How I Boost My Script Writing with AI (And How You Can Too)

Over the weekend, I sat down with video and movie director Markus Müller-Hahnefeld to interview him on all topics video, AI, and crypto. And especially where these intersect.

We have split this into a mini-series to follow along in the next couple of days..

Markus directs and produces movies and videos, and loves trying out new tech to see how it can help him tell better stories. He started using AI for scriptwriting a while back – to use AI as a co-writer and boost his productivity. The fear of the blank page was gone; instead, with the press of a button, he had content that only needed editing and adjustment to his own vision.

A game changer.

Today, he wants to share his journey with us. This isn’t a fancy how-to guide. It’s just him and Sebastian chatting about what worked, what didn’t, and how you might give it a try.

Over to you, Markus:

What Is AI-Enhanced Scriptwriting?

Picture this: you’re trying to write a scene, and your brain just goes blank.

I’ve been there.

Every writer has.

AI-enhanced script writing is like having a hyper creative and extremely loyal friend who never runs out of ideas. You type in your rough thoughts or a simple outline, and the tool gives you suggestions for dialogue, plot twists, or even entire scenes. It’s like brainstorming on steroids.

When I first tried it, I wasn’t sure if it would match my style. But the more I played with it, the more I realized it wasn’t about letting a machine write for me. It was about sparking my own creativity and pushing me to think differently.

I still call the shots; the AI just helps me explore options I might have missed. It often presents me with foundational ideas that I then shape to match my own style and the vision of the film.

The Tools That Work for Me

I keep things simple. I use a few different tools that fit right into my creative process. Here’s a quick look at what I use:

ChatGPT and Friends
I lean on ChatGPT or Claude a lot, or content writing tools like Hotcopy AI. I start by brainstorming ideas and then have the AI structure them into dramaturgical frameworks. From there, I can expand on these structures – developing them into longer synopses. Next, I assign the LLM a role – such as a director whose style fits the project – and have it draft the script scene by scene.

But it’s crucial to me not to simply mimic another director’s style but to adapt the output to my own creative voice. 

Directors have always worked this way; the difference is that without AI, the process was more time-consuming and less reliable.

Scriptwriting Software
There are tools made just for screenwriting. They help me check if the story flows well and if the dialogue feels natural. I use them as a second pair of eyes to make sure everything is tight.

Collaborative Platforms
I work with teams, so I need tools that let us share ideas quickly. I can drop AI suggestions directly into our script drafts. Then we have table reads to see how it sounds in real life. This step is crucial because hearing the dialogue out loud shows you what works and what needs tweaking.

If you want to see these tools in action, check out my AI workshop (in German) where I dive into these techniques with other filmmakers. 

How AI Helps Me Brainstorm

We’ve all hit that moment when our mind goes blank. AI can kickstart your thinking by throwing out several ideas in one go. I type in a basic scene description, and suddenly I have a list of possibilities. 

One time, I had a scene where my character was stuck at a crossroads. I asked the AI, “What could shake her up?” It suggested she meet a quirky stranger with a mysterious token. That idea grew into a fun subplot that added unexpected flavor to the film.

It sounds a bit odd, but that’s the beauty of it. The AI isn’t trying to replace your ideas. It just gives you a jump-start. You take what feels right and build on it.

Getting Creative with AI

One of the best things about working with AI is that it challenges you. It doesn’t think like you do. It doesn’t have the same emotions or biases. That can be a real plus when you’re trying to break out of your usual style. For example, I was stuck on a tense conversation in one of my scripts. The dialogue felt flat. I fed the scene into the AI and got several different options.

There’s a technique that directors use to prepare actors for a role in rehearsals that I’ve always appreciated: instead of delivering their scripted lines, actors spontaneously express their character’s thoughts in a scene. Without any filters. This often enriches the performance and helps the director gauge whether the actors interpret the scene as intended.  

A similar process can be done in advance with ChatGPT. You can test whether the conflict holds up, or uncover previously unconsidered thoughts and motivations of a character. You can refine emotional depth before even stepping onto the set.

Real Stories from My Set

Let me tell you about a couple of times when AI really came through for me.

A Surprise Twist

Last year, I was working on a film. I was looking for a plot twist so unexpected that it would even surprise me. I needed a twist to grab the audience’s attention. I fed the rough outline into an AI tool and asked, “How can I add a surprising element?” 

The suggestion was to introduce a mysterious character whose past linked with the main character. I loved it. We reworked parts of the script, and the subplot became a real highlight. It wasn’t planned at first, but it ended up making the film more memorable.

Breathing Life into Dialogue

In another project, I had a serious scene that was falling flat. The actors couldn’t find the right rhythm, and the dialogue just didn’t click. I decided to experiment. I ran the scene through an AI model for a few alternative dialogue options. One version stood out because it managed to add a little humor without losing the weight of the moment. After a few tweaks, the scene transformed completely. 

These moments taught me that AI is not a crutch. It’s a tool to get the creative juices flowing. Use it to see your script in a new light and don’t be afraid to mix its ideas with your own.

A Simple Guide to Using AI for Your Script

If you’re thinking about trying this out, here’s how I usually do it. It’s straightforward, and I promise it doesn’t take a lot of time.

1. Start with a Clear Outline

Write down your basic story. Map out your main scenes and character arcs. A good outline helps the AI understand your vision. It’s like giving it a roadmap to follow.

2. Ask Open-Ended Questions

Once you have your outline, ask the AI for ideas. Use open questions like, “What twist can add suspense here?” or “How can I show this character’s hidden side?” You’ll get a list of ideas in return. Pick the ones that resonate with you and that fit the tone of your story.

3. Mix and Match

Not every idea will be perfect. Go through the suggestions and pick the ones you like. Sometimes you might even combine two ideas into something completely new. It’s a bit like cooking. The AI gives you the ingredients, but you’re the one who adds the secret sauce.

4. Test It Out

Once you’ve got a revised script, gather your team. Do a table read and listen to how the dialogue sounds. Hearing the words out loud often shows you where things need a bit more tweaking. This step is really important because it turns abstract ideas into something tangible.

5. Refine, Refine, Refine

Take the feedback and polish your script. You might even run it through the AI again for final touches. The goal is to have a script that feels natural and true to your vision, with just a bit of extra flavor from the AI.

Overcoming the Hiccups

Using AI isn’t all smooth sailing. There are a few things to watch out for, and I learned these lessons the hard way.

Stay in Charge

It’s tempting to let the AI do all the work. But remember, you are the storyteller. The AI is just there to give you ideas. I always review what it produces and make sure it fits with my own style. That way, the final script remains mine.

Watch the Copyrights

AI tools learn from a lot of data. This sometimes raises issues about who really owns the ideas. So, make sure to check twice.

Avoid the Generic Stuff

Sometimes the AI’s suggestions can feel a bit bland. When that happens, trust your instincts. Mix and match ideas, add your own twist, and don’t be afraid to throw out what doesn’t work. The human touch is what makes your script unique.

Use It as a Tool, Not a Crutch

At the end of the day, the AI is there to help you think of new possibilities. Don’t let it take over the creative process. It should spark ideas, not write the entire script for you.

Digging a Little Deeper

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can explore more advanced ways to use AI in your scriptwriting.

Layer Your Story

Try asking the AI to suggest multiple layers for your plot. Instead of one twist, get ideas for several interconnected subplots. I once asked, “How can I link these characters in unexpected ways?” and got a few interesting suggestions that made the story much richer.

Build Better Characters

Give the AI detailed info about your characters and ask for ideas that show off their inner lives. You might be surprised by how a few extra details can turn a flat character into someone memorable. This technique has helped me add depth and nuance to my characters without a lot of extra work.

Mix Genres

Don’t be afraid to blend genres. Ask the AI what could happen if you mixed a bit of comedy into a thriller, or a touch of sci-fi into a drama. One of my favorite projects started as a straightforward drama, but a hint of sci-fi added a layer of intrigue that really hooked the audience.

Real-Time Brainstorming

Some AI tools let you work in real time. I sometimes use these during rehearsals to see if a line sounds natural or if a scene could be funnier. It’s like having an instant brainstorming session with a friend, right there on set.

Keep Your Creative Spark Alive

Remember, the AI is there to help you, but you are the heart of your script. Here are a few ways I make sure I stay true to my voice:

• Trust your gut. You know your story best.
• Mix ideas until you get something that feels right.
• Keep learning. Check out sites like my immersiveai.de for new tips and updates.
• Chat with other filmmakers. I love sharing ideas during my AI Film Workshop (in German though). It’s a great way to see what others are doing and pick up fresh ideas.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment. Every project is a chance to try something new.

Ready for Your Next Big Hit?

Using AI in scriptwriting has changed the way videographers work. It speeds up brainstorming, sharpens dialogue, and sometimes adds that unexpected twist that makes all the difference. But remember, the tool is just that – a tool. Your ideas, your vision, and your unique voice are what really make a script shine.

We hope Markus Müller-Hanefeld’s story gives you a clear idea of how to use AI to boost your creative process. Whether you’re new to this or already experimenting, there’s always something new to learn. And if you ever want to chat about it, feel free to reach out on LinkedIn or check out his Instagram. You can also join one of his workshops if you’re ready to dive even deeper.

So, what do you say? Ready to mix a little AI magic into your next script? Grab your ideas, trust your instincts, and see where it takes you. We’re excited to see the amazing stories you’ll create.