Creating a compelling scene in a screenplay is a delicate balance of several elements. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- Objective: Every scene should have a clear objective or purpose. This could be to advance the plot, reveal something about a character, or set up a future event. The scene should always be driving the story forward in some way.
- Conflict: Conflict is the engine of drama. It can be internal (within a character) or external (between characters or between a character and their environment). Conflict creates tension and keeps the audience engaged.
- Character Development: A good scene often reveals something new about a character or shows them in a new light. This could be through their actions, their dialogue, or their reactions to events.
- Visual Action: Film is a visual medium, so it’s important to include visual action in your scenes. This doesn’t necessarily mean car chases or fight scenes – it could be as simple as a character nervously fidgeting with an object while they talk.
- Dialogue: Good dialogue can reveal character, advance the plot, and provide exposition. It should sound natural and be true to the character’s voice. Remember, less is often more when it comes to dialogue.
- Pacing: The rhythm and pace of a scene can greatly affect its impact. A fast-paced action scene can create excitement, while a slow, quiet scene can build tension or allow for emotional depth.
- Stakes: There should be something at stake in every scene, whether it’s a character’s life, their relationships, their goals, or their values. The higher the stakes, the more invested the audience will be.
- Three-Act Structure: Just like an overall screenplay, a scene can also have a three-act structure: setup, confrontation, and resolution. This gives the scene a mini-arc within the larger story.
- Emotional Resonance: A great scene should evoke an emotional response from the audience. This could be fear, joy, sadness, anticipation, or any other emotion. The more the audience cares about what’s happening, the more effective the scene will be.
- Surprise: A good scene often includes an element of surprise or the unexpected. This could be a plot twist, a character revelation, or an unexpected event. Surprises keep the audience on their toes and make the story unpredictable.
Remember, every scene should serve a purpose and move the story forward. If a scene doesn’t do this, it might be worth considering whether it needs to be in the screenplay at all.
Use my Scene Analysis Worksheet to evaluate your scenes. Happy Writing
