my younger sister (19) has always been very good at writing stories and just recently she's been studying theatre arts and wrote a couple of really EXCELLENT scripts - the stories are so good i know they'll definitely make it abroad. if someone could give me some pointers on how to publish her "potential movies" please shout. also, how do we go about copyrighting our stories so nobody steals them from us?

Scriptwriting is a very technical and structured format of writing. Although there is no lack of great South African stories, there is a lack of skilled scriptwriters in the country. There is a particular formula that one needs to write to, and this is the biggest problem with South African scripts. Having studied scriptwriting in America I would highly recommend Christopher Vogler's "The Writer's Journey". It deals with the mythic structure of writing and takes you through the various stages of character development and the journey.

Hi there,

Some time back I launched a website called [SPEC] for SA screenwriters and producers to get their work out there to be noticed. Since my move to London, I launched a film company with some people at the BBC called "The Film Coop Ltd" (it's not part of the BBC, just that most of people working with me on projects are now from BBC, North TV, SkyNews etc.) Send me your details to sean @ seaninggs.co.za or sean @ thefilmcoop.com and I'll speak with the others here. I morphed [SPEC] with the film company now but work has been so busy with my ventures that I haven't managed to get a new site up for [SPEC].

Look forward to hearing from you soon.

Kind regards
Sean Inggs
London

- If it's good enough, the first 10 pages will sell your script.

- From page to picture you're going to lose 50%. So think how good your script really needs to be to start off with.

- About 30 drafts should do it.

- You've workshopped the script with actors right?

To sell a script is ridiculously easy and extremely hard.

The truth is, if you manage to hone, craft and squeeze something that is compelling and fresh it will take care of itself. Believe me, you'll have no problem attaching finance, talent and distribution.

The question is whether your script is just another passable story amongst thousands, or if you've sweated enough blood to create something different.

There's a simple formula: If you're struggling to get a script noticed, that means it's merely a good script. Or worse.

A brilliant script sells itself.

Rob is correct. There's many "rules" and a few more. Format (search google for some screenwriting software, Movie Magic 2000 on demo allows you to write up to 40 pages, if you serious then you can purchase it) and consider the budget as well. "Spec" scripts that are bought straight out by the studios don't happen often and when it does it's usually a well known name already or has talent attached to it already. Also if you targeting a Hollywood studio, rather move to LA first.
I read the scripts the same way (first 10 pages etc) but with consideration for budget obviously, we don't have thousands or millions of pounds. If you send any to me, make sure they in correct format, have a commercial angle and would appeal to a wide audience.

As in, THE writer of Chinatown? If so, thanks for stopping by! If not, amazing coincidence, or extremely self-assured choice of pseudonym.

Any info where they can go to hone their skills and work in the industry with greats?
A friend has just graduated. (He is a young black male)
it would be so great if he could join a film company or program (as a paid intern)to improve his skills.

Hi Nom,

If your friend could perhaps find a group of filmmakers (also in his position or current students) and all of them group some cash together, one of the best thing that young filmmakers can do is get out there and do something themselves. Actions speak louder than just having scripts or qualifications. If he could get a short film out that stands out from the crowds and shows potential, him and anyone connected with the film will be streets ahead of those just wondering around looking for positions to walk into. Network, create.