Screenplay: Writing the Picture

"[Screenplay: Writing the Picture is] a complete screenwriting course - from initial idea through final script sale providing in-depth discussions of theme development; story research; script plotting and structuring; character development; dialogue; writing and rewriting methods; formatting; the ins and outs of marketing and pitching scripts; writing for TV, the Web and video games, and much more. Well-written, comprehensive, and filled with both innovative and tried-and-true writing techniques, illustrative screenplay examples, and sage advice from veteran writers, Screenplay will help novices, as well as working screenwriters, improve and sell their scripts. The second edition of this popular manual is completely revised, reflecting current film industry practices, and includes new chapters on such subjects as Webisodes and video games, as well as updates to its many examples."

- Amazon

Learn about how small, easily forgettable details like format can influence the acceptance or rejection of your script.

Russin and Downs have written a masterful book. Considering the number of excellent books on the topic of screenplays that already exist, these authors have not only covered all the typical details of screenwriting craft, but they have also gone above and beyond, making sure to give helpful, often-forgotten advice. They point out that the screenwriter is not writing for an audience, but for a reader. Russin and Downs will ensure that your craft is up to par as you establish yourself as a successful screenwriter.