Before anyone might actually read the first page of your script, there are three hurdles your work must clear to pass and I'm talking about Title, Logline and Synopsis.
I have 27 scripts (shorts, features, pilots) posted here on Script Revolution — Thank you CJ for the opportunity to strut my stuff and/or show the world my deficiencies, whichever the case may be. Beyond the obviously benefit of a free public venue, there is more --
As you are aware, this site counts “views.” A “view” here defined as after reading the Title and Logline, someone is interested enough in your work to goes on to glance at or read your Synopsis.
If all of these pass the Sniff Test, the final action is to download the script. The view counter is re-set each month and I enjoy fiddling with the titles, loglines and synopses to see what actually increases or decreases downloads — I have found this to be very educational.
This unique aspect of SR presents aspiring writers with a huge learning experience opportunity and I encourage you all to take advantage of it.
Comments
Totally agree. It's been interesting and surprising to see which titles & loglines get the most hits. Checking the count has become as much a daily ritual as checking headlines.
Looks like you've been getting lots of hits too, John. Well done.
I agree.
It is an art in itself to write a tempting logline and a synopsis that does not make a mess of the story. You've learned to catch an image in just a few phrases and now you shall be able to catch the essence of the whole script in a sentence. The synopsis is the part I find hardest. To find that clarity that makes it easy to grasp, and yet make sure it shines through like a beacon why this particular story is unique. No yet my strongest skill.
Here's a tip I have for writing a powerful synopsis. Write it straight after completing your first script draft. That's when you have a ton of energy and enthusiasm for your script. That's when you really know what makes it appealing.
I've walked the stations of the cross with my own titles and loglines. Synopses remain a mystery to me -- Should you open the kimono all the way for a total reveal OR just make titillating hints and tease your readers? If you tell the whole story, why would anyone want to read the script or see the movie (gawd forbid it goes this far).
They certainly are a weird beast and everybody seems to require one in a different word count.