My Book- A Movie?

     Just as a director decides on so many different aspects relating to the film making process, a writer must do the same in his/her book and can learn from the questions that are raised and the types of solutions that are offered.  Think of how the cameras are set in a scene, and the (mood) being captured in so many different ways.  The script should bring the point of view to life; providing more narrow and decisive camera options.  An author can do the same.


    Camera angles, for example, change numerously throughout a scene, but make no mistake; every angle has a purpose.  When thinking of this idea enough one can almost see the cinematic techniques within a novel.  Take some time to focus on these ideas.  When watching a movie or reading a book, do this also.

My Book- A Movie?

     We've put our book on the big screen; thought of it as a movie, looked at visual techniques, and much more.  But have we put ourselves in the character's shoes?  Like an actor knows his script and becomes the character in mind, body, and soul, authors must play the part of every character in their book.

     So, can we become as close to the character as the cast of a movie becomes to each of their roles?  I say yes.  It's hard, but I think we manage to get to this point in different ways.

     Screen writing has it's advantages in this area.  The writer can put forth a setting, actions, and appearances as plainly and matter-of-factly as I would tell you in conversation.  But still, when taking an acting class in college, I really did question  whether the author was able to to put as much time in getting to know his characters as I was.  I remember pairing up with partners and helping each other in many exercises that we did.  Mossing around the campus, we "walked like our character".  Other times we were in conversation as our character.  It definitely helped me play my part.  Sometimes I wish there was a writing class like this; helping each other get to know and develop our characters.  When it's a class, it's not as embarrassing to do these activities.

My Book- A Movie?

     Have you ever watched a movie in writing mode- I mean, focusing on the acute movements that that powerful actor is making, thinking how you would write this in words?  The only approach that brings you back is a grim look from your buddy when he notices that you look like a zombie.  Not cool, but if you can keep your composure, thinking of a movie as a book can be helpful.

     When you're ready to write sometime, put your book on the big screen and see how it would look.  Close your eyes if you have to.  What do you notice first in a sequence of events?  And what pace were they noticed?  What kind of mood did the setting present?  How does your buddy feel in that theater chair- considering that he does'nt have a zombie distracting him?

     Now, how does that feel?  It should feel pretty good.  The only thing left, is to put all of those observations into words and let your writing set the tone, picture, and pace.