Screenwriting Made Easy is a guide for screenwriting beginners by Lawrence Solomon
Review by Jules Anene
Just as the name implies, Screenwriting Made Easy has simplified the difficult task of writing a movie script for me. There are so many things I wish to talk about regarding this book but I would rather talk about how easy it is to read.
I found this book on Amazon and I was amazed. In fact, I have been looking for a filmmaking book written by an African, as most books on filmmaking are written by Americans and Europeans. Then, I found this book, Screenwriting Made Easy, and it turns out to be the best thing that happened to me. If you want to become a filmmaker or a screenwriter, this book is a must-read.
While reading this book, you have one thing in mind, this person knows what he is talking about and he knows the industry quite well. So I was prompted to research the author.
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This book was written by Lawrence Solomon. Lawrence is a professional screenwriter who has written no fewer than 20 acclaimed movies for major platforms, including ROK TV and other independent producers. He is a graduate of English And Literary Studies from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Lawrence also has two Diplomas in Screenwriting from two prestigious film schools: Disciples Film Academy, Lagos; and The Royal Arts Film Academy, Lagos.
From the opening of the book, you are introduced to why he decided to write the book which is to help other writers coming into the industry understand the craft, and navigate the industry without going through the trial and error he went through. Frankly, his journey as a school teacher who migrated to Lagos with nothing but a backpack and made it as a screenwriter is inspiring to say the least. But I am more touched by his intention to help other writers get it right and achieve financial freedom with their skills.
The book which is 250 pages long is divided into ten chapters. Each chapter tackles a topic in screenwriting and filmmaking in a way that keeps you engaged. The chapters are further summed up into three parts: the first part introduces you to the opportunities available for screenwriters in the industry; while the second part deals with how to write a great logline, how to generate original film ideas, and a step-by-step guide to writing the first draft of the screenplay; the third part finishes up by going into details on how to sell your script in the industry without being scammed. There is just so much information packed on each page that gets you glued to the book.
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The book is simply a guide to writing a movie script, it’s so simple it feels like a DIY guide and as you read the book, you get a detailed picture of how to write a movie script that sells in the industry.
I have always wanted to write movies; I have even completed some scripts but I have never sold any scripts. But after reading this book, I was exposed to many options for selling my scripts and I have even received some offers from some producers. Also, I am now aware of jobs I can apply for as a screenwriter.
This book convinced me that if one has a passion for writing, one can indeed pursue a career in the movie industry. I recommend this book to everyone who loves writing and wants to parlay that skill into the movie business, it is a skill that can guarantee financial freedom.
Buying this book, Screenwriting Made Easy will remain the best decision I have made in 2022. In fact, if you asked me, I think it’s worth more than the $30 I paid for it.
If you are in Nigeria, get the book at Selar for just N10, 000. You can just click this link to get a copy for yourself, your child, or anyone you think might need to learn this skill. Basically, everyone interested in writing should read this book. It’s a must-have.