Sciptwriting glossary

Sciptwriting glossary

Dialogue

  Very simply, this is what people are supposed to say according to the script.

INT.

  Interior. This scene takes place indoors. This is mostly for producers to figure out the probable cost of a film 

project.

EXT.

Exterior. This scene takes place out of doors. This is mostly for producers to figure out the probable cost of a film project.

Scene

An event that takes place entirely in one location or time. If we go outside from inside, it's a new scene. If we cut to five minutes later, it's a new scene. If both, it's a new scene. Scenes can range from one shot to infinity and are distinguished by slug lines.

Slug Line

  The text in all CAPS at the beginning of a scene that briefly describes the location and time of day. 

For example: 

INT. JIMMY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 

Note: sometimes sluglines are abbreviated to something as simple as "LATER" or "BEDROOM" to maintain the pace and flow of a sequence.

Character

  In a screenplay, the name appears in all caps the first time a character is introduced in the "Action." The character's name can then be written normally, in the action, the rest of the script. 

For Example: The limo pulls up to the curb. DAISY, an elderly woman sits in the car as MORGAN, the driver, steps out and opens the door for her. Daisy is dressed in evening-wear, ready for an Opera. Character's names always appear in all CAPS when speaking. 

For Example: 

  DAISY

You've been a darling, Morgan. Here's twenty dollars.

Director

  The person who visualizes the movie based on the script, creates shots, suggests how the actors should portray their characters, and helps to edit the final cut. Basically, the person in charge of putting converting a script into a movie.