How to Write a Selling Screenplay: A Step by Step Approach

Christopher Keane has spent 20 years in the business, learning the truths--and the tricks--of writing a selling screenplay. In How to Write a Selling Screenplay, he takes writers through the entire process, from developing a story to finding the best agent. Using an annotated version of an often-optioned screenplay of his own, and citing examples from movies ranging from Casablanca and Lethal Weapon to Sling Blade and The English Patient, he discusses how to create three-dimensional characters, find a compelling story, build an airtight plot structure, fine-tune dialogue, and much more. Keane's tips on the difference between writing for film and television, as well as his advice on dealing with Hollywood movers and shakers, make this an essential companion for people writing their first--or their fortieth--screenplay.

"Keane's HOW TO WRITE A SELLING SCREENPLAY is certain to become the standard book for aspiring young authors. It covers every aspect of the screenwriting process from initial conception to the completion of the script, finding an agent, and placing the project with a production company. A masterful contribution from a leading authority." (James Nagel, writer, HEMINGWAY IN LOVE AND WAR, Eidson Distinguished Professor, The University of Georgia)

"Chris Keane's book, HOW TO WRITE A SELLING SCREENPLAY, is the new bible on the art of writing screenplays. It is a must for any new or experienced writer." (Michael Pressman, Executive Producer, PICKET FENCES)

"Keane's book is a method, a set of observations, from which an aspiring writer can discover his own approach: an approach to discipline, to work habits, most importantly--a discovery of process--so that if there is any talent there and a personal vision, it has a chance to survive and find a practical means of expression. Comprehensive, instructive, and filled with illuminating and helpful personal anecdotes." (Marshall Brickman, screenwriter. MANHATTAN MURDER MYSTERY, ANNIE HALL; cowriter, MANHATTAN, SLEEPER)

"Keane effectively combines theoretical considerations with hands-on applications that are easy to understand. His experience as an educator is abundantly evident on every page." (Richard Walter, professor and Screenwriting Chairman, UCLA)

"Keane has written a great guide to screenwriting. If all young screenwriters and studio execs would read it, American movies would be better." (Ralph Rosenblum, professor of Film at Columbia University Graduate Film School and editor of Goodbye, Columbus; Annie Hall; and Sleeper)

"To call this a book about screenwriting is to underestimate it enormously. It is about good writing and each superb rule and suggestion can be used for plays, novels, TV, and movies. I greatest accolade I can give is to say, 'I wish I had written it." (Stanley Ralph Ross, writer, The Bill Cosby Show, Columbo)