Hi, I'am new to filmmaking. I have just a basic question. Is there a way that you are supposed to write scripts? I mean, is there a certain format that you are supposed to follow? Your answers are greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Always use Courier 12-point font.
Left Margin is 1.5 inches (appx.15 spaces)
From Left Margin justified left tabs:
Character name is appx. 25 spaces
Parenthetical is appx. 21 spaces
Dialogue is appx. 15 spaces
Dialogue should not run longer than 3.5 inches.
Use an unjustified 1.0 right margin.
1.0 inch top and bottom
Sluglines or Scene Headers.
Written in capitals and containing three pieces of information: (1) Where; (2) Exactly where, and (3) when. (2) and (3) are separated by a space, a dash, followed by another space.
(1) can be INT. (interior) or EXT. (exterior); (2) is a short identification of the place; and (3) can be either DAY or NIGHT.
For example:
INT. DENISE?S PLACE - DAY
You can use more than one subject.
For example:
EXT. DENISE?S PLACE - TERRACE - DAY
or:
EXT. DENISE?S PLACE/TERRACE - DAY
You need a new slugline each time you change the place, and/or change the time.
Action, or Description
The screenplay?s visual elements, where we show what is taking place on the screen. Character descriptions, what they are doing, the places, and everything the audience will need to assimilate visually. And nothing else!
Try to create the experience of watching each scene, using only the information available to the movie-goer, in the order that he or she will be presented with it.
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The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)
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The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)
The oscars website has some nice stuff on screenwriting formats
http://www.oscars.org/nicholl/format.html
The site includes an example that teaches as it goes and covers most odd scenerios you are likely to come across.
http://www.oscars.org/nicholl/format_a.txt
RJSchwarz
San Diego, CA
RJSchwarz
You can also purchase Final Draft or Page 2 Stage. I use Final Draft.
http://smoth.portodiao.com/ - Movie & Filmmaking News, Articles and Podcast Show. Updated everyday.
http://smoth.portodiao.com/ - Movie & Filmmaking News, Articles and Podcast Show. Updated everyday.
I HIGHLY reccomend "The Screenwriters Bible." It has everything you need to know about writing a script. It is a great assest to any screenwriter and has countless pages of vital information.
thank you all for your answers.
