: Re: How to write character's emotional reactions in a screenplay? Question : When writing my screenplay, I frequently find the urge to describe a character's emotion. However, I have read somewhere
Just say it.
I suggest reading this: What Visual Storytelling Looks Like In a Screenplay.
And this companion article: 4 Examples of Good Visual Writing In a Movie Script.
I'd recommend giving the actor something to do besides "looking scared".
John, terrified, slowly raises one trembling hand to the side of his face.
But that is up to you. Keep it short, one line. Make it visual, incorporate an action if you can. The director will have no qualms about killing or replacing the action if they want, but all your exposition should be visually oriented.
As the link says, there is a difference between the screen writer directing and the screen writer providing a visual experience. Notice we don't say "CLOSE ON" or give any camera angle or lighting direction. Just tell a visual story. And it is better if you don't use generic words like "scared".
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