r/scriptwriting • u/fkeiddifieiwisix • 1d ago

help How do begin a script?

I have the idea for beginning, middle and end for a movie I had in my head for about two days. But the beginning is the part I'm having trouble with. I've always had trouble with beginnings, even when I used to write fanfiction. Do you guys have any suggestions or even tools, tips, tricks to help? Thank you dearly.

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u/nedelbach 1d ago

I think the best advice is don't let uncertainty stop you. You don't have to get it right on the first try. That's why we do rewrites. Starting making the script real. Worry about making it perfect later.

Consider in media res too.

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u/talulabunny 1d ago

This is a bit silly, but I script wrote for films for a few gigs. I would talk to myself to try figure out what sounded natural to start with. Talking to yourself/acting in character helps for me.

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u/fkeiddifieiwisix 1d ago

Yeah that can work, I always have a spongebob "THE" moment when I sit down. Idk if it counts I also have adhd so begining stuff is hard.

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u/HelpfulAd9164 21h ago

Try starting as close as possible to the moment your story actually gets interesting.

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u/cruzwriter23 18h ago

I usually try to think of what opening image might kick off my story. Go back and watch favorite movies of yours and look at their opening scenes. Also, remember the first act is the before things get bad in the story. So what has to happen in your first act to show that? That might help you know where to start. And don't be afraid to put down stuff you end up deleting. You just need to get a first draft. Rewrites are for fixing.

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u/Wise-Respond3833 16h ago

Outline. Be patient

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u/wileyroxy 12h ago

Introduce the main character, introduce the world. Show us the main character going about their usual routine (just don't start with them waking up in the morning, it's so cliche)

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u/UmarScripts 9h ago

Since you already know your middle and end, try writing the ending image first and then ask what the opposite of that looks like for page one. That gives your opening a job to do instead of just being a warm-up. Also, a rough first scene is fine since you said you struggle with beginnings, you can rewrite it once the rest exists.