Are you fascinated by the magic of storytelling? Have you ever wondered how great screenwriters craft compelling narratives? In our latest episode, we dive deep into the world of screenwriting with the remarkable Ann Kimbrough. From her humble beginnings in New York City to her adventures in Hollywood, Ann's journey is a treasure trove of insights and inspiration. Grab a cup of coffee (Ann LOVES coffee), get comfy, and let’s explore the enchanting universe of screenwriting and writing together!
Key Takeaways
Here are the four takeaways from my delightful chat with Ann:
Outline, Outline, Outline: It’s essential, especially for screenplays.
Embrace the Basics of Storytelling: Understand “hope vs fear”.
Learning and Adapting: Continuously refine your skills through experience and feedback.
Audience Engagement: Build your reader base organically and find what works best for your specific genre.
Ann Kimbrough: The Face Behind the Pen
Have you ever thought about the process that goes into writing a screenplay? It's not just about having a good story; it's about structure, format, and so much more. Ann Kimbrough, a seasoned screenwriter, shares her wealth of knowledge on navigating the complex world of writing screenplays.
The Journey Begins: From Fiction to Screenplays
Ann kicks off the episode by discussing the different paths writers take towards their craft. She discusses her own journey from college new hire to seasoned screenwriter and novelist.
For many, writing novels and fiction is a process learned through osmosis. You learn some basics in school, and then, with an idea in mind, you start writing. But with screenwriting, it's a whole different ball game. "It's very structured and you have to know the format," Ann explains.
Screenwriting is all about knowing how to outline—a skill sometimes dreaded by writers but essential for creating a professional script. "Every character is going through an arc," Ann says. "And one of the main ways to do that is by presenting hope versus fear for the reader."
What Makes a Good Story?
Ann dives into the basics of storytelling. What makes a great screenplay? How do you keep your audience on tenterhooks? She introduces the concept of "hope vs fear," which she believes is crucial in any storytelling. Whether it's a murder mystery or a dramatic tale, moving your reader between hope and fear creates compelling arcs for your characters and keeps your audience engaged.
Oh, and the cliff hangers! Ann discusses how and why to use them. As she said with a smile, “they do keep you coming back for more.” Indeed.
The Path to Becoming a Professional: From New York to Hollywood
How did Ann transition from a college graduate in Las Vegas to a seasoned screenwriter in Hollywood? Spoiler: it wasn't without its challenges! After landing her first job in publishing in New York, Ann realized that while she loved working for a publisher, her day-to-day roles were always "writer-adjacent." This realization led her to shift gears and move to Los Angeles where she pursued screenwriting.
Practical Advice for Aspiring Writers
Ann delves deep into the practicalities of learning screenwriting. From trying to get your hands on scripts to learning beats and plotting from seasoned TV writers, the journey is filled with both trials and triumphs.
One golden nugget from Ann: if you're an aspiring screenwriter, understanding the obligatory scenes in your genre can be incredibly helpful. For instance, a murder mystery needs a dead body or a detective. Knowing these can help you structure your story efficiently.
Audience Engagement and Self-Publishing
The discussion moves to the realm of self-publishing and audience engagement. Have you wondered how to get your work noticed without a big marketing budget? Ann's journey through self-publishing and leveraging platforms like Substack offers invaluable insights.
From using targeted marketing tools like Freebooksy to building an organic following, Ann shares her strategies for getting readers hooked on her series. Interestingly, she mentions how offering the first book for free can be a great way to get readers engrossed in your work and eager to buy the rest.
Interested in Ann’s cozy mysteries? Exercise is Murder, Pet Shows are Murder, Weddings are Murder, Train Trips are Murder? Ann writes these novels under the pen name “Ann Audree” and you can find them here.
A Love for History: Bringing the Past to Life
Ann’s love for history shines through in her writing, especially in her serialized works like "Harvey Girl Mysteries" and "Time Witch." And as she told me in the discussion, she loves old houses! “The history,” she said, “is wonderful.” Ann meticulously researches the periods she's writing about, ensuring that even the colloquial expressions and settings are accurate. This dedication adds layers of authenticity to her stories, making them even more engaging for the readers.
Wrapping Up: Nuggets of Wisdom for Aspiring Writers
As we wrap up our conversation with Ann, her advice for aspiring writers stands out:
Just Start: Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start writing and learn as you go.
Outline Your Story: Whether it’s a detailed plan or a simple structure, know where your story is headed.
Draw from Personal Experiences: Use your life as a source of inspiration to craft authentic and relatable stories.
Seek Feedback: Share your work with trusted friends or writing groups and be open to constructive criticism.
So, are you ready to dive into the world of storytelling? Listen to the full episode to hear Ann's inspiring journey and invaluable tips for creating compelling narratives. Happy writing!
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