Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
What separates the handful of screenplays that spark bidding wars from the mountain of scripts that never leave the slush pile? Two-time Emmy-winning writer–producer Erik Bork argues it all starts with one thing: the core idea.
In this episode Erik – whose credits include HBO’s Band of Brothers and From the Earth to the Moon – explains the seven-part test he uses to decide whether a story concept is truly worth months (or years) of drafting.
Episode summary
Erik Bork
Erik is an award-winning screenwriter, producer and script consultant best known for helping Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg turn epic true stories into acclaimed HBO mini-series. His book The Idea distils decades of industry experience into a practical checklist that shows writers – for screen, stage or page – how to tell at a glance whether their concept could capture a mass audience.
In this conversation Erik recalls breaking into Hollywood from an assistant’s desk, writing under the pressure of multi-million-dollar productions and why he now believes 60 per cent of a project’s success is decided before you outline a single scene.
Big ideas in this conversation
- The 60/30/10 rule – why the logline matters more than structure or dialogue.
- Seven tests of a viable story – a PROBLEM must be Punishing, Relatable, Original, Believable, Life-altering, Entertaining and Meaningful.
- Iterate before you write – refining the premise saves months of futile drafting.
- Borrow and twist – how to generate fresh concepts by tweaking one element of a favourite classic.
Advice worth hearing in full
- Slow down at the start – spend more time thinking, less time typing.
- Pitch early, pitch often – test the temperature of your idea with trusted readers before diving into pages.
- Emotional stakes are king – audiences invest when a dilemma feels life-changing.
Where next?
Pick up The Idea: The Seven Elements of a Viable Story for Screen, Stage or Fiction on Amazon, read Erik’s blog and explore his coaching services at FlyingWrestler.com.
About The 21st Century Creative podcast
Hosted by creative coach and award-winning poet Mark McGuinness, The 21st Century Creative podcast helps you succeed as a creative professional amid the demands, distractions and opportunities of the 21st century.
Each episode features insights from Mark and interviews with outstanding creators – including artists, writers, performers, commercial creatives, directors, producers, entrepreneurs and other creative thought-leaders.
Make sure you receive every episode by subscribing in Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen.
Join the mailing list to have every episode delivered to your inbox, along with the free 21st Century Creative Foundation Course.
