Screenwriting isn’t just about imagination. To produce a professional script, you need to master the technical formats that are industry standard. In this article, we will explore 11 essential technical elements of movie screenwriting that you should master as a beginner or professional writer. The explanation will start from the most basic elements, here are the details:
1. Scene Heading (Slugline)
Used to tell the reader where and when the scene takes place. This will make it easier for the reader to envision the setting and easier for the production crew to break down the shooting schedule. Screen headings are written using capital letters, along with their components:
- INT. (Interior) or EXT. (Exterior)
- Scene location (e.g. KELAS BIMA & DARA)
- Time (e.g. DAY or NIGHT)
2. Action or Description
This is a narration that describes what happened in the scene. It is written briefly and clearly about a scene seen or heard.
Example:
Notes: Avoid writing the character’s feelings or background in this section as screenplays are a visual medium.
3. Character Name
The character’s name is written in the script in the center of the page, all capital letters, just before the line of dialogue.
Example:
Notes: Use consistency, for example if you write MOTHER, don’t suddenly write MAMA in the middle.
4. Dialogue
Its writing position in the script is located below the character’s name with a slightly indented position. Avoid dialogue content that is too long. Ideally, a block of dialog is only 2-3 lines to maintain the rhythm of reading.
Example:
Notes: Dialogue should reflect the character not the author.
5. Parenthetical
Used to explain how the dialog is spoken or what the character is doing while speaking. Do not use too often only when absolutely necessary.
Example:
BRIAN
(quietly, almost whispering)
I understand how you feel, but this
is not just about us.Notes: Use sparingly so as not to disturb the rhythm of the script reading.
6. Transition
It is needed to direct the editor to manage the movement from one scene to another. Its writing position in the script is located on the right side of the page and is written using capital letters.
Contoh:
CUT TO:
FADE IN:
DISSOLVE TO:
Notes: In modern scenarios, transitions are only used when absolutely necessary.
7. Shot Direction (Optional)
Usually used by writers who also act as directors, shot direction will give camera instructions such as:
Example:
CLOSE UP:
WIDE SHOT:
POV:
Notes: It’s important for screenwriters not to direct the camera often unless you’re directing the movie yourself.
8. Subheader
It is applied to the same scene when there is a small shift in focus or time. Subheaders are usually used if you don’t want to create a new scene heading but need to shift focus within the same space.
Example:
INT. BRIAN’S HOUSE – AFTERNOON
Brian enters the house carrying a black plastic bag filled with instant noodles. He walks toward the kitchen.
IN THE KITCHEN
Brian places the black plastic bag next to the stove.
9. Extension
Extensions are small captions next to character names in the script, used to indicate the source of the voice. There are two kinds, namely:
(V.O.)– Voice Over(O.S.)– Off Screen
Example:
10. Montages and Series of Shots
Both show a series of fast-paced scenes that are interconnected. Written with labels:
MONTAGE –diikuti deskripsi masing-masing adegan secara singkat.SERIES OF SHOTS –jika berupa kumpulan shot pendek yang berurutan.
Short example:
MONTAGE – BRIAN PRACTICING DRIVING:
– Brian turns the steering wheel with focus.
– The car's tires screech around the corner.
– The stopwatch shows an accelerating time.11. Page Numbers and Technical Formats
- Use Courier 12 pt font type.
- The left margin is wider than the right.
- Each page contains ±1 minute of movie duration.
- Add page numbers starting from page 2 in the top right position.
Use software like Final Draft, Celtx, or WriterDuet to maintain format consistency. More software recommendations for screenwriting can be found here.
Screenwriting is not just a matter of creativity but also the discipline of following technical standards. From scene headings, dialog, to transitions, everything plays an important role in forming a strong and professional story structure. By understanding these 11 important technical elements of screenwriting, you have the potential to become a reliable and respected screenwriter in the film industry.
Have you implemented these 11 elements in the manuscript you’re writing? Or are there certain elements that are still confusing? Let’s discuss in the comment section!
