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Script Writing For Nollywood

Update, April 07,2018: So we decided to share with you what a sample of a Nollywood script looks like. A top Nollywood producer, Chinaza Onuzo, One of the founders of Inkblot Productions, producer of The Wedding party, My Wife and I and the Department  shared the script of the movie ”The Arbitration” here.

This is what Chinaza had to say for sharing this wonderful scrip of the movie.

One of the best things you can do to learn the craft of screenwriting is to read scripts but there aren’t really many scripts of Nigerian films out and about to add to the diet of hollywood scripts. So i thought I’d change that a bit”.

Please go ahead and download the Nollywood movie script in pdf format and go through it.

Screenwriting is the act of writing scripts intended to be turned into movies or television shows. Those who write scripts are called screenwriters, and screenwriters are often freelance writers, which means they are self-employed.

Let start with some hard facts about selling a script to a movie producer or a big production company. To be totally honest, you don’t simply write a screenplay, market it, and then sell it for a million naira. That’s a myth.

In order to break into the movie industry (Nollywood) as a script writer you have to go in with a realistic viewpoint, if not your dreams will get crushed in a twinkle of an eye.

This article will try to guide you on how you can achieve you dream as a successful script writer.

BROADEN YOUR KNOWLEDGE

You need to acquire all the knowledge you can lay your hands on about script writing and the industry. Read as many produced script that you can lay your hands on. This will be the best education you get. Reading scripts. Reading produced scripts especially.

Another important step to actualizing your dream is to watch MOVIES, consume as many movies as you can. Do it like your life depended on it. It is also expected that you pay attention to details while watching these movies. Each scene matters. Each scene builds to the next. Each scene has purpose. Each scene is short, sweet, and to the point.

WHAT MOVIES DO YOU WANT TO WRITE?

You need to think long and hard about what you want to write and if your ideas are big enough, be it in comedy, horror, action, drama, or sci-fi (GOOD LUCK WITH THAT, YOU’LL NEED IT). Once you are able to narrow what genre of movie you will be writing, it will be easier to make a master piece with your scripts.

DON’T STOP! KEEP WRITING!!!

If you keep working on writing scripts cover to cover you are honing your skills before your big break into the industry. Your first script will and always will be your worst. Don’t fall into the trap of writing your first script and then going out and trying to market and sell it. You’re not ready.

Renowned script writer, Tunde Babalola, when asked how he has perfected his art over the years, his reply was “It is by continually writing. One never stops learning. The more one does it, the better one gets at it. Of course, there are books one can read on the subject and further degrees that one can study to enhance one’s craft, but I’ve always believed practice makes perfect.”

In the course of reading produced script you will pick up certain knowledge that will be very useful to you. You will learn that you need to draw your reader/viewers in from your first few pages, they have to engage the viewers, making them yearn for more.

HOW DO YOU MARKET YOUR SCRIPT?

Do your research and find out who to approach. Do not just pick the most popular producers/ Production Company and throw your script at their faces. Do your research. I will advise you find a way of getting their email address. Email is non-committal. They don’t have to talk to you. They have to read through their email. And response-wise, it’s as easy as clicking “delete” or “reply”.

When reaching out to prospective client/investor you should give basic introduction about yourself, logline, synopsis, and end by saying thanks for considering.

What if you can’t get an email? Well, if you can lay your hands on their phone numbers brace up and give them a call. Before you make that phone call rehearse your selling point and give it the best shot you can.

NETWORK!!!!

Attend industry related events where you can come across potential investors, a big producer, other aspiring script writers or a production company. When you find yourself in the presence of such personalities it is important you portray a good impression of yourself. You might only get that opportunity once and one opportunity is all it takes to set your career rolling.

SO HOW DO YOU SELL YOUR SCRIPT?

First thing is to have at least 2-3 great scripts you are 100% sure will have anyone hooked from the first few pages. You might ask why? Well, if you get the opportunity of meeting someone who seems interested they are probably going to ask you “what other script do you have?” They may love your writing, but the concept you have in the script they read isn’t something they want to produce. So they’ll see if you have anything else. If you don’t? “Great. Nice to meet you. Have a nice day.”

Have three great scripts and you’ll look more and more like a seasoned writer that’s ready to tackle this beast of a screenwriting career.

Find some additional resources that can help better your chances of becoming a successful script writer in Nollywood

Software’s:

Final draft: is a screenwriting software for writing and formatting screenplays.

Celtx: Combines full-feature scriptwriting with pre-production support and also enables online collaboration.

Fade In: is screenwriting software for writing screenplays in the professional

Books:

Screenwriting: The Sequence Approach, by Paul Gulino,

Style, Structure, Substance and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee

 

Website:

myPDFscripts.com

 http://thescriptlab.com

http://www.imsdb.com

Lastly,Learn the film industry and the goings on. Know what’s being made and who is making them. Know which films are failing at the box office and which are succeeding. Read this stuff every day!

93 thoughts on “Script Writing For Nollywood

  1. Comment * I must sincerely say, this article or guide is amazing and brilliant. I love the tips and more easy ways to get started. the point is I am a writer, I have one book to my credit, and two scripts unfinished. I also have eight children short stories for publication. I did a Creative Writing Course at FRCN in 2007 but getting to the next stage has been a major challenge. I will love to book an appointment with you, I will be looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks.

    1. Comment *
      sir, this blog has really taught me so many things, I found out about myself that I develop in writing so many script, not because I was being paid for it, but because I find joy doing it, and the kind of script I write, are your kind of production, they are so lovely that even when I wrote one a time, someone went through it, and was anticipated to have more of it, because as you read through, its like you are already watching on your t.v screen. what I want sir, am not hooked by the money for now, u can go through it and see what am talking about, I don’t mind. you can reach me with this number 08023954135.

        1. Comment *I have a story to sell but I’m not a scriptwriter and not intending to be one but I have this life wonderful story sure we catch the attention of the audience contact me if interested
          2349070121938

  2. Hello, God blessing you for the inspiring words. I actually have an adventurous NollyWood movie for sell that i believe in so much. 08163832084

  3. I have 3 interesting scripts on movie that am writing and will really appreciate if you can help me out to market it. 08037948696. Thanks

  4. hello. greetings to whom it is due, i greet you. please, i have a good constructed write-up, if interested then, contact me on; 07030941999. the movie script is lenthy and interesting, it could be shot as a movie in episode, parts, or in seasonings formats. you can call me for negotiation.
    Kinds Regards!
    Mike.

  5. I am a young Talent with amazing scripts but have no sponsors, please if you are interested in buying a script,I’m available. I promise you won’t regret buying it.thank you

    1. I am an actor , playwright and poet and featured in a Zimbabwean Movie entitled; “The Gentleman “.
      I have a movie script I am itching for Nollywood to produce. How can I have it looked at?
      Martin E. Dzengah is my name, from Zimbabwe.

    1. Yes live and learn through Nollywood more real than Hollywood .The sting is int he tails from after Christmas come catch me if you Can. With Nolly Wood Trumps up not shitty hole but a success happy writer to write for any time…Big and Juicy lines that will get everyone glued to the TV just before bed time . We are not going to be left behind AFRICA is RISING LIKE SWEET BREAD. Heather Butcher Writer in UK –

  6. I write movie scripts but I don’t have people to sponsor me .most importantly I don’t want my already written movie scripts to be a waste that’s why I would love to sell it. not really for the money but it would be most wonderful to see it acted . if interested to buy kindly call 09025929679 . don’t worry I don’t bite.

  7. Comment *am emmannuel stephen, each time i pick up my biro is like am watching movie directly inpiration keep coming to me i put a text, and i bring out a movie script is intesting.if wish to buy call,(08171299121 or 08179562603)

  8. Hello, I have an interesting drama script to sell but dont have the producers and production company’s contact. PLS HELP!!! contact me via my phone no: 08030609227

  9. My name is Chike, a scriptwriter and also the Personal assitant to the Director of the only Film Festival in South Eastern Nigeria., Lakecity Film Festival. Another opportunity is coming up this year. To contact me call 08105520339

  10. Comment *Am Stella-Maris by name. I discovered my talent in writing scripts and stories,but none is bn actualized. It will please me to have a sponsor or one who can guide me through to see my dreams come real.07060710826.

  11. Comment * my name is Tonia, writing is what i consider to give me joy. Am just 19 i have a wonderful script and i need a mentor to guide.08120440442

  12. My name is okoye somto
    Am 15
    I have so much passion in writing scripts
    Which I hv written so much in my story book
    I wrote a story dat has 404 episodes titled journey of life.
    I also wrote
    Sister’s vow. etc

    Daughter’s honour
    Contact me with. 08168948872
    I don’t sell

  13. i have a talent of creativity and am also writing a script,actually am done. contact me with my number 07011046934

  14. I am a script writer and I love to write for the cinema kind of movie. I have written and acted a movie before. I have also co-produced. Please you can contact me via whatsapp or call or SMS or any other social platform via 07063156057.

  15. Hi I’m Djubreel, I’m basically a story teller and I do this best in my screenplays, I have written many short stories and screenplays but cannot find who to whet my talent with, contact me via wassap on 07061684500. I look forward to meeting anybody with the talent for screenplays! Who knows we could both be writing the next big thing in Nigeria! Lol!

  16. My name is Nelisa from South Africa. I am a writer with 2 books published by a traditional publisher and 1 self published. I have written a Script entitled THE NAKED WILL. I need somebody who can look at it then see what to do next. I am ready to be guided, coached and criticised. If you are interested please call me Mama at 0818862331 or email me. Thank you.

  17. I am an amazing scriptwriter, written over twelve articles(story).
    I am looking for a promoter, producer or buyer,
    I wish to explore more in my creative talent of Art, please contact me: 08032270026, 08170907868, 08090737283

  18. Good day, ma. How is everything? We thank God. Sincerely, ur words av encouraged me. I av this God-given talent of writing scripts only known to few. But I have a little problem. I need the assistance of a good and trustable person like u to guide and sponsor me so my dream of becoming someone like Mrs Kemi Adesoye will be achieved. Thanks for ur attention, ma. God will continue to bless the works of ur hands and INKBLOT productions.

  19. Thanks for this great write up
    I’m a gifted/talented script writer, I do write interesting seasonal film scripts, I have more than two on ground, but I just need a buyer
    Here’s my contact if you’re interested
    07015885294

  20. This is not a mare ground. If you are as smart as you guys say then you will know that this post is just to help you out on how to write so Nollywood will buy from you. So can you guys just appreciate and stop talking about how you want to sell whatever you have

  21. i really love your blog and every thing you say there in . i am interested in selling my book i wrote . unforseen predicament please if you are interested call my line on 08151147727

  22. I am a published Author having written and published 5 novels and one book of poetry. I am 68 years of age and I have written a number of Screenplays that I would like to submit for consideration .

  23. Thanks so much sir, I really appreciate this piece. Being a student and a writer as well your piece has motivated me to do more. It was thoughtful of you to have written this and beats up my definition of who a nolly wood star should me. God bless you sir.

  24. I feel this is just for me, I have learned what could have cost me #5000 if I had learned from a seminar. Thank u so much may God continue to increase your knowledge. However I have five already written scripts as follows:
    1. 1812
    2. Part of methuselah
    3. Late Uche
    4. Days of mourning
    5. Doings of sister Ntantsi.
    Should anyone is intrested, call or text me 08039635836 call and text only
    08021038365 watsapp only

  25. Comment *am Rachael from delta my sister writes scripts and needs buyer’s. here is my number 08106223661

  26. I know I’m probably late, and still young and naive, I’m an amazing writer Sir, but truth be told I still have a long way to go and a lot of learning to do. I’m a struggling writer, I’ve written a lot but have no audience, I’m just trying to ask if I can be an intern or something. I want to learn from the best. I’m willing to learn if you would teach me. I reside at port Harcourt but school at enugu. here’s my number 08157132197

  27. Good day,
    Am Durojaiye Sidiq I have alot of idea that I want to transform in script but I I have the technical skills to write as a movie script can someone help me in actualizing this dream

  28. This is a wonderful platform to help upcoming script writers all over the world…I really wish and pray that there should be a seminar for all of us to meet and particularly horn this skill,and this might be a better platform for some of us to showcase what we have.Thank you.

  29. Hello, I have 3 stories White I want to convert into scripts to write but the problem is that the title don’t just pop up, like I’m finding it very hard to have a title for those stories.
    Please I need help. This is my number 08100588742

  30. I have two stories that I would love to sell..I am very good at writing stories… I an young and I have the ideas that will capture the hearts of the young and old…175872724260 is my number

  31. I have been writing all my life, a lot of play in my head, my classmates usually call it real, I would gladly want to sell to u cos its very didactic

  32. Am victor am not that good of a script writer buh I have lots of movies that have written buh still rough though……….need a very good script writer 08066029149

  33. Course. Good. But pls do u know of any org that has the training on ground? Thanks. I am interested.

  34. I have Different ideas for different movies be it a superhero movie with awesome storyline or about crime fighting and mystery….. I have different ideas but I don’t know anybody in the movie industry at all… Please if you ever feel the need to read any of my scripts let me know this is my gmail + Number belloabdullahi125@gmail +2349079308465 i think a good storyline would change nollywood forever

  35. I have Different ideas for different movies be it a superhero movie with awesome storyline or about crime fighting and mystery….. I have different ideas but I don’t know anybody in the movie industry at all… Please if you ever feel the need to read any of my scripts let me know by messaging

  36. I am a script writer and I have written more than 5 scripts but I’m yet to actualize them. I want to sell at least 3 of the scripts. This is my number 08032348819. Thanks.

  37. Jennifer please am very interested in writing a script but not sure if what I am writing is a good one

  38. Please i have movie scripts but i dont know anybody to pitch it to. If interested 09079308465 is my number

  39. Comment *I need a script already produced lemme go through it please if any contact @ 09034376748

  40. This is an eye opener for me, because I have lots of ideas story in white though. But having gone through this article has given me an insight to what I have been searching for. Thanks God bless you more

  41. I have been blessed by this article.
    I also have one script am working on and would be glad to sell.
    I would also like a part time job in a movie producing industry in Benin city. Can you help with any suggestion.

  42. I’m greatly impressed by your write up of advice about script writing and marketing. I have a mind blowing and captivating script that would grip your attention from scene to scene. well elaborated to the taste. if interested please contact me on my cell phone number here: 08066933815. The title of the story is the serpent nest.

  43. Interesting! I am a script writer and we are starting a movie industry. We are basically writing Business Education Scripts. We are also working on shooting one soon.
    But we have script writers with their individual scripts that we want to sell. I need someone to contact me so as to discuss more. I bet you the movies are superb. My phone number is 08069314000. Thank you

  44. Thanks for the advice, really appreciate. At the same time, I want to use this platform as an opportunity to tell you that I have a written story of which i am very much convinced that you as well as the masses will very much appreciate. It is an action, romantic, comedy story, one that I believe will rise in the movie industry should it be acted out. I do plead for your assistance in bringing this book of mine to life. Hoping to hear from you. Here is my phone number: 09012664868. Thanks for considering.

  45. Hi,

    That is a great article.

    I am Kenyan based screenplay writer and film maker with passion for Nollywood. I recently completed working on a Nollywood based screenplay. It’s a great sequel. I need link to pitch. Reach me at +254 721 575 741.

    Thanks.

  46. I have this movie running through my head and feel I should show it to the world . I need contact please.

  47. I have this movie running through my head and feel I should show it to the world . I need contact please. 08104315390

  48. I have many scripts on sale please I’ll need an assistant to help market it. My name is Effiong Ita Patrick my number is 08154438689

  49. i have a script with which below ill drop what the film is about. my contact number and whatsapp (08130090673)

    ABOUT
    today the rich have fallen in a manner most expect as ‘the best judgment that suits them’. judgment is no longer for God alone but to every who be feels raped by a system expectant to create a balance, to be a father to the fatherless, a mother to the motherless and a care taker to those to be cared for.
    this movie exposes an insite of a highjacker heist on the days government, unfoiling governments plans, corrupt practices, money lundering, extravagancy and arrogance. the mind of politician and also the left out spot of stupidity that this movie is centered upon.
    A bank of oil wells, tax payers funds and revenues of all such been highjacked by persons of power and affluence ‘wolfs in sheeps clothing’ but the highjackers have just pushed the citizen to a point were silence is replaced with a revolution and it begins today.

  50. Wow that was a bomb,thank you so much for sharing this wonderful tips,its really helpful for a starter like me.

  51. Well I have a screen play I am currently writing, a dramedy at least 30 minutes I prefer to write series for now til I am ready to write a feature-length movie, I also have a short film written and directed by me and I write short stories and short novel stories for an online magazine

  52. Thanks for d info, d piece i must confess adds value to what i already have in stock, i should be able to add this to my reference lists. Watch out for me.

  53. This blog is really an eye opener.
    I have a just finished script titled BFF (Bonded From Friendship) Need an interested producer.
    Reach me on 08061362494

  54. This is really amazing stuff. Much needed information. I wish we have more like this for aspiring writers/film makers. Thank you so very much for sharing. I learnt a great deal!

  55. Hi my name is Monica, with what that you have recommended really move me alot,l have some screen play that i write like up to four of it which am still writing now with very good interested motives.pls I need a
    guidance and a coach who will support me encourage me,and show me the way to make aim out of it.here my WhatsApp contact 08149036749 pls I will really love to have a chat with you and thank you very much

  56. I have scripts looking for producer. interesting storylines. I have about 4 scripts written down out of 28. 08130486062. I wish you can link me to producers.

  57. Hi my name is Jumoke. I’m a young writer filled with creativity and fresh ideas. I write scripts, novels, short plays or stories and literarily anything creativity. I have no sponsors or anybody i know in the industry. I have scripts different from the everyday Nigerian story told from the narrative and thinking of a young adult . I also have ideas i can share cause I can’t write all my ideas, also if you have ideas for your scripts but don’t know how to put it down or type, i’m available too. My number is 09057826324

  58. I have interested stories to sell, i have met 2 buys but i i dnt knw actual price to sell please help me with the price to sell. My no 08033552705.

  59. I have a hobby of penning down life experiences, I don’t know if that could be considered as a script, but it is intriguing and excellent for screen.
    Chinaza okenwa

  60. My name is John stellamaris and am 20years old.
    I must say I really love this platform I have 3 well written script but am not interested in selling them I want to use it as a way of getting to the production team as an actress. I love Uche Nancy production but I don’t know how to get to them please help me.

  61. My name is John stellamaris and am 20years old.
    I must say I really love this platform I have 3 well written script but am not interested in selling them I want to use it as a way of getting to the production team as an actress. I love Uche Nancy production but I don’t know how to get to them please help me. 08127294481.

  62. My name is Nnamdi Onyenmecha I have a script to sell,,the diction of the story is DECEIT OF 419. Fraudulently, Foolhardy Medicine man, unemployed and Africans (who can trust in search of honesty?)
    Deceit is very interesting and phenomenon drama that deals mainly on human deceptive characters, a paragraph about Fee fraud adventurous events. About its philosophical exaggeration here author flourishes in an atmosphere that treatise with acquaintance, to be aware of dangers about false believe.
    Interested to buy the script please contact me. 08140123800

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