20 ways to come up with movie ideas - screenwriter guide

For screenwriters, the struggle to find that next captivating concept is real. Every screenwriter faces the dreaded blank page. Where do you even begin to craft a compelling cinema? But fear not, aspiring story weavers! This guide offers a treasure trove of 20 methods to ignite your creativity and unleash a torrent of movie ideas.

Fuelling Your Imagination:

·        News Hound:

Delve into news headlines and current events. Can a headline spark a character or a conflict?

·        What If?

Twist reality. What if animals could talk? What if a historical event unfolded differently?

·        Genre Mashup:

Combine genres for a fresh twist. Think horror-comedy film or sci-fi romance movies.

·        Freewriting Frenzy:

Set a timer and write continuously for 10 minutes. Capture any fleeting ideas.

·        Mind Mapping:

Start with a central concept and brainstorm associated words, characters, and plot points.

Finding Inspiration Everywhere:

·        Movie Magic:

Analyse classic films. What elements resonate with you? Can you create a script with a similar feel?

·        Beyond the Screen:

Look for inspiration in paintings, photographs, or even architecture. Let visuals ignite your imagination.

·        True Tales:

Adapt a historical event, biography, or even a local legend for a unique perspective.

·        The People You Know:

Draw inspiration from your own experiences, relationships, or observations of others.

·        Listen Up:

Eavesdrop on conversations at cafes or public transport. Can you weave a script from a snippet?

Collaborative Creativity:

·        Brainstorm Buddies:

Gather friends or fellow scriptwriters for a brainstorming session. Bounce ideas off each other and see where it leads.

·        The Comp Game:

Present a hypothetical scenario (e.g., "aliens land in your backyard"). Each person adds a twist, building the script together.

·        Role-Playing Revelations:

Act out scenes with friends. Improvisation sparks unexpected plot developments.

Thinking Outside the Box:

·        Underdog's Odyssey:

Focus on an unassuming character thrust into extraordinary circumstances.

·        What's the Problem?

Start with a central conflict and explore how your characters of the film navigate it.

·        The "100 Idea Theory":

Set a goal to generate 100 movie ideas in a short period. Even "bad" ideas might spark something great.

·        Think Like a Kid:

Channel your inner child. What fantastical adventure would excite you?

·        The "Every Day" Idea:

Take a mundane situation and escalate it to absurd or thrilling heights.

Developing Your Idea:

·        Notebook Nirvana:

Carry a notebook or use a note-taking app to capture fleeting ideas and inspiration.

·        Write Short, Think Big:

Consider writing a short film script first. This is a great way to develop your concept and characters.

Remember, the most important ingredient is your own unique perspective. So, grab your notebook, unleash your creative filmmaking, and get ready to craft the next blockbuster film!