Screen writing

[dannig]

My ambition is to work as a screen writer, any tips on how i should get started? (bearing in mind that i'm still at school and have yet to go to uni)

[Buenchico]

This might give you a few starting points:
http://www.learndirect-advice.co.uk/helpwithyo urcareer/jobprofiles/profiles/profile1330/

I also suggest trying to get some of your writing published. It doesn't have to be in the screen-writing style. It doesn't even have to be fiction. Perhaps you could submit some local news items to a newspaper? (I started writing sports reports for my local newspaper when I was 14). Or perhaps you could try writing some short stories? (Getting short stories published is extremely difficult but it's worth a try. Get the Writers & Artists Yearbook from your local library).

It's also worth seeing things from an actor's viewpoint. Get involved with your local drama group (or the one at your school). You might even persuade someone to stage short one-act play, written by yourself.

There are plenty of books on the subject. This one is generally regarded as one of the best. (Your local library might have it or be able to order it from another branch):
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Television-Screen-Writ ing-Concept-Contract/dp/0240803973/sr=1-1/qid= 1164564477/ref=sr_1_1/202-2207081-9684666?ie=U TF8&s=books

Chris

[rosepetal]

The BBC have some useful tips and information on their webpage.

[msemma]

Watch films constantly and make notes about every film you see in a notebook, noting why you liked it, what worked, which themes you connect with.

Watch lots of short films and go to short film fetivals in your area - most screen writers start with short films as a "calling card"

[mikey0118]

I've just completed a degree in "Video Production & Film Studies" and one of the modules was Screenwriting.

An absolute 'must' for you is to create a portfolio of your work and get to those film festivals and start networking. It's not too early to design a business card. Give one to just about anybody you meet!

Also, why not search for degree-level students, studying for a degree similar to mine. They are a talented lot of people, but screenwriters seem to be few and far between. Perhaps your work could be used for one of their practical assignments. Have a search for some forums online.