Script page format doubt...

amiga500

amiga500

Active member
I have a doubt on script format...
I'm writing a script for a shortfilm right now, about 15-20 min long, and I remember reading somewhere that 'one page of script'= 'one minute'. I think it was a Syd Field's book.

Now I think that it could have variatons if you have an A4 size sheet or other size, right?

So what is the most standard page format?
 
Dude, don't worry about that "rule" just write the script.

One page of dialogue is very different to action in timing and pace.

It's just a rule of thumb.

EJ
 
EJ Pennypacker said:
Dude, don't worry about that "rule" just write the script.

One page of dialogue is very different to action in timing and pace.

It's just a rule of thumb.

EJ
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Sure, half of my script is written already, just wonder if there's a standard format for printing, since I've think of giving away a copy of the script together with the dvd.

thanks
 
thematthewbone said:
yes there is a very rigid standard for screenplays.

look into the free program celtx. it formats for you.
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thanks for your advice, but i'm using Celtx already!
The thing I don't know if there's a specific size in inches for scripts pages.
I think A4 size is a little big.
 
As far as print size, the matthewbone has it correct. As far as the whole "1 page = 1 minute" that is just an estimate. It will vary depending on your writing style and how complex the non-verbal elements are.
 
A4 roughly has the same width, but more lenght. If you go into your page options and just shorten the page, then you'll be good to go.

EJ
 
You're going to get a much closer number if you sit down with a stopwatch and read the dialog, estimate how long the action takes by pausing in between. But don't forget to turn the stopwatch on.

Ty
 
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