Dialogue

Tip- Metaphors in conversation are a great way for characters to progress the plot. At
one time similarities can be found among differences. Through metaphors
character development can be advanced by giving just enough information so the
audience can figure things out for themselves.

• Personal analogy (personification)- “I am an alarm clock and you are a watch

that needs to be wound.”

What character traits are implied regarding character B? ____________________

What does character A think about themselves? ___________________________

• Direct analogy (compare two dissimilar concepts)- “Love is like a roller

coaster?”

• Compressed conflict analogy (like an oxymoron)- “you are too close, and too
far away!”

Exercise- Craft a scene of dialogue using metaphors where two characters relate their
different perspectives as to how things are.

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Tip- Natural conversation is not flawless. Interruptions, stammering, and other verbal
miscues are a part of our day to day communications. Perfect interactions can
feel staged.

Exercise- Revise a section of your dialogue by scripting two verbal miscues.

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Exercise- As a group

• _____ Select a passage of dialogue

• _____ Mind the 180 degree rule

• _____ Mind continuity

• _____ Shoot out of sequence

• _____ Use the rule of thirds

• Capture the following shots-

o _____ over the shoulder both speaking and non speaking (reaction shot)

o _____ close up both speaking and non speaking (reaction shot)

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