How often should shots change in a spec script?

[FolkloreFanatic]

So far, I haven't been able to find an appropriate sample *spec* script for the type of piece I'm working on (historical drama, Antebellum South) that;s been optioned or sold, so all of the examples I've looked at for reference are of shooting scripts and modern spec scripts. How often do you need to change the shot in a spec script? How often CAN you dictate the shots without appearing too directorial?

I know, for example, that the longest stretch of time between slug lines in Ever After and Rob Roy is about a page and a quarter. That doesn't necessarily mean they change settings, though. So what is appropriate? How much camera action belongs in a spec script?

[Green Chair]

So far, I haven't been able to find an appropriate sample *spec* script for the type of piece I'm working on (historical drama, Antebellum South) that;s been optioned or sold, so all of the examples I've looked at for reference are of shooting scripts and modern spec scripts. How often do you need to change the shot in a spec script? How often CAN you dictate the shots without appearing too directorial?

I know, for example, that the longest stretch of time between slug lines in Ever After and Rob Roy is about a page and a quarter. That doesn't necessarily mean they change settings, though. So what is appropriate? How much camera action belongs in a spec script?

I'm not sure, but you may be asking two differant things. Therefore, let me answer both. If neither answer is what you're looking for, shoot again, and I'll try to remember to stop in tomorrow morning before I head out the door.

Re: SLUG LINES (you mentioned the page and a quarter in the two examples). As a general rule scenes should run no more than four pages long. That's a general rule, and rules are meant to be broken. Page and a quarter between slugs means the scenes are kept short and moving. Pages schmages, though. What you should evaluate is whether your scenes have a beginning, middle, and end. Even if they skip the beginning and jump into the middle, that should be a decision you make as the writer. You should also be able to answer in the affirmative: does your scene accomplish its tasks? Does the scene forward character growth and plot? Does it add to the character's story line? Does it end at the ending and not drag on beyond the ending of the scene? As a general rule for my own writing, I tend to have one or two or three longer scenes per feature spec - the ones that actors flip to with Oscar winning revealing character actions and/or speeches. Or sometimes I have a sequence that accomplishes that. (Yes, I meant to flatter myself with the Oscar reference, but if we don't aim high, how can we ever expect to achieve greatness...or something close to it?! Besides, it's fun to write a seperate acceptance speech for each screenplay!) By the way, I don't worry about scene length as I write the first draft. I simply write away. Making sure your scenes are appropriately paced and a good page length is something that you can take care of during the numeroud revisions that follow....

The other question: how much camera action can appear in a spec script? None. Not overtly, at any rate. However, you can and should tell every reader exactly what you see. Share your vision, but never write camera shots or any language specifically reserved for the director. (Okay - never say never, right? Let the onslaught of disagreement responses begin. Grin, grin.)

Have fun with your writing and good luck!

Okay...not sure how to spell check here. It's probably cleverly disguised as the "spell check" button...so forgive me for being so obtuse as I simply post this monster answer.

Cheers,
GC

[NikeeGoddess]

for feature writing there is no real answer to your question. a scene is as long as it needs to be. but, not necessarily as long as you want it to be. know the difference between need and want and choose need as as you ultimate guide.

the formula question you ask can really only apply to tv writing b/c timing is so much more specific.....you know - commerical breaks

[FolkloreFanatic]

All right! I'm assuming that when I go back and revise, all but the most important scenes should be less than 2 pages (in general)?

I'm not writing for tv. Not yet, anyway.

[AceTachyon]

Regarding how long a scene should be, I recall reading this advice (paraphrased): "Get in late, get out early." Or similarly, "start late, end early."

I believe it refers to starting a scene as close as possible to an emotional peak and then ending it just as it peaks.

I think it was in JMS's book on scriptwriting where he says that a scene taking place in one location running more than 3 pages is too long, but I'd have to look it up to confirm.