How to Write a Story for Movie

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Co-authored by Alicia Cook

Last Updated: September 2, 2024 Approved

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Brainstorming & Drafting the Story

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Sample Script Outline and Script

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Expert Interview

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Q&A

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Tips

Have you always dreamed of writing your own movie? It's actually easier than you might think, especially once you've come up with a great idea you can't wait to get down on paper. In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to write your very own story for a movie, including how to brainstorm, draft up your idea, and add the finishing touches.

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Brainstorming & Drafting a Story for a Movie

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You should sit back and let your imagination run wild. There are many ways to gather ideas for a story, be it inspiration from your life, the world around you, or the works of other film makers but it is important you think outside the box and try to bring something new to the world. Try your best to come up with an idea that you and others would enjoy, ensuring that is worth all the effort writing the script will entail.^{[1]
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If the plot to the movie is given to you already then build upon that.

Steven Spielberg, Film Director

Craft a compelling narrative that will connect with your audience. "The most amazing thing for me is that every single person who sees a movie, not necessarily one of my movies, brings a whole set of unique experiences. Now, through careful manipulation and good storytelling, you can get everybody to clap at the same time, to hopefully laugh at the same time, and to be afraid at the same time."

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If you want ideas then you should read a few books that have to do with the plot of the movie. This will give you an idea of what to write. Possibly the most important aspect of this step is ensuring that the frame of your story has no big conflicting story points or plot holes in it (unless put there intentionally *a dangerous move probably left to the professionals but if it works out, go right ahead*). This simple self criticism could save you hours if not days of hard work in the future trying to rework the tale so that it all makes sense later on when there are already details built upon the faults.^{[2]
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You should review this yourself and decide if it is what you wanted. If it is not what you wanted then write another rough draft.
Have them read the draft and tell you what they like or don't like about it. This way you know what you can correct or what looks good.
You should have this around as a sample to show people your work. This will give people you are working with an idea of how the story is coming along.
After you are done with your story, you can check it over and over again for mistakes. If you have the income take your story to an editor and have him or her review your story. If you have a professional who can review your story for free then go ahead.^{[3]
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You should call all the important people you are working for or want to work for. Let them know you are done with your story. Setup a meeting and have them review your story.

Sample Script Outline and Script

Sample Script Outline

Sample Script

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Question

What if I show my drafts to people and they laugh at my efforts?

Community Answer

If it's supposed to be a comedy, be proud, but if not, be brave and take note of why they are laughing. Make sure that the people you show your drafts to are willing to offer sincere feedback so you do not get involved with someone who wants to mock you instead of help you.

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I have experienced so many things in my life, and I feel that I can bring something very new and fresh to the people. I am willing to write a story, but I don't know from where I should start, any suggestions?

Community Answer

Have a clear picture about what you want to write. Start an outline, but be sure not to include too much, as your story can become convoluted with too many characters and events; your story should focus on a central storyline. Write a draft, set it aside for a week or so to distance yourself from it a bit (so that any errors become more evident to you), review it, and keep editing and polishing it until you're happy with it. Once you feel it's complete and at its best, begin submitting to editors.

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Can young people write stories for movies?

Community Answer

Yes. Talk to a teacher for advice or find someone in your community to help you through the process.

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Tips

Don't get disheartened if you receive criticism of your draft. This is a natural motion in story making

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Keep your drafts and build on them when you are ready to.

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Take out a lot of time for yourself.

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