Basic
Script Layout Formats
There is not one standard script layout.
Script layout styles can vary widely. Some prefer a single-column cinematic
format, with transitions in a left margin, and all video and audio information
in a single main column.
Other versions use two vertical columns, with picture
treatment (cameras, switching) on the left, and action and dialogue on the
right, together with studio instructions and lighting/effects cues.
Single-Column Format
Although there are different variations of the
single-column format, all video and audio information are usually contained in a single main column. Before each
scene, an explanatory introduction describes the location and the action.
Reminder notes can be made in a wide left-hand margin, including transition
symbols (for example, X = cut; FU = fade-up), cues, camera instructions,
thumbnail sketches of shots or action, and so on.
This type of script is widely
used for narrative film-style production and single-camera video, in which the
director works alongside the camera operator.
Two-Column
Format
This
traditional television format is extremely flexible and informative. It gives
all members of the production crew shot-by-shot details of what is going on.
They can also add their own specific information (e.g., details of lighting
changes) as needed Two versions of the script are sometimes prepared. In the
first (rehearsal script), the right column only is printed.
Planning is an essential part of a serious
production, and the script forms the basis for that plan. The script usually
begins the production process.
The Dramatic Script
The
dramatic full script may be prepared in two stages: the rehearsal script and
the camera script. The rehearsal script usually begins with general information
sheets, including a cast/character list, production team details, rehearsal
arrangements, and similar details. There may be a synopsis of the plot or
storyline, particularly when scenes are to be shot/recorded out of order. The
rehearsal script generally includes the following types of details:
• Location:
the setting where the scene will be shot.
• Time of day and weather conditions.
• Stage or location instructions: (The room is candlelit and a log fire burns
brightly.)
• Action: basic information on what is going to happen in the scene,
such as actors’ moves (Joe gets in the car).
• Dialogue: speaker’s name
(character) followed by his or her dialogue. All delivered speech, voice-over,
voice inserts (e.g., phone conversation), commentary, announcements, and so on
(perhaps with directional comments such as “sadly” or “sarcastically”) (Figure
5.2).
• Effects cues:
The Dramatic Script The dramatic full script
may be prepared in two stages: the rehearsal script and the camera script. The
rehearsal script usually begins with general information sheets, including a
cast/character list, production team details, rehearsal arrangements, and
similar details. There may be a synopsis of the plot or storyline, particularly
when scenes are to be shot/recorded out of order. The rehearsal script
generally includes the following types of details:
• Location: the setting
where the scene will be shot.
• Time of day and weather conditions.
• Stage or
location instructions: (The room is candlelit and a log fire burns brightly.)
•
Action: basic information on what is going to happen in the scene, such as
actors’ moves (Joe gets in the car).
• Dialogue: speaker’s name (character)
followed by his or her dialogue. All delivered speech, voice-over, voice
inserts (e.g., phone conversation), commentary, announcements, and so on
(perhaps with directional comments such as “sadly” or “sarcastically”) (Figure
5.2).
• Effects cues: indicating the moment for a change to take place
(lightning flash, explosion, Joe switches light out).
• Audio instructions:
music and sound effects.
Scriptwriting Basics A successful script satisfies two important requirements:
• The program’s main purpose: to amuse, inform, intrigue, persuade, and so on.
• It must be practical. The script must be a workable vehicle for the
production crew. Fundamentally, we need to ensure that:
• The script meets its
deadline. When is the script required? Is it for a specific occasion? • The
treatment is feasible for the budget, facilities, and time available. An
overambitious script will necessarily have to be rearranged, edited, and have
its scenes rewritten to provide a workable basis for the production.
• The
treatment usually must fit the anticipated program length. Otherwise, it will become
necessary to cut sequences or pad the production with added scenes afterwards
to fit the show to the allotted time slot.
• The style and the form of
presentation are appropriate for the subject. An unsuitable style, such as a
lighthearted approach to a very serious subject, may trivialize the subject. •
The subject treatment is suitable for the intended audience.