Story Development
Story Development
Part – A
1. Camera movement
· The lighting director and cinematographer carefully planned the camera movement for a
scene
2. Camera angle
· The camera angle marks the specific location at which the movie camera is placed to take a
shot.
· Low angle, high angle, eye angle, dutch angle are the types of camera angles
3. Continuity
· Continuity in filmmaking is the practice of ensuring that details in a shot are consistent
from shot to shot within a film scene.
4. Shot sizes
· Generally speaking, we can break this down into three main shot sizes: Long, Medium, and
Close.
· Long shots (also commonly called Wide shots) show the subject from a distance,
emphasizing place and location, while Close shots reveal details of the subject and highlight
emotions of a character.
5. Soviet montage
· It is an approach to understand and create cinema that relies heavily upon editing.
· It is the principal contribution of Soviet film theorists to global cinema, and brought
formalism to bear (accept) on filmmaking.
6. Shooting script
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· The final completely detailed version of a motion-picture script in which scenes are
grouped in the order most convenient for shooting.
· The director, who oversees all audio and visual elements of the motion picture, is more to
be considered the “author” of the movie.
· An auteur is an artist, usually a film director, who applies a highly centralized and
subjective control to many aspects of a collaborative creative work
8. Properties (Prop)
· A prop, formally known as property, is an object used on stage or screen by actors during a
performance or screen production.
9. Noddy shot
· Noddy headshots or noddies are a type of camera reaction shot used in recorded news or
current affairs interviews.
· They consist of nods and other similar "listening gestures" made by the interviewer.
· A two shot is a type of shot in which the frame encompasses two people.
· The subjects do not have to be next to each other, and there are many common two shots
which have one subject in the foreground and the other subject in the background
· An event when shot continuously from the beginning to the end in a single setting and a
continuous take is a master scene.
· It is often a long shot and can sometimes perform a double function as an establishing shot.
· An effect created when two or more actions in two or more different locations are
presented by cross-cutting between them.
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· This alternation between actions proposes to the viewer that they are taking place at the
same time.
· A shot from one side of the field towards the opposite corner of the goal.
· A technique for filming interactions between two people in which the camera looks
alternately at one or the other person, with the focus on the person farthest from the camera.
· Ambient sound means the background sounds which are present in a scene or location.
· Common ambient sounds include wind, water, birds, crowds, office noises, traffic, etc.
15. Logging
· Logging is a process in which video footage is watched and labeled according to its
content.
· It will be helpful to make notes about each shot captured on a shot log sheet, which makes
editing much easier and ensures you don’t miss the best take from each angle.
16. Filmography
· For example, an actor's career filmography is the list of films he or she has appeared in; a
director's comedy filmography is the list of comedy films directed by a particular director.
· An establishing shot is a shot in filmmaking or television that sets up the context for the
scene ahead, designed to inform the audience where the action will be taking place.
· It shows the relationship between people and objects, and establishes the scene's
geography
· In cinematography, a low-angle shot, is a shot from a camera angle positioned low on the
vertical axis, anywhere below the eye line, looking up.
· The effect of the low-angle shot is that it makes the subject look strong and powerful
· A tracking shot is any shot where the camera follows backward, forward or moves
alongside the subject being recorded.
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· In cinematography, the term refers to a shot in which the camera is mounted on a
camera dolly that is then placed on rails – like a railroad track.
· Voice-over is a production technique where a voice that is not part of the narrative is used
in a radio, television production, filmmaking, theatre, or other presentations.
· The voice-over is read from a script and may be spoken by someone who appears
elsewhere in the production or by a specialist voice talent.
· It is the search for a suitable place outside the studio for shooting
· A laugh track is a separate soundtrack for a recorded comedy show containing the sound of
audience laughter.
· A whip pan is a type of pan shot in which the camera pans so quickly that the picture blurs
into indistinct (unclear) streaks.
· It is commonly used as a transition between shots, and can indicate the passage of time or a
distracted pace of action
24. Casting
· In the performing arts industry such as theatre, film, or television, a casting is a pre-
production process for selecting a certain type of actor, dancer, singer, etc.
25. POV
· A point of view shot is a shot that shows what a character is looking at.
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· A cutaway shot is the interruption of a continuously filmed action by inserting a view of
something else.
27. Montage
· Montage is a film editing technique in which a series of short shots are sequenced to
condense space, time, and information.
· The term has been used in various contexts. In French the word "montage" applied to
cinema simply denotes editing.
· In a motion picture, television program or video game, the opening credits or opening titles
are shown at the very beginning and list the most important members of the production.
· They are now usually shown as text superimposed on a blank screen or static pictures, or
sometimes on top of action.
· In general usage, the term is most commonly seen in reference to a standalone production,
such as a television film, a television play.
· Art director facilitate the production designer's creative vision for all the locations and sets
that eventually give the film its unique visual identity.
· Art Directors are responsible for the art department budget and schedule of work
· It is taken from a speech or press conference and broadcast especially during a news report
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33. Scene order
· It constitute and advance a distinct component of the story narrative, plot and/or character
development.
· In screenwriting terminology, dual dialogs simply mean that two characters are speaking
simultaneously.
· The dual dialog is represented by a dual column format in the written script.
35. Sketches
· They illustrate the camera angles, timing, look, and action of a film to work efficiently on
set.
· Storyboarder, StudioBinder, Moviestorm are some of the software’s used for creating
storyboard.
· The software has a clean interface with all the necessary tools to quickly draw shapes and
characters
37. Synopsis
· Synopsis ensures character actions and motivations are realistic and make sense.
· It summarizes what happens and who changes from beginning to end of the story.
38. Shot
· A shot is the moment that the camera starts rolling until the moment it stops.
· Mid shot, close-up, long shot, extreme long shot are some of the types of camera shot
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39. Scene
40. Sequence
· For example the robbery sequence might consist of an entry sequence, a safe-cracking
sequence, and so on.
· Cinema verite, which translates to "truthful cinema," is a manner of capturing the story on
screen.
42. EDL
· An edit decision list or EDL is used in the post-production process of film editing.
· The list contains an ordered list of reel where each video clip can be obtained in order to
conform the final cut.
· Parallel cinema was a film movement in Indian cinema that originated in the state of west
Bengal as an alternative to the mainstream commercial Indian cinema.
· The movement was initially led by Bengali film makers Satyajit Ray, Mirnal Sen, Ritwik
Ghatak and others.
44. Action
· Action film is a film genre in which the protagonist is thrust into a series of events that
typically include violence, extended fighting, physical feats, and frantic chases
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· A historical period drama is a work set in a past time period, usually used in the context
of film and television.
· It is also historical drama, period drama, costume drama, and period piece
46. Treatment
· A screenplay treatment is simply the plot of story written down in prose form.
· The intended audience for treatment can include producers, executives, directors, and
actors.
· Headroom refers specifically to the distance between the top of the subject's head and the
top of the frame
· Looking room is the amount of space between the subject and the edge of the screen they
are facing.
· The frame should have more space in front of the subject than behind.
49. Synopsis
· A synopsis conveys the narrative arc, an explanation of the problem or plot, the characters,
and how the book, novel or film ends.
· It summarizes what happens and who changes from beginning to end of the story.
50. Plot
· A plot is the sequence of events that make up a story, whether it’s told, written, filmed, or
sung.
· The plot is the story, and more specifically, how the story develops, unfolds, and moves in
time.
· A shooting script is the version of a screenplay used during the production of a motion
picture.
· A shooting script is used during the production process of movie to help communicate the
filming process to all crew members and actors involved.
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52. Mise-en-scene
· Mise-en-scène is the stage design and arrangement of actors in scenes for a theatre or film
production,
· It refers to everything placed on the stage or in front of the camera, including people.
· Theme music is a musical composition that is often written specifically for radio
programming, television shows, video games, or films and is usually played during the title
sequence, opening credits, closing credits, and in some instances at some point during the
program
· Deep focus is a photographic and cinematographic technique using a large depth of field.
· In deep focus, the foreground, middle ground, and background are all in focus.
· Composition refers to the way elements of a scene are arranged in a camera frame.
· Scenic design (also known as stage design, or set design) is the creation of theatrical, as
well as film or television scenery.
· Scenic designers design sets and scenery that aim to support the overall artistic goals of the
production.
57. Sub-plot
· Subplots may connect to main plots, in either time and place or in thematic significance.
· Subplots often involve supporting characters, those besides the protagonist or antagonist.
58. Storyboard
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· A storyboard is a graphic representation of how a video will unfold, shot by shot.
· It's made up of a number of squares with illustrations or pictures representing each shot,
with notes about what's going on in the scene and what's being said in the script during that
shot.
59. Narration
· They summarize key plot points so the movie can rapidly progress to the next scene and
keep the story moving forward.
60. Protagonist
· The protagonist is the character who drives the plot, pursues the main goal of the story, and
usually changes or grows over the course of the film.
· The protagonist makes key decisions that affect the plot, primarily influencing the story and
propelling it forward, and is often the character who faces the most significant obstacles
61. Antagonist
62. Dialogue
· Dialogue means lines spoken by a character either between fictional characters or real
people.
63. Fiction
· Fiction is any creative work consisting of people, events, or places that are imaginary, in
other words, not based strictly on history or fact.
· Mysteries, science fiction, romance, fantasy, crime thrillers are all fiction genres
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· The one-liner is the story stated in one sentence.
· It is the simplest combination of character and plot and typically consists of some event
that starts the action, some sense of the main character, and some sense of the outcome of
the story.
· A shot consists of a single take, which can be several seconds or several minutes long.
66. Screenplay
· These screenplays can be original works or adaptations from existing pieces of writing.
· In them, the movement, actions, expression and dialogues of the characters are also
narrated
67. Adaptation
· A film adaptation is the transfer of a work or story, in whole or in part, to a feature film.
· Adapted films are more popular and successful than original screenplays because the
audience already read the book, which ensures that it will not “flop” at the box-office
68. Flashback
· A flashback is an interjected scene that takes the narrative back in time from the current
point in the story.
· Flashbacks are often used to recount events that happened before the story's primary
sequence of events to fill in crucial backstory
69. Promo
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· Credits play at the beginning and end of nearly every film.
· The opening credits inform the audience which studios or production companies were
involved in making the film, and they run the names of the major stars in the cast.
71. Character
72. Genre
· Film genres are categories that define a movie based on its narrative elements.
· Genres have changed and evolved over time, creating several subgenres that further define
the filmmaking styles.
73. Logline
· Loglines distill the important elements of screenplay, main character, setup, central
conflict, antagonist into a clear, concise teaser.
· The logline hooks the listener into reading the entire script.
· A plot point is an event that changes the character's orientation to that objective.
· At each plot point, the character is either closer to or farther from the goal.
· In film and television, a script breakdown is an analysis of a screenplay in which all of the
production elements are reduced into lists.
· A script breakdown that allows to identify all the script elements needed to prep, schedule,
and budget a film production.
· In screenwriting, backstory is the story that happens before the start of the story that is seen
on screen.
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· Backstory tells how a character becomes the person we meet at the beginning of the film or
it can describe how the circumstances, situations, or relationships in the main story come
about
· A character arc is the transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a
story.
· The character begins as one sort of person and gradually transforms into a different sort of
person in response to changing developments in the story.
· In a broader sense, "punch line" can also refer to the unexpected and funny conclusion of
any performance, situation or story.
79. Prologue
· A prologue is an opening to a story that establishes the context and gives background
details.
· A prologue prepares the reader for the story they're about to read with information that is
necessary to have before the start of the novel itself.
· A preface gives the reader a look at how the book came to be.
· A slug line is a line within a screenplay written in all uppercase letters to draw attention to
specific script information
· Slug lines are their own line in a script and often break up the length of a scene while also
establishing the scenes pacing.
· Master scene headings are the standard opening line of a scene in a screenplay.
· They are used to communicate whether a scene occurs inside (INT.) or outside (EXT.) the
location of the scene, and the time of day the scene takes place.
· A feature film is a narrative film (motion picture or "movie") with a running time between
75 and 210 minutes long
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· A feature film was one that cost more to make, buy, rent, and sometimes more to watch.
Part – B & C
1. Importance of script
· The script helps us to give a rough idea of the length of the film.
· It describes the stock footage that is used, which locations where certain scenes will be
shot, what occurs in each shot, and what is included in each shot.
· Having a script in hand, with every shot and every action planned out in advance, allows
the video to be shot relatively quickly, saving on expense.
· In them the movement, action, expression and dialogues of the characters are also narrated.
· Without the script it would be difficult to complete further tasks later on such as the
storyboard and the shot list.
2. Terminology in scriptwriting
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· Cuts – Instant change from one scene to the next.
· Dissolves – Two scenes overlap during a transition from one to the other.
· Moving shot – Used to indicate the camera moving in some way during a scene
· Long shot (LS) – A shot from the top of someone’s head to at least their feet
· Medium close-up (MCU) – A shot cropped between the shoulders and the belt line
· Extreme close-up (XCU) – Used for dramatic impact and to show the eyes
· Boom shot – High angle shot, usually with the camera moving
· Jib shot – High angle shot, usually with the camera moving
· Crane shot – High angle shot, usually with the camera moving
· Establishing shot – A wide shot (WS) or long shot (LS) that gives the audience a basic
orientation and geography of the scene (who is where), then switch to cuts of closer shots
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· Reestablishing shot – Used as a reminder or updates the audience on scene changes
· Master shot – Similar to an establishing shot. Once master shot action is filmed the scene is
generally shot over again from different camera positions so that there are shots (especially
close-ups) of each actor. Dialogue, and actor reactions and movements are repeated each time
the camera is repositioned.
· Coverage – The additional shots of a scene used to compliment the master shot. It includes
close-ups and so on
· Canted shot, Dutch angle – A shot tilted 25 to 45 degrees to one side causing horizontal
lines to be at an angle, similar to an isometric view
· Subjective shot – A first-person shot, the camera will see what the character sees, good for
chase scenes
· Over the shoulder shot (OS) – A shot that shows the back of the head and maybe some
shoulder
· Dolly – When the camera is moved towards or away from the subject
· Point of View (POV) – A shot that is seen from the characters perspective
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· Special Effects (SFX) – Audio or visual effects that alter the reality of the scene, added in
the post-production phase
3. Importance of storyboard
· It helps to estimate the cost of the overall production and saves time.
· It provides a visual layout of events as they are to be seen through the camera lens.
· In this step, things like type of camera shot, angle, and blocking of characters are decided
4. Storyboard example
5. Documentary
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· A documentary can also inspire or persuade the viewers to raise their voice against
injustice or take actions to stop it.
· A documentary could be about various subjects such as a major injustice in the
society, a political event, a historical event, life circle of an animal, etc.
· Documentary filmmakers do not create events or characters; they only attempt to
recreate the reality.
· Therefore, documentaries have no actors, sets, or made-up locations.
· They are filmed in real locations with real actors. Compared to feature films,
documentaries are made with a low budget
6. Script format
· The artist can deliver the words which is in the script and not on his own
· Dramatic show, comedy skit, soap operas, news are some of the example of fully scripted
format
Semi-scripted format
· Example : In the live music programme, the opening and ending dialogues are only scripted
Show format
· It list only the order of particular show segment such as interview, advertisement, etc
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· No specific video or audio information is given
· The actor demonstrate the product and the director follows his action with camera
7. Importance of dialogue
· The characters on the screen speak from a script; to inform the audience.
· Dialogue works in movies to create a realistic flavor, to represent the everyday exchanges
people have.
· The communication of narrative causality. The ulterior motive of much of film dialogue is
to communicate "why?" and "how?" and "what next?" to the viewer.
· Guiding the viewer. Filmmakers accomplish this by using dialogue to control pacing or
atmosphere.
· Their main function is to frighten the viewer, to increase the scene's tension. In this case,
dialogue is accomplishing the task often taken by evocative background music—it is working
straight on the viewer's emotions.
· The insertion of thematic messages. Putting thematic or moral messages in the mouths of
their characters allows filmmakers to talk to the audience.
· With the addition of verbal language, cinema was offered infinite possibilities in terms of
puns, jokes, misunderstandings, witticisms, metaphors, curses, whispers, screams, songs,
poetry, or storytelling.
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8. Feature film
· A feature film is a film that is made for the purpose of entertaining the audience.
· They are often commercial films.
· Comedy, action, romance, mystery, thriller, horror, and adventure are some common
subjects in feature films.
· The main distinction between feature film and documentary is that feature films are
based on fiction; they have imaginary events, characters and situations.
· Even if the film is inspired by real events, the writers, and the producers have the
creative freedom to incorporate fictional characters and situations.
· These films will have a smooth flow with carefully structured action and dialogues.
· The action and dialogues are never spontaneous; they are scripted and practiced in
advance.
· In addition, feature films require a huge budget compared to documentaries.
9. Short film
We can define a short film as a film in which the duration never exceeds 30 minutes, and
which can have a minimum duration of 5 minutes.
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10. Types of script(writing)
Screenplays
Playwriting
Audio Drama
· Scripts for audio dramas share a number of components with screenplays and the
scripts for stage plays.
· The dialogue is also different in that it includes more descriptive language about the
surroundings to help establish setting
· Instructions have the necessary audio components that need to accompany a given
scene
· It also gives direction to the voice actor about how a line should be delivered.
News Scripts
· While appearing natural on screen, most news anchors are provided with scripts to
read via teleprompters.
· News scripts provide informational content.
Other Scriptwriting
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· Other types of scriptwriting include producing story/dialogue for video games,
education films, online content such as podcasts or marketing materials and even
commercials.
· These scripts tend to follow the same general patterns as plays, audio dramas and
screenplays.
11. Mise-en-scene
· It is a French word which means placing on stage. It is an expression used to describe the
design aspects of film production.
· Set design – The setting of a scene and properties visible in a scene. Set design is used to
amplify character emotion which has physical social cultural significance in film
· Lighting – It can influence the audiences understanding of characters, actions and mood.
Light and shade emphasize texture, shape, time (day or night), season, etc.
· Space – It affects the reading of film. It is the distance between characters, camera,
lighting, properties, etc.
· Composition – The organization of object, actors and space within the frame. Equal
distribution of light, color and objects in a shot is important in composition.
· Costume – It refers to the clothes, that characters wear. Using certain colors or designs,
costumes are used to signify the character.
· Make-up and hair style – It gives beautiful appearance to the character. It establishes the
characters attitude.
· Acting – The performance on the stage is called acting. Different characters perform on
stage. Through acting, actors convey story, emotions, feeling, etc.
· Aspect ratio – The relationship between the width and height of the image. It gives
different way of looking at the world.
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It is a model used in screen writing that divides story into three parts
First act
Second act
Third act
Shot in filmmaking is a series of frames that runs for an uninterrupted period of time.
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· The extreme wide shot or extreme long shot is all about showing the world in which
the story takes place.
· In an extreme wide we will see large landscapes in the frame.
· Whether it is the desert or outer space, the audience should get a feel for the time
and the place they are about to spend the next two hours.
· Though characters can be introduced in an extreme wide, they would be very tiny
in context to the backdrop
· An extreme wide shot is often an establishing shot.
Long Shot
Medium Shot
· The medium shot shows the character from the waist up.
· Medium shots are often used in dialog scenes.
· It is also known as a cowboy shot.
· This shot is about revealing information.
· You can see more detail than you can in a wide shot.
Close-Up Shot
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· A close-up highlights emotional clues in the eyes.
· It is more intimate so the audience can feel what the character is feeling.
· Halfway between the close-up and the medium shot is the medium close-up
· It frames the subject from the shoulders up.
· This shot might be used to show more body language, some emotion and facial
expressions.
· Medium close-up can reveal more information, but it is not as intimate as a close-
up.
· An extreme close-up frames even tighter on a face (or subject), highlighting facial
features more.
· It usually frames a particular part of the face like the eyes or the mouth.
· It is even more intimate than the close-up
· It is used to show more intense emotion.
Two Shot
Over-the-Shoulder Shot
· Subject is shot from behind the shoulder of another, framing the subject anywhere from
a Medium to Close-Up.
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· The shoulder, neck, and/or back of the head of the subject facing away from the camera
remains viewable
· Making the shot useful for showing reactions during conversations.
· It tends to place more of an emphasis on the connection between two speakers.
In addition to subject size within a frame, shot types can also indicate where a camera is placed
in relation to the subject. Here are some commonly used terms:
High Angle
Low Angle
· The camera lens is facing up (from below the eye level) to capture the video
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· This can have the effect of making the subject look powerful, heroic, or dangerous.
Dutch Angle
· Maybe the subject is in danger, or their state of mind isn’t properly grounded.
· The Bird's Eye photos are angled at 40 degrees rather than being straight down.
· Satellite imaging programs and photos have been described as offering a viewer
the opportunity to "fly over" and observe the world from this specific angle.
The way a camera moves can give meaning to what's happening on screen.
1. Pan
· Turning the camera lens horizontally from left to right or right to left.
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· Moving the camera from right to left is called pan left.
2. Tilt
· Tilt up means that the camera is made to point up and tilt down means made to
point down.
· Tilt down is used to show the character weak and tilt up is to show the character
strong.
3. Zoom
· Zoom in means showing the object in big size, zoom out means showing it in small
size.
· A zoom shot gives the viewer feeling that the subject or object is coming toward or
away to the viewer.
4. Dolly
· Move the camera closer to the object is dolly in and away from object is dolly out.
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· A dolly shot gives the viewer feeling that they are moving toward or away from
the subject.
5. Trucking
6. Pedestal
· Moving the camera up or down, while keeping the lens at a constant angle.
· Pedestal up means raise the camera, pedestal down means lowering the cameras.
· The whole time keeping the camera’s lens at a 90° angle to the ground.
7. Jimmy jib
· It is a triangular crane system which uses an arm supporting a camera at one end and a
counterweight at the other.
· The crane can swing from the ground to the cranes maximum reach of 40ft and can
swing 360 degrees.
1. Storyboarder
· Storyboarder is open source and free software, suitable for smaller budget.
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· It’s easy to quickly draw shapes, characters, write dialogue, and enter timing
information and shot type.
2. Plot
· The software lets you import a script from any scriptwriting program.
· The storyboards include movement arrows, framing notations, angle of view, focal
length, and more, so everyone, from preparation to production, is on the same page.
· It works on any mobile device, and the export functions make it possible to
download the final product as a Powerpoint presentation.
4. Studiobinder
· Studiobinder lets customize every aspect of visualization, such as adjust the order of
scenes, upload images, change aspect ratios, color code, shots, and more.
· It makes collaboration easy, with project management features to assign tasks and
add comments.
5. Moviestorm
· It is useful for creating 3D characters, directing a scene, framing shots, adding and
deleting objects, recording the movie, and adding music and sounds.
· This is a good option to visualize and even pitch the full video start-to-finish in
accurate detail
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7. PowerProduction Software
· It offers a library of artwork for characters, props, and locations, and allows you to
design and share ideas easily.
· StoryBoard Artist, offers a full-featured timeline, frame transitions, and 3D
characters, and is more appropriate for animated video presentations.
8. Canva
· Canva makes the storyboard easy, with a library of templates consisting of stock
images, and grids and frames to organize scenes.
· We can choose font type, color, and include headers and sub-headers.
9. Boords
· It’s easy to quickly draw shapes, characters, write dialogue, and enter timing information
and shot type.
· Software works collaboratively with Photoshop, which means we can edit story board in
Photoshop for more precision, and it will automatically update in Storyboarder.
· We can add and delete scenes without copying and pasting text, incorporate images from
anywhere on the web to visualize scenes faster, and collaborate with coworkers from within
the software.
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· It doesn’t need animation, drawing, or highly technical computer skills.
· The software lets you import a script from any scriptwriting program.
· Plus, the storyboards include movement arrows, framing notations, angle of view, focal
length, and more, so everyone on your video team, from preparation to production, is on the
same page.
· It works on any mobile device, and the export functions make it possible to download the
final product as a Powerpoint presentation
· If you want to preview your project from within the platform to show your team, there’s a
nifty presentation mode.
· Moviestorm’s is useful for creating 3D characters, directing a scene, framing shots, adding
and deleting objects, recording the movie, and adding music and sounds
· We can record audio and storyboard timing, so we can see preview of the video
· It offers a library of artwork for characters, props, and locations, and allows you to design
and share ideas easily.
· StoryBoard Artist, offers a full-featured timeline, frame transitions, and 3D characters, and
is more appropriate for animated video presentations.
Scene heading – It is also known as a Slugline. A scene heading is a line of text at the beginning
of each scene that lets the reader know the location and the time of day the scene is taking
place. (Int. or Ext.)
Action - It sets the scene, describes the setting, and allows introducing the characters and setting
the stage for story. Action is written in real time. Avoid a compulsion to write camera angles
and shots.
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Character enacted in cinema, involves "the illusion of being a human person". The writer inserts
a character name to let the reader know this character's dialogue. A character name can be an
actual name (Raja) or description (Tall man) or an occupation (Doctor).
Dialogue - It is the spoken word of the character. Dialogue distinguishes the character. Audience
can understand the story through dialogue.
Parenthetical - A Parenthetical remark can be an attitude, verbal direction or action direction for
the actor who is speaking the part. If a character is speaking followed by an action line and
then the same character continues speaking, this notation can be used.
Extensions - An Extension is a technical note placed directly to the right of the Character name
that denotes how the character's voice will be heard by the audience. An off-screen voice can
be heard from a character out of the camera range. Some writers use O.C. for off camera,
V.O. for voice over
Transitions - Transitions are used to indicate special information about how one scene
transitions to another. Instead of using words transitions can be used to convey story
Transitions are: CUT TO: DISSOLVE TO: QUICK CUT: FADE TO: FADE OUT
Shots - A shot tells the reader the focal point within a scene has changed. Here are some
examples of shots: XLS, POV, Panning, etc. Shots are used to show the audience to see
something, to achieve emotion or build to a climax.
· StudioBinder, final draft 10, movie magic screenwriter are some of the scriptwriting
software used by filmmaker or writer
· We can break down scene elements (actors, wardrobe, props) to feed into production
reports later.
· It includes formatting for film, television, plays, books and even comic books.
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· It also comes with real-time collaboration, professionally authored templates, an index card
view, revision tracking, breakdown reports and more.
· It comes with a wide variety of template formats and we can convert them from one to the
other.
· If you’re working from an existing script, it offers a variety of import formats including
PDF, Final Draft, and Microsoft Word documents
· It integrates with other pre-production tools like call sheets, storyboards, shot lists, and a
scheduling solution.
· Its feature is an action-to-dialogue calculator within their script statistic reporting tool.
· Some software’s designed for novel writing, articles, flyers, brochures, and also
screenwriting.
1. StudioBinder
2. Final Draft 10
· It’s been an industry standard for decades, and has been used by top writers and
filmmakers.
· We can break down scene elements (actors, wardrobe, props) to feed into
production reports later.
pg. 34
· Its feature set is powerful, diverse and includes formatting for film, television,
plays, books and even comic books.
· It also comes with real-time collaboration, professionally authored templates, an
index card view, revision tracking, breakdown reports and more.
5. WriterDuet
6. Fade In Software
· It offers robust customization tools, so you can very hands on with the format of
your screenplay (including margins, spacing and the like).
· It also gives a script breakdown tool, index cards, templates, revision tracking, and
reports including cast reports, dialogue reports per character, and more.
7. Scrivener
· It's a full word processor designed for novel writing, articles, flyers, brochures, etc.
· The Scrivener specialty is longer writing projects like screenplays
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· DO stay within standard script length 108 - 114 pages ideally. A 122 page
screenplay is long but still acceptable.
· DO write a central character with a strong point of view who will take us on a
journey, seeing the world and experiences through their eyes, emotions, actions and
reactions.
· DO write compelling, vivid, emotionally engaging, endearing, flawed characters
when you first introduce them.
· DO take pride in your work, making sure there are no grammatical errors and that the
script is formatted properly.
· DO write subtext where characters do not state exactly how they feel.
· DO use image design, awkward moments and even silent moments to convey mood
and emotions.
· DON’T be afraid to use pictures and images to help tell the story
· DON'T turn in a script that is 139 pages! scripts should never be this long.
· DON'T write scripts with 20 characters. If you write a script with 20 characters, you
drive away focus away from your central character, the protagonist.
· DON'T write character monologues that take up a whole page. If you are compelled
to write a long monologue, break it up with visuals such as image motifs that correlate
to what is being said and/or other character's reactions.
· DON’T write endless camera angles with respect to dialogue. Let the director decide
how to shoot a scene and let the actor decide how to read the line.
Exposition
The setting is fixed in a particular place and time, the mood is set, and characters are introduced.
Exposition can be conveyed through dialogues, flashbacks, characters' asides, background
details, in-universe media, or the narrator telling a back-story.
Rising action
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An exciting force or inciting event begins immediately after the exposition (introduction),
building the rising action in one or several stages. Entire plot depends on rising action to set
up the climax and resolution of the story.
Climax
The climax is the turning point, which changes the protagonist's fate. If things were going well
for the protagonist, the plot will turn against them, often revealing the protagonist's hidden
weaknesses.
Falling action
The number of characters is limited as much as possible, and the number of scenes should be
fewer. The falling action may contain a moment of final suspense.
Resolution
It comprises events from the end of the falling action to the actual ending scene of the drama or
narrative. Conflicts are resolved, creating normality for the characters and a sense of
catharsis, or release of tension and anxiety, for the reader.
· Get the most current and up to date facts (Research) on the topic.
· Use visual effects, an emotional response, humor, or surprise to catch target audience.
· Create and keep the script to a few simple statements. A 30-second PSA will require about
5 to 7 concise statements. Highlight the major and minor points that you want to make. Be
sure the information presented in the PSA is based on up-to-date, accurate research, findings
and/or data.
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· Storyboard the script which makes the shooting process easier.
· Film the footage and edit PSA using video editing software.
24. Writing script for cinema (from idea to shooting script to production)
26. Story
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· A story can be defined as an account of imaginary or real events.
· A story consists of a plot, characters, chapters, etc.
· Different modes of storytelling like novels, short stories, blogs, narratives all have
a story to tell and they are very popular these days.
· This clearly suggests that a story refers to two different things. In a story, the reader
is left along with his imagination on many points so that he can explore the universe
on his own. While you will get even minute details in a script and no room for
imagination is left while writing this.
· A story gives the reader a clear account of characters through some subplots.
· Chapters in a story also suggest the same and through each chapter, the writer
slowly builds up his story.
· A story also carries characters. A story is a journey where new information about
the characters is revealed to the reader and it develops the story more interesting.
· It leaves the reader to use his own interpretation to embrace the story in a more
dynamic form.
· In a script, there are scenes. A script is a written text generally created for a film,
play, TV serial, etc.
· It provides a elaborated explanation of the incidents and characters.
· A script also gives an opportunity to the actor to comprehend the nature of the
character, personality, likes and dislikes.
· Scriptwriters write their script in the present tense as well as in the dialogue form.
· A script comprises multiple scenes and the climate is nicely mentioned in each
scene. For instance, what the actor is going to perform. What are his/her
dialogues and what are his movements?
Story Script
A story can be defined as an account of A script has to be understood as the written
imaginary or real events. text of a play, film, or broadcast.
In a script, the details of each character are
In a story, the reader has to explore these.
offered in a profile
In a story, there are chapters. In a script, there are scenes.
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In a story, a lot is left to the imagination of In a script, imagination does not have much
the reader. scope.
A story is in prose form. A script is in a dialogue form.
Key point: The designing principle is what organizes the story whole. It is the internal logic of
the story, what is original about the story, the seed of the story.
Theme - Theme is the pulse of the story. It we choose correct theme we feel in a good way to
complete the story.
Genre -Genre is a way to categorize stories. Love, action, sci-fi, comedy, war, are some of the
examples of genre.
Goal - This is sometimes called the “Outer Journey.” What does the main character want in the
life of this story? What does the protagonist want?
Inner Journey - What emotions and mistaken beliefs will the main character have to overcome to
find happiness at the end? What are the consequences to their heart and soul if they don’t deal
with their emotions and correct their mistaken beliefs? An audience needs a conflict-driven
outer journey to stay with a story, but they need a compelling inner journey to love the story.
Courage – The courage to deal with conflict, lack of, developing, conquering with.
Characters - Stories are nothing without interesting characters. Choose one character to be the
main character, the protagonist. Pick someone to oppose the protagonist, the antagonist. Make
the antagonist up to the challenge.
Setting - Where and when the story takes place. The best settings are in interesting places during
interesting times.
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Conflict - Conflict is a well-known driver of stories. It is frequently injected in a story by making
characters tense, irritable, and disagreeable. The conflict must be real and have significant
consequences.
Tone or Audience Experience - What is appropriate for the story and what the audience will
appreciate.
Your Motivation in Writing the Story –What is the purpose of this story? What is buried in
your memories that needs to come forth? What feelings are you trying to share with the
audience?
One liner
· It consist of some events that start the action, the main character and outcome of story
Outline
· It is a detailed telling of story with intension of turning the story into screenplay.
· It briefly details every scene of the screenplay story and often as indications for dialogue
and character interaction.
· Outlines can take different forms including purpose, level of detail, method of creation and
writer preferences.
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Treatment
· This 2 to 5 page document should read like short story and written in present tense
· It should present the entire story including the ending and use some key scenes and
dialogue from screenplay.
· A treatment of any length describes all scenes in the movie but does not get into specific
dialogue.
· Working title
· Shot logline
Synopsis
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· Synopsis should be long enough to pack in everything that is good about the story but short
enough to be read in less than 5 minutes.
· Synopsis conveys the narrative arc, an explanation of plot, the characters and how story
ends.
· It ensures characters actions and motivations are realistic and make sense
· This summarizes what happens and who changes from beginning to end of story.
Story
· Different types of storytelling like novels, short stories, blogs all have story to tell
· A story gives the reader a clear account of characters through sub plots.
· A story is a journey where new information about the character is revealed and develops
the story more interesting.
· A scrip is written text generally created for film, TV, serial, etc
· A script also gives an opportunity to the actor to comprehend the nature of character,
personality, likes and dislikes
· A script comprises multiple scenes and the climate is nicely mentioned in each scene
pg. 43
· For instance what the actor is going to perform, what are their dialogues and what is their
movement.
· Images, action, sound effects, and dialogue are four elements use to tell a screen story.
· Viewers can only experience what they see on the screen or what they hear coming out of
the speakers.
· They can see images of people, places, objects moving images of action such as fights and
chases.
· People can listen to the things the people they are seeing on screen.
· All the elements can be mixed, matched, and juxtaposed in infinite combinations.
· When writing a script, the screenwriter must describe only what can be seen or heard.
· Images and sound are external elements and therefore screenwriters must avoid the
internal.
· Instead of writing text that a character feels angry, a screenwriter should describe an action
that demonstrates the character’s anger
· Instead of telling what a character is thinking about, a screenwriter can have that character
tell another character what’s on his mind.
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· Field noticed that in a 120-page screenplay, Act Two was notoriously boring, and was also
twice the length of Acts One and Three.
· He also noticed that an important dramatic event usually occurred at the middle of the
picture, which implied to him that the middle act was actually two acts in one.
· Field also introduced the idea of Plot Points into screenwriting theory.
Opening Image: The first image in the screenplay should summarize the entire film, especially
its tone.
Inciting Incident: Also called the catalyst, this is the point in the story when the Protagonist
encounters the problem that will change their life.
This is when the detective is assigned the case, where Boy meets Girl, and where the Comic Hero
gets fired from his cushy job, forcing him into comic circumstances.
Plot Point 1: The last scene in Act One, Turning Point One is a surprising development that
radically changes the Protagonist's life, and forces him to confront the Opponent.
Pinch 1: A reminder scene at about 3/8 the way through the script (halfway through Act 2a) that
brings up the central conflict of the drama, reminding us of the overall conflict.
Midpoint : An important scene in the middle of the script, often a reversal of fortune that
changes the direction of the story. Field suggests that driving the story towards the Midpoint
keeps the second act from sagging.
Pinch 2: Another reminder scene about 5/8 through the script (halfway through Act 2b) that is
somehow linked to Pinch 1 in reminding the audience about the central conflict.
Plot Point 2: A dramatic reversal that ends Act 2 and begins Act 3, which is about confrontation
and resolution. Sometimes Turning Point Two is the moment when where the Hero is has had
enough and is finally going to face the Opponent. Sometimes, it's the low-point for the Hero,
and he must bounce back to overcome the odds in Act 3.
Showdown : About midway through Act 3, the Protagonist will confront the Main Problem of
the story and either overcome it, or come to a tragic end.
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Resolution : The issues of the story are resolved.
Tag : An epilogue, tying up the loose ends of the story, giving the audience closure. This is also
known as denouement.
The Monomyth are the heroes journey that involves a hero who goes on an adventure, and wins a
victory.
Call to adventure –The hero begins in a situation of normality from which some information is
received that act as call to adventure. It is a forest, a kingdom, underground, above the sky,
etc.
Refusal of the call – When the call is given the hero first refuses it. This may be from a sense of
duty, fear, insecurity, etc.
Meeting the mentor – Once the hero has committed to the quest his/her guide and magical helper
becomes known. This mentor will present the hero with one more artifacts that will help him
later in their quest.
Crossing the threshold – This is the point where the hero actually crosses into adventure field.
Leaving the known limits of the world and venturing into an unknown.
Belly of the whale – It represents the final separation from the heroes known world. When
entering the stage first, the hero may encounter a minor danger or set back.
Road of trails – It is a series of test that the hero must undergo to begin the transformation.
Eventually the hero will overcome these trails and move on to next step.
Meeting with the Goddess – This is where the hero gains items given to him that will help him in
future.
The women as temptress – The hero faces those temptations often of a physical or pleasurable
nature. Women are a metaphor for physical or material temptations of life.
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Atonement with father – In this step the hero must confront and be initiated by whatever holds
the ultimate powers in life.
Apotheosis – This is the point of realization, the hero is resolves and ready for the difficult part
of adventure.
Ultimate boom – It is the achievement of the goal of quest. It is what the hero went on the
journey to get.
Refusal of written – having found bliss and enlightenment in other world the hero may not want
to written to ordinary world.
The sequence approach divides the film into eight sequences. The First Act has two sequences, a
Second Act has four sequences, and a Third act has two.
First sequence - Excite the viewers curiosity with an opening image and hook. Present exposition
explaining the who, what, when, and where of the story. Show a glimpse of the life of the
protagonists. This sequence generally ends with the inciting incident or point of attack.
Second sequence - The protagonist tries to reestablish the status quo disrupted by the point of
attack. The protagonist's want is defined, as so, the sequence poses the dramatic question that
will shape the rest of the story. This is the end of the first act, and with it the main tension is
firmly established.
Third sequence- The protagonist makes a first attempt to solve the dramatic question and
fulfill his/her/their want, but fails. Subplots are established. This sequence often includes the
first major set piece of the movie, which explores and exploits the main tension or comedic
tension.
Fourth sequence - Here the protagonist often attempts, once again, to restore the status
quo and fails. The end of the sequence is the midpoint. It often brings a major revelation or
pg. 47
reversal. So, a major element of this sequence is audience preparation for this conclusion.
The audience should be tempted to guess the outcome story.
Fifth Sequence - The protagonists deals with the result of the first conclusion. Often new
characters are introduced for new opportunities are discovered. The protagonist's need(as
opposed to want) becomes a force and complication in the protagonists choices. The
sequence may deal heavily with subplots, such as a romantic subplot, and may give the
audience a break from the main tension of the main plot. As with other sequences, this
sequence may have its own tension, want and central question that gets resolved at the climax
of the sequence.
Sixth sequence - This is the last sequence before the end of the second act. The protagonist has
exhausted all easy courses of action and must address the central dramatic question head
on. Forces pushing the protagonist to a character change become impossible to ignore. The
protagonist feels that all is lost, or it may be a victory that leads to a bigger problem and third
act tension.
Seventh sequence - The apparent answer of the central dramatic question proves
premature. The stakes are raised on final time. A new third act tension is established that
will answer the dramatic question once and for all. The story seen in a new light, and the
protagonist might reverse his/her/their goals. Often this long sequence ends in a false ending
/ final twist.
Eighth sequence – The tensions created by the point of attack are finally resolved. Any
remaining subplots are tied up. The final image may recall images that opened the film.
Rule of Thirds
It is moving the subject out of the “dead center” of the image by breaking the image into thirds
both horizontally and vertically, forming a grid. The image will work best if the subject is
placed on intersections of those lines. As a result, photograph becomes more dynamic and
visually more interesting.
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Symmetrical Composition
Symmetrical composition make the image more powerful. The grid in the view finder become
very useful to ensure everything is aligned correctly. Symmetrical images usually give the
feeling of stability, steadiness and balance.
By learning to see the elements of a composition, it becomes possible to make the best use of
lines, diagonals or curves. Using strong diagonals in an image makes it more dynamic and
produces a stronger impact on the viewer
Leading Lines
Lines in an image can lead the viewer’s eye to it. This draws the viewer’s attention to the
important part of the image. Narrow streets, railings, paved streets, alignment of trees any
converging and leading lines may be used to bring the eye to the main subject.
Triangles
If the image is composed of three main elements, use triangle composition. It is a good way to
add impact
Distortion
If you use wide-angle or a fisheye lens, push the lines by purposely distorting the proportions of
the image. This works best for architecture or landscape images with strong graphic
elements.
Frame in a Frame
Natural frames enhance the subject and draw attention to it. The “frame” does not necessarily
have to be on all four sides of the image; two or three sides will also work.
Off-center Subject
This is when the subject is placed off-center. This creates an asymmetrical composition, this is
considered to be more “interesting” and moves the viewer’s eye around the page.
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36. Define plot
· Plot is described as the events that make up a story, or the main part of a story.
· These events relate to each other in a pattern or a sequence.
· The plot focuses attention on the important characters and their roles in the story.
· It motivates the characters to affect the story, and connects the events in an orderly
manner.
· The plot creates a desire for the reader to go on reading by absorbing them in the
middle of the story, ensuring they want to know what happens next.
· The plot leads to the climax, but by gradually releasing the story in order to
maintain readers’ interest.
· Reader gets emotionally involved, connecting with the book, not allowing himself
to put the book down.
· The plot reveals the entire story, giving the reader a sense of completion that he has
finished the story and reached a conclusion.
· The plot is what forms a memory in readers’ minds, allowing them to think about the
book and even making them want to read it again.
· The reader is able to understand the message being conveyed by the author, and the
moral of the story.
· In fiction, a subplot is a secondary strand of the plot that is a supporting side story for
any story or the main plot.
· Subplots may connect to main plots, in either time and place or in thematic significance.
· Subplots often involve supporting characters, those besides the protagonist or antagonist.
· Subplots may also intertwine with the main plot at some point in a story.
· Subplots are distinguished from the main plot by taking up less of the action, having fewer
significant events occur, with less impact on the "world" of the work, and occurring to less
important characters.
pg. 50
· In screenwriting, a subplot is referred to as a "B story" or a "C story," etc.
· It can involve characters other than the main protagonist and antagonist, and may not
intersect much with the main narrative.
38. Flashback
pg. 51
· In movies and television, several camera techniques, editing approaches and special
effects have evolved to alert the viewer that the action shown is a flashback.
· For example, the edges of the picture may be deliberately blurred, photography may
be jarring or choppy, or unusual coloration, or monochrome.
· The scene may fade or dissolve, often with the camera focused on the face of the
character and there is typically a voice-over by a narrator.
French writer and director Yves Lavandier shows screenplay a slightly different approach.
According to him every human action whether fiction or real contains three logical parts :
before the action, during the action and after the action. Since the climax is part of the action
he believes the second act must include the climax.
· It is used for exposition to establish the main character their relationship and the world they
live in.
· Later in the first act there is an inciting incident that confronts the main character.
pg. 52
· All the elements of story come together and lead to ending
· Commercial script for radio and television that sell product and announce events
· Commercial should create an offer that encourages a new customer to act immediately
· In two column script, the video information is present in left side and the audio information
present at right side
· These details include settings, dialogue, action, music VFX and SFX
pg. 53
· Documentary filmmaking requires research to provide the context, footage and
other visuals, narration, and interviews that will appear in the film.
· There are several types of research that documentary filmmakers might
undertake, including archival research, academic research, and in-person
interviews.
· Good documentary filmmaking requires research, in fact by definition the
documentary filmmaking process requires research into the subject it seeks to
document.
· In order to document actual events, histories, people, and cultures, you must
find the documents, people, and objects that will tell your story.
· Research is necessary for the raw visual materials that will provide you the
context necessary to understand, interpret, and share the subject of your film.
· Research is also important to organize and plan out your documentary.
This often begins with archival research. Archives have a diverse range of different
research materials, including:
Still photos, footage, newspapers, and online articles
Paintings, etchings, sketches
Letters, journals, and diaries
Governmental documents
pg. 54
· For instance, in [Link]’s A Corner in Wheat, the film cross-cuts between the
activities of rich businessmen and poor people waiting in line for bread.
· This contrast is used for strong emotional effect, and frequently at the climax of a
film.
· The rhythm of, or length of time between, cross-cuts can also set the rhythm of a
scene.
· Cross-cutting was established as a film-making technique relatively early in film
history such as The Great Train Robbery, The Birth of a Nation, etc.
· Parallel editing is an editing technique that allows two or more simultaneous sets of
action to unfold within a single film sequence.
· One of the most important effects of the parallel edit is that of simultaneousness
· By employing this sequence of alternating focus, the filmmaker is able to place
subjects in relation to one another
· It creates tension and can show different point of views.
· It creates something that the audience knows that the characters don't
· Both cross cutting and parallel editing are used to imply a relationship between
different sets of action.
· Parallel editing didn't simply contribute to storytelling; it juxtapositions and
contrasts
· An example of this style occurs during the scene of Lincoln's assassination in the
Ford Theatre. The camera cuts between shots of the stage, the President's viewing
box, and close-up shots of the Stonemans
· The emphasized relationship between these spaces is used to increase the tension
within the scene.
· Once the documentary idea is decided, it is time to start search for information. No
important message should be left.
pg. 55
· Based on the research, start creating a list of potential characters/interviews, basic
storylines, areas of potential conflict and emotion.
· Ask yourself, “what’s at the heart of this story and how do I “show” that visually?”
· Writing an outline at the beginning can be an invaluable guide to point you in the right
direction
· Shooting script act as a reference to the documentary maker not deviating from the main
concept.
· “How to write a script” creatively involves adding special elements such as stop motion,
time-lapse, animation/cartoons, recreations, etc.
· Think about some unique and creative ways to present the documentary.
46. Ideation
· Ideation is the creative process of generating, developing, and communicating new ideas
· Where an idea is understood as a basic element of thought that can be either visual,
concrete, or abstract.
Methods of innovation
pg. 56
· Problem solution is the most simple method of progress, where someone has found a
problem and as a result, solves it.
· Derivative idea involves taking something that already exists and changing it.
· A symbiotic method of idea creation is when multiple ideas are combined, using different
elements of each to make a whole.
· A revolutionary idea breaks away from traditional thought and creates a brand new
perspective.
· Targeted innovation deals with a direct path of discovery. This is often accompanied by
intensive research in order to have a distinct and almost expected resolution.
pg. 57
· Some critics have argued that much experimental film is no longer in fact
"experimental" but become a mainstream film genre.
· Many of its more typical features such as a non-narrative, impressionistic, or poetic
approaches to the film's construction define what is generally understood to be
"experimental
· A character arc is the transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a
story.
· If a story has a character arc, the character begins as one sort of person and gradually
transforms into a different sort of person in response to changing developments in the story.
· In most stories, lead characters and protagonists are the characters most likely to experience
character arcs
· The main character seems initially unable to overcome opposing forces, possibly because
they lack skills or knowledge or resources or friends. To overcome such obstacles, the main
character must change, possibly by learning new skills, to arrive at a higher sense of self-
awareness or capability.
· Main characters can achieve such self-awareness by interacting with their environment, by
enlisting the help of mentors, by changing their viewpoint, or by some other method.
· Ambient sound means the background sounds which are present in a scene.
· Common ambient sounds include wind, water, birds, crowds, office noises, traffic,
etc.
· It provides audio continuity between shots.
· Preventing an unnatural silence when no other sound is present.
pg. 58
· Establishing or reinforcing the mood.
· It is the opposite of "silence". Ambience is similar to presence, but is distinguished
by the existence of explicit background noise in ambience recordings, as opposed to
the perceived "silence" of presence recordings.
· Every location has distinct and subtle sounds created by its environment. These
sound sources can include wildlife, wind, music, rain, running water, thunder, rustling
leaves, distant traffic, aircraft and machinery noise.
· Ambience is normally recorded in stereo by the sound department during the
production stage of filmmaking.
· It is used to provide a movie location which occupies a separate track in the sound
edit
Linear narrative
· Linear narrative is the most common form of narration, where events are largely
portrayed in a chronological order, that is, telling the events in the order in which they
occurred.
· Flashbacks are often confused with true narratives which are not linear
· Some films appear to open with the ending, flashback movies almost immediately
jump back to the very beginning of the story to proceed linearly from there
Nonlinear narrative
Interactive narration
· Interactive narration refers to works where the linear narrative is driven by, rather
than influenced by, the users interaction.
pg. 59
· There is only one narrative but the method of delivery requires the user to actively
work to gain the next piece of the narrative
· This is the narrative approach of some modern video games. A player will be
required to reach an objective, complete a task, solve a puzzle, or finish a level before
the narrative continues.
Interactive narrative
pg. 60
· These boards tend to contain more detailed information than thumbnail storyboards
and convey more of the mood for the scene.
· These are then presented to the project's cinematographer who achieves the
director's vision.
· If needed, 3D storyboards are created. The advantage of 3D storyboards is they
show exactly what the film camera will see using the lenses the film camera will use.
· 3D storyboards can be constructed using 3D animation programs or digital puppets
within 3D programs.
· Rewriting the script again and again to make it perfect and interesting
· The movie is then in pre-production. Here all key players in front and behind the camera
are chosen. Shooting logistics are planned out. Who, what, where, when and how
· Once the master plan is ready and all pertinent details are sorted out the movie moves into
shooting
· A rough cut in editing reveals what areas need to reshoot. These are identified and shot
· Once everybody is happy with the fine cut the film is picture locked so no further changes
can be made
· Once the editing is over, then audio mix and color grading, VFX, graphics and animation
can be done.
· After that the master is created for distribution and theatre screening.
pg. 61
53. Screenplays are structure by William Goldman
· When William Goldman says that “screenplays are structure” he is talking about how a
story is actually put together.
· A story may have excellent dialogue, and loveable characters, but if the structure is not
fully developed then you may as well forget it.
· The structure of any story focuses on how beat by beat and scene by scene it is ultimately
laid out.
· A story can use any type of story-telling model, but focusing on the structure or the
foundation of the story is vital.
· Goldman believes that screenwriting is a lot like carpentry. If you put together some wood,
nails, and glue to build a bookcase, you better have established a sound foundation. If not,
you have might have created something really beautiful, but it won’t work as a bookcase.
· As a screenwriter you must first decide what the proper structure should be for the
particular screenplay you are writing.
· Goldman believes that it is absolutely crucial to know the spine of your story above
anything else.
· A spine can be rather simple such as “boy meets girl, loses girl, finds her again,” or
something much more complex. That spine is then developed further, taking a broad idea
and digging deeper into the story scene by scene.
· After finding exactly what the spine of your story is, a writer must protect it at all costs. It
is easy to lose focus of what is really important in a story when you’re 80 pages in.
· Goldman insists that strictly sticking to the ultimate spine of a story will drive that script to
success. Without a well-developed spine, a screenplay is pretty much condemned.
pg. 62
· The shooting script is more elaborate, precise, overwritten version of the
screenplay.
· The shooting script is not written by the screenwriter. It is written by the director
alongside his cinematographer, while both discuss their ideas and shot plan desired
for the movie.
· The main difference between the screenplay and the shooting script is that the
screenplay is a selling tool, whereas the shooting script is a production tool.
· The shooting script is normally broken into shots, featuring precise cinematography
terminology such as close-ups, dolly in, overexposed.
· The idea here is to inform the crew what is going on.
· Before shooting starts, the shooting script will be divided into dates, so everyone
knows what is being shot when.
· The goal is to let all the crew members know what they will need to bring or
arrange beforehand.
Protagonist
Antagonist
pg. 63
Deuteragonist
· They’re often seen in the company of the protagonist — giving advice, plotting
against their rivals, and generally lending a helping hand.
· Their presence and close relationship to the protagonist gives the story warmth and
heart
Tertiary characters
· The tertiary characters are not important because they appear one or two scenes
throughout the film.
· A story still requires a few tertiaries. We all have them in real life, you only see
once a week, the random guy you sit next to in class.
Foil character
· A foil is someone whose personality and values fundamentally clash with the
protagonist’s.
· The foil is not usually the primary antagonist. Sometimes the foil clash with
protagonist and later become friends.
Dynamic/changing character
Static/unchanging character
Stock character
pg. 64
· Stock characters are those familiar figures that appear in stories time after time
· He can be comedian, the mentor.
Symbolic character
Round character
· The round character has a full backstory (though not always revealed in the
narrative), complex emotions, and realistic motivations for what they do.
· Majority of the protagonists are not only dynamic, but also round.
· A good Storyboard Artist is not only a talented artist who can draw, but someone
who also understands film language, camera movement, and the shot
descriptions including wide shots, medium shots, close-ups, dolly shots, jib shots,
and Dutch angles.
· It helps the director and cinematographer really understand camera placement,
camera movement, and shot compositions which help to save time and money on
set.
Pre-visualization in film
pg. 65
· It describes techniques such as storyboarding in the planning and conceptualization of
movie scenes.
· The goal is to resolve both creative and production issues before filming begins
Post visualization
· Post visualization happens during post production when viewing rough cuts.
· When a director or editor needs to experiment with replacing shots to clarify story moments
or alter the pacing of the project.
· Screenplay script is the blueprint that producers, directors and actors use to translate
a story from page to screen.
· Before going for production, the screenplay script is read by the production team to
evaluate its strengths and weaknesses.
· Read the screenplay from start to finish. It may even be useful to re-read the script a
couple of times so you are more familiar with it.
· Analyze the concept of the film. Ask yourself if the concept is original, easily
marketable and full of emotion.
· The script must have a theme. The story must be logical and make sense.
· Analyze the structure of the film. The screenplay must be properly formatted with
scene headings, action lines and dialogue.
· The screenplay must also have a three-act structure -- set-up, confrontation and
resolution.
· The script must draw the reader in within the first 10 pages and keep the reader
guessing throughout.
· The writing should be visual, "showing" what is happening rather than "telling".
The script must also be of proper length, between 100 and 125 pages.
pg. 66
· Analyze the individual scenes of the screenplay. Every scene must be important to
the story and move the story forward.
· The pacing from scene to scene must flow and the reader should never be able to
guess easily what is going to happen next.
· Analyze the characters. The hero of the script must be likable. He should have
wants and needs that must be satisfied and he should undergo change to achieve his
goals.
· Characters should be multidimensional, with varying points of views, wants and fears.
The antagonist must be stronger than the protagonist, making the hero’s journey more
difficult.
· Screenplay script is the blueprint that producers, directors and actors use to translate a story
from pate to screen.
· Before going for production, the screenplay script is read by the production team to
evaluate its strength and weakness.
· Read the screenplay from start to finish. It may even be useful to re-read the script a couple
of times so you are more familiar with it.
· Analyze the concept of the film. Ask yourself if the concept is original, easily marketable
and full of emotion.
· The script must have a theme. The story must be logical and make sense.
· Analyze the structure of the film. The screenplay must be properly formatted with scene
headings, action lines and dialogue.
· The screenplay must also have a three act structure – setup, confrontation and resolution.
· The script must draw reader in within the first 10 pages and keep the reader guessing
throughout.
· The writing should be visual, “showing” what is happening rather than “telling”. The script
must also be of proper length, between 100 and 125 pages.
pg. 67
· Analyze the individual scenes of the screenplay. Every scene must be important to the story
and move the story forward.
· The pacing from scene to scene must flow and the reader should never be able to guess
easily what is going to happen next.
· Analyze the characters. The hero of eh script must be likable. He should have wants and
needs that must be satisfied and he should undergo changes to achieve his goals.
· Character should be multidimensional, with varying point of views, wants and fears. The
antagonist must be stranger than the protagonist, making the hero’s journey more difficult.
Many scripts begin with a transition, which may include fade in or black screen. Other scripts
will begin with scene headings, or even subheadings.
Scene Heading
The scene heading is there to help break up physical spaces and give the reader and production
team an idea of the story’s [Link] will either choose INT. for interior spaces
or EXT. for exterior spaces. Then a description of the setting, and then the time of day.
Example
WE OPEN on a modern suburban home. The front window illuminated by the lights
inside. We see the silhouette of a small human figure as it runs back and forth.
There are rare cases where the scene begins inside and goes outside, or vice versa, and in these
situations you may write INT/EXT. or EXT/INT.
Subheading
pg. 68
Often, writers will use subheadings to show a change in location without breaking the scene,
even if the scene has shifted from INT. to EXT.
Example:
Filbert lifts his sword into the air, lets out a big battle cry, and sprints from the kitchen to
---
HALLWAY
Filbert comes around the corner, distracted by his fantasy, bumps into the wall. His
favorite ball slips from his hand.
It is assumed that readers will understand the change in space while retaining the idea that the
time of day is the same even continuous. The reason many writers do this is to avoid the
notion that we’ve entered an entirely new scene, though you could always include
CONTINUOUS in place of DAY or NIGHT by creating an entirely new scene heading.
Transitions
In the bottom right of the page you will place transitions, but in modern screenwriting these seem
to be used less and less. The transitions that seems to have really stood the test of time
are CUT TO: and FADE OUT.
Example:
pg. 69
2. INT. SUBURN HOME – KITCHEN – NIGHT 2
Character introductions
When you introduce a character in a screenplay, you want to use all-capital letters for the name
of the character, then a reference to their age, and finally some information about their traits
and personality.
Action
Action lines are where you describe the visual and audible actions that take place on screen. You
want to write in third person in present tense.
He stares into the abyss. Sweat drips down his defeated face. Mouth agape. 1
Hands clenched. WE HEAR a resounding THUD. Filbert takes deep breathe.
Pulls his helmet guard down. Draws sword, creeps down the steps, disappears
Into darkness.
Dialogue
Your lines of dialogue will be set underneath the character to which they are assigned. Dialogue
is pretty straightforward from a formatting standpoint, but it is the most difficult part of
screenwriting.
FILBERT
This is my castle. I am sworn to
Protect it.
pg. 70
Extensions
These occur when a character says something off-screen (O.S.), or if dialogue is voice-
over (V.O.). You will see extensions when a character ends a block of dialogue, performs an
action, and speaks more.
FILBERT (V.O)
Parenthetical
BECKY
(into phone)
You can use a parenthetical inside your dialogue to show small actions, or even a change in
mood without having to jump out to an action line.
Camera shots
The best professional screenwriters know how to suggest shots without actually writing in shots,
but if you really insist on describing a particular shot in your screenplay you can format it
like a subheading.
pg. 71
1 INT. SUBURN HOME – KITCHEN – NIGHT 1
Filbert comes around the corner, distracted by his fantasy, bumps into
The wall. His favorite ball slips from his hand.
FILBERT’S POV
IN SLOW MOTION – The ball tumbles down the stairs. WE HEAR each the echo of
each bounce as it travels down the steps.
Examples for film adaptation (Write any 10 films, directors and the novel name)
pg. 72
2. Aalavandhan (Suresh krishna) - Based on Kamal's book Daayam
5. Iruvar Ulla ([Link]) - Based on the Novel "Pen Manam" Written by Lakshmi
Thirupathisaamy
10. OorukkuNooru Per ([Link]) - Based on the Novel by Late Jayakanthan in the same Name
13. ParthibanKanavu (Yoganand) - Based of the Novel by Late Kalki Krishnamurthy in the same
name
14. PonnarSankar (Thiyagarajan) - Based on the Novel by [Link] in the same name.
pg. 73
16. SollathaanNinaikiren ([Link]) - Based on Muthulakshmi's Novel in the same name
20. Yatchan (Vishnuvardhan) - Based on a Short story published in a Tamil Weekly Ananda
Vikatan by SuBa in the same Name.
21. Paradesi (Bala) - Based on an English Novel "Red Tea" written by Paul Harris Daniel.
23. Unnai Pol Oruvan 1965 (Jayakanthan) - Based on the Novel of the same name by Late
Jayakanthan
· Scenic designers design sets and scenery that aim to support the overall artistic goals of the
production.
pg. 74
· It is a part of the visual production of a film or television.
· A designer looks at the details searching for evidence through research to produce
conceptual ideas that best support the content and values with visual elements.
· Our imagination is highly visual. Whether outside or inside, colorful trees or concerts, star
lit skies or the architecture of a great building, scenic design is a process of discovery.
· Discovering the setting, environment, atmosphere, ambience, & world that is being
created.
· The scenic designer works with the director and other designers to establish an overall
visual concept for the production and design the stage environment.
· They are responsible for developing a complete set of design drawings that include the
following:
· Basic ground plan showing all stationary scenic elements;
· Composite ground plan showing all moving scenic elements, indicating both their
onstage and storage positions;
· Front elevations of every scenic element, and additional elevations as required.
· In the process of planning, scenic designers often make models, ranging from very basic to
extremely complex.
· The scenic designer is communicating the details of this environment to the technical
director, production manager, charge scenic artist and prop master.
Monomyth
pg. 75
· After overcoming a great trial, they return home with a reward which will help
their community.
· It can bring your message alive for your audience.
The mountain
· The mountain structure is a way of mapping the tension and drama in a story.
· It’s different because it doesn’t necessarily have a happy ending.
· The first part of the story is given to setting the scene, and is followed by just a
series of small challenges and rising action before a climactic conclusion.
Nested loops
· Nested loops is a storytelling technique where you layer three or more narratives
within each other.
· You place your most important story – the core of your message – in the centre, and
use the stories around it to elaborate or explain that central principle.
· The first story you begin is the last story you finish, the second story you start is
second to last, etc.
In medias res
· In medias res storytelling the story starts with heat of the action.
· By doing this the audience will be gripped from the beginning and will stay
engaged to find out what happens.
· Give your audience just enough information to keep them hooked.
Converging ideas
· It is a speech structure that shows the audience how different strands of thinking
came together to form one idea.
· It can be used to show the birth of a movement towards one goal.
pg. 76
· It can show how several equally important stories came to a single strong
conclusion.
False start
· A ‘false start’ story is when you begin to tell a seemingly predictable story.
· You lure your audience into a false sense of security, and then shock them by
turning the tables.
· It’s a quick attention hack which will disrupt your audience’s expectations and
surprise them into paying closer attention to your message.
Petal structure
· The petal structure is a way of organizing multiple speakers or stories around one
central concept.
· It’s useful if you tell several unconnected stories that all relate back to a
single message.
· You tell your stories one by one before returning back to the centre.
· The petals can overlap as one story introduces the next but each should be a
complete narrative in itself.
· In doing so, you can weave a strong emotional impressions around your idea.
It is better to have separate person for screenplay writing and dialogue writing because of the
following reasons
Screenplay writer
pg. 77
· A screenplay writer writes the entire screenplay. This includes the dialogues of the
characters in the screenplay.
· Screenwriter should possess strong writing talent, as well as creativity, patience, self-
motivation, etc.
· Screenwriters work with directors and producers to write scripts for films. Screenwriters
need to be able to work in a team and under pressure.
· Screenwriters are responsible for describing the stories in detail, including physical
environments and the moods of the characters.
· Prior to production of a film or show, screenwriters might produce a synopsis and
several scenes of a story.
· Screenwriters may be asked to rewrite or make various versions of the scripts they
are working on.
· Screenwriters adapt or write scripts for film, providing synopses and shooting scripts, and
collaborating and rewriting on deadlines.
Dialogue writer
· He will think of the conversation only rather than how it will come on screen
· Dialogue writer cannot be a good visualizer. So he may not be able to write for screenplay
· Since dialogue is one of the important element to the success of movie the writer give more
concentration on dialogue part only
pg. 78
65. Basics of script writing / Process of script writing
Craft a logline
· A logline is a brief summary of the story, usually no more than a single sentence
· It describes the protagonists and their goal, as well as the antagonists and their conflict
· It conveys both the ideas of the story and its emotional undertones
Write a treatment
· A treatment is a longer 2-5 page summary that includes the title of screenplay, the logline, a
list of main characters, and a short synopsis.
· A producer may read the treatment first before deciding if the script is worth their time.
· The synopsis should highlight the main beats and turning points of the story
· Create characters who will create problem and who is going to solve it.
· Plot refers to the storyline of the text. The plot is the sequence of events in the story or
drama.
· The conclusion is the final resolution either good or bad of the conflict and the end of the
story
· Outline the plot of the story. This means write a summary of the story, a short description
of what the story will be about, what will happen, who will do what, etc. from beginning to
end.
pg. 79
Write a final draft
· Using the outline as a map, write the script scene by scene, including the dialogue and
descriptive action.
· It creates interest to the producer to read the script if it has interesting characters and the
proper structure elements.
Rewrite
· Refine the action, shorten the dialogue and edit the script.
· This stage helps the writer to reduce the error at the maximum
· A synopsis is a write-up that describes the plot and world of the story. A script
synopsis can be used to sell the idea. A synopsis can also be written when
providing screenplay coverage to agents, managers, and producers.
· A synopsis should be long enough to pack in everything that's good about the story, but
short enough to be read in less than five minutes. This usually translates to two to three
single-spaced typewritten pages.
· A synopsis conveys the narrative arc, an explanation of the problem or plot, the characters,
and how the book or novel ends. It ensures character actions and motivations are realistic
and make sense. It summarizes what happens and who changes from beginning to end of the
story
· The next paragraph should convey any major plot turns or conflicts necessary
· How major conflicts are resolved should be present in the last paragraph.
pg. 80
This ensures the clear presentation
· Plan out the story first, and use an outline that will tell you where you are and where
you are going.
· The journey you’ve taken for hero through has changed them in a profound (deep)
way.
· You should always have a star in mind when you write your script.
· It will help you visualize the action and allow you to hear the voice of your
character.
· Every scene needs to drive the action forward.
· A screenwriter is writing for his or her audience.
· “Always confuse, torture, mislead, and surprise the audience as much as possible,”
· Not everything you write is gold. Some of it needs to be removed away. Edit it.
· Make writing as good as you think it is, not as good as you think someone will want.
· Finishing your screenplay is always trying and challenging because it may take you a
very long time to complete it.
· In between the fade in and fade out, you’ll have other distractions and commitments
demanding your attention and time, pulling you away from your writing.
· The ideal page count for a screenplay should be 105-110 not more than that.
· Voice Over is the method to express the characters thoughts. In visual the
character will be present but there will not be a lip movement.
· A dream sequence gives the audience a hint into the character's past
· A letter or A diary is tool used to convey the inner feeling of a character
· A musical score is also used to convey the mood of the character such as sad,
angry, happy, etc.
pg. 81
· A secondary character talking with primary character’s mind - A secondary
character is the one who joins with hero for their journey.
· A visual Montage is used visualize what the character think
· In some films songs are used to convey the internal thought of the character.
· Each scene must start with a slug-line. For example: INT. FARM HOUSE - MORNING
· Action should be indented 1.5” from the left edge of the page.
· If you need a character to pause during their speech, put a parenthetical ‘beat’
(Parentheticals are basically notes to the actors)
· Page numbers go at the top-right. Title page is page zero and is not numbered. Page 1 isn’t
numbered either.
· Title page should have the title and underneath that, the author’s name at page centered. At
the bottom of the page, you can add company or author information
· If a bit of dialogue is split between two pages, add (MORE) at the bottom of the first page.
Then, on the next page, start with character’s name (cont’d)
pg. 82
· Screen directions or transitions (fade out, fade to black, fade to white, etc...) go in ALL-
CAPS way over on the right
70. What do the spectators expect from the opening image in the movies
· Opening image in a movie is obviously essential to what will eventually lead to the
final visual
· The opening visual should set the tone and atmosphere of what is to come.
· Screenwriters should craft an excellent visual to go along with the introduction of
the story, characters, and concept.
· It has to stand out. It can’t be a static location description followed by dialogue.
· The opening image is presented in such a way that encapsulates the overall concept
of the story to come.
· It’s an engaging visual because it’s unique and shocking.
· This opening image, accompanied by some dialogue, showcases the horror of the
Civil War.
· And it also manages to show us the type of man the lead character is.
· Choose the clips that show the essential action. You can leave out anything that
doesn’t help tell the story.
· Show a different subject, or a different view of the same thing: a different shot size
or camera position.
· If you have to cut similar shot sizes together, use another shot to hide the join. Add
it as a ‘cutaway’ above the main clips.
· If you cut straight from an extreme long shot to an extreme closeup, viewers won’t
understand where the closeup fits into the bigger picture. Use an in-between size like
a mid shot to bring the viewer with you.
pg. 83
· Long shots and extreme long shots remind viewers of where everything fits into the
scene.
· Closeups, simple shots, and shots without any action or movement, can be short.
Long shots, extreme long shots, and any shots with detail will need to be on screen for
longer.
· Transitions are the ‘joins’ between shots. can use a fade out (usually to black) at the
end of a scene.
· It’s jarring if you show something moving in one shot and it’s not moving in the
next shot. Let the movement come to an end before you cut to a static shot.
· You can use ‘wild track’, ‘room tone’ or ‘ambience’ – background sound from the
location – to avoid silence and keep things smooth.
· Don’t have sudden changes in sound level, or dead silence, unless you’re
deliberately trying to shock people.
· If you edit while an action is happening, rather than at the beginning or the
end, it’ll look smoother. Viewers will concentrate on the movement, not the edit.
· When you have more than one audio track, you need to balance the sound levels.
You don’t want background sound, or music, drowning out dialogue.
pg. 84
· Having meaningful dialogue transforms it into a masterpiece
· Tension and conflict is created between characters and can be internal or external.
You should balance these opposing forces to keep the reader interested in the story
and anxious to see how it will be resolved.
pg. 85