Research on Script Layouts

This research on script layout helped me realise that a script is essentially for the actors and editors, it generally should not have a list of shots before the actual diagetic dialogue or any other sounds happening, it should skip to the dialogue to aid the actors and help the editors with where the sounds should go and should not have a list of shots before any action - the action should start immediately.

Here are some examples of script layouts that I have found and learnt from:

Usually, the location is addressed at the top of the script. For example, INT represents interior and EXT represents exterior. Following this will be the location of significance, KITCHEN, the area, CHESTER SQUARE, the city, LONDON, time period PRESENT and the time of day, MORNING. All of which establish the location and setting of the scene.  

Although, some scripts begin with FADE IN, this is aimed at the editor to direct where an effect may go. FADE IN's are a good way to transition through scenes as there is not that jump between scenes, creating a flowing narrative. However, this convention may be broken to immediately place the audience in a series of fast paced events.

Music is another beginning to a script and again directs the editor; this time with he type of sound - non-diagetic, MUSIC: THEME TO CRYING STORE...FADES AFTER FIRST ALAN JAMISON LINE. A voice over, V.O., may also be on a script. A voice over is an unseen commentator, who could be a narrator or protagonist, saying lines that are edited onto the clip.

It's even better when a script combines music and edited effects along with the actors cue, as the editor can grasp a clearer understanding of a task set; saving vital time as there is no need to discuss what the editor should do as they have been given specific directions.

Next the stage directions. Virtually in the title the - stage directions - direct the actors who are in position, they may also give a brief back-story to help an actor understand their characters situation. Stage directions can also take place during or after a characters line, this is called a cue, where a specific movement is allocated to a specific word, phrase or line - directing the actor.

A characters name is titled over their lines to help actors differentiate between who is speaking.

For example:

MARGARET

Too much. Much too much butter.

DENIS

I like butter.

Something else I've noticed is that the stage directions are separated from the dialogue. I think this is good because it won't confuse the actors between their lines and directions. It also makes a script look neater and more presentable.

I'm glad I've researched this because I understand more about how a script looks and understand the reasons to why things are used.

Please leave any helpful feedback so I can improve my understanding further thanks :)