When you’re looking to make a movie, one of the most important steps is to write a treatment. This document lays out all the key points of your movie, from the plot and characters to the setting and tone. It can be helpful to think of your treatment as a roadmap for your film. We will discuss what goes into a movie treatment and how you can create one that sells your idea to producers.
What Is A Movie Treatment?
In the film industry, a treatment is a document that outlines all the key elements of your movie. This can include everything from the plot and characters to the setting and tone. Treatment is typically used to sell your idea to producers or investors for movie treatment services, and it should be clear, concise, and easy to follow. Think of it as a roadmap for your film- it should give everyone involved a good understanding of what your movie is about and how it will look onscreen.
Here Are A Few Things You Need to Keep in Mind When You’re Writing a Treatment
1. Logline
A logline is a one-sentence summary of your movie. It should be catchy and to the point, and it should give the reader a good sense of what your movie is about.
2. Plot
Give a brief overview of your movie’s plot, including the main conflict and what drives the story forward.
3. Movie Pitch
In addition to your logline, you’ll need to write a brief pitch for your movie. This should be 1-2 paragraphs long, and it should give the reader a good overview of your story.
4. Characters
Introduce your main characters and describe their arcs throughout the film.
5. Setting
Where does your story take place? Be sure to include enough detail so that the reader can picture it in their mind.
6. Tone
What kind of tone are you going for with your film? Is it severe or lighthearted? Funny or tragic? Make sure this comes across in your treatment to get a clear movie pitch.
7. Format
A treatment should be around 3-5 pages, and it should be written in screenplay format. Each scene is given its heading, and the dialogue is indented beneath the character’s name.
8. Visuals
It can be helpful to include a few visuals in your treatment- either concept art or stills from other films that capture the look and feel of your movie.
9 Contact Information
Make sure to include your name and contact information at the end of the treatment so that producers can reach you with any questions.
10. Sample Scenes
Including a few sample scenes from your script can help to give the reader a better sense of what your film will be like.
Book to Movie
If you are basing your movie on a book, you’ll need to include a synopsis of the book. This will help producers or investors understand your story and see how it can be adapted for the screen.
Creating A Treatment That Sells Your Movie
1. Write a killer logline. This is your one chance to hook the reader, so make it good.
2. Start with the basics. Begin by introducing your characters and setting, and then move on to the plot.
3. Include enough detail. Give the reader a good understanding of your movie, but don’t give away too much. You want to leave them wanting more!
4. Make it visually appealing. Include some visuals in your treatment to help bring your movie to life.
5. Keep it short and sweet. Treatment should be around 3-5 pages, so don’t get too bogged down
in the details.
6. End with a bang. Leave the reader with a sample scene or two that showcases your film’s potential.
Conclusion
A movie treatment is an essential part of getting your movie made, so it’s important to take the time to make yours as strong as possible. By following these tips, you can create a document that will sell your idea and help you get one step closer to bringing your film to life.
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