When writing a script, you're probably not critical of your craft. Well, okay, not all the time, but once you have a few drafts finished, your next step is to send them to the pros in the industry for feedback. What if I tell you that you could be your reader before someone else provides their input? Here are a few things you should consider before getting feedback.
Is the idea original?
Sometimes, we think we have an original idea and later find out that what we're working on has already been made a few times before. If you find yourself in this position, it's an easy fix. All you have to do is go back and put in a few twists on the standard story. For example, let's say you have a film like Jurassic Park. You could go back, watch Jurassic Park, then compare it to your writing. If you see similarities, then you'll have to make readjustments to the story and try to flip a few things around so that when someone else looks at your script, they're not going to say, "So, this is Jurassic Park?"
Does the story capture the audience's attention? Is it compelling? Does each scene move the plot forward and contain conflict?
These are essential questions you have to ask yourself. As a writer, you might find your story compelling and be hooked from start to end because you wrote it! Imagine yourself as an audience member when you're going through your script. Does the film capture your attention? Where do you get hooked? Where do you lose interest? Does the story move you? Do the scenes flow together smoothly? Is the point getting across quickly, or does it drag on until you question, "What was the point of this?" The best way to put this into practice is to pretend that someone else wrote the script, and you'll have better clarity of what needs to be improved.
Are the characters relatable?
It's one of the most challenging things you must ask yourself as a writer, but it's essential. Most audiences aren't paying attention to whether or not they can relate to a character, but it can determine whether or not they like a movie. I'm not saying every character has to be relatable, but at least the protagonist is someone we should have some emotional connection with. If we can't connect with them or understand their struggles, how will we root for them throughout their journey? Just because you can relate to the characters doesn't mean other people will so consider everyday struggles or personalities people have and put them into your characters.
Is the message clear?
Many writers tend to miss the mark on this, and there must be a message that audiences can walk away with. Whether or not it's noticeable, movies have themes or lessons. When you're reading your script, see if there's a message you're sending to the audience. If not, you might have to rework the script and put a message somewhere in the first five pages. What do you want audiences to walk away with? The clearer the message, the more impactful the film will be.
Once you've completed your polished draft and are strongly ready for someone else to look over your script, you can send it out! Please let me know if you have any questions!