How to Approach a Script for the First Time

Written by: Charlie Matthau

Summary: These tips will help you create a film within your designated budget.

Low-budget filmmaking is exploding, but it’s one of the most challenging fields to enter without financial sense. Films with anywhere from a few thousand to a few million dollars all struggle with the same basic concept: how to stay on budget. Here are some tips on helping you work within your designated budget.

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Plot the Story Beats

The first step is to plot out your script, which helps inform other aspects of the shoot. Finding critical scenes helps establish where your story takes place and how difficult a particular scene may be. It also gives a sense of the special effects and challenges that may be involved with post-production. Fewer location changes means less money spent on travel expenses and permit costs.

Make an adjustment to the script that accommodates fewer location changes. Try to make your impact on the script bare minimum, maybe only one or two changes. Every change costs you, so consider whether paying for a change is worth it.

The great news is that low-budget films tend to be character studies. This means few over-the-top action sequences and more dialogue. These films tend to attract big names too, so don’t be afraid to shop your project around when you’re trying to cast the film. Talk with the screenwriter as well. They may have thoughts on who a certain character is played by, which always helps in securing talent. Paying for one or two bigger names may provide some recognition and notability to your film.

The most important tip is to be a people person. Be willing to work with people, but be firm on set. Create a plan for your production and stick to it.


 

Bio: The Charlie Matthau Company produces film and television shows for various genres. Charlie Matthau is best known for his adaptation of Truman Capote’s “The Grass Harp,” and the Matthau Company will produce the upcoming “Mexican High” TV show.