On Language in Scripts (Part III)

Only tell the reader what is being seen.

When describing people, places and situations never tell the reader something that can’t be seen by a person sitting in the theater watching the movie unfold. Resist the urge to explain or provide exposition. Do not give us backstory or the inner monologue of any character. Do not describe how someone is feeling. Sure, there exceptions. Some writers get away with it, but unless you have perfected this kind of unique style, avoid it at all costs.

Write what you see.

When you’re writing your script. Take a moment to pause. Closes your eyes. Imagine the scene. What are you seeing? What are you looking at? Describe that! Tell us only what we can see in that moment. Be brief. Use clear, easily understood language. Don’t use words that call attention to themselves. Test your description by reading it aloud. How does it sound? Is it easy to say? Is it clear and understandable?

Write what you hear.

When writing dialogue, do the same. Before you start writing the words your characters will say, pause. Imagine the scene. Imagine the characters living in that scene. How do they sound? How do they speak? What are they saying? Do you know how it sounds? Try to capture that!