Navigating the screenwriting journey: Leonid Andronov’s guide to surviving your first draft
Writing a screenplay for the first time can feel like stepping into a vast, uncharted wilderness—uncertain and overwhelming. But what if you had a guide to lead you through the wilderness of the blank page and beyond? Enter Leonid Andronov’s First Draft Survival Guide, a practical and heartfelt roadmap for emerging screenwriters. This isn’t another dry, theoretical manual for seasoned pros. Instead, Leo offers a personal, down-to-earth approach, drawing from his own experiences of grappling with the challenges of writing. Whether you’re stuck at the beginning or unsure about what to do with your script once it’s done, Leo’s guide provides actionable tools and strategies, often laced with humor and self-deprecating anecdotes. It’s a reminder that every writer has to start somewhere—and it’s okay to stumble along the way.
What makes your guide different from other screenwriting books?
Well, for one, it’s not a dry, academic approach. I wanted to make something that’s approachable, practical, and grounded in real-world experience. This isn’t a book that will make you feel like you’re drowning in theory. Instead, I walk through every stage of writing, from the initial idea to that moment when you type “The End.” And because I’ve been in the trenches myself, I focus on actionable tools and strategies that I used when I was struggling to get my own drafts done. I also talk about what comes after the script is finished—how to pitch, what materials to create to accompany your work, and how to get it in front of the right people.
Is it serious or lighthearted?
It’s a mix of both. The screenwriting process is serious business, but I also wanted to keep things light and conversational. I think humor has a place even in a craft as challenging as screenwriting. Plus, I share a lot of my own stories, including plenty of embarrassing moments, so readers don’t feel like they’re the only ones struggling. It’s a way to remind everyone that it’s okay to not have it all figured out right away.
Why should someone trust you as a guide through this process?
Because I’ve been through the exact same struggles that a lot of new screenwriters face. I’ve written countless drafts, and I know firsthand how hard it is to get started, stay motivated, and eventually get a script done. But more importantly, I’m sharing the methods that worked for me. These aren’t just theoretical tips; they’re strategies I created for myself to make the process easier and more manageable. I’m not telling you how to write a screenplay—I’m telling you how I wrote mine.
What will someone walk away with after reading this guide?
Leo: A completed first draft, for one! But more than that, they’ll have a better understanding of the whole screenwriting process. They’ll know how to create compelling characters, set up gripping conflicts, and structure their story. They’ll also have the tools to polish their script and make it professional. And then, they’ll have everything they need to start pitching—loglines, treatments, and all that important stuff that can feel intimidating when you’re just starting out.
Why should someone read your book?
Leo: Because it’s real. Because I’ve been where you are, and I get how overwhelming it can feel. And because this book will make you laugh, remind you that you’re not alone, and hopefully inspire you to keep going. Plus, if I can do it, so can you. This book isn’t just about writing a screenplay—it’s about finishing one, and knowing what to do with it when it’s done. And hey, it worked for me! The book became a #1 Amazon Hot New Release and a #1 Bestseller in Play & Scriptwriting. So, if I can do it, so can you.
