Colored pages are used in film and television to keep track of revisions to a script as it goes into production. Spec screenplays and screenplays in development won’t have colored pages. It’s generally only once the script is locked for scheduling and budgeting that colored pages are used. Revision order is tracked on the script’s […]
What format should my script be in when I send it out?
Generally, it’s best to send your scripts out as PDFs. PDFs are simple, not writeable or editable (unless you have [Highland](http://quoteunquoteapps.com/highland/)), and universally readable. With other formats, you run risks. For example, if you were to send your script out in FDX, it’s possible the recipient wouldn’t have Final Draft and wouldn’t be able to […]
What are MORE and CONT’D used for in screenplays?
When a dialogue block is split, either by a page break or an action line, you will use the parenthetical (CONT’D) to indicate the second part of dialogue is a continuation of the first: CHRIS Blake! Get over here. He grabs his teammate’s jersey, pulls him over. CHRIS (CONT’D) This one’s coming to you. Be […]
What is the difference between an em-dash/double-hyphen and an ellipsis?
Both em-dashes (–) and ellipses (…) are used to indicate unfinished thoughts, but their uses differ slightly. Em-dashes are used to indicate a thought that ends abruptly, either because the speaker ended it that way for effect (“aposiopesis”), or because he or she was interrupted. THOMAS I was just about to tell your dad that […]
In dialogue, how do you handle a character with a speech impediment?
If you have a character with a speech impediment, it most likely will be distracting — and quite possibly condescending — to try to mimic the impediment in all of his dialogue. Instead, include mention of the character’s speech impediment when you introduce him, and then write the dialogue as normal, doing your best to […]
Are scenes that take place in cars INT. or EXT.?
Car scenes often use camera placements that are both INT. and EXT., so [INT./EXT.](https://screenwriting.io/how-do-you-label-a-scene-that-takes-place-both-inside-and-outside/) is usually appropriate for their scene headers. INT./EXT. STEVE BLACK’S CADILLAC – DAY [DRIVING] This is not a hard and fast rule. If your scene is obviously either INT. or EXT., use it. For example, if you have a movie about […]