You’ve poured your heart and soul into crafting a compelling narrative, fleshing out complex characters and meticulously planning every shot. Your screenplay is nearing completion, a testament to your creative vision. Yet, somehow the working title… the placeholder you added on day one just isn’t cutting it. This all-important cinematic branding is what readers will first see… and also needs to entice audiences beyond the design of the movie poster or a flashy trailer. Here are five tips to help you nail your movie title during the screenwriting process.
1. Let the Core Resonate: Identify the Beating Heart of Your Story
Take a step back and truly dissect the essence of your film. What is the central conflict? What are the key themes you’re exploring? Who is the protagonist and what is their driving force? The perfect title often echoes the core emotional or thematic undercurrent of your story.
Think about films like ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.’ The title beautifully encapsulates the film’s exploration of memory, love, and the desire to erase painful experiences. Or consider ‘No Country for Old Men,’ a title that speaks volumes about the film’s themes of morality, violence and the changing times.
2. Embrace Brevity and Memorability: Less is Often More
In a world saturated with information, a concise and memorable title has a significant advantage. Shorter titles are easier to recall, share, and market. Think about iconic films like ‘Jaws,’ ‘Alien,’ or ‘Psycho.’ These single-word titles are instantly recognizable and carry a powerful punch.
While longer, more evocative titles can certainly work, especially for art-house or independent films, consider the practicalities. Will your title easily fit on a poster? Will people be able to spell and pronounce it without difficulty? Aim for clarity and impact. A catchy, concise title can become synonymous with your film.
3. Play with Genre and Tone: Setting the Right Expectations
Your title can be a subtle (or not-so-subtle) indicator of your film’s genre and overall tone. A suspenseful thriller might benefit from a title that hints at danger or mystery, like ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ or ‘Gone Girl.’ A lighthearted comedy could opt for something playful or quaint, such as ‘Bridesmaids’ or ‘Paddington.’
Consider the expectations you want to set for your audience. Does your title accurately reflect the kind of cinematic experience they are about to have? Avoid titles that are misleading or create a false sense of genre. A well-chosen title can attract the right audience from the outset.
4. Explore Figurative Language and Intrigue: Adding Layers of Meaning
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your word choices. Metaphors, symbolism, and evocative imagery can add depth and intrigue to your title. Think about ‘The Shape of Water,’ a title that hints at the unusual relationship at the heart of the film. Or ‘Lost in Translation,’ which beautifully captures the feeling of alienation and disconnection.
Consider using words with multiple meanings or phrases that spark curiosity. A slightly ambiguous title can pique interest and encourage audiences to learn more about your film. However, be mindful of being too obscure – the title should still offer some connection to the narrative.
5. Test it Out: Seek Feedback and Observe Reactions
Once you have a few potential titles, don’t keep them locked away in your screenwriting software. Share them with trusted friends, fellow writers, or even potential readers. Which titles resonate the most? Which ones are confusing or forgettable?
Read your potential titles aloud. Do they sound good? Are they easy to say? Consider how they might look on a poster or in marketing materials. Getting external feedback can provide valuable insights and help you narrow down your choices.
Finding the perfect film title is an integral part of the screenwriting process, not an afterthought. By considering these tips throughout your writing journey, you can craft a title that not only captures the essence of your story but also serves as a powerful tool in its journey to the screen. So, embrace the challenge, get creative, and give your cinematic creation the crowning glory it deserves.