Marilyn Milgrom 'The script' test notes

1. Why are some directors driven to write their own scripts?

A lot of filmmakers and directors use writing scripts as a way to test and practice new ideas, in addition other writers write scripts out of the want and desire to actually make or create something.

2. You shouldn’t make an intense character study if you are scared of what?

You shouldn’t include an intense character study into your story if you are scared of working with actors.

3. What should you be careful of if you only have 5K to make your film?

If you only have 5K to make your film, don’t write an action sequence into your story with stunts, special effects and car chases.

4. If a feature film is described as a Novella, how might a short be described?

A short could be described as a haiku which only conveys or explores one idea.

5. What are the length boundaries different film festivals stipulate in their short sections?

Most festivals see a short as anything less than 30 minutes, however a short over 20 minutes long is considered as a longer short. The majority of funding for shorts in the UK however, is for those at around 10 minutes long.

6.If the function of your short is to make your audience, how long should it be?

If this is the case, your film should be around 2-3 minutes maximum.

7. What are the three basic elements any kind of dramatic story requires?

• A world
• A character
• A problem

8. Why can it be useful to set your film around a familiar event/ritual?

This can be useful as it quickly helps to establish an instantly recognisable world or setting. This also helps to create tension in the story, as the character is instantly in a world of real emotion which can recognisable to the audience. 

9. Why can a literal journey be a good setting for a short film?

This can be good as most short films are one vital event or moment in the life of the character that takes the character on a metaphorical journey. So a literal journey can be a good way to portray this. 

10. What are the 5 most important questions to ask when you begin to develop your story? 

• Who is the main character?
• What is their problem?
• How will the audience recogniser the problem?
• Are the stakes high enough?
• Am I telling the story from the best point of view?

11. One of three things must drive your character through the story. What are they?

• A want
• A need
• An obligation

12. What crucially most accompany this element?

There must be a problem (opposition)/ something that is making this hard for the character.

13.Why are a lot short films about children and teenagers?

This is because people from younger age groups may have a lack of experience in the real/adult world, which creates recognisable problems for the audience and characters.

14. What is one of the most important ways you can demonstrate your skill as a filmmaker and not just a story teller?

By turning your characters inner problems and thoughts into the centre of the film. Using shots and technical elements to show their emotions.

15. What does ensuring that something is at stake in the story mean the audience can do?  

This means the audience can understand and see what the character will lose if their problem is not solved.

16. How can a different POV change the story?

This can change the meaning of the story as it may change what happens at the end of the story.

17. Why do many short film scripts fall down?

This is because many scripts choose to focus on a characters journey that doesn’t tie in well with the overall meaning of the story.

18. Why does an awareness of the meaning inherit on your story matter?

This is because you will have a clear sense of your story’s meaning/morales which will help you make choices within the story of the character to get to the end of your story with the right meaning.

19. What is the tone intimately connected to and what are the implications of this?

Tone is closely is connected with genre, so you will have to make sure the views/beliefs in your film are shown in the right way and context to make sure audience is not left confused or angry.

20. How does tone emerge in a film?

The tone of the film emerges from the way each part of the film supports the overall and underlying meaning of the story/film.

21. What is the common flaw of most short film scripts submitted for funding? 

The most common flaw is a major lack of development to the script and story. This involves processes such as script/synopsis and storyboard drafting, sometimes even running the film idea and script by someone else.

22. What is the ten point plan to test the spine of your story?

• Title
• Genre/Tone
• Setting (Time & Place)
• Main character
• Want/Need/Obligation
• Opposition
• Catalyst for change
• Climax 
• Resolution                                                                                                                        
• And the audience feels:

23. What point does Marilyn Milgrom make about unity?

She makes the point that every scene in the film must be showing us more about the character and their problem.

24. How can we make sure that what happens in the story could not have happened before?

To move the story, and make sure that end is only possible due to the scenes that have been before it. 

25. What is the step outline and what does it ensure?

A step outline ensures that there is no slack in your film by checking these four points for each scene.

• One sentence that summarises what happens.
• What is revealed that is significant in the plot?
• What is revealed that is significant to the audience’s understanding of the characters?
• Is there an indication of a significant theme?

26. Every scene of significant action should deliver something on at least two out three possible fronts. What are these?

• Plot
• Character
• Theme

27. What is signified by the ‘order’ in which to tell the story?  

The way and best way to tell your story and what will work best within your film’s story?

28. What do audiences instinctively know?

The audience instinctively know if something is pretentious or dishonest.

29. As a writer what is crucial thing you are looking to ensure?

As a writer you are looking to ensure that you tell the story in a way that adds to the overall meaning and keeps the audience engaged.

30. How do we establish the world and the character?

With maximum speed and minimal dialogue.

31. What advice is given for making the film cinematic once you have a good story?

To use visuals and sound together to give a wider feeling for the world of the story.