2. Scripting
1. A script is a written by screenwriters for a
film or television program. These
screenplays can be original or adaptations
from existing pieces of writing. In them, the
movement, actions, expression, and
dialogues of the characters are also
narrated.
3. Format and style
The format consists of three aspects:
The interplay between typeface/font, line spacing and type area, from which the
standard of one page of text per one minute of screen time is derived.
The tab settings of the scene elements (dialogue, scenes
headings, transitions, parentheticals, etc.), which constitute the screenplay's
layout.
The dialogue must be centered and the names must be capitalized. A script
usually begins with "FADE IN:", followed by the first scene description. It might
get more specific, e.g. "FADE IN ON AN ECU of Ricky as he explains the divorce
to Bob." A script will usually end with "FADE TO BLACK", though there are
variables, like "CUT TO BLACK" for abrupt endings.
The style consists of a grammar that is specific to screenplays. This grammar
also consists of two aspects:
A prose that is manifestation-oriented, i.e. focuses largely on what is audible and
what is visible on screen. This prose may only supply interpretations and
explanation (deviate from the manifestation-oriented prose) if clarity would
otherwise be adversely affected.
Codified notation of certain technical or dramatic elements, such as scene
transitions, changes in narrative perspective, sound effects, emphasis of
dramatically relevant objects and characters speaking from outside a scene.
4. Scripting
A good script is they way to narrative-based
short films and in many ways it's harder to write
a short than a feature because you need to
condense your story and develop your characters
in a very short space of time. Many times films
are let down by weak, overwritten or
underdeveloped scripts. Before investing
money, time and effort into shooting your
film, it's a good idea to test your script out on
friends and strangers and get as much feedback
as you can
