Ep 222 - Elevating Your Screenplay: Key Strategies from 'Rewrite' by Paul Chitlik

The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun (instagram: @screenwriterpod)
Guest: Paul Chitlik, Author of "Rewrite"Introduction:

• Join our community at thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com for access to seminars, workshops, Oscar-nominated screenplays, and writing assignments.
• Free resources to launch your screenwriting career.

Episode Highlights:

1. Breaking into Screenwriting:
   • Paul Chitlik advises starting with short YouTube videos to gain notice.
   • Importance of understanding the flow of digital platforms and building an audience.
2. Innovative Funding and Talent Sourcing:
   • A case study of a filmmaker who funded a film through TikTok and hired talent from the same platform.
3. The Evolution of Technology in Screenwriting:
   • Discussion on adapting to rapid technological changes.
   • Geoffrey shares personal experiences with hearing aid technology, hinting at future advancements.
4. What’s New in the Second Edition of "Rewrite":
   • Focus on crafting shorter, faster stories without altering the essence of storytelling.
   • Emphasis on the timeless nature of storytelling, drawing examples from ancient authors.
5. Structuring Short-Form Content:
   • Paul explains the adaptability of the seven-point structure to different mediums, including YouTube and TikTok.
6. Diversity in Screenwriting Methods:
   • Encouragement to find personal approaches to storytelling.
   • Discussion on various screenwriting methodologies and the importance of interesting stories over rigid formats.
7. The Essence of Successful Films:
   • Importance of central emotional relationships in movies.
   • Different layers of storytelling: plot, personal development, and emotional relationships.
8. Advice for Aspiring Screenwriters:
   • Paul stresses there's no single correct way to write a film.
   • Importance of interesting characters and storytelling over specific methods.
9. Rewriting Tips:
   • Suggests distancing oneself from the script to gain a fresh perspective.
   • Objective reading from the standpoint of an industry professional.

Conclusion:

• Encouragement to subscribe and share the podcast.
• Invitation to join the community at thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com for more discussions.