The Writer

A scriptwriter is like an architect, using talent and skill to produce a blueprint for a finished product.

A good scriptwriter can think broadly and imaginatively and still not lose sight ofthe tiniest detail. Few people are born scriptwriters. Yet the craft can be learned with a little study and sufficient application.

The first qualification for a scriptwriter is an understanding of the video medium. Know what you can and cannot do. In these days of cornputer-generated special effects, there really isn’t much you can’t do; but there’s a lot you shouldn’t do if you want to come in on time and under budget.

When writing a science fiction novel I find it easy to destroy a star system. When writing a script, however, I think twice before considering such a budget-busting cataclysm.

A scriptwriter must know the language of video, understand the purpose and effect of various shots. Actually working with a camcorder to attain this knowledge is superior to merely watching films or reading scripts.

You must also learn the language of scriptwriting. A script is prepared in one of several specialized formats. You should know them all, and be able to choose the format most appropriate to your project.

Finally, a scriptwriter must be a consummate team player. In this medium, the written word is subject to constant and massive change, and the writer, alas, is no…