Introduction to a Screenplay

In order to make our Film Noir the best it can be, the main thing we need to follow is a screenplay. The screenplay often known as a script, contains everything we really need for the film. It is almost like a written description of the film, which includes everything from descriptions of the characters and their actions, details of their costumes, props and sets to camera angles and other technical aspects of the film. The screenplay is often drafted and re-drafted many times before the film is finished. Discussion between the group is vital if changes are to be made.

Each scene is individually numbered and also the scene will always begin with directions as to where the action will take place and what time of day it is. For example as you can see in the image to the left, it shows us a brief description. INT = Interior. EXT = Exterior. Small things like this will help the actors out a great deal an it also makes things look a lot more professional.

In this screenshot it shows a part of the screenplay for the film 'Twenty four seven.' The script shows the films name, the location and time of the day. And it also gives us the characters names in caps. This allows the actor, director etc to be able to read the script in the easiest way possible, and through using simple things such as stating the time of day and location it allows things to be a lot more organised and stress free. Of course things will be changed in the screenplay through out the film, and this is also something that will apply to our group when it comes to making our film noir.