In a comment on this post about the pitch sale “InFAMOUS,” DC Mar wrote this:

“Big idea” + character arc = bingo

Folks, if you needed the simplistic, most spot on description of the essence of a successful screenplay, this just might be it.

Big idea: The story’s underlying concept

Character arc: The Protagonist’s transformation

If you can nail those two elements and spin them out in a compelling way, you’re well on your way to writing a great screenplay.

Another reason to pay heed to these words of wisdom: They’re offered by DC (Diana) Mar, a professional script reader for over 10 years and budding screenwriter herself. DC is the person who graciously took the time and effort to answer all those questions I asked months ago about screenwriting. You can see her incredibly thoughtful (and helpful) responses here in the list tab “A Script Reader Speaks”.

Thanks, DC, for this latest gem!