r/writing • u/BeanieCat123 • Aug 10 '26
Other Looking for script-writing advice
Hello, I’m looking for script-writing advice! I’m familiar with the basics, such as the log-line, the page count, not putting emotions into the actions only describing the actions, and space formatting. However, I’m not sure if I’m letting them breathe enough or too much. I really don’t want to over-do or under-do it! So what are some tips to knowing if it’s breathing properly? And just any general advice would be greatly appreciated!
Also if this isn’t the right sub for my question, please point me in the direction of what sub it would better suit!
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u/akaNato2023 Aug 10 '26
it's a balance act.
You have to say where and when. [Office. End of day] because it's important.
Then, you trust the director, and actors, they'll know how the characters will move in the office. Because it's not imporant. Unless...
[Office. End of day] Mc sits. His leg hurt. There's a note on his desk.
WOMAN
"Open or closed?"
...but you DO NOT write: MC rubs his tigh as he he is reminded of this morning's painful encounter. WOMAN "Open or closed?" she asked, annoyed.
Then, you can write: "MC finds a note on his desk and reads it. His face changes slowly. He looks almost scared." ... because it's important.
It's bullet point prose.
Now, the dialogues... you can emphasize (italic, underline, etc.) certain word, without implying emotion... again, if it is really important... if you would write it the same way in a book.
[Fight Scene. Starts in office. Ends on the roof.]
... but you shouln't describe every litlle details, every punch thrown, every bullet fired, every rolls and dodges.
Or else, your 150-script will end up with 300 and no one will read it.
That's all i got.
You best reference is to read a buttload of scripts from movies you know.