Turn Good Ideas Into Great Scripts

Good morning,

Let's explore how the screenwriters of "Gold" (Patrick Massett & John Zinman) approach the craft of writing... And their unconventional strategy for mastering screenplay execution.

Here's their systematic method for developing professional-level writing skills:

1. Deep Script Study

• Watch films with screenplay in hand

• Study William Goldman's "visual and spare" style

• Analyze perfect structure in classics like "Die Hard"

2. Deliberate Practice

• Write multiple full scripts before seeking representation

• Focus on execution over ideas

• Test dialogue through performance

3. Contemporary Analysis

• Study award-nominated scripts

• Analyze opening pages for hook techniques

• Learn multiple effective writing styles

The game-changing insight: 95% of scripts fail not because of bad ideas, but poor execution. Success comes from mastering the craft, not generating concepts.

Their specific advice for writers:

• Don't send out your first script

• Save industry connections for your best work

• Study how successful writers establish rhythm

Quick mindset shift: Stop focusing on generating unique ideas. Instead, perfect your ability to execute any concept at a professional level.

The key takeaway: "You really need to do the deep dive to flush out your craft. The ideas are going to work, but they need to be executed well." - Patrick Massett

Keep writing,

- Brock Swinson

P.S. Here’s my full audio interview with Patrick Massett & John Zinman

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