Following the Goodfellas Writer’s Footsteps: Path to Becoming a Writer
Goodfellas is one of the most iconic films of all time, and its writer, Nicholas Pileggi, is a true master of his craft. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a writer in the film industry, becoming a writer is a great goal to set for yourself. But how do you get there? In this article, we’ll explore the best path to becoming a film writer, including the skills you’ll need to develop, the education you’ll need to pursue, and the opportunities you’ll need to seize.
Develop Your Writing Skills
The first step to becoming a script writer is to develop your writing skills. This means honing your ability to craft compelling characters, write engaging dialogue, and construct a story that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. You can do this by reading and analyzing screenplays, writing your own scripts, and seeking feedback from other writers.
Build Your Knowledge of Film History and Theory
To become a successful writer in the film industry, you’ll need to have a deep understanding of film history and theory. This means studying the works of classic filmmakers like Hitchcock, Kubrick, and Fellini, as well as familiarizing yourself with the latest trends and techniques in the industry. You can do this by taking film studies courses at a reputable university, attending film festivals and screenings, and reading industry publications like Variety and The Hollywood Reporter.
Pursue a Degree in Film or Screenwriting
While it’s possible to break into the film industry without a degree, pursuing a degree in film or screenwriting can give you a significant advantage. A degree program will not only help you develop your writing skills and knowledge of film theory, but it will also provide you with valuable networking opportunities and access to industry professionals. Some of the best film and screenwriting programs in the country are offered by New York University (NYU) Tisch School of the Arts.
Gain Industry Experience
Once you’ve developed your skills and completed your education, the next step is to gain industry experience. This means working on film sets, assisting established writers, and submitting your work to contests and festivals. While it can be difficult to break into the industry, persistence and hard work can pay off in the long run.
Consider Taking an Online Course
If you’re not ready to pursue a full degree program, or if you’re looking to supplement your education and gain additional skills, consider taking an online course. Yellowbrick offers a variety of online courses and certificate programs in the film industry, including the NYU Film and TV Industry Essentials program. This program provides students with an overview of the film and television industry, as well as practical skills in areas like screenwriting, producing, and directing.
Key Takeaways
- To become a movie writer, you’ll need to develop your writing skills, build your knowledge of film history and theory, pursue a degree in film or screenwriting, gain industry experience, and consider taking an online course.
- New York University (NYU) offers some of the best film and screenwriting programs in the country.
- The NYU Film and TV Industry Essentials program, offered by Yellowbrick, is a great way to gain practical skills and a deeper understanding of the film industry.
