Dramatic Tension
Dramatic Tension is a fundamental storytelling concept that screenwriters use to keep audiences engaged. It's like the emotional glue that holds a story together by creating anticipation, conflict, or uncertainty that makes viewers want to keep watching. When you see this term in a resume, it means the writer knows how to create compelling moments that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Similar terms you might see include "conflict development," "story stakes," or "narrative tension." Think of it as the skillful way writers make you want to know what happens next in a movie or TV show.
Examples in Resumes
Created Dramatic Tension through complex character relationships in a crime drama series
Enhanced Dramatic Tension and Story Tension in reality TV show episodes through strategic scene arrangement
Developed Dramatic Tension and Narrative Tension in multiple award-winning screenplay adaptations
Typical job title: "Screenwriters"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Screenwriters
Writing Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you maintain dramatic tension across a full season of television?
Expected Answer: An experienced writer should discuss creating multiple layers of conflict, balancing episode-specific tensions with season-long story arcs, and techniques for keeping audiences invested across multiple episodes.
Q: Can you explain how you've mentored other writers in developing dramatic tension?
Expected Answer: They should describe their experience helping other writers identify opportunities for tension, improve pacing, and develop stronger conflict in their scripts.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you create dramatic tension in a scene without dialogue?
Expected Answer: Writer should explain using visual elements, character actions, and pacing to build tension, giving specific examples from their experience.
Q: What techniques do you use to avoid melodrama while maintaining tension?
Expected Answer: Should discuss balancing emotional stakes with realistic character reactions, and methods for creating subtle but effective tension.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic elements of dramatic tension?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain conflict, stakes, and anticipation in simple terms, with basic examples from well-known movies or shows.
Q: How do you identify where a scene needs more tension?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic script analysis, identifying flat scenes, and recognizing opportunities for adding conflict or stakes.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of conflict and stakes
- Creating simple character conflicts
- Writing tension-building dialogue
- Script formatting and structure
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex character relationship development
- Multiple subplot management
- Scene tension pacing
- Effective story climax building
Senior (5+ years)
- Long-form narrative tension management
- Advanced dramatic structure
- Team leadership and script supervision
- Multi-episode story arc development
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic conflict development
- Lack of understanding about pacing
- No knowledge of different types of dramatic tension
- Can't provide examples of tension-building techniques
- No experience with story structure
Related Terms
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