The First Chapter

Every video script begins with a core idea. In attempting to perfectly translate our vision, we often create overly complex characters and scenarios, which we then build our stories around. This approach is usually too extensive to fit into a short timeframe and ultimately dilutes our original concept.
The goal is to keep it basic. Let’s get into how to scriptwrite for a short film.

The “Mentos Effect”

The first step is to take your constructed ideas and simplify them. Turn your scattered ideas into concise thoughts. The “Mentos formula” (introduced by screenwriting expert D for Darius) is a four-part process providing a clear and concise narrative arc:

Establishing a Character

Begin by introducing your main character, answering key questions such as their identity and the nature of their world. This will help the audience connect with and care about the character. Maybe they’re a nervous barista who spills coffee on everyone, or your next-door nosy neighbour. These simple details are powerful because they give the audience an instant read on who this person is, making them more invested in what happens next.

Establishing a Problem

Once the character is set, give them a clear conflict. This needs to be something that demands immediate action. The conflict should be something that a viewer can understand instantly. It is the moment where everything changes, and the character is forced to react.

Acting on that Problem

This is where the story takes form and the plot moves forward. It requires building tension and showing a character’s immediate determination. The actions they take will reveal their personalities.

The End Result

What happens as a result of your character’s action? Does the character gain a sense of peace, or does this set up a new challenge? The conclusion completes the narrative arc.

First Draft to Final Draft

The real magic of the scriptwriting process lies amidst the frustration of writing and rewriting. It is essential to realise that what looks good in sketches might not always look good in its final form. It is an inevitable, but crucial, lesson in professional screenwriting.
Your first draft may feel flat, and this is where the power of rewriting comes in. Your first draft is the release of your ideas, where you’re simply laying down the foundation, while the second and third drafts are the process of refining them. Here, you add depth and find solutions for what isn’t working.
You ask yourself questions. In this process, you are able to transform your story from a simple sequence to a compelling and engaging narrative. This is what separates amateur writers pursuing a hobby and professional writers. It is essential to think of rewriting as a priority, helping you deliver a high-quality product, and not a chore.

Moving Forward with Your Rewrite

As you complete your rewrite, you can’t help but notice how much stronger your story has become. Even if your script isn’t perfect, you realise it’s a huge step forward, filled with new depth and subtle details. The pride you feel reading through your different drafts, seeing how your ideas have grown, and the clear progress you’ve made, means more than any possession. It truly shows your dedication and creative spirit. The goal here is practice, and not perfection.
You’ll discover that a lot of what you think of as “good writing” is really just good rewriting. Every time you revisit your script, you’re not just correcting errors; you’re building a deeper relationship with your story and characters. You’re giving yourself the space to be creative again, but this time with a solid foundation. You might find a new line of dialogue that perfectly captures a character’s essence or a small action that makes a scene ten times more powerful.

Conclusion

These small victories add up to a final product that is far greater than your initial idea. The journey from a rough draft to a polished script is a testament to your hard work and commitment. Embrace the process, and trust that with each pass, your story will get stronger. If you’re heading on your own creative journey, keep in mind that the best stories are often the simplest ones, and the best writers are the ones who are willing to rewrite.