Matthew Kalil is a seasoned screenwriter, director and Assistant Professor at the David Lynch Masters in Film Program. The author of ‘The Three Wells of Screenwriting’ and one of reviewmyscript.com’s own, Kalil has amassed 25 years of screenwriting lecturing experience. In this insightful Film Courage interview, he highlights common errors made by screenwriting students.
Here are some of the key takeaways:
Lack of specificity: Writers often fail to provide enough detail about settings, characters, and actions, relying on vague terms like “house” or “man”.
Misunderstanding the role of the screenwriter: Many writers approach screenwriting as if they’re directing, rather than focusing on crafting a compelling script.
Ignoring the power of order: The sequence in which information is presented on the page significantly impacts how it’s perceived by the audience.
Overreliance on symbolism: Some writers excessively use symbolism without considering the impact on audience engagement.
Overwriting: Using overly descriptive or flowery language can hinder clarity and impact.
Show, don’t tell: Use visuals and actions to convey information about characters and settings.
Focus on character: Develop characters with depth and specificity to engage the audience.
Master the craft of language: Use concise and precise language to create vivid imagery.
Understand the medium: Screenwriting differs from novel writing; prioritize visual storytelling.
Find a balance: Use symbolism effectively, but don’t rely on it solely to convey meaning.
By avoiding these common pitfalls, screenwriters can improve their craft and create more engaging and impactful scripts.