Screenwriter Wants to Make Abstract Film

I’ve been trying to break into screenwriting for a while now, and I think I finally have a solid and original idea to create my first film with. The real issue is I don’t know where to start.

The short film will be non-narrative/abstract, and this is kind of where the first problem resides. I’m used to reading regular movie scripts that have plot and a narrative so I don’t really know how to write and format a film without plot or dialogue. Would I just jot down a few notes and then create a story board?

Also, once I write it, what’s the next step? Casting? Getting in touch with videographers?

I’m new to this whole thing so I’m just trying to get a plan together. Any and all advice is greatly appreciated!

You want to “break in” to screenwriting with an abstract, non-narrative short? Hmmm…. It’s great to make an abstract non-narrative short, and it can actually launch your career if it comes out well– (see “Eraserhead” by David Lynch). But it’s an odd choice for someone trying to build their portfolio as a screenwriter, who’s presumably looking to get paid to write.

That’s because screenwriters are judged on their writing. More specifically, they are judged on their ability to put on paper the things you’re trying to avoid: character, dialogue and plot. While a well-made abstract film shows that you have filmmaking chops, you’ll still eventually need to show finished narrative scripts to get paid film or TV work.

That said, no reason not to make this film if you love the idea. You’ll learn a lot and hopefully have fun. Just recognize that it’s not a straight line from “Look I made this cool abstract short!” to a writing assignment from a production company.

You can write this kind of short in standard screenplay form pretty easily (you still have shots and scenes, yes? So describe them!) As with any other script, the goal is to get people to understand how (and why) to make your film– so it’s great to also do storyboards to accompany the script. You could also do an image board — a version of the script illustrated by frames or sequences you find in others’ work that looks like what you’re trying to do. The finished package should be clear, well thought out and artful because it’s the key to getting your project done.

Once you’ve got a great package, show it to anyone you know who makes film– cast, crew, producers– It doesn’t matter where you start. What matters is that you get people excited about making your film. It they want to work on it, they’ll bring their expertise and contacts to the table, and can help you navigate through the production process. Once you form a team around your creative work, you’re no longer carrying the burden all alone, and your film should take on a momentum all its own.

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