While they share similarities, they aren’t exactly the same. You're in the right place if you’ve ever wondered about the difference.
If you’ve ever been confused about the terms, screenwriter and scriptwriter.
Let’s break it down in the most engaging way possible!
Who is a screenwriter?
A screenwriter writes scripts specifically for film, television, and digital content (like web series or streaming shows). Their job isn’t just about writing dialogue; it involves structuring a story visually and cinematically.
Think of screenwriters as architects of the screen, they don’t just tell a story; they create a blueprint that directors, actors, and cinematographers follow to bring the vision to life.
Key Responsibilities of a Screenwriter:
Developing story ideas for films and TV shows
Writing screenplays with specific formatting (e.g., scenes, dialogue, transitions)
Collaborating with directors and producers to refine scripts
Creating visual screenplays, meaning they "show" rather than "tell"
READ ALSO: Mercy Aigbe’s ‘Ada Omo Daddy’ is coming to Netflix this February
Who is a Scriptwriter?
A scriptwriter, on the other hand, writes scripts for various formats beyond just film and TV. This could include theatre plays, radio dramas, podcasts, commercials, corporate videos and video game scripts
Scriptwriters focus on structuring dialogue and narrative flow, but their work isn’t always as visual as a screenwriter’s. Some scriptwriters even create instructional or training videos; basically, if it has a script, they can write it!
Key Responsibilities of a Scriptwriter:
Writing scripts for multiple forms of media
Crafting engaging dialogue and narrative for non-cinematic productions
Ensuring scripts align with the platform’s format and purpose
Sometimes working on advertising and branded content
Can you be both?
Absolutely! Many writers shift between roles depending on the project. A screenwriter might also write stage plays, and a scriptwriter could transition into screenwriting if they want to explore film and TV.
Which one should you pursue?
It depends on your interest! If you love movies and TV, want to craft visually driven stories, and enjoy writing for actors and directors, screenwriting is for you.
If you enjoy storytelling in different formats, such as radio, theatre, or corporate content, and love playing with dialogue and narration, scriptwriting might be your calling.
Either way, both careers require strong storytelling skills, creativity, and adaptability. So, if you love crafting stories, there’s a place for you in both fields!