A career in the arts – Screenwriter
Who is a screenwriter or scriptwriter?
A screenwriter (also known as a screenplay writer or scriptwriter, or scenarist) is someone who deals with writing content for visual mediums. They write screenplays for short films, feature films, commercials, video games, television, plays, skits, etc. A screenplay is the script of a film, which includes acting instructions and scene directions.
Scripting is a part of the pre-production exercise of the film. They decide the unfolding of the narrative, sequencing, settings, movement, actions, expression, and dialogues of all the characters in the film/ television show/ commercials. Scriptwriters write both fiction and nonfiction stories.
The job of a screenwriter requires talent, determination, and patience. Many jobs in the field of performing arts do not require any specific educational qualification and screenwriting is one of them.
If you are interested in becoming a screenplay writer, you should be aware of the following things.
Eligibility and educational qualification
You do not require any specific educational qualification to become a screenwriter. But once you complete your schooling, you should ideally start pursuing a Graduation degree in subjects like Sociology, Journalism, Philosophy or English. This helps to build a strong base, as you are exposed to many fields and literature. There is a lot of competition, so higher educations build you with strong fundamentals.
There are postgraduate diploma courses available, which professionals undertake to further hone their skills. If you are looking to pursue a degree course or postgraduate diploma program (PGD) in screenplay writing, you will be required to meet the eligibility criteria.
Again, there is no specific work experience required to get a job in this field. But an internship with an established writer or media house will give you the necessary exposure to get independent opportunities. This way, you make contacts, understand the media industry and learn to improve your work.
When you begin, it would be beneficial to go for the bigger media houses with some experience in the field.
Institutions for screenplay courses
They have 3 courses and there is an entrance exam too.
MGR Government Film and Television Institute, Taramani, Chennai
Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Erandwana, Pune
Ramesh Sippy Academy of Cinema and Entertainment, Santacruz East, Mumbai
Ramoji Krian Universe, Hyderabad
Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute, Kolkata
To apply for the course, candidates need a bachelor’s degree in any discipline. They also need to sit for the Joint Entrance Test (JET). Candidates are selected on basis of the entrance test and interview.
Key skills required to be a screenwriter
- Strong command over at least two languages
- Familiarity with regional and foreign languages is an added advantage
- Keen observation skills
- A high degree of creativity
- Good interpersonal skills
- Ability to work under pressure
- Agility and storytelling ability
- Ability to write a dramatic and entertaining screenplay
Employers in the field
Most screenwriters are freelancers or sign multiple film or commercials contracts with media houses. There are multiple Media production and Television Studios who hire screenplay writers.
If you interested to know more about being a screenwriter or other careers, click on the link and share your interest.
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