Hire the Best Action Writers

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4.9/5
Based on 54,031 client reviews
Melissa R.

Beausoleil, France

$60/hr
4.7
34 jobs

Do you have a thousand and one ideas for a feature film or television series? Have you tried writing your screenplay only to stare at a blank page for hours? Stuck on writing scene sequences, dialogue, fast-paced action, heightened tension, suspense, intriguing characters, and an edge of your seat plot? Do you need a multiple award-winning American author and story development specialist to create professional film treatments, TV series bibles, or detailed scene outlines? A Script Doctor to punch up and polish your existing script? Or even a Story Development Consultation to analyze your project’s potential? Then you need your very own Scheherazade to transform your creative vision into cinematic gold. If so, I’m your girl. I develop clients' story concepts into industry-standard feature film screenplays, TV pilots, and episodic scripts that stand out in the marketplace. Whether your concept is still a spark in your imagination or a few notes jotted down on a page-- to an existing script, scene outline, book, or treatment--I offer writing services tailored to your project's needs that enhance and elevate script structure, pacing, narrative arcs, dialogue, character and plot development. I transitioned to screenwriting more than a decade ago during the Cannes Film Festival, when a French production company hired me to write screenplays for their English-language feature films and TV series. Their head of script development was the former President of Physical and Post Production at Universal Studios, with more than 120 films to her credit, including Schindler's List, Casino, Jurassic Park, Babe, Terminator, Back to the Future, and Apollo 13. Allowing me to hone my screenwriting skills while working alongside a legendary industry pro on a slate of film and television projects. I've written feature films and TV series for studios, production companies, Indie filmmakers, directors, actors, and boutique clients ranging from book-to-screen adaptations to true-life fictionalized dramas. YA, superhero, romance,l, sci-fi, fantasy, neo noir crime thrillers, supernatural, horror, musical, dance-themed productions, LGBTQ+, Urban, and Latino dramas. Writing and Story Development Services: • Screenwriting for feature films or television series • Screen adaptation of books, novels, true life, or other source material • TV series bibles, film treatments, scene-by-scene outlines • Dialogue, plot, and character development • Story development consults, script analysis, script formatting in Final Draft, rewrites, and editing • Multilingual: Native English; Fluent French; Conversational Italian If you want a screenwriter who listens closely. cares about your success, getting your vision right, and delivers, let's talk. Or book a project consultation to get started. Melissa R ( alias Scheherazade ) I write original content that is 100% a product of my human intellect, critical judgement and creative expression that aligns with the US Copyright Office criteria for Intellectual Property Rights registration. No AI used.

  • Action
  • Screenwriting
  • Film Screenplay
  • TV Screenplay
  • Screenplay Treatment
  • Story Development
  • Plot Development
  • Character Development
  • Science Fiction
  • Fantasy
  • Thriller
  • Romance
  • Young Adult
  • Horror
  • Final Draft
  • Screenplay
  • Script Revision
Syed Ahzam H.

Karachi, Pakistan

$35/hr
5.0
1 jobs

I'm a WordPress and Next.js developer who builds fast, high-converting websites and storefronts, not just "plug in a theme and call it done" sites. With 3+ years of hands-on WordPress, WooCommerce, React, and Shopify experience, I take outdated or sluggish sites and turn them into high-performance digital products. My core stack includes Elementor Pro, WooCommerce, and ACF for WordPress builds, React/Next.js for custom frontend development, and Shopify setup, theme customization, and Liquid development for ecommerce. I also handle speed optimization and plugin conflict troubleshooting when sites break down. Some recent work: building a custom property listing directory with dynamic search and filters, setting up GTM and Complianz (GDPR compliance) alongside Housecall Pro integration for a US-based HVAC company, recovering a hacked and crashed WordPress site through full backup restoration and file integrity fixes, and building a Shopify store for a luxury handmade goods brand. I use AI tools like Claude and ChatGPT daily to move faster and catch issues before they become client problems. I work with small businesses, agencies, and entrepreneurs who need someone reliable for both one-off projects and ongoing retainers. Timezone-flexible, fast communicator, and I keep you updated without you having to chase me.

  • WordPress
  • Next.js
  • React
  • Shopify
  • WooCommerce
  • CMS Development
  • Custom PHP
  • Google Tag Manager
  • Advanced Custom Fields Plugin
  • JavaScript
  • TypeScript
  • jQuery
  • Responsive Design
  • Elementor
  • Page Speed Optimization
  • PHP
  • Node.js
Joseph H.

Birmingham, United Kingdom

$35/hr
4.7
51 jobs

I'm a UK-based copywriter, with more than 10 years of professional experience in helping clients attract customers, increase conversions, and grow through clear, effective content. Over the years I've worked with agencies, entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs, and multinational organisations, across sectors including education, finance, technology, property, iGaming, travel, and professional services. My work has ranged from SEO-driven blog content and thought leadership articles, to website copy, landing pages, email campaigns, newsletters, and lead magnets. I combine strong writing with a deep understanding of marketing. Before becoming a full-time freelancer, I worked for a digital marketing agency, where I developed content strategies, managed client accounts, and helped businesses improve their online visibility. Since then, I've spent nearly a decade working directly with clients all around the world, delivering content that supports traffic growth, lead generation, and customer engagement. I'm also the co-founder of a content-driven sports website, that attracts more than 10,000 monthly visitors through organic search. I built and manage the website, oversee content strategy, handle SEO, run the newsletter, and analyse performance data to identify growth opportunities. My services include: • Blog articles and long-form content • SEO content and content strategy • Website copy and landing pages • Email marketing and newsletters • Thought leadership content • Editing and proofreading If you're looking for a highly experienced writer, who understands both content and the wider marketing picture, I'd love to discuss your project.

  • Proofreading
  • Social Media Marketing
  • Writing
  • Blog Writing
  • English
  • Copywriting
  • Creative Writing
Walt P.

Jamestown, New York

$45/hr
5.0
9 jobs

MY SPECIALTY: Telling your story the way you want it told: Walt Pickut Freelance Content Writer, Journalist, and Non-Fiction Book Author I am an experienced non-fiction writer focused on producing fact-based, carefully researched content. Healthcare & Science Writer - Newspaper Journalist and Editor - Non-Fiction Author I’m a versatile writer with 30+ years in medical science and general news journalism with nearly 1,400 published articles and five non-fiction books. I specialize in clarity, credibility, and impact by turning complex ideas in medicine, science, history, and memoir into engaging, plain-English narratives that speak directly to my client’s audience. I can also communicate in scientific and academic terminology based on my long experience in research and teaching in a range of healthcare disciplines. Writing Services • Articles & Blogs — From health explainers to science news to community features. • Health & Patient Guides — Evidence-based, accessible, and patient-focused. • Memoirs & Ghostwriting — Capturing life stories with authenticity and emotional resonance. • Non-Fiction Books & Research Reports — Long-form projects backed by deep research. • Science & Personal Narratives — The First Counterspy (WWII FBI story, Lyons Press); The Best Years of My Life – Jim Roselle; Neurophysiology of Habit Formation and Control; LASIK Eye Surgery Patient Guide; Vascular (Varicose Vein) Surgery Patient Guide. My Writing Principles • Journalistic Integrity – Retired newspaper editor/journalist with broad-subject experience and fact-based storytelling. • Research-Driven – Combining scientific rigor, historical archives, and quality interviews for well-rounded work. • Client-Centered – I translate your vision into prose that resonates, meets your objectives, and connects emotionally. • Dependable Delivery – A proven track record of deadlines met and goals exceeded. Writing Experience • Ghostwritten multiple books and Upwork client content. • Co-authored memoir for Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Roselle. • Collaborated with a Nobel-winning astrophysicist on public science communications. • Partnered with NASA and a major observatory for on-site and virtual citizen engagement. • Editor-in-chief and feature writer for over a decade at a community newspaper. • Thirty years of teaching and clinical experience in healthcare. Work Practices • Research-heavy approach: peer-reviewed studies, expert interviews, primary sources. • Plain-English style ensures technical clarity for general audiences. • Efficient deadlines: polished copy delivered when you need it. Academic Credentials: • MS in Medical Physiology: My scientific background informs my writing, especially when demystifying health topics. • Board Registered Sleep Specialist and Respiratory Therapist: The diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders is a new medical frontier where research drives innovations in wellness. Accurate respiratory disease diagnostics and personalized therapy offer patients lifechanging opportunities to take ownership in their own wellbeing. • BS in Communications with advanced graduate study in Mass Communication: My knack for storytelling, in-depth reporting, and my passion for distributing accurate public information animate my communications. • Retired Journalist and Newspaper Editor: Ink runs through my veins, and headlines echo in my memories.

  • Academic Research
  • Writing
  • Healthcare
  • Biology
  • Content Writing
  • Physiology
  • Wellness
  • Communications
  • Science
  • Life Science
  • Medicine
  • Academic Editing
  • Research Methods
  • Science & Medicine
  • Health
Kaylee P.

Greenfield, Wisconsin

$20/hr
4.8
222 jobs

Hi! My name is Kaylee "Kael" Pryble and I'm a passionate editor dedicated to helping aspiring authors and writers of all varieties polish up their amazing manuscripts and documents. I have a keen eye for detail and an avid passion for reading. I excel best in manuscripts and shorter pieces of prose, however, I also have experience with technical projects and poetry. I specialize in the areas of proofreading, and line editing, however, I also have experience in technical writing and developmental editing. I have a Bachelor's Degree in English Professional Writing and Publishing from the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. Additionally, I have a hefty amount of experience working with books and clients of all varieties, most of whom are long-term clients. I believe that there's potential and value in every single manuscript that comes my way, and I'd love to help play my part in getting amazing stories and unique voices out in the world. I would absolutely love the experience of getting to work on your next project! Thank you, and have a wonderful day!

  • Editing & Proofreading
  • Line Editing
  • Copy Editing
  • Professional Tone
  • Error Detection
  • Academic Editing
  • Commenting
Matt K.

Lodz, Poland

$40/hr
4.9
107 jobs

I write screenplays, treatments, series bibles, and documentary scripts, and I design branching game narratives where player choices truly matter. My background in psychology and cognitive science helps me build character‑driven stories with clear structure and a tight integration between narrative and gameplay.​ Games & Interactive – Lead Writer & Narrative Designer on NEM: Recall (visual novel, release Feb 2026): characters, worldbuilding, story outlines, and serialized episode scripts.​ – Writer & Narrative Designer for a fantasy visual novel: designed characters and plot, wrote dialogues, and implemented them in Unity Dialogue System in collaboration with art and game design teams.​ – Freelance Narrative Designer on multiple titles: plot for a VR space‑exploration demo, worldbuilding and lore for an Arabian‑mythology ARPG, and worldbuilding for a fantasy TCG.​ Screenwriting & Documentary – Screenplays, treatments, and series bibles for films and TV concepts. – Documentary and YouTube scripts, combining narrative drive with clear exposition.​ – Writer for Witcher School LARP: designed characters and backstories for an international live‑action game.​ How I work – Collaboration: used to working with directors, producers, and art/game design teams using Jira, ClickUp, Miro, and Git.​ – Visual storytelling: I favor “show, don’t tell”, using actions, images, and visual metaphors rather than exposition.​ – Structure: I treat stories as complex systems – planned for clarity and consistency across long‑form narratives.​ Training – Story Masterclass at StoryAcademy (screenwriting for film & TV: feature script, series bible, pilot).​ – Storylab.Pro one‑year screenwriting course + writers’ room practice on a series bible and pilot.​ – Narrative Designer course at SKVOT (characters, worldbuilding, dialogues, GDD).

  • Creative Writing
  • Ebook Writing
  • Academic Writing
  • Article Writing
  • Review
  • Scientific Literature Review
  • Copywriting
  • Video Game Writing
  • Role-Playing Game Writing
  • Narrative

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Don't just take our word for it

What does an Action writer do?

An action writer crafts high-stakes narrative sequences that drive momentum in film and television scripts. This specialist focuses on choreographing physical conflict, pacing chase scenes, and structuring visceral set pieces that keep audiences engaged. They translate broad story concepts into specific, beat-by-beat descriptions of movement and impact. Their work ensures that every punch, explosion, or pursuit serves the character arcs and plot progression.

  • Drafts detailed scene outlines and full screenplay sequences that prioritize kinetic energy and visual clarity. The writer breaks down complex stunts or fight choreography into readable prose that directors and stunt coordinators can interpret accurately. This process involves selecting precise verbs to describe motion and timing to maintain tension throughout the sequence.
  • Revises existing scripts to improve pacing, tighten dialogue during high-pressure moments, and enhance plot arcs. The writer identifies sluggish sections where the narrative drags and injects urgency through sharper conflicts or raised stakes. They polish the text to remove passive language, ensuring the action reads with immediacy and force on the page.
  • Develops story treatments and series bibles that map out long-term narrative structures for TV shows or film franchises. This deliverable includes defining character motivations within action contexts and outlining seasonal arcs that balance explosive moments with emotional beats. The writer organizes these elements into coherent documents that guide production teams and secure funding from studios.

How to hire an Action writer on Upwork

Step 1: Post a job

Define your narrative needs clearly to attract writers who specialize in high-stakes pacing and visual storytelling. Use the Job Post Generator powered by Uma™, Upwork's Mindful AI to draft a precise description. Describe your project in a few sentences, and Uma creates a tailored post for this role. You can write a new post, update a saved draft, or reuse an existing one.

  • Specify whether you need a full feature screenplay, a TV pilot, or punch-ups for existing scenes to set clear expectations.
  • List required deliverables such as detailed scene outlines, story treatments, or revised dialogue to filter for relevant experience.
  • Include your budget range of $10-$45/hr to align with market rates for script development and coverage.

Step 2: Evaluate candidates

Review portfolios for evidence of tight pacing, clear action lines, and strong structural logic in film or TV scripts. Uma runs instant video interviews and builds shortlists with side-by-side comparisons to speed up your search.

  • Look for samples that demonstrate ability to write visceral action sequences without sacrificing character motivation or plot clarity.
  • Check for experience with specific formats like series bibles or episodic scripts if your project requires long-form narrative planning.
  • Prioritize writers who show versatility in genre tones, from gritty realism to stylized blockbuster spectacle.

Step 3: Interview your top choices

Discuss creative approach and workflow compatibility to ensure the writer matches your vision. Schedule and conduct interviews within Upwork Messages, which generates an immediate transcript and summary after each session.

  • Ask how they handle feedback loops when revising fight choreography or chase scenes to gauge collaboration style.
  • Request a brief analysis of a sample scene to test their eye for tension, stakes, and visual economy.
  • Clarify their process for developing story arcs across multiple episodes or acts to assess structural expertise.

Step 4: Agree on scope and begin work

Set milestones for drafts, revisions, and final polish to keep the project on track. Use Upwork Messages and the contract workroom for all communication, file sharing, and progress tracking.

  • Define specific deliverables like a ten-page treatment or a polished first act before releasing project funds.
  • Rely on identity verification and Hourly Payment Protection to secure your investment during active development.
  • Track hours directly in the platform to maintain transparency while the writer authors scenes or revises dialogue.

Upwork is not affiliated with and does not sponsor or endorse any of the tools or services discussed in this article. These tools and services are provided only as potential options, and each reader and company should take the time needed to adequately analyze and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.

The rates and information provided in this article are based on current data and industry sources available at the time of publication. Freelance rates can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, project scope, and market conditions. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research to confirm current rates and trends, as this information may change over time.

How much does hiring an Action writer cost?

Hiring an Action writer typically costs $500-$2,500 per project, depending on scope and experience. Final pricing reflects the complexity of narrative structure, required revisions, source material quality, and the freelancer's background in screenwriting.

Script coverage and analysis

$100-$300/project

Entry-level
  • Summary of plot, characters, and commercial potential
  • Specific suggestions for pacing and dialogue improvements
  • Pass, consider, or recommend verdict with justification

Scene outline development

$300-$800/project

Entry-level to mid-level
  • Chronological list of key story events and turning points
  • Detailed description of action and dialogue for each scene
  • Outline of protagonist and antagonist development trajectories

Screenplay draft

$1,500-$3,500/project

Mid-level
  • Complete screenplay formatted to industry standards
  • Choreographed and described high-intensity scene material
  • Refined character voices and conversational flow

Script polish and punch-up

$2,000-$4,500/project

Mid-level to senior-level
  • Updated manuscript with improved tension and pacing
  • Sharpened exchanges to enhance character voice and subtext
  • Adjusted plot points to resolve narrative inconsistencies

Series bible creation

$3,000-$6,000/project

Senior-level
  • Logline, synopsis, and thematic statement for the show
  • Detailed backgrounds, motivations, and relationships for cast
  • Episode summaries and major plot developments for season one

Frequently asked questions

Is hiring an Action writer worth it?

For most businesses, yes: hiring an Action writer is worthwhile. These specialists draft high-stakes sequences and tighten pacing to keep audiences engaged in film or TV projects. You gain a focused partner who polishes dialogue and structure without needing to manage a full production team.

How do I evaluate Action writer candidates?

Review their portfolio for specific examples of revised action scenes that demonstrate improved tension and clear visual storytelling. Ask candidates to explain how they adjusted pacing in a previous script to maintain momentum during complex sequences.

What deliverables does an Action writer produce?

An Action writer authors screenplays, detailed scene outlines, and film treatments tailored to your narrative goals. They also submit revised scripts with punched-up dialogue and tightened plot arcs.

How do Action writers collaborate on Upwork?

Writers share drafts and receive feedback through Upwork Messages and file sharing tools. You track progress and schedule video calls directly within the platform to align on story development.