Action Lines
Seventh in the 12 step screenwriters algorithm by Scriptdick
My Favorite
Action Lines are only what the audience sees on the screen. Action Lines are the physical actions that take place in a scene.
When on a movie set and the scene is about to take place. On location, stage, lighting, sound, actors, props, makeup, wardrobe, list goes on.
Director’s ready to shoot the scene. Here’s what you will hear on the set from the director every time
“Quiet on the set! Cameras role! Sound! ACTION!!”
the movement(action)takes place now
Moments prior to the Directors call; (the stage is set) All of the essential elements to create a real true to life humane experience are in place.
Note, Sound gets a separate line in the formatting. Sound always opens with a header that is; OS which means, OFF SCREEN
Why is that? What is on the screen can only be things that are seen. Sound can only be heard. That’s why the OS off screen header is used in the screenplay. The reader is informed of the sound; just like in the film or television show. Sound is heard not seen. Action lines are seen.
Action Lines are where the majority of the movie is created.
Action Lines are what the Audience actually sees taking place on the screen….Period
Elements that must never be in the Action Lines
- Audio
- Sound
- Dialogue
- Fantasy
- Hyperbole
- Thoughts
- Opinions
Reading a screenplay should be like watching the actual movie where physical things happen. There’s movement and that movement must be written exactly as the writer see’s it in their imagination and written properly on the page.
The unbreakable RULE
SHOW the Action don’t TELL the Action
Action Lines are the PHYSICAL ACTIONS taking place NOW in the Present Moment of the scene.
Example; Mike stands face to face with Christi. Mike looks over his shoulder, appears cautious. He turns back to Christi, leans in, kisses her on the lips. Christi squirms, looks startled, slaps Mikes face.
If the Action Taking place is (Past tense) or (Future tense) Add a simple HEADER first showing the audience these Actions took place in the past, or they will be taking place in the future.
There’s a lot to talk about with Action Lines. If you have any questions drop me an email. I’d love to discuss them with you.