Page One: “Prometheus” (2012)

Written by Jon Spaihts and Damon Lindelof, based on elements created by Dan O’Bannon and Ronald Shusett

The movie version of the opening:

Considerable difference between the script and screen, yet the result is the same: The engineer sacrifices itself and initiates some sort of DNA “injection” into the water stream.

Beyond the plot elements, note how the screenwriters make use of capitalization … underlining … double-dashes … and bold, visual writing. You do what you need to do to set tone, establish a sense of place, and create entertainment. Use style elements to express your voice.

You may download the screenplay here.

FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY!

Page One is a daily Go Into The Story series featuring the first page of notable movie scripts from the classic era to contemporary times. Comparing them is an excellent way to study a variety of writing styles and see how professional writers start a story.

For more Page One posts, go here.

You may follow the daily conversation on Twitter as I cross-post there: @GoIntoTheStory.