How to Write a Screenplay That Doesn't Suck and Will Actually Sell: ScriptBully Book Series

ScriptBully Books #1

by Michael Rogan

Want to learn how to write a screenplay that doesn't suck and can actually make you money? Want to know how to write a movie script that'll get you the attention of managers, agents, directors, actors - the talent of the industry? Think you got to go to film school and take out thousands of dollars in student loans to learn how to write a script that's marketable?

There are nearly 50,000 screenplays registered with the Writer's Guild every year. And 99 percent of them suck. But they don't have to. That's why I decided to write this book.

So before you head out to another hundred-dollar screenwriting conference to learn how to write a screenplay or buy another paint-by-the-numbers 3-act script formula give my audiobook a try. I can't guarantee you'll sell your script. (Who knows…you might just be that guy who sent me the zombie farmer script.) But I can guarantee if you follow the 10 steps outlined in this audiobook, you'll know more about the craft of screenwriting and the way the film business works then 99 percent of the writers out there. And having that kind of knowledge and wisdom can absolutely change your life.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction

Audible Audio

First published March 4, 2012

Reviews

[Aaron · Rating 3 out of 5]

How to write a book about writing a screenplay that doesn't suck:

1. Don't hire an editor
2. Make fun of Michael Bay at every opportunity
3. ?
4. Profit

Extra star for how quickly I got through it I suppose.

[Rebeca Núñez]

"How to Write a Screenplay That Sells" by Michael Rogan is a comprehensive guide that navigates aspiring screenwriters through the intricate process of crafting a screenplay that not only captivates but also has the potential to attract the attention of the film industry.

Rogan's book stands out for its practical approach, offering clear insights into the art and business of screenwriting. From the fundamentals of story structure to the nuances of character development and dialogue, Rogan provides actionable advice that equips writers with the tools to create compelling and marketable screenplays.

The book doesn't just focus on the creative aspects of writing; it delves into the strategies for pitching and selling a screenplay. Rogan shares insider tips on how to navigate the competitive landscape of the film industry, emphasizing the importance of understanding the market and tailoring scripts to meet industry demands.

One of the strengths of Rogan's guide is its accessibility. It caters to both beginners and those with some experience in screenwriting, breaking down complex concepts into digestible, practical steps. The author's conversational tone makes the learning process engaging and enjoyable, keeping readers motivated throughout their writing journey.

Rogan also explores the evolving landscape of the film industry, discussing the impact of technological advancements and changes in viewer preferences. This forward-looking perspective adds a valuable dimension to the book, helping writers align their work with current trends.

While there are numerous books on screenwriting, "How to Write a Screenplay That Sells" distinguishes itself by combining creative guidance with business acumen. It serves as a roadmap for writers aspiring to not only write compelling stories but also navigate the competitive world of Hollywood.

In conclusion, Michael Rogan's book is a must-read for anyone serious about breaking into the world of screenwriting. Whether you're a novice seeking a solid foundation or an experienced writer aiming to refine your craft, this guide provides practical, actionable advice that demystifies the art and business of creating screenplays.

[Davalene Hirsch · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOW TO RID YOUR WORK OF SUCKINESS

In this short work I found out how to Not Suck at screenwriting.
Michael Rogan knows how to use his experience at screenwriting to tell new insurgent writers what are the best goals and efforts to get your script possibly successful. Using humor and straight talk, Mr.Rogan tells us what are the most important steps in creating a script that will be fought over, and successfully sold.
His humor will make the path forward tolerable and enjoyable. I really appreciate his skill and humor about this difficult pathway. I was paralyzed with fear about how to write a successful script, but now I can hardly wait to get started. Thank you Mr. Rogan. You are aces!

[Sirena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must Have

A down to earth, amusing and informative guide that covers the basics of screenplay writing. I'll give the others a shot.

[Sara Crocoll Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good quick overview. Motivational. Not a lot of how to write a screenplay, more about mindset and the industry.

[B.T. Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short sweet to the point

Short, sweet, and to the point. Also gives you a few insights on structure. Basically, a fuel for your inner writer.

[tom fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

nice read.

I knew nothing about writing a screen play, Now I know I knew nothing about writing a screenplay. It was interesting. Thanks Thomas

[Beatris Hoffmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

It’s an excellent book with a good explanation. I love how the author describes the mistakes and the tips I got from it.

[Liza Gutierrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is a great book. Is very easy to read and great advice.

[Lexi Wolfe · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was rather disappointed by this. I was expecting a much more material on the actual writing of the book, as the title would lead you to believe, instead of as much material as there was on the setting oneself up to begin business in Hollywood! While I quite like everything that the book covers, this isn't exactly what I paid for, if you get my meaning. It's a very useful book, but I was expecting a lot more on the actual screenplay itself. With a different title, I'd feel much less like I've been cheated.

[Sebastian Mendo · Rating 5 out of 5]

"How to write a Screenplay that Doesn't Suck and will Actually Sell" is exactly what it's advertised, and more.

First time author Michael Rogan has a very distinctive style of writing than any other writer from the subject he’s writing about. One of the most important factors is that his ideas are unique, not particularly never said before, but they come from someone who has tried it all and found out that those are the best ways of successfully writing a screenplay for a film in particular. What makes this book fun to read are the constant references to movies both as direct examples from those scripts or random movie quotes that have something to do with what he’s talking about. If you are a constant movie fan that has a fair amount of knowledge of classic films as well as a few new ones there are so many hidden jokes that are going to be absolutely hilarious (at least for me they were).

This book really proves the capability and film knowledge of Michael Rogan as well as his ability to deliver it to hopefully the next generations in a very entertaining way that will reward people who are intact fans of movies. This is a must read for any working screenwriter due to the fact that it is also very useful for when writing and publishing/selling a script to the industry. It has certainly helped me improve my writing and helped me find more joy and satisfaction in non-fiction books that seem to be devoted to one specific area. This book gets an absolute 5/5.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite a lot of info in a short book. If I told you the best parts, I will have covered the entire book. I can see the advice being good for novelists, too. Okay, I'll throw out a tidbit. Scenes should end the opposite of how they started. If a scene starts happy, it ends sad. If it starts sad, it ends happy. How simple is that? But how many of us don't know it without being told? The book is also funny, so if nothing else, you'll get a laugh out of it.

[Lexington · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book doesn't tell you how to write a screenplay that will sell. It says nothing about formatting, discourages potential screenwriters, and is more of an intro book to the author's other work than anything else. I see why it was free on Kindle. It doesn't really tell you anything.

By the time I finished reading it, the only thing that I learned was that it might help to pretend to be local and get a phone number with an L.A. area code.

[Supertramp · Rating 1 out of 5]

#112

If you really want to write some screenplays don't read it. Better read blogs but not this book. Author tried to be funny and at places he succeeded. Perhaps if you follow these instructions you will end up by writing something crap like this. Even though mostly, he recommended other books and links. Thanks for giving me one hour time pass.

Read it on my mobile.

[Karen C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super funny, great tips, and super funny!! Hee hee.

[Scott Borcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick and Effective

No nonsense, fantastic advice from a professional. Easy reading, insightful, and entertaining. I feel I can now write my screenplay with confidence.

[E. T. Brother · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read