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

The Shining Script

I found a website which provides the entire script from 'The Shining' (1980). I decided to do this script because we will probably be making the opening to a horror film and i felt it would be appropriate.

-Script-

INT. BEDROOM - M.C.S.

(JACK at Bathroom door. )

JACK

Little pigs, little pigs, let me come in!

CUT TO:INT. BATHROOM - M.S.

(WENDY by open window. She moves L-R to basin.

CAMERA PANSwith her. She picks up knife and moves R-L to side of door..132.

CAMERA PANS with her. )

CUT TO:INT. BEDROOM - M.C.S.

(JACK at Bathroom door. )

JACK

Not by the hair on your chiny, chin, chin.

Then I'll huff, and I'll puff

CUT TO:M.S.

(JACK holding axe back to camera at Bathroom door. )

JACK (CONT'D)

and I'll blow your house in.

(He swings axe back.)

That part of the script i find particularly frightening and wil be good reseach for our own film opening.

INTERESTING FACT-Jack Nicholson's famous line "Here's Johnny" was ad lib and was not in the original script.