By Andrea K. Hammer
After watching hundreds of films over the years, the movie lovers at Artsphoria have some important questions for screenwriters and film directors.
Several remain genuine mysteries, begging for enlightenment. Others are raised for mutual reflection in our daily quest to identify the elements of truly engaging movies and the filmmaking process.
1. Does the opening scene draw viewers into the story immediately or prompt searching for another film after a 7-minute grace period? Like any well-written story, the beginning of a movie is critical for grabbing viewers’ interest.
2. Are opening scenes and transitions clear and understandable? To orient viewers, simple and legible captions identifying time frames and locations are essential. Recognizable city skylines and other familiar markers provide critical points of reference.
3. Does every scene add value to the story and contribute to the natural progression of the movie? Building on the fundamental writer’s guideline to make every word count, each scene in the most successful films deepens the overall meaning and pushes the story forward. Holding viewers’ attention, every shot is thematically and visually riveting.
4. Does any scene involve a wasted moment? Pointless shots, such as toothbrushing scenes, are lost opportunities to engage viewers on a deeper level. If these moments are attempts to mirror daily life, more effective and appealing options are available with further thought.
5. Is every scene consistent with the rest of the movie? An out-of-the-blue shot generally results in befuddling questions about actual connections to the story. These scenes, often included for sensationalism, should appear with deleted scenes or never make the final cut.
6. Is every scene subtle, communicating meaning wihtout banging viewers over the head? Like effective writing, thoughtful movie scenes manage to convey understanding of relationships and life–without spelling out the actual point or lesson. In the magical mix of the right setting, lighting and acting talent, larger messages emerge without overt statements.
7. Does every scene rise above “easy” manipulaitons? In emotional storylines, the script and film direction can tug at viewers’ heart strings. This danger particularly applies to themes about loss and grief, which need the utmost care in their formulation.
8. Is a scene distracting and disruptive, drawing away from memorable moments? If an image is used for “thrill” value, think again. Sudden, alarming interruptions actually break the pace and flow of a previously integrated storyline.
9. Does the dialogue sound natural and have a snappy rhythm, allowing actors to deliver the lines convincingly? One of the greatest film flaws involves actors obviously reading their lines rather than pulling viewers into the story seamlessly. On the flip side, clever dialogue helps a film stand out and sparkle.
10. Does a scene reveal excessive information instead of allowing viewers to use their own imagination? The classics remain timeless because of their skill in achieving the latter. Some of these films leave a lasting impression simply by alluding to special moments.
This first set of questions quickly prompted another round from Artsphoria‘s team. Check back soon for more questions for screenwriters, film directors–and movie lovers who enjoy thinking about the filmmaking process!