![]() The Screenwriter’s Bible by David TrottierĪ comprehensive introduction to screenwriting, used by both professionals and aspiring screenwriters alike. Try the reading and software suggestions below, and you will quickly build the confidence to create professional-looking screenplays every time. Getting Startedįormatting may seem dull in comparison to crafting sensational scenes, compelling characters, and dynamic dialogue, but putting effort into learning the basics will make the screenwriting process smooth and natural later on. Not only is this more likely to appeal to the reader, it also helps the writer to emphasise being concise. Standard screenplay formatting is also visually clear and uncluttered. The only time industry professionals are likely to notice formatting occurs when there are errors. Perhaps ironically, excellent formatting is not noticeable. A well formatted screenplay helps to create a sense of confidence that the writer is familiar with the form and has taken the work seriously. Having a standard way of communicating allows readers to be undistracted by trying to decipher a new form each time they read a script, and instead to immerse themselves in what really matters – your story, your characters, and the world you have created.įor screenwriters, formatting also helps to make a positive, professional impression from the very first page. It can be easily understood by directors, producers, and other professionals, which is essential in an industry as collaborative as filmmaking. Screenplay formatting is an industry-wide standard that allows the writer to communicate exactly what will be seen and heard onscreen. It immediately distinguishes a screenplay from another form such as a stage play or a novel, for example. It includes scene headings, dialogue, character names, action, and other features such as margins and font. But even frustrating days can be rewarding.”įormatting is the way in which your screenplay appears on the page. Scene headings are left justified at 1.5" from the left margin and require a double space before starting a new action line.“Like any kind of writing, there are good days and frustrating days. So, using all the elements above, here are a few examples of complete scene headings: This helps during the pre-production process as filmmakers need to know if they will depend on natural light or will have any specific lighting needs. You don't need to include the exact time, just whether it's during the DAY or NIGHT. The last element to include in a scene heading is the time of day. PUBLIC PARK Time of Day (Written as DAY or NIGHT ) A few examples of how the location is written are below:ĮXT. and if necessary, any smaller, more specific locations within the master setting such as a kitchen, bathroom, living room, etc. It should define a master setting which is the main location such as a building, apartment, house, etc. Location (Written as MASTER SETTING/SPECIFIC SETTING )ĭefines the location where the scene is taking place. For example, a restaurant would be considered an Interior location (INT.) and a public park would be considered an Exterior location (EXT.). )ĭefines if the location is inside or outside. It includes three major elements: Interior or Exterior (Written as INT. Every time the location or time of day changes, a new scene heading is required. Here is an example of properly formatted title page:Įach scene needs to have a scene heading which describes to the reader where and when it is taking place. While mailing address has traditionally been included with your contact information, many feel that including an email address and phone number is now sufficient. The contact information (email address, phone number) of the author or agent of author (depending on who is the primary contact) should appear in the bottom left hand corner of the page approximately 1.5" inch from the left margin and 1.0" from the bottom margin. The title should be ALL CAPS and centered horizontally and vertically on the page with "Written by" triple spaced below the title, and the author's name or names double spaced below "Written by". Do not include any special fonts, illustrations, pictures, or additional information as it will immediately jump out as amateur to seasoned professionals in the industry. Outside of our competitions, the title page should contain the title of the screenplay, the author's name, and contact information to get in touch with the author. That being said, if you plan on submitting your screenplay after the competition, make sure to follow the standard rules below. The author's name should not appear on the title page or anywhere in the screenplay in order to keep the judging anonymous. For NYC Midnight competitions, only the title of the screenplay and logline should appear on the title page.
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