Special Formatting for Screenplays: How to Format Screenwrit...

Special Formatting Circumstances in Screenplays

Screenplays are the blueprint of every film, intricately designed to guide directors, actors, and crew through the complex storytelling process. As these scripts evolve, writers often encounter unique scenarios that require special formatting techniques to maintain clarity and narrative flow. Here's a guide to tackling some of these distinctive situations in your screenplay.

1. MONTAGE

Montages are a sequence of quick shots that convey the passage of time or a series of related actions. Think of it as the film's musical sprint, a highlight reel that captures development or transformation succinctly.

Formatting: Start with the word “MONTAGE” centered on the page. Describe each shot on a separate line using present tense verbs. Conclude with “END MONTAGE” centered on the page.

Example:

MONTAGE
– A SEED is planted in the earth.
– The SEED sprouts, growing into a young plant.
– RAIN falls, nourishing the plant as it matures.
– SUNSHINE bathes the plant, encouraging it to bloom.
END MONTAGE

2. SERIES OF SCENES

This format is similar to a montage but unfolds with less haste and may lack musical accompaniment. It presents a series of related actions within a scene.

Formatting: Begin with a scene heading (INT. or EXT., location, time of day). Briefly describe each shot on a separate line using present tense verbs.

Example:

INT. Kitchen – DAY
– MARY chops vegetables.
– JOHN stirs a pot on the stove.
– Their CHILD sets the table.

3. INSERT SHOT

Used to emphasize a specific detail or object within a scene, often seen in close-up shots that capture significant elements.

Formatting: Write “INSERT” or “CLOSE ON” followed by a brief description of the object.

Example:

INT. LIBRARY – NIGHT
Sarah opens a dusty book.
CLOSE ON: A faded PHOTOGRAPH.

4. VOICEOVER (V.O.)

A voiceover allows a character's voice to be heard while they are not seen speaking on screen, adding depth to the narrative or character insight.

Formatting: Place “(V.O.)” after the character's name in the dialogue element.

Example:

EXT. BEACH – SUNSET
SARAH (V.O.)
As I watched the waves crash against the shore, I realized I was finally home.

5. OFF-SCREEN (O.S.)

This format is used when a character's voice is heard, but they are not seen, usually because they are in a different location than the visible characters.

Formatting: Place “(O.S.)” after the character's name in the dialogue element.

Example:

INT. RESTAURANT – NIGHT
JOHN and MARY are eating dinner.
JOHN
This steak is delicious.
MARY (O.S.)
Could you pass the salt?

6. PHONE CONVERSATIONS

There are several ways to format phone conversations. One common method is to use the character's name followed by “(ON PHONE).”

Example:

INT. OFFICE – DAY
John is sitting at his desk.
JOHN (ON PHONE)
Yes, I understand. I'll have the report on your desk by tomorrow morning.

7. INTERCUT

Intercuts are used to show two or more scenes happening simultaneously, cutting back and forth between them.

Formatting: Start with “INTERCUT” centered on the page. Write the scene headings for each scene being intercut. Describe the action in each scene, alternating between them as needed. End with “END INTERCUT” centered on the page.

Example:

INTERCUT
SCENE A: INT. HOSPITAL ROOM – DAY
A woman is giving birth.
SCENE B: EXT. RACE TRACK – DAY
A man is running a marathon.
END INTERCUT

8. TEXT MESSAGES

While there's no “official” way, here are some common methods:

• Dialogue Blocks with (TEXT): Treat text messages like dialogue, but add “(TEXT)” after the character's name. This works well for back-and-forth conversations.

LISA (TEXT)
Hey, you coming to the party tonight?
MARK (TEXT)
Definitely. Can't wait!

• Split Screen for Simultaneous Texting: Use split screen to show both characters texting at the same time. This can add a dynamic element and show reactions.

SPLIT SCREEN
LISA and MARK
Typing on her phone. Typing on his phone.
CHYRON: (LISA'S TEXT)
Hey, you coming to the party tonight?
CHYRON: (MARK'S TEXT)
Definitely. Can't wait!

When it comes to text messages, treating them like dialogue with “(TEXT)” after the names is often the simplest and most effective method.

Conclusion

Screenwriting is an art of precision and creativity, where even the format contributes to storytelling. By mastering these special formatting circumstances, writers can enhance the clarity and visual impact of their scripts, ensuring that every story comes alive on the page.