SCREENWRITING SOFTWARE

Why is it important?

Aside from investing in a Script Consultant after writing my first script, the smartest thing I ever did was invest in a screenwriting program. After a visit to the Writer's Computer Store in Los Angeles in 1995, I decided on SCRIPTWARE from Cinnovation.

Since that time, I've switched to MOVIE MAGIC SCREENWRITER by Screenplay Systems. It was purchased for me by a production company working off this program. Some of the most notable aspects of MOVIE MAGIC SCREENWRITER are that it can import DRAMATICA and STORYVIEW files, it provides Production Breakdown sheets, and allows you to collaborate with a partner via computer in real-time. It also offers the option of saving files in .pdf format, which is imperitive if you plan on submitting digital files of your work. Write Bros. offers an impressive suite of screenwriting software (Storyview, Dramatica, and Word Menu, to name a few). They also offer free technical support if you find yourself in trouble. I use Storyview, especially while developing pitches. It's a sequencing/outlining program that allows you to break down your story by Act, sequence, scene, and beat. Find out more about this software and other Industry software from Write Brothers, Inc. by visiting www.write-bros.com.

Most MAC users swear by FINAL DRAFT, another excellent program for Screenwriters. You'll hear writer's profess that it's the industry standard... but Movie Magic and Final Draft run neck and neck. The one thing I don't like about Final Draft is that you have to pay for technical support. Hopefully, they'll change their practices.

A screenwriting program can run you about $180, a competitive upgrade, if offered, could be considerably less. Why is it important to invest so much money in software? If you're serious about screenwriting, it's because time is money.

Not only will a screenwriting program take care of all the formatting for you, but it will be an invaluable tool when it comes to revisions as it automatically splits action and dialog correctly, adding the appropriate "more" and "Cont'd" indicators. Otherwise, you'll spend countless hours page-checking your script after revisions. Screenwriting software makes changes a snap and offers flexibility. I can't imagine life without it.

IN THE MEANTIME...

If you can access AOL go to keyword: software. Select the software search button and type in "Screenplay".

You will have many options, not all are shareware. Look for a program that uses MS WORD as a platform. There are several shareware programs listed there that you can download free of charge. They can't do all the tasks that dedicated screenwriting programs can do but they will assist you with formatting and make your revisions much easier.

If you can't access AOL, the least expensive alternative is probably ScriptWerx (around $99) which is essentially the same thing. In the meantime, save your pennies for the real deal.