The Importance Of Using A Screenplay Companion

By Patrick Harris


In order to understand the proper formatting, rules and regulations of script and screenwriting, there are a number of tools. One of which is that of a Screenplay Companion. Whether using an online version or hard copy, writers have reported having great success when using this new tool.

When it comes to film making, there are a number of different genres. As such, it is important to note that formatting is often different among genres. Whereas, there are also elements which are important when it comes to pre and post production work. For example, pre production involves setting up a film real, developing scenes and plot lines. After which, marketing and distribution are necessary elements to the success of a film.

While there are different formats for different type of projects, the basic format is often the same. Screenplays are often written for short videos, student films, television program or public service announcement. In most cases, screenplays can be original works or an adaptation from past works. Most often, when working with a screenplay, the actions, expressions, characters and dialogues are almost always narrated.

Most often, in a screenplay one scene equates to one page. While this is the case, there can be slight differences. In fact, most directors advise script and screenwriters not to make such calculations. For, even if one could calculate an actual running time, the time could change during the post-production process.

When it comes to terminology, action, screen direction or dialogue, all refer to present tense and can easily be heard by an audience. Whereas, descriptions of sound effects, character movements and settings are separate and apart from character dialogue. Generally, by placing the character dialogue in the center column of a script, it is easier for the director and actors to better understand the role each plays in the making of a film.

While screenplays use slug lines or master scene headings, these include whether a scene is set indoors or outdoors, location and time of day. As a result, each slug line also refers to the beginning of each scene. While there can be a number of scene changes, these often move quickly when shooting a film.

As American and European scripts are structured differently when it comes to format and terminology, it is important to search for information on formatting and presentation based on genre. For example, those desiring to search formatting for a comedy or drama would do so with regards as to the country in which the initial screenplay was developed. For, not only will doing so most likely make it easier for those reviewing a screenplay or script, it could also be helpful during cuts and edits in post-production.

Ultimately, the screenwriter does the majority of work when it comes to making a movie. For, writing a script or screenplay can often take years. Whereas, the actors, crew, writers and directors often spend far less time when shooting a script. Ultimately, by using these and other elements, a screenplay is more likely to make to the big screen than otherwise.




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