Tuesday, 5 February 2019

Screenplays: Common Mistakes

After marking the screenplay drafts, I have noticed common mistakes throughout a number of projects.

Before submitting your final drafts, please ensure you have not only made the changes highlighted on your individual drafts, but also that you have taken note of the points below:


  1. Format and Layout
    You need to follow the guidance you were given exactly. You are not showing any understanding of conventions unless you follow the established conventions.
  2. Proofing
    There are far too many errors in the work; this includes issues with spelling, punctuation and grammar. You must get into the habit of checking your work and reading it back. If you are entitled to additional support, use it! If you do not receive additional support, ask a friend or family member to read it through.
  3. 'Showing' emotion
    Letting the audience know how characters are feeling is very important BUT you have to convey it through actions and dialogue. The audience don't see the script, so it's no good to say anything like, "Ellie is feeling betrayed and thinks about how she will get revenge".
  4. ... & !
    There is an over-use of ellipses and exclamation marks. Use actor directions (parentheticals) and scene directions instead.
  5. Scene directions
    Don't be afraid to put more detail into the scene direction - some is rather thin. Scene direction can be used to describe the setting and also show what characters are doing.

I don't want to see the same errors in your final drafts, please. Use the BFI handouts and all the materials that you have been given during the unit to make your work great.

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