Sometimes the writers get stuck; sort of writer’s block, to come up with an exciting idea for a story. Basically, it’s not such a complicated feat to pen down a good story.

Ask yourself the following questions, if you ever find yourself not motivated enough to write a good screenplay:

1. What are you most passionately interested in?
2. What do you really care about the most?
3. What scares you?
4. What motivates and drives you?
5. What kind of imagery you have more often in your dreams?
6. What obstacles have arisen repeatedly to create hurdles in your life?
7. What goals have you pursued repeatedly?
8. What are the ideals you have envisioned for your future?
9. What price or struggles you have to do to achieve your goals?

There are many other such questions related to your own life and circumstances that can help you crack the mystery of a great story. If you are able to answer the questions in context to your characters, you will be able to develop an intriguing story around your character.

Character Development

1. Who are the characters in your story? Describe them fully – physically, emotionally and mentally.
2. Are their problems and concerns related to your life? Are you able to trace your personality traits in them?
3. Play around with ideas regarding your characters. Stretch them to their limits. How do everyday events drain them out? How do these ideas mirror concern in your own life?
4. How are different situations their worst nightmares? How can these turn into the best life lesson?
5. What are the moments of intense stress and tension for the characters?
6. Why should the viewer be interested in these characters? What have you done to make the viewer take a personal interest in these characters?
7. What are the twists and turns or unexpected events that will leave your viewers exasperated?

Ask yourself these questions:

1. What is your theme?
2. What is your counter theme?
3. What scene most clearly describes your theme?
4. Which scene tests the most position of your character?
5. What do you want your audience to feel when they walk out of the theatre?

Give Away

Use the What If…? question in at least 5 of your favourite movies. Change the situations by answering What If…

Choose your favourite crisis moments and spin the plot with What If…