Screenwriting talk on Al-Montasaf Show with Asim Altokhais

On 2 August 2013

Al-Montasaf Show on Althaqafiya TV channel hosted the scenarist Asim Abraham to talk about scenario writing and screenwriting. First, he explained the three stages that every scenarist has to go through in order to have a comprehensive scenario. There are three stages which are abstract (400-500 words), analysis of the writing (4-5 pages), and a list contains the main themes and scenes of the story.

Asim also mentioned that there are different types of scenarios, including short scenario (30 minutes), long scenario (70-120 minutes), commercials scenario, video clip scenario, and talk shows scenario (more flexible than other types). Indeed, there are also certain criteria that every writer should consider, such as writing the characters’ names in capital letters. Additionally, the most important factor in the scenario is that it should be cohesive and coherent.

After that, the scenarist Asim argues that the Arabic movies or series are not as good as the American or European movies and series because most of the production is made for a financial reason rather than trying something new. However, the audience is always willing to try and watch new stories and movies.

Finally, Asim spoke about the comedian scenarios as they are the most difficult type. They do not require a large amount of money to prepare a movie, whereas action scenarios are easy in writing and require adequate financial funding.