NISI MASA Script Contest 2009 - European short film Competition A Short Scriptwriting Guide

A Short Screenwriting Guide 2006-2009 by Fedor Sendak Limperg

Basic Guidelines for Screenwriting
by Fedor Sendak

Introduction
Believe it or not, but there are some rules and conventions you are expected to follow when writing
a script for the NISI MASA Script Contest. You may ask Why follow any rules, if screenwriting is
about creativity? Well, there is an answer to that:
When you desire to have your script read to professional people from the film industry, you best try
and follow these conventions as much as possible, always and whenever you submit your writings.
How clueless they might seem to you, script readers (like: commissioning editors and producers)
who have a pile of scripts on their desk might most likely throw "unconventionally" formatted and
styled scripts into the trashcan without even reading them. Simply because in this way they
separate the newbies from the (may be upcoming) professionals. It saves them a lot of time. Since
we want to raise the professionalism of new talent, let's start today with getting you familiar with
these professional standards. At the same time, this format will give our jury a better opportunity to
compare and read your script without any confusion in the lay out.

The lay out of your script
A script layout should look something like this:


NISI MASA Script Contest 2009 - European short film Competition A Short Scriptwriting Guide
A Short Screenwriting Guide 2006-2009 by Fedor Sendak Limperg


Length and format
There are certain standards in formatting who will help to gauge more or less how long a film a
script will make. This is very useful for producers. With a well written script, these standards allow
us to measure a script's length by saying that: "a page of script equals roughly a minute of screen
time". This is a very rough guide and not to be completely trusted. For instance action films scripts
often are short but take longer on screen compared to a dialogue based script.
Since the NISI MASA Script Contest is a competition to write a short film, it is important to -more or
less- be able to judge how many pages you write. So when you follow the standard format for
scripts, it ensures the same amount of screen action is covered by each page (on average). In
standard format, a page is roughly equal to a minute of screen time. So by looking at your page
numbers we should be able tell how long your film is. Therefore also dont forget to number your
pages, and start at 1 on the first page with a scene on it.

Standard Format Rules
Here is a basic list of how your script should be formatted.

Typeface: Courier size 12
To achieve the standard format, always use Courier (or New Courier) Size 12.
This is a fixed-width font.

Margins
Left margin should be 4 cm
Right is 1.3 cm

Top and Bottom
Make them 2.5 cm each.

Dialogue
6.5 cm from the left
will be about 7.5 to 9 cm wide
shouldn't extend more than 15 cm from the left.
Please, never make the mistake to CENTRE dialogues or character names!

Character's Name
at 9.5 cm and above the dialogue.

Page Numbers
should be located in the upper right hand corner and then double space and continue
writing.


See the sample script page (next page) and notice
the font used (Courier)
the size of margins all round
the number of lines on a page
the length of the lines of dialogue (always indented)
the spacing between scenes, etc.


NISI MASA Script Contest 2009 - European short film Competition A Short Scriptwriting Guide
A Short Screenwriting Guide 2006-2009 by Fedor Sendak Limperg
Sample page (reduced)


First Page
A screenplay always begins with FADE IN: This has nothing to do with a fading transition on the
screen, but it is an international custom for how you should start your script.

Last Page
At the end of your script you should type The End and centre it, or double space, to the far right of
the page, and type FADE OUT. Again this FADE OUT has nothing to do with a fading transition
on the screen, but it is just customary to end your script in this way.

Scene Headings: Location
INT/EXT: This refers to the location of the scene. If it is inside it is INT (for interior); if it is set
outside it is EXT (for exterior). This should be followed by the location.

Scene Headings: Time
DAY/NIGHT: This refers to whether the scene occurs in the day or night. This follows the location.
Note: There is no such thing as EVENING or MORNING. Just use DAY or... NIGHT!!


NISI MASA Script Contest 2009 - European short film Competition A Short Scriptwriting Guide
A Short Screenwriting Guide 2006-2009 by Fedor Sendak Limperg


Introducing your characters
The first time a character appears in your script, you write the name in CAPITALS, followed by a
'first impression'-description of the character. Please do not write only the age of this person. I
mean, how can we ever see a person is 44 or... 45? Just use your screenwriting talent, and come
up with something better. When you write: JOHN a fragile, middle aged man it is already better.

Acting instruction under dialogues
Avoid acting instructions under the dialogues as much as possible. The emotions should be clear
from the context most of the time... dont take the easy way by writing it under the dialogue. That
will not make good cinema in the end!

No numbering for scenes
Avoid numbering scenes at this moment. Do not forget to number the pages though.
You only number the scenes when it is a 'shooting script' which will only be seen by yourself or
when actually shooting the film. Now, they make no sense, since scenes can still move within the
script.

Don't direct inside the script.
An often seen mistake is to include camera movements in your script. Although we admit there are
occasions that this can't be avoided, in 99% of the cases it shouldnt be there. This should be the
job of the director, not the writer. Directing terms includes CUT TO, WIDEN SHOT, PAN
ACROSS. You only use these very very rarely - when the moment will be completely
misunderstood without it. In general these are terms only for the shooting script. This is why you
might see them in some professional scripts. Those scripts are not meant to be read by people like
from a jury. Actually it will clog up and distract the read. Your script should flow smoothly as a
readable piece, not a series of instructions.

Some format difficulties can be easily solved by using screenwriting software.
Check out the next pages to find the right program to use for your script!


NISI MASA Script Contest 2009 - European short film Competition A Short Scriptwriting Guide
A Short Screenwriting Guide 2006-2009 by Fedor Sendak Limperg

ABOUT SCREENWRITING SOFTWARE

There is software available that helps you getting your script into the right format.
Below some of the most know programs for screenwriting including their websites.
Many screenwriting programs are standalone desktop applications. Others are web applications
and run in a web browser, so no need to install any software. These work with a personal log in.
There are also applications available as add-ins for generic word processors such as Microsoft
Word. Sometimes screenwriting programs also incorporate production scheduling and budgeting
capabilities or provide additional collaborative editing tools.

REMARK: We havent tested all these programs. If you have any experience or
recommendation, please let us know. Write me at fedor@meccapanza.eu and I will
implement all valuable information you give me.


SCREENWRITING SOFTWARE FOR FREE

Page 2 Stage
Platform: Windows
Page 2 Stage is designed expressly for people writing screenplays, scripts, and plays.
The program is available in 30 languages. Page 2 Stage is now free.
However, you must enter a username and password to unlock Page 2 Stage. Otherwise the
scripts you create in demo mode will always be marked 'demo'.
http://www.page2stage.com

ScriptBuddy (free version)
Platform: Internet application
ScriptBuddy is Web-based. In order to use it, you need an account with ScriptBuddy. Your
screenplays are stored in your account so no one else can access them.
http://www.scriptbuddy.com

ScriptTeX
ScriptTeX is a free macro package for TeX to format screenplays and other scripts.
http://www.aidtopia.com/software/scripttex

Sophocles
Platform: Windows
A standalone word processor for writing screenplays and other dramatic scripts. It provides
customizable, industry-standard support for feature film and television formats, along with
advanced, fully automated revision handling for screenplays in production. Sophocles also
provides a number of unique tools to help you visualize your storys overall structure.
http://download.cnet.com/Sophocles-Screenwriting-Software/3000-2079_4-10030931.html

Zhura
Platform: Internet application
Zhura is a free web-based screenwriting software application for writing and formatting screenplays
to the film industry standard, as well as other formats. Zhura allows users to collaborate on scripts
in public or in private groups.
http://www.zhura.com

Scripped
Platform: Internet application
Scripped is an online screenplay services company offering three services: script writing, script
registration, and script coverage. Scripped currently does not facilitate collaboration among
screenwriters.
NISI MASA Script Contest 2009 - European short film Competition A Short Scriptwriting Guide
A Short Screenwriting Guide 2006-2009 by Fedor Sendak Limperg
http://scripped.com




SCREENWRITING SOFTWARE FOR SALE

Script Wizard
Platform: Windows
Full service script writing add-on to Microsoft Word. (PC only).
Tools to write, format, page break, scene number, edit, proof, print and deliver scripts via fax or
email. Ideal for both professionals and students working in Microsoft Office environments.
Script Wizzard is not for free. Check out the website.
http://www.warrenassoc.com/sw_overview.php
http://www.warrenassoc.com

Final Draft
Platform: Windows and Mac
Final Draft is a word processor specifically designed for writing movie scripts, television episodes
and stage plays. It combines word processing with professional script formatting in one package.
http://www.finaldraft.com

Movie Magic Screenwriter
Platform: Mac
The program is designed to automate the formatting of Action, Character Name, Dialog and other
elements associated with writing screenplays using Command line completion. This is done mainly
via the Tab and Enter/Return keys.
http://www.screenplay.com

Movie Outline
Platform: Windows and Mac
Movie Outline was created by a produced writer to take the complexity out of the screenwriting
process. Its intuitive design is based on the principle of step-outlining which allows you to plan your
cinematic structure, develop characters and format your screenplay scene by scene.
http://www.movieoutline.com

Montage
Platform: Mac
Montage is screenwriting software developed for Mac OS X. Montage allows the creation, editing,
and management of screenplays on Macintosh computers. Montage can import Final Draft
documents. text and RTF formatted files, it includes custom, pre-formatted templates for film, TV,
and theater.
http://www.marinersoftware.com/sitepage.php?page=104
http://www.marinersoftware.com

DreamaScript
Platform: Windows and Mac
DreamaScript Screenwriting Software allows you to use templates and methods.
MAC/PC
http://www.dreamascript.com

NISI MASA Script Contest 2009 - European short film Competition A Short Scriptwriting Guide
A Short Screenwriting Guide 2006-2009 by Fedor Sendak Limperg

GENERAL ADVICE FOR WRITERS OF SHORT SCRIPTS

Short film means short story
First and foremost be aware that you are writing a short film. Make sure you write a story which
can be completed in a couple of minutes. That might exclude some stories you want to tell. You will
have to save these for later.

Keep it Simple if Possible
When your script is easy to shoot from a production point of view, the better its production values
will be. This because the time, energy and money can be spent on doing it well rather than to just
managing to do it. So be smart! We advice you to use a maximum of 3-4 main characters (i.e.,
those who and take a major part in the story). Your audience has only ten minutes to get to know
and understand your characters, so the fewer you present the easier it will be for them to make an
impact. Notice that it is not compulsory. We also advice to use a maximum of three locations, but
of course you are free to ignore our advice in this.

Dialogues
The screen is first and foremost a visual medium. Find ways of telling visually what is
happening or what is important. Sound-&-vision scenes in place of dialogue will move the
action forward and can cover a lot of ground quickly. Where possible, show it rather than explain it
in the dialogue. With dialogue, avoid long speeches unless there is a particular reason for one -
short sharp exchanges can work better than long discussions. Try to use rich and interesting ones
rather than the mundane speech we might hear every day.
A thing to keep emphasizing on is that scripts are the basis of the visual medium of film. Dont say
what you can show instead. If the character is upset don't have him say "I'm really upset! just
show it to us, cinematographically. E.g. have him smash a cup on the table instead.

First Draft
Realize your first draft can be full of mistakes and errors! Yes! It is just a sketch! Just get that story
out. Put it on paper as quick as possible. No worry, it might be not visual enough. This is not a
problem for the first version of your artwork. You can correct all this later. You can still improve on
it until you send it. Read our tips again, and you can still then change things that appear not good
enough. Writing is rewriting!

Style and Visual storytelling
Try to see each sentence (or sometimes paragraph) as a shot. Write down only pieces of visual
information... things we can actually see. Beautiful prosaic sentences don't belong here. That's for
a novel. You are writing a blueprint for a film at the moment. Find your style. A script should be
easy to read. Images have to appear when one reads it. A dry and clear style will have the best
result.

Order of Information
What you see first, you write first. Write it the way it appears on the screen. So if you have written
something we cannot actually see... think it over. Try to tell the thing in a visual (or aural) way.

Credibility
Literally everything can happen in the universe of cinema. But when you involve people in your
story, make their decisions credible. If you want your characters to do something unusual or
unlikely, then give them the motivation to do it. That's all it takes to make your audience believe
and go along with the story. But also remember, the imagination of people is also huge! Use it...
People lose interest only when a character does something they can not imagine that someone
would do ever do that. Even in a science fiction piece, characters should behave credibly within the
terms of the story - i.e., In that situation, yes, he or she would do that . . . Anyone who knows
about acting and writes should try to ask themselves: How would it be to play this as an actor?. It
will make you write a playable and solid, credible script.
NISI MASA Script Contest 2009 - European short film Competition A Short Scriptwriting Guide
A Short Screenwriting Guide 2006-2009 by Fedor Sendak Limperg

Conflict and crisis
Drama is mostly about conflict and crisis not about people wanting the same things or agreeing
with each other. A scene will often work best if characters want opposite things at the same time.
And a attractive script often begins with a character at an emotional crossroads, and the decision
they take leads to the story most of the time. Screen your ideas and writings on this.

Indirect Information
As remarked before, people have a huge imagination. Also people are socially and psychologically
smarter then you might think. Therefore it is recommended to keep the audience busy with
thinking, while they are watching your film. If not, they might get bored easily and you will loose
their attention! One way to do this is to check your script on how the information gets to your
audience. Do they have to make their conclusions themselves, or are you making them for them. If
they have to think, they will get more involved, and you will reach their heart more easily.

USEFULL TIPS:

Make sure your story is a suitable story for a short film.
Write visually, since the primary quality of film is visual storytelling.
Give information indirectly, to make the audience actively go along with the story.
Use dialogue imaginatively and only for what is not possible to express in images or sound.
Make your character's actions and decisions credible, so the audience can identify
themselves with them, or at least imagine a person who acts like that, could exist.
Write a producible script. A script which can be shot easily and in a short time.
Preferably use a maximum of 3-4 main characters.
Preferably use a maximum of 3 locations.
Remember variety in people, places and scenes makes your film more vivid.
Rewrite your script and keep improving it.

USEFULL CHECKLISTS

Before you start
These questions might be helpful to ask yourself about character before you start your screenplay.

Who is your story about?
What kind of trouble are my characters in?
What does your character want and what will your character do to get it?
What is your character most afraid of (his/her ghost)?
What's the big question the audience will be wondering about throughout the movie?

While writing
These questions might be helpful to ask yourself when you are in the middle of writing a
screenplay, or when (you think) you are finished.

Is there an opening hook?
Can you put the primary conflict more up front?
Do you set the Genre and Tone of the film from the start?
Did you introduce the protagonist in a unique and interesting way?
Why does the story start at the point it starts?
What is your movie really about?

Our last advice
Please realise "Writing is re-writing". The first draft wont be as good as you wish it would be. Of
course it is not good! A first draft never is. It is in the refining, re-writing, re-plotting and fine-tuning
that great scripts get made. So our advice: dont think too much. To get started is important, since
you will make the script by writing it, not by thinking about writing it a thousand times.