The past 10 months have been arduous, rewarding, frustrating, challenging and most of all, an education. Here are the ten things I learned from writing Betta Fish.
- If you’re producing the script you’re writing, make the budget of the film first. This will allow your script to be tailored to the budget. This is key so you don’t run into issues while you’re in production. It will also help guide your script so you know what you can and can’t have. Knowing your limits working on an independent film is vital.
- Have a drink after you write; not before or during.
- Writers block happens. So, just deal with it and accept it.
- Write what’s important to you and socially current.
- Take risks in your writing. Be daring. Life is too short.
- Write an outline first. This will help you surpass any writers block.
- A great script may take time and patience. It sucks. But, it’s the truth. Stay the course and know that a few drafts may be necessary.
- If you’re not having fun while doing it, then you’re doing something wrong.
- If you want to make or produce your script, have actors in mind that could potentially play the parts. That way you can write to that actors strengths and it makes the writing process go smoother.
- In the end, remember that a great script is just a great script. A great film is the goal.
Taking on my first feature length script has connected me to rich characters who actually just told me the story. I look forward to sharing it with you.
*Disclaimer – no drugs were used in the course of writing this script.
