Mastering Screenplay Form and Style provides a comprehensive guide to screenwriting, covering essential format requirements, expressive language, and industry standards, helping students and aspiring professionals create compelling scripts with a distinctive style and voice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 30 December 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Mastering Screenplay Form and Style is a comprehensive reference manual that explores the art and craft of screenwriting, providing a deep dive into the fundamental rhetorical concepts, industry standards, and expressive screenwriting techniques. Organized in three parts, the book systematically reveals the full essence of the screenwriters craft, covering essential format requirements, professional norms for script formatting and language, and methods for indelible character introductions and managing story and screen time on the page.

Mastering Screenplay Form and Style

Unveiling the Secrets of Professional Screenwriting

Mastering Screenplay Form and Style is a comprehensive reference manual that delves into the art and craft of screenwriting, providing a deep dive into the fundamental rhetorical concepts, industry standards, and expressive screenwriting techniques. Organized in three parts, the book systematically reveals the full essence of the screenwriters craft, covering essential format requirements, professional norms for script formatting and language, and methods for indelible character introductions and managing story and screen time on the page.

The Ground Rules: Unveiling the Art of Dramatizing a Story for the Screen

The Ground Rules section explores the fundamental rhetorical concepts for dramatizing a story for the screen. It covers essential format requirements, such as scene headings, character names, and dialogue, as well as the craft and style concepts that underpin everything working screenwriters use. You will learn how to create compelling storylines, develop memorable characters, and use language to convey emotion and meaning. The section also covers the use of screenplay elements such as dialogue, action, and description to create a rich and immersive cinematic experience.

The Industry Standards: Mastering the Professional Norms for Script Formatting and Language

The Industry Standards section covers the professional norms for script formatting and language. It includes information on the function and correct use of the six screenplay elements for common, advanced, and challenging narrative situations. You will learn how to format your script correctly, use proper grammar and punctuation, and avoid common mistakes that can distract readers from the story. The section also covers methods for indelible character introductions and managing story and screen time on the page.

Expressive Screenwriting: Infusing Your Scripts with Cinematic Energy and Dramatic Tone

Expressive Screenwriting section explores how precise visual writing can infuse your scripts with cinematic energy, dramatic tone, POV, and narrative flow. You will learn how to use visual imagery, metaphor, and symbolism to create a unique and memorable cinematic experience. The section also covers when, why, and how screenwriters bend and even break screenwriting conventions for dramatic purpose. By understanding the expressive screenwriting techniques, you can create scripts that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Conclusion

Mastering Screenplay Form and Style is the ideal text to guide screenwriting students and aspiring professional screenwriters to move beyond technically "correct" scripts, to truly captivate readers through compelling screenplays with a distinctive style and voice. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced screenwriter, this book will provide you with the tools and techniques you need to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting.

Dimension: 280 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138666429