How to Write a Movie in 21 Days Book Summary - How to Write a Movie in 21 Days Book explained in key points

How to Write a Movie in 21 Days summary

Viki King

Brief summary

How to Write a Movie in 21 Days by Viki King provides a practical guide for aspiring screenwriters. It offers a structured approach to developing a screenplay within a tight timeframe, emphasizing the importance of discipline and creativity.

Give Feedback
Table of Contents

    How to Write a Movie in 21 Days
    Summary of key ideas

    Understanding the Movie-Writing Process

    In How to Write a Movie in 21 Days by Viki King, we are taken on a journey to understand the dynamics of the movie-writing process. The author emphasizes the importance of the inner movie, a concept that focuses on the writer's unique perspective and how it influences the story they want to tell. She suggests that by tapping into our inner movies, we can create authentic, engaging narratives.

    King introduces us to the concept of the 21-day method, a rigorous, focused approach to writing a movie script. She explains that the tight timeline is designed to push writers to their creative limits, forcing them to make quick decisions and avoid overthinking. The method, she argues, encourages writers to trust their instincts and write from a place of authenticity.

    Developing Your Inner Movie

    In the next part of the book, King delves deeper into the process of developing the inner movie. She encourages writers to explore their personal experiences and emotions, and use these insights to create characters, settings, and plotlines that resonate with the audience. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with the emotional core of the story, as this is what will make it compelling and relatable.

    King also introduces the concept of the 'wonderful journey', a technique that helps writers map out the emotional and psychological progression of their characters. She explains that by understanding the internal transformation of their characters, writers can create more nuanced, authentic story arcs.

    Structuring Your Movie

    After establishing the emotional core of the story, King moves on to the structural aspects of movie writing. She introduces the three-act structure, a common framework used in screenwriting. She suggests that understanding this structure can help writers create a cohesive, engaging narrative.

    King also emphasizes the importance of conflict and stakes in storytelling. She explains that conflicts drive the story forward and create tension, while high stakes keep the audience invested in the characters' journeys. She encourages writers to continuously raise the stakes and keep the audience guessing.

    The Writing Process

    In the latter part of the book, King focuses on the actual writing process. She provides practical tips for overcoming writer's block and staying motivated. She encourages writers to embrace imperfection and keep pushing forward, reminding them that the first draft is just the beginning of the refining process.

    King also discusses the importance of rewriting, emphasizing that the real magic happens in the revisions. She encourages writers to be open to feedback and willing to make significant changes to improve their scripts. She suggests that the key to successful rewriting is maintaining a clear vision of the inner movie and staying true to its emotional core.

    The 21-Day Challenge

    In the concluding section of How to Write a Movie in 21 Days, King revisits the 21-day method. She challenges writers to take the leap and commit to the intensive writing process. She acknowledges that it's not an easy task, but believes that the 21-day deadline can push writers to produce their best work.

    In conclusion, Viki King's How to Write a Movie in 21 Days offers a comprehensive guide to the art of movie writing. By focusing on the inner movie, developing compelling characters, and mastering the three-act structure, King provides aspiring screenwriters with the tools and mindset needed to craft engaging, emotionally resonant stories.

    Give Feedback
    How do we create content on this page?
    More knowledge in less time
    Read or listen
    Read or listen
    Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
    Find your next read
    Find your next read
    Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
    Shortcasts
    Shortcasts New
    We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.

    What is How to Write a Movie in 21 Days about?

    How to Write a Movie in 21 Days by Viki King provides a practical and inspiring guide for aspiring screenwriters. King shares her unique method for crafting a screenplay in just three weeks, offering valuable tips and exercises to help writers unleash their creativity and overcome common obstacles. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned writer, this book will help you turn your movie idea into a compelling script.

    How to Write a Movie in 21 Days Review

    How to Write a Movie in 21 Days (1993) by Viki King is a practical guide for aspiring screenwriters looking to craft a compelling movie script efficiently. Here's why this book stands out:
    • Shares clear strategies and a detailed roadmap for structuring and developing a screenplay within a tight timeframe.
    • Provides insightful tips and exercises to stimulate creativity and overcome writer's block, keeping the writing process dynamic and engaging.
    • Includes real-world examples and insider knowledge from the author's experience in Hollywood, making it a valuable resource for aspiring screenwriters seeking practical advice.

    Who should read How to Write a Movie in 21 Days?

    • Aspiring screenwriters who want to learn a structured approach to writing a movie

    • Individuals who are looking for practical tips and exercises to kickstart their creative writing process

    • People who are interested in understanding the inner workings of the film industry and the art of storytelling

    About the Author

    Viki King is an accomplished screenwriter and author. She has worked in the entertainment industry for over 30 years and has written and co-written several successful movies. In addition to her work in film, King is also a renowned script consultant, helping aspiring writers bring their stories to life. Her book, How to Write a Movie in 21 Days, has become a go-to guide for those looking to break into the world of screenwriting. With her practical approach and insightful advice, King has inspired countless individuals to pursue their passion for storytelling.

    Categories with How to Write a Movie in 21 Days

    People ❤️ Blinkist 
    Sven O.

    It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.

    Thi Viet Quynh N.

    Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.

    Jonathan A.

    Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.

    Renee D.

    Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.

    People also liked these summaries

    4.7 Stars
    Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
    37 Million
    Downloads on all platforms
    10+ years
    Experience igniting personal growth
    Powerful ideas from top nonfiction

    Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.

    Get started

    How to Write a Movie in 21 Days FAQs 

    What is the main message of How to Write a Movie in 21 Days?

    The main message of How to Write a Movie in 21 Days is writing a script efficiently with creative discipline.

    How long does it take to read How to Write a Movie in 21 Days?

    Reading time for How to Write a Movie in 21 Days varies; the Blinkist summary takes about 15 minutes.

    Is How to Write a Movie in 21 Days a good book? Is it worth reading?

    How to Write a Movie in 21 Days offers valuable insights and practical tips for aspiring screenwriters.

    Who is the author of How to Write a Movie in 21 Days?

    Viki King is the author of How to Write a Movie in 21 Days.

    What to read after How to Write a Movie in 21 Days?

    If you're wondering what to read next after How to Write a Movie in 21 Days, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • Where Good Ideas Come From by Steven Johnson
    • The Art Of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau
    • A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink
    • Theory U by C. Otto Scharmer
    • The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman
    • The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
    • The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
    • Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
    • Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
    • The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda