The first ten to fifteen minutes of every movie should determine what the audience is to expect from the remaining two hours. The way your story is introduced, or set up, should determine how your story should unfold. In other words, whatever “theme” that you introduce to begin with, you need to stick with it and develop it.
If, for example, you start your story out as a horror movie, you should not change to a comedy midway. Duh, right? That may be a little outlandish of an example; however, you need to understand the premise here. You need to follow through with the storyline you first presented. Do not change the direction from where you have your audience heading. Avoid changing lanes by veering off on a side street.
The same applies to character development. The character or characters you introduce at the beginning will be the one(s) people will expect to see later on. Develop them well. Establish their importance and have them play out their roles.
The bottom line here is to stay focused. You have a story to tell, so tell it. But, don’t go off chasing any stray rabbits along the way.
It all goes back to the basics that we learned in elementary school. A good story, screenplay, or movie will have a beginning, middle and end.
So, get off to a good start at the beginning. Stick to your story, adding conflict and drama in the middle. Then add the finishing touches with a great and perhaps unsuspecting ending.
Calie Renee' is a screenwriting expert and author of "Final Draft Explained", the #1 tutorial for Final Draft, the world's #1 software for screenwriters. Claim a free tutorial lesson today at www.FinalDraftExplained.com. You can also find Calie Renee' at her blog for screenwriters at www.FavorOn.com.
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