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 […]
What is a pre-lap?
A pre-lap is when the dialogue (or any sound) from the next scene starts before we cut away from the previous scene. They are a common and useful transition. Pre-laps are often inserted in editing, but they can also be written into scripts. Dialogue pre-laps are indicated with the parenthetical “(PRE-LAP)” next to the character’s […]
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. […]
What is an establishing shot?
An establishing shot establishes the setting of a scene. When we see a shot of the sun setting behind the exterior of a building, and then we cut to the inside of that building for the scene, we have seen an establishing shot. Establishing shots can be written into your screenplay, but they do not […]