THE OUTLINING PROCESS
Outlining is a pivotal
step in screenwriting, serving as a roadmap for your narrative. The depth of an
outline can vary greatly among writers, from simple bullet points to extensive
30-40 page documents. A more detailed outline can streamline the writing
process, providing clarity on character details, settings, and plot developments
that drive the story forward.
The Bullet Point
Outline offers a high-level view of each scene, focusing on the essential plot
points without delving into specifics. For
example:
· Joe arrives home from
work to find his wife’s dead body in the bedroom.
· He’s interviewed by a
police detective.
· A week later, Joe
struggles to get through his day at work.
· Post-work, Joe drowns
his sorrows at a bar, meeting Carla, an attractive woman.
· They return to his
place for an intimate night.
· Joe wakes up to find Carla dead beside him!
While this outline sets
up the first act, it’s just scratching the surface. As you flesh out your
script, you’ll encounter questions that require deeper thought. Addressing
these early on can save time and ensure your story’s elements are cohesive and
compelling. Remember, the outline is not just about sequencing events; it’s
about envisioning the film in your mind and laying a solid foundation for your
screenplay.
Let’s delve deeper into
the bullet points to flesh out the narrative and character details:
Joe’s Arrival Home: Starting with Joe’s arrival
might be too abrupt. It could be beneficial to first depict Joe’s work life to
provide context. Is he a blue-collar worker or a corporate executive? His work
environment and interactions with colleagues can offer insights into his
character. The type of neighborhood and house he returns to will also paint a
picture of his socioeconomic status and lifestyle.
The Discovery: When Joe enters his home, his
actions can reveal much about his relationship with his wife. Does he eagerly
search for her or nonchalantly grab a beer? The discovery of his wife’s body
should be shocking, and the method of her murder—stabbing, shooting,
strangulation—will set the tone for the investigation.
Police Interview: During the interview with the
detective, Joe’s demeanor and responses can hint at his innocence or possible
guilt. His emotional state, the questions asked, and his answers will shape the
audience’s perception of him.
Returning to Work: Joe’s behavior at work
post-tragedy can show his coping mechanisms. Is he withdrawn or pretending to
be strong? Introducing or re-introducing a colleague who may have had an affair
with Joe’s wife adds complexity to the plot.
Meeting Carla: The setting of the bar where Joe
meets Carla can influence the mood of the scene. Their interaction, who
initiates contact, and Carla’s background are crucial elements that will affect
the dynamics between them.
The Morning After: The circumstances of Carla’s death, whether similar to Joe’s wife’s or different, will raise questions about Joe’s involvement. His immediate actions upon discovering Carla’s body will be telling—does he call the police, a lawyer, or try to cover it up?
By asking these
questions and exploring the answers, you can create a more layered and
compelling story. Each detail adds depth to the characters and their world,
making the screenplay not just a series of events, but a story that feels real
and engaging. By probing deeper and asking questions about your scenes, you
enhance your ability to chart the course of your screenplay. This process of
inquiry not only clarifies the sequence of events but also enriches the world
you’re creating, offering a clearer vision of the story’s trajectory and the
characters’ journeys within it. It’s a method that ensures your screenplay
unfolds with purpose and direction, resonating with authenticity and depth.
Check out my screenwriting e-book A BEAST IS BORN!
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