Screenwriting & Filming Dictionary: Grow Your Vocabulary, #6

By Blake Pieck

 

1st Edition - All about Screenwriting & Filming. In this first edition, we cover 362+ words and phrases .

A Scriptwriting and Filming Dictionary is a comprehensive reference guide for anyone involved in the film industry. It includes a wide range of terms, definitions, and concepts related to the art and craft of screenwriting, directing, and cinematography.

The dictionary covers many topics. It can be used as a valuable tool for film students, aspiring screenwriters, directors, producers, or anyone interested in understanding the technical and creative aspects of film production.

With its user-friendly format and clear explanations, a Scriptwriting and Filming Dictionary is an essential resource for anyone looking to improve their knowledge and skills in the film industry.

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Blake Pieck
• Release date: May 26, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223377412

Book preview

Scriptwriting Dictionary

A

360-Degree Cameras  -  Camera  -  Equipment  -  These cameras capture footage in all directions, allowing viewers to experience a scene from multiple angles. They are often used for virtual reality and immersive experiences.

360-degree cameras are a type of camera that captures a panoramic view of an environment in all directions, allowing the viewer to look around and explore the scene in a virtual reality-like experience. They usually consist of two or more lenses that capture images simultaneously and stitch them together to create a 360-degree view. These cameras are commonly used for capturing immersive videos and photos for virtual tours, live events, and marketing campaigns. See Camera.

A Page  -  A revised page that extends beyond the original page, going onto a second page. (i.e. Page 1, 1A, 2, 3, 3A)

A Psychological Trick  -  Structure  -  Suspense  -  Filmmakers use this technique frequently. It is when the scene lingers on an entrance before the protagonist comes in. This you will mostly find in genres such as thriller, cop dramas, and horror movies. Filmmakers can use psychological tricks to create emotional and psychological effects on their audience.

Here are some examples:

The Framing Effect  -  Filmmakers can use the framing of a shot to manipulate the audience's perception of a character or situation. By positioning the camera in a certain way, the audience can be made to feel closer to or more distant from the action, which can influence their emotional response.

The Primacy Effect  -  This psychological trick involves presenting information at the beginning of a film that will influence the audience's perception of the rest of the story. Filmmakers can use this technique to establish a certain tone or mood for the film.

The Recency Effect  -  Similar to the primacy effect, the recency effect involves presenting information at the end of a film that will leave a lasting impression on the audience. Filmmakers can use this technique to create a memorable and impactful ending.

The Confirmation Bias  -  This psychological trick involves presenting information that confirms the audience's existing beliefs or biases. Filmmakers can use this technique to create a sense of identification or empathy with the characters, and to reinforce the film's message.

The Mere-Exposure Effect  -  This psychological trick involves presenting a certain image, sound, or idea repeatedly, which can increase the audience's positive feelings towards it. Filmmakers can use this technique to create a sense of familiarity and comfort with the film's themes and motifs.

Overall, filmmakers can use psychological tricks to create a more engaging and impactful film experience for their audience. However, they should use these techniques ethically and responsibly, and be aware of the potential impact on the audience's emotions and beliefs.

Abbreviations  -  Scriptwriting  -  Shortcuts used in scripts. Abbreviations are commonly used in scripts to save space and simplify the reading experience. However, it is important to use them correctly and consistently to avoid confusion for the actors and production team.

Here are some common abbreviations used in scripts:

Ext. (For Exterior) And Int. (For Interior)  -  These abbreviations are used to indicate whether a scene takes place outside or inside a location.

V.O. (For Voiceover)  -  This abbreviation is used to indicate that a character's dialogue is heard, but they are not physically present in the scene.

O.S. (For Off-Screen)  -  This abbreviation is used to indicate that a character is speaking, but they are not visible on camera.

CU (For Close-Up)  -  This abbreviation is used to indicate that the camera is focused on a close-up of a character or object.

POV (For Point Of View)  -  This abbreviation is used to indicate that the camera is showing the scene from the perspective of a particular character.

TBA (For To Be Announced)  -  This abbreviation is used when a specific location or time has not been determined yet.

TBD (For To Be Determined)  -  This abbreviation is used when a specific detail, such as a character's name or a prop, has not been finalized yet.

When using abbreviations in scripts, it is important to make sure they are widely understood and not too obscure. It is also important to use them consistently throughout the script to avoid confusion for the actors and production team.

Above-The-Line  -  In film, those costs that occur before filming, this includes salaries of the talent and creative team (director, producer, screenwriter), plus any rights required for adapted scripts. Sometimes, above-the-line can also refer to the people included in the above-the-line payment category.

In film production, above-the-line refers to the creative and managerial personnel involved in the making of a film, particularly those who have a significant impact on the final product. These individuals typically receive higher salaries and are considered more important to the project than the below-the-line personnel, who are involved in the technical and logistical aspects of the production.

The above-the-line personnel typically include:

Writers  -  The individuals responsible for creating the screenplay or script.

Directors  -  The individuals responsible for overseeing the creative vision of the film and directing the actors and crew.

Producers  -  The individuals responsible for managing the production and financing of the film, as well as overseeing creative decisions.

Actors  -  The individuals who portray the characters in the film.

Key Department Heads  -  The individuals who are responsible for the major creative departments, such as the cinematographer, production designer, and editor.

The above-the-line personnel are typically involved in the early stages of the film production, from development to pre-production and principal photography. They play a critical role in shaping the story and style of the film, and their decisions can have a major impact on the success of the project. See Actors, Directors, Key Department Heads, Producers.

Act  -  A large division of a full-length play, separated from the other act or acts by an intermission.

In screenwriting, an act refers to a traditional structure for a screenplay or teleplay. Typically, a screenplay is divided into three acts, with each act consisting of a different phase of the story.

Here is a general breakdown of the three-act structure:

Act One  -  This is the setup phase, where the main characters and their situation are introduced. The goal of Act One is to hook the audience and establish the premise and conflict of the story. Typically, Act One ends with an inciting incident that sets the story in motion and propels the protagonist into action.

Act Two  -  This is the confrontation phase, where the protagonist encounters obstacles and challenges on their journey towards their goal. Act Two is typically the longest part of the screenplay, and includes subplots, twists, and complications that increase the tension and stakes of the story. The midpoint of Act Two often marks a turning point or major revelation that shifts the story in a new direction.

Act Three  -  This is the resolution phase, where the protagonist confronts the main antagonist and resolves the conflict of the story. Act Three typically includes a climax, where the protagonist faces their greatest challenge, followed by a resolution or denouement that ties up loose ends and provides closure for the story.

While the three-act structure is a commonly used framework for screenplays, it is not the only way to structure a story. Some screenplays use a different number of acts or may use a non-linear or experimental structure to tell their story. However, the three-act structure remains a popular and effective tool for screenwriters to create compelling and coherent narratives. See Setup, Confrontation, Resolution.

Act/Scene Heading  -  Centered, all CAPS heading at the start of an act or scene. Act numbers are written in Roman numerals, scene numbers in ordinals.

Acting Edition  -  A published play script, typically for use in productions in the amateur market or as reading copies. Often has a list of prop list or set design sketches.

An Acting Edition of a script is a published version of a play or screenplay that is designed specifically for use by actors and stage or film productions. These editions often contain features that make them more practical for use in rehearsal and performance, such as:

Larger Font  -  Acting Editions may have larger fonts than the standard published version of the script, making them easier to read for actors and other production personnel.

Page Numbering  -  Acting Editions may have a unique page numbering system that helps actors and stage managers keep track of their cues and lines during rehearsals and performances.

Cast Of Characters  -  Acting Editions often include a cast of characters at the beginning of the script, with brief descriptions of each character, to help actors and directors understand the roles and relationships within the play or screenplay.

Stage Directions  -  Acting Editions may have more detailed and specific stage directions than the standard published version of the script, providing actors and directors with guidance on movement, blocking, and other staging elements.

Production Notes  -  Acting Editions may include notes from the playwright, director, or other production personnel on the intended tone, style, or vision for the play or screenplay, providing context and guidance for actors and production staff.

Acting Editions can be purchased from many bookstores and online retailers, and are often used by theater companies, schools, and film productions as a practical resource for staging a production.

Action  -  The moving pictures we see on screen. Also, the direction given by a director indicating that filming begins.

In scriptwriting, action refers to the visual and physical elements of a story that are described through movement, setting, and character actions. Action is an important component of screenwriting, as it provides the visual and physical context that brings a story to life on screen.

Here are some tips for writing action in your screenplay:

Keep It Concise  -  Action lines should be brief and to the point, describing only the most important details of the scene.

Use Strong Verbs  -  Action lines should be written with strong, active verbs that convey a sense of urgency and movement.

Be Descriptive  -  While action lines should be concise, they should also provide enough detail to paint a vivid picture in the reader's mind.

Use Sensory Language  -  Describing the sights, sounds, and other sensory details of a scene can help to bring it to life and engage the reader.

Make It Relevant  -  Action should always be relevant to the story and characters, moving the plot forward and revealing something about the characters.

Use Formatting To Your Advantage  -  Screenplay formatting conventions can help to emphasize important action moments, such as by using capital letters or bold font for important actions or events.

Avoid Overly Choreographed Action  -  While action scenes can be exciting, it's important to avoid overly choreographed or unrealistic action that can detract from the story.

By following these tips, you can create action scenes that are engaging, concise, and relevant to the story, helping to move the plot forward and keep the reader engaged.

In filmmaking, action refers to the part of a scene or sequence in which the physical activity or movement takes place. This can include anything from a car chase or fight scene to a simple walking shot. Filming action requires careful planning and execution to ensure that the scene looks believable and engaging to the audience.

Here are some tips for filming action scenes:

Plan The Scene In Advance  -  Before filming, it's important to plan out the action sequence in detail, including the camera angles, blocking, and choreography of the movements.

Use Multiple Cameras  -  Filming action from multiple camera angles can help you capture all of the important moments and movements in the scene.

Pay Attention To Framing  -  The way you frame the shot can have a big impact on the viewer's perception of the action. Consider using close-ups and wide shots to convey different aspects of the scene.

Use Editing To Enhance The Action  -  Editing can be used to enhance the impact of the action, such as by using quick cuts to create a sense of urgency or slow motion to highlight a particular moment.

Work With Trained Professionals  -  If your action scene involves stunts or fight choreography, it's important to work with trained professionals to ensure that the actors are safe, and the movements look realistic.

Consider Special Effects  -  Special effects, such as pyrotechnics or CGI, can be used to enhance the impact of the action and create a sense of spectacle for the audience.

By following these tips, you can create engaging and exciting action scenes that capture the viewer's attention and help move the story forward.

Action Cameras  -  Camera  -  Equipment  -  These small, durable cameras are often used for capturing dynamic action shots, such as those in sports and adventure filmmaking.

Action cameras are small, lightweight cameras that are designed to capture action-packed footage from the perspective of the person participating in the activity. These cameras are commonly used in extreme sports and other high-energy activities where traditional cameras may not be practical or safe to use. They are typically waterproof and shockproof, and can be mounted on helmets, bicycles, skateboards, or other equipment to capture first-person views of the action. Some popular action camera brands include GoPro, Sony Action Cam, and DJI Osmo Action. See Camera.

Actors / Actresses  -  Actors are individuals who perform in various forms of entertainment, such as film, television, theater, and commercials. They bring characters to life by embodying their personalities, emotions, and physicality, and delivering their lines and actions on stage or on camera.

Actors typically have to audition for roles, either through open calls or by invitation. During the audition, they perform a monologue or a scene from the script, and are evaluated by casting directors and producers based on their talent, suitability for the role, and overall fit with the project.

Once an actor is cast, they work with directors, writers, and other cast members to prepare for the production. This includes rehearsals, costume fittings, and other preparations necessary to bring the script to life.

During the production, actors work long hours, sometimes in challenging conditions, to deliver their performances. They often have to memorize extensive scripts and perform their roles with precision and consistency across multiple takes and scenes.

Overall, actors are an integral part of the entertainment industry, bringing stories and characters to life for audiences to enjoy and connect with. They use their skills, talent, and dedication to their craft to create memorable performances that entertain and inspire.

Actresses are female actors who perform in various forms of entertainment, such as film, television, theater, and commercials. They bring characters to life by embodying their personalities, emotions, and physicality, and delivering their lines and actions on stage or on camera.

Like actors, actresses typically have to audition for roles, either through open calls or by invitation. During the audition, they perform a monologue or a scene from the script, and are evaluated by casting directors and producers based on their talent, suitability for the role, and overall fit with the project.

Once an actress is cast, she works with directors, writers, and other cast members to prepare for the production. This includes rehearsals, costume fittings, and other preparations necessary to bring the script to life.

During the production, actresses work long hours, sometimes in challenging conditions, to deliver their performances. They often have to memorize extensive scripts and perform their roles with precision and consistency across multiple takes and scenes.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement within the entertainment industry to provide more opportunities for actresses and to ensure that they receive equal pay and treatment as their male counterparts.

Overall, actresses are an integral part of the entertainment industry, bringing stories and characters to life for audiences to enjoy and connect with. They use their skills, talent, and dedication to their craft to create memorable performances that entertain and inspire. See Above-The-Line.

Ad Lib  -  Dialogue in which the characters or actors make up what they say in real time on the movie set or on stage. From the Latin ad libitum, in accordance with desire.

Against  -  A term describing the ultimate potential payday for a writer in a film deal. $400,000 against $800,000 means that the writer is paid $400,000 when the script is finished (through rewrite and polish); when and if the movie goes into production, the writer gets an additional $400,000.

Agent Submission  -  A method of play submission, in which a theater requires that a script be submitted by a recognized literary agent.

Agent submission refers to the process of submitting a screenplay, teleplay, or other written work to a literary agent for representation. Literary agents act as intermediaries between writers and producers, studios, or publishing houses, helping to negotiate deals and secure opportunities for their clients.

Here are some tips for submitting your work to a literary agent:

Research Agents  -  Before submitting your work, research literary agents who represent the type of material you have written. Look for agents who have a track record of success in your genre or area of interest.

Follow Submission Guidelines  -  Agents typically have specific submission guidelines that must be followed. Make sure you read and follow these guidelines carefully to avoid your submission being rejected.

Personalize Your Submission  -  When submitting your work, take the time to personalize your submission to the agent you are targeting. Address them by name and mention any specific reasons why you think they would be a good fit for your project.

Be Professional  -  Your submission should be professional and polished, including a well-written query letter or synopsis that accurately and compellingly describes your project.

Be Patient  -  It can take time for agents to review submissions and get back to you. Be patient and follow up politely if you haven't heard back after a reasonable amount of time.

Consider Attending Industry Events  -  Industry events such as writer's conferences or pitch festivals can provide opportunities to meet agents in person and pitch your work.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of successfully submitting your work to a literary agent and securing representation.

Alan Smithee  -  A fictional name taken by a writer or director who doesn't want their real name credited on a film.

Alan Smithee is a pseudonym used by filmmakers when they want to disown a project that they have worked on. The name was created by the Directors Guild of America (DGA) as a way for directors to remove their name from a