Amanda Dawn Harrison - a script from an actress' point of view
Monday, August 8, 2011

There are many people who will read a script when a movie is about to be made. I’ve found a lot of information about how to write to impress a potential buyer, but very little about how to write a script that will work for everybody else involved.

So I decided to check around in my network and ask them.

First out is the very talented actress Amanda Dawn Harrison from Los Angeles, USA, who very kindly shared her experiences for this blog.


Question: When you as an actress read a script, what do you look for? What kind of information do you need to create your character?

Answer: As an actress, when I read a script I look for a traditional character arc. I look for eloquently written dialogue and a cohesive storyline. But more than anything, I look for something different. I put myself into the characters, what they are feeling, what they lose, what they gain. I also some kind of strange twists. Something that isn’t regularly done in a film. I also enjoy rich dialogue scripts.


Q: What would you say is the most common mistakes screenwriters do? From an actress’ point of view, what would you say is often missing?

A: Something that is regularly missing is a cohesive storyline. Making sense. Also, most times there are no longer character arcs. And more now than ever, people keep writing the same stories. Then they rewrite them. Major motion pictures no longer are always worth watching for too many keep repeating the same stories. Remake after remake. It’s overwhelming. As an actor you are sort of put between a rock and a hard place. An actor wants to be pushed. Wants to get out of the realm of playing typical parts and run around in the head of someone of history, or someone mentally challenged or be the girl next door who has a dark side. Hollywood has the money, but most times, doesn’t have those films anymore. You want to make money, but you don’t want to be a sellout. So at times, it can be a double-edged sword.


Q: Is the script the main source for inspiration, or do you create your character from other sources too?

A: Yes I do create characters from other sources too. Sometimes, you come across a script that was created from another work of art. Sometimes writers use poetry, a grand piece of art, or a song to inspire them. Actors do to. And sometimes knowing what inspired the writer helps the actor become inspired too. So it is very important.


Q: And finally, language, how important is the way the script is written? Spelling errors and grammar, do they matter? Does it matter if the action text reads well or not?

A: Are they detrimental to a script, not at all times. But I do take a writer more serious when there are properly done. It’s amazing how some writers, although may have had a full education, don't know where a comma is supposed to go. Or the proper use of a semi-colon. It’s said. I do. Some actors may not, but I do. Again, not detrimental, just sort of annoying. If the script is great, I learn to get over it.


I wish Amanda all luck with her future projects.