A story is a narrative that transports readers into another world and delivers a powerful message or experience. It has several key components that work together to captivate audiences. Developing your story is the process of expanding that spark of an idea into a fully-realized narrative. It involves fleshing out characters, building plot twists, and creating a compelling setting. You’ll also develop thematic themes that will weave through the fabric of your work and give it a unique voice.
Begin by identifying the core concept of your story. This can be anything from a character’s transformative journey to the gripping events that set your story in motion. For example, a young inventor with a knack for creating contraptions that always backfire might inspire you to create a story about innovation and personal growth.
Then develop the characters that will lead your protagonist’s arc, as well as their antagonist. This includes detailing their background, personality traits, and goals. It’s also important to develop your story world, especially if your tale is set in an alternate reality or fantasy. Establishing the geographical setting, historical context, and any fantastical elements is crucial to establishing believability.
Once you have all of this down, it’s time to begin drafting your working script. It’s during this stage that you will likely receive development notes from producers, line producers, directors, and other members of your crew who have a say in what shows up on the screen. These notes can be logistical or creative and may clash with your vision.