Screenwriter and script doctor Douglas J. Eboch ("Sweet Home Alabama") presents a comprehensive guide to all aspects of the craft of screenwriting. This book covers the three distinct phases of creating a great screenplay - outlining, writing the first draft, and rewriting. Doug delves into such topics as how to select a viable idea, how to structure a compelling plot, how to develop multi-dimensional characters, how to craft powerful scenes, how to build momentum in a story, and techniques for honing and shaping a professional caliber screenplay. "In the crowded field of scriptwriting how-to books, Doug Eboch's Three Stages of Screenwriting is a standout and a must-read. Why? Three solid reasons: He really, truly knows what he's talking about. It will help everyone, from novice to pro, become a better writer. And, most impressive of all, it is entertaining as hell - as engaging and fun to read as one of Doug's scripts." -Ross LaManna ("Rush Hour") "Writers at every stage of development will be delighted Doug wrote this book. I, however, am pissed off. Doug has covered so much so well that it's going to be harder to write one of my own." -Paul Guay ("Liar, Liar," "Heartbreakers," "Little Rascals")