Read on Twitter
I'm pitching on a book adaption project. My first OWA was to adapt a book to screen and I've picked up a few things that worked for me when pitching. I'm not sure if this is helpful, but here's a mini thread on a process I dig.
I read the book, or books, twice (min). First read, I highlight every main character and begin to build out a character arc w/their emotional (internal / external) arc in a separate doc. Recording large emotional beats/moments etc...
I also note any visually striking moments in the book that intersect with character/plot. I also approach location as a character and do the same thing as above.
After my first read, I use voice recording software (google docs has this for free) to record my initial thoughts on the world, themes, what stood out to me etc... I don't censor myself so I can ensure my own raw connection to the material is recorded and not lost.
This is really important. If you end up on the project, you'll be in this world for years. That personal connection, that passion, has to be a driving point or it will be felt on the page.
Second read I dig deeper and look at it primarily through the screen lens thinking how it could structurally play out in a way that serves both the story faithfully and also the screen.
