Tips when rewriting a script

Rewriting a script can be a daunting task at times. What may have worked during the first time through might not work now. It also too hard to see problem spots at times, because you as the writer already understand the story, so it is harder.

What to Look for When Rewriting

When rewriting scripts, it is important to understand what to look for before you begin. You don't want to change too much in the script unless you need too, or it will only cause more problems for you.

Look for formatting errors. Even if you are using a site that helps you format it is still important to check to make sure that nothing slipped. Sometimes something will look correct but won't be.

It is also important to make sure that your characters are relatable, and that their growth is evident in the film. Sometimes when you are writing, you already see where you want the character is at the end, but you forget to write the journey that the character takes to get there.

It is also important to make sure that there is a balance is dialogue and action. Too much dialogue and there is nothing for the audience to see, and too much action, and you can't understand what the characters are thinking. A good example of a balance in dialogue and action is shared below.

One last thing to make sure to look at is the pacing. Make sure that the intensity is where it should be, and make sure the film is not moving too fast or too slow. Too fast and you will lose the audience, but too slow and you will bore them. It takes a nice balance.

Last Tip

Try to let the script rest for a bit before you start editing. It will make it easier to edit, if you a reading it with your mind clear from all the things you know. Try to pretend that you are reading it for the first time and see where some of the issues might show up.