: Re: How to format a screenplay scene where the action alternates between 2 or more spots in an open space? Question : In a screenplay, how should I format a scene in which the action and dialogue

@Deb2945533

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Imagine your screenplay on stage as a live drama.

If each of your spot is a separate part of your stage and a drama is being performed live then how would you have arranged the scene? The answer is simple, you'll have to arrange the scenes in the order of the attention you require audience to pay onto. So if you want that out of 3 spots audience should view spot1, then spot 3 and then spot2 write accordingly. Same applies with camera. Camera will focus the spot that you want to show to maintain continuity. So write on the perspective of audience or camera and in sync with order of your screenplay (even if it demands continuous and simultaneous spaces)

Second thing to consider is Action and Reaction. If one of the spot is active or is being focussed (as explained above), other actors in other spots will still react to the things happening. You can definitely write for actors of other spots about what to react when one spot is in action.

So in your example,
If Scarlett appears in balcony before James and David completes doing A,B and C, then write in that order. When Scarlett is speaking, write what other spots will react to because current focus will be on Scarlett's balcony.

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