Hi all. New here, and writing a screenplay. I have two questions. First, if one character is talking to one person and then turns to another and talks to them in the same dialogue, should I signify that? Like
CADDY
Ok, Uncle. (to Versh) Take him in to the fireplace, Versh. (to Benjy) Go with Versh. I?ll come in a minute.
Secondly, if a character is reading a letter and I want the letter to be seen on screen, what's the best way to do this? Is there a special format?
I promise I'll have more questions as I go along with this screenplay so thanks for your help.
Your sample from the first question is how I would do it.
Your second question leads a couple more questions. Do you want anything else in the shot or is it really just the letter filling the entire screen? Do you want voice-over to read the letter and make sure everyone knows what it says or are you happy with the idea that slow readers and illitarates won't get it?
RJSchwarz
San Diego, CA
RJSchwarz
Better yet, try:
CADDY
Ok, Uncle. Take him in to the fireplace, Versh.
She turns to Benjy
CADDY
Go with Versh. I?ll come in a minute.
Regarding the letter - try this:
Caddy picks up the letter. It reads: "My dear Caddy, I'm so sorry I took Benjy to the fireplace. I couldn't have known that brick was so loose. Love, Versh." Caddy shakes her head and puts the letter back on the desk.
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The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)
So the first part is mostly a matter of preference? I like the way you did it instigator, I was just trying to save typing all that. And that's pretty much how I formatted the letter. Thanks for the help guys.
