So this is what's going on: I write to hit a certain number of pages. For eg, I have to get a certain amount of story done till page 30 to complete act 1.
Now here's the problem: Sometimes I run out of things to write. I think, "huh? I could wrap up that scene in lesser number of pages." So this makes it difficult for me to FILL those 30 pages. I believe that my story lacks sub-plots (or maybe something else).
However, when I DO complete my script, and I tie up the loose ends here and there and link certain things of act 1 to act 3 and climax, I run out of space and the page count goes up trying to fit in everything. I don't what's wrong.
In the beginning, I don't have enough to fill pages but by the end I run out of pages. Why do you think this is? Have you ever experienced anything like this?
Thanks. Your comments are much appreciated :)
4 people like this
Your first problem. Page number. If you are looking at things outside your story, like the number of pages, to see things should happen you will have problems.
Perhaps your style is very short opening acts?
Your story should dictate to you. Not some arbitrary rules created by people wanting to sell something to you.
Have confidence in your story.
1 person likes this
You're right the subplots will give you pages. Fashion the subplots after the same tone in the main story and you can't go wrong. Romance and red herrings are the usual subplots that are a sure-fire way to more pages. Romance with competitors is easy to develop. Some of your own experiences can sometimes work into the sub-plot. Killing a good character is guaranteed pages.
1 person likes this
Adding to my above comment, Remember all romances are not meant to be. That's where the competitors would help.
The best movie with red herrings is A PERFECT GETAWAY.
Another more modern red herring is the SIXTH SENSE script.
3 people like this
to outline or not to outline may be the question
whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer
slings and arrows of pantsing, or
to outline against a sea of troubles and
suffer then....
2 people like this
So, this is the way I do it, it doesn't make it the right way just my way. I don't worry about the page count. I write the story first, if act one ends on page 25 that is fine, act two at 65 who cares. As long as your story is told within a reasonable variant I think it's fine. Now if act one ended on page 12 there is a problem. You can always go back once you have finished the script and extend the story if you want. The main thing to remember that those breaks are guidelines not rules set in stone.
2 people like this
There are certain requirements that every screenwriter MUST adhere to: That is that the script MUST be 100 pages long, that the ACT I break at exactly page 25, that ACT II shall contain the next 50 pages that break into ACT III on page 75. This ridged pattern MUST be followed precisely...or not! (Ha,ha...)
1 person likes this
Thank You so much everyone. It cleared my view about the 3 act structure better. Thanks A Lot :)
3 people like this
Yes Barry John, I was.
3 people like this
Ridged adherence to any established story structure being widely espoused today will result in a very predictable storyline yielding an uninteresting script. Like a painter, mix a bit of each on your pallet so as to paint your story in all its raging glory.
5 people like this
Have you tried outlining first?
Subplots are part of the main plot - like splinter beams from a prism. They aren't filler material. They are required to tell the story.
2 people like this
This is why outlining is a must. Nobody should write straight outta epiphany except maybe hardcore Mayakowski-like poets...
2 people like this
Don't start typing until you have a logline. Tried it and what a mess.
2 people like this
Its difficult to keep sub-plots in check. Mapping out your A,B and C story lines is always a good way to keep a handle on everything and make sure none of the sub-plots get out of hand.
1 person likes this
Kiril has the most accurate take, : ) especially if alternately extended. If you are still a Nobody, go ahead, you should try it and find out if you aren't like (Googling Mayakowski next). I feel one always thinks with an outline sooner or later, whether you are a pantser or outliner. For lazy folks like me, seems less work to do that before writing anything. I might have a different opinion in an year, so fwiw.
3 people like this
I find when I am in this position that something in the subplots is disconnected. Your subplots should have a thematic, at least, connection to the A story and then they can criss-cross or converge.
1 person likes this
Right on, Louisa.
1 person likes this
Whoa! Never thought about Sub-plots and the 3-Act structure in this light. Thank You So Much Guys :D
BTW I really like Sarit's idea of mapping the story line and then writing C in. I was overwhelmed doing all at once. :)