Script/Screen Writing

A script is a crucial part of the film, providing all the action, dialogue and location ideas for the film. I started to look at some websites and assess the elements that a script need to make is successful.

LEARN THE LINGO:
EXT-outside
INT-inside
SLUGLINE/SCENE HEADING-this comes at the top of the script and tells the reader where the scene takes place. Firstly you state whether you are indoors or outdoors, then the location and then maybe the time of day
e.g. EXT-BEACH-SUNSET
INT-BEDROOM-MORNING
it can also include information such as 'ESTABLISHING SHOT'
ACTION-this is what we actually see on the screen, and what the directions are.
EXTENSION- this is a technical code placed to the right of the characters names which dictates how the characters voice will be heard.
e.g. V.O.-voice over
O.S.- off screen
TRANSITION- the transition that will be used to change the scene
e.g.
CUT TO:
DISSOLVE TO:
QUICK CUT:
FADE TO:
FADE OUT

TIP
The only time you should use a Transition in a specific script is if it's integral to telling the story. For example using a dissolve to show time passed.

A script need to also include DIALOGUE and CHARACTER NAMES, occasionally SHOT TYPES