Script Writing #2

Script Writing 2. Writing Dialogue

Step one to script writing is learning how to properly format your script. For some of the best advice in this regard please check out the good people at Script Frenzy. http://www.scriptfrenzy.org/howtoformatascreenplay

There, now that that’s out of the way we can start looking at how to create good strong dialogue. What is it that separates fantastic scripts from those that just get heaped on the pile destined to be forever forgotten, or used as kindling on cold winter nights?

Tip 1:

This is going to seem obvious, and very insulting. But it’s also the most important, so really pay attention. Your scripted voice needs to sound like a real person. Yes, it’s true – when you write, you need to write as if you were talking.

Now, if you want a slight example of that, just check out how I’ve been writing these handouts, or these blog entries (depending on what source you’re reading this from.) When I write these, I do so in my own voice. I think it’s quite easy to imagine that I’m actually saying these words. However if I broke it down just a little to:

When writing, ensure you use proper formatting. Information on this can be found at the following address. Another important aspect of script writing is conversational dialogue. This is best achieved when…

Do you see the difference? Do you feel how that changed just a wee bit? Well – if you notice your script coming off strained like that (i.e. you could never imagine talking to a good friend with that voice) you need to cut, edit, or rewrite. I’ll leave that choice to you!

Tip 2:

Good fast paced dialogue. Gilmore Girls was fantastic at sharp, smart dialogue. In fact, they had such fast paced back and forth dialogue that their scripts averaged being twice as long as other scripts for similar length television shows.

Real conversations hardly ever occur in paragraphs. Just when people lecture. And that’s rarely fun or entertaining. In real life people interrupt, talk over, and ambush. Work these ideas into your script if you want it to feel organic.

Tip 3:

Embrace the grey section of reality. There is no right, as there is no wrong. Try to keep your dialogue headed in that direction. Think of the show Lost, or Battlestar Galactica. You will watch one episode and completely agree with a character, fully hating the other. Then the next episode you’ll have everything switched around on you. You’ll be backing one, while hating the other. What craziness is this?

Clearly, it’s because you’re seeing things from different sides. You’re expanding your horizons. This is what a good script does. By all means, allow yours to do it too.