Multicamera television scripts (think: anything with a laugh track) have the most unique formatting elements of the common script variations. Multicamera shows are shot on a stage in front of an audience, so their scripts look like a hybrid of screenplay format and play format. While each show has its unique variations, there are formatting […]
How do you deal with a character speaking in a different language?
John August has this advice: If it’s just a word here and there, and the meaning is obvious in context, don’t bother translating it. An example is when a ubiquitous foreign bad guy shouts at his men to do something. Since it doesn’t really matter what he’s saying, just use the foreign word if you […]
Should I put scene numbers in my screenplay?
No. The production secretary, line producer, A.D., or another involved person will number your scenes once your script is going into production. If you are working on revisions or a production draft and the scenes are already numbered, the question of how to handle renumbering is more complicated, and should be evaluated on a case-by-case […]
Can scene headers be bold?
Yes, but they don’t have to be. With feature screenplays, it is up to the writer’s discretion. But be consistent with your choice. In TV, it depends on how the specific show chooses to do it. For multicam sitcoms, underlined scene headings are common. More from johnaugust.com Okay to use bold for scene headers? Keep […]
What does a screenplay title page look like?
All title pages should include following, centered on the page: the title (in uppercase) written by the writer’s name(s) based on (if any) The date goes in the lower right-hand corner. For a spec script, the title page should include contact info for the writer or her representation on the left margin opposite the date. […]
Is there a standard screenplay font?
Yes. Screenplays are written in 12-point Courier, or a slight variation (Courier Prime, Courier New, Courier Final Draft, etc). Courier is a fixed-pitch font, meaning each character and space is exactly the same width. Since standard screenplay format is designed so one page equals approximately one minute of screen time, consistent spacing is important. Most […]