and some duds, and have included every aspect of the writing craft in 52 highly entertaining essays. My personal favorites are:
Strange Attractor
Crap-plus-One
Building the Bomb
The Audience is Listening
Dan Harmon’s Channel101.com Tutorials
Dan Harmon and friends made a really great collection of tutorials on film making for current/future channel101 filmmakers. Most aspects of film making are covered, but Harmon’s story structure tutorials are the best. They’re clear, concise, and very funny. My personal favorite is Story Structure 104 where he goes through each point and how the movie Die Hard fits PERFECTLY.
Story Structure 106: Five Minute Pilots
Story Structure 104: the Juicy Details
Story Structure 103: Simplify
Story Structure 102: Pure Boring Theory
Story Structure 101: Super Basic Shit
John August.com
“This site is run by screenwriter John August. Mostly, he answers reader-submitted questions about the craft, but occasionally he goes on tangents that run far afield of writing and filmmaking. You’ll also find info on past, present and future projects.”
There ya go. Click around! What I like about this site is it’s in ‘real time’. By that, I mean, he’s posting info and tips as he goes along, as opposed to the previous 2 which are more like archives.
Got some favorites you’d like to share, please do!
Joe
