Seven Tips for Writing Thriller Screenplays

You have a great idea for a thriller screenplay that you just know would make a terrific film. But the question is how to write a thriller. Thrillers are considered genre films and as such, have certain elements that must be included for the script to work as a thriller. Knowing what these elements are takes research and reading before you type in the words "FADE IN:"

Tip One

One of the best ways to learn what elements are needed in a great thriller screenplay is to read scripts of movies that have already been made. Se7en, Silence of the Lambs and Memento are all considered great thrillers. Many thriller scripts are available for free at various online websites.

Tip Two

Visit the websites of various scriptwriters, especially if they offer a forum where you can ask questions. William Martell's, ScriptSecrets.com is a good place to start because he has had a number of thrillers produced and is willing to answer questions on his message board.

Tip Three

Write a prose version of your story. Make sure the story includes suspense in every scene. Other things crucial to a thriller screenplay include, secrets, red herrings, cliffhangers and suspects. Also be sure to know what clues you plan to give to your audience and how you plan to show them in your movie.

Tip Four

Create an outline of your story that includes all the steps you story will take from beginning to end. Be sure to include the major plot points, the turning points. You can do this with pad and pencil or you can create an outline in most screenwriting software.

Tip Five

Open your screenwriting software and begin writing. Make your action lines strong and to the point. Make sure your dialogue moves the story and isn't there just for filler. You screenplay should run anywhere from 90 to 120 pages when you complete the first draft.

Tip Six

Ask a trusted friend to read your first draft and let you know what they think is good or bad about your script. You can do this with several friends or you can join a writer's group and get feedback from the other members.

Tip Seven

Rewrite your script based on the feedback you receive. Your goal is to write the best thriller screenplay you can, so if one or more people have given you the same comments on an area, that is the area you should look at and rewrite first.