Glosssary of Terms © 2004 Ginny Lowndes (taken from Seeing Red, Master of Arts. Griffith University)
Actors
Actors are hired either by audition or by being cast into their role by a professional casting director. In television, different types of actors are hired at different rates of pay. For example, an extra or non-speaker is an individual who works in the background or crowd scenes. A 50-word actor is hired to speak 50 words or under. A daily actor is hired to work for one day in one episode of a serial or series. Actors in a major sustaining role can be hired in a serial for three episodes per week or for two. A guest actor is usually well-known who is hired to work for several weeks usually to accelerate interest in the storylines. The type of actor hired and how many influences the film or television budget so rates should be checked before the structure of the story takes place. Any decision made from this research is done by the story editor.
Actors are hired either by audition or by being cast into their role by a professional casting director. In television, different types of actors are hired at different rates of pay. For example, an extra or non-speaker is an individual who works in the background or crowd scenes. A 50-word actor is hired to speak 50 words or under. A daily actor is hired to work for one day in one episode of a serial or series. Actors in a major sustaining role can be hired in a serial for three episodes per week or for two. A guest actor is usually well-known who is hired to work for several weeks usually to accelerate interest in the storylines. The type of actor hired and how many influences the film or television budget so rates should be checked before the structure of the story takes place. Any decision made from this research is done by the story editor.
Adaptation
The right to adapt a work means to transform the way in which the work is expressed. Examples include developing a stage play or film script from a novel; translating a short story; and making a new arrangement of a musical work. Adaptation takes an established work, either in the form of a novel, play, poem or speech and it is written in the form of a completed screenplay, a proposal or treatment. A story or script editor can suggest to a producer that a work from another source may be able to be adapted for screen. An option fee is paid to the originator of the work for adaptation. The story editor or the writer takes the idea, the most appealing characters and the location and creates a new work. A novel or a play cannot be duplicated on screen. It should not attempt to as the work is moving from one genre to another, and what works in one genre usually does not work in another.
The right to adapt a work means to transform the way in which the work is expressed. Examples include developing a stage play or film script from a novel; translating a short story; and making a new arrangement of a musical work. Adaptation takes an established work, either in the form of a novel, play, poem or speech and it is written in the form of a completed screenplay, a proposal or treatment. A story or script editor can suggest to a producer that a work from another source may be able to be adapted for screen. An option fee is paid to the originator of the work for adaptation. The story editor or the writer takes the idea, the most appealing characters and the location and creates a new work. A novel or a play cannot be duplicated on screen. It should not attempt to as the work is moving from one genre to another, and what works in one genre usually does not work in another.
Added scenes
Added scenes are material, shots, sequences or scenes that have been written into a script during its filming or after its completion. The tracking of these scenes and insertion into a script is the responsibility of the script editor or the script supervisor.
Added scenes are material, shots, sequences or scenes that have been written into a script during its filming or after its completion. The tracking of these scenes and insertion into a script is the responsibility of the script editor or the script supervisor.
Additional dialogue recording
Additional dialogue recording ( ADR) is a term used for the dubbing or re-recording of additional dialogue in a film. ADR is tracked by the script supervisor or script editor.
Additional dialogue recording ( ADR) is a term used for the dubbing or re-recording of additional dialogue in a film. ADR is tracked by the script supervisor or script editor.
Ad lib
An ad lib is term given to the improvised lines or the spontaneous reactions by an actor to a situation in a scene. When they have forgotten their lines, an actor, in keeping with their character and their situation, can sometimes make up an appropriate line on the spot or ad lib. The director can ask non-speaking actors or extras to ad lib when the words cannot be heard or singled out by an audience, such as in crowd scenes. The use of the ad lib should be limited and controlled by a director. It is tracked by a script editor or script supervisor and reported to a story editor, because in some cases, an ad lib can alter story progression.
An ad lib is term given to the improvised lines or the spontaneous reactions by an actor to a situation in a scene. When they have forgotten their lines, an actor, in keeping with their character and their situation, can sometimes make up an appropriate line on the spot or ad lib. The director can ask non-speaking actors or extras to ad lib when the words cannot be heard or singled out by an audience, such as in crowd scenes. The use of the ad lib should be limited and controlled by a director. It is tracked by a script editor or script supervisor and reported to a story editor, because in some cases, an ad lib can alter story progression.
Agent
An agent is an individual responsible for the professional management of the business dealings of a writer or other artists.
An agent is an individual responsible for the professional management of the business dealings of a writer or other artists.
Annotation
Annotation is the comment specifying the source of each script element that is not wholly fictional, including all characters, events, settings, and segments of dialogue.
Annotation is the comment specifying the source of each script element that is not wholly fictional, including all characters, events, settings, and segments of dialogue.
Antagonist
An antagonist is the villain in the script who is in conflict with the protagonist. They are the opposite of the protagonist.
An antagonist is the villain in the script who is in conflict with the protagonist. They are the opposite of the protagonist.
Anticlimax
An anticlimax occurs when the audience experiences dampened or unsatisfied emotions because the expectation of an exciting climax or ending to the story has not been met. The audience feels let down. They can express this dissatisfaction through ‘word-of-mouth’, which can spread far more rapidly than any counter-advertising campaign.
An anticlimax occurs when the audience experiences dampened or unsatisfied emotions because the expectation of an exciting climax or ending to the story has not been met. The audience feels let down. They can express this dissatisfaction through ‘word-of-mouth’, which can spread far more rapidly than any counter-advertising campaign.
Antihero
An antihero is a protagonist who has a pronounced personality or character defect or eccentricity that is not usually associated with the hero archetype.
An antihero is a protagonist who has a pronounced personality or character defect or eccentricity that is not usually associated with the hero archetype.
Asset and equipment registers
An assets register is a document that contains all the work written by a writer. (See Chapter X, The business of being an editor). The register contains the name of the writer’s work, the copyright date, what genre the work is, its log line, any registration details such as using the Australian Post Registered Letter system or the Australian Writers’ Guild’s register; names, addresses and contact numbers of where the work has been sent, to whom and on what date plus the response are also recorded. A note of how the work was archived or filed should be in the register so that the work can be found easily to add any papers to it or access it in a hurry.
An assets register is a document that contains all the work written by a writer. (See Chapter X, The business of being an editor). The register contains the name of the writer’s work, the copyright date, what genre the work is, its log line, any registration details such as using the Australian Post Registered Letter system or the Australian Writers’ Guild’s register; names, addresses and contact numbers of where the work has been sent, to whom and on what date plus the response are also recorded. A note of how the work was archived or filed should be in the register so that the work can be found easily to add any papers to it or access it in a hurry.
An
equipment register should also be established with all equipment receipts,
warranties or guarantees filed in logical order so that it can be produced
immediately for interested parties such as the Australian Taxation Office
(ATO), if necessary. Another file will hold all the manuals, discs and associated
other material for the equipment.
Editors
always have a list of tradespeople, computer technicians and other
professionals associated with running a business updated, and on hand.
It
is recommended that all writers and editors undertake a home-based entrepreneurial
or small business based course to understand the legal requirements of
operating as a sole trader. A five-year business plan is also recommended to
help keep focused on your career, especially one that has a large rejection
component in it and personnel that is constantly changing.
Assessor or reader
An assessor or reader is an individual who knows how to read a script and make comment upon it. They are usually an experienced writer or a story or script editor. The assessment process is the forensic examination of the script or screenplay for suitability for production. See Coverage.
An assessor or reader is an individual who knows how to read a script and make comment upon it. They are usually an experienced writer or a story or script editor. The assessment process is the forensic examination of the script or screenplay for suitability for production. See Coverage.
Atmosphere
Atmosphere is the effect created by various elements such as rain, wind, heat, cold, danger, sneaky shadows, heart-stopping music, a stealthy quiet or a spooky noise.
Atmosphere is the effect created by various elements such as rain, wind, heat, cold, danger, sneaky shadows, heart-stopping music, a stealthy quiet or a spooky noise.
Auction/bidding war
An auction or bidding war is a situation in which written material is presented to a wide variety of interested parties, all of whom want to buy the work.
An auction or bidding war is a situation in which written material is presented to a wide variety of interested parties, all of whom want to buy the work.
Australian Writers’ Guild
The Australian Writers Guild (AWG) is an association that represents writers in film, television and the creative industries. Each country has their own guild or union.
The Australian Writers Guild (AWG) is an association that represents writers in film, television and the creative industries. Each country has their own guild or union.
Automatic dialogue replacement
Automatic dialogue replacement (ADR) is the re-recording of dialogue by actors in a sound studio during post-production. It is usually performed to the playback of an edited picture in order to synchronise lip movements on screen. A script supervisor tracks it for any script changes.
Automatic dialogue replacement (ADR) is the re-recording of dialogue by actors in a sound studio during post-production. It is usually performed to the playback of an edited picture in order to synchronise lip movements on screen. A script supervisor tracks it for any script changes.
Avant garde
Avant garde is an experimental or highly independent film that is often the forerunner of a new artistic genre.
Avant garde is an experimental or highly independent film that is often the forerunner of a new artistic genre.
Backdrop
A backdrop is the artificial background used to achieve the effect of a natural environment such as a forest, beach, desert, mountains or other landscape in a shot or sequence.
A backdrop is the artificial background used to achieve the effect of a natural environment such as a forest, beach, desert, mountains or other landscape in a shot or sequence.
Beat
Beat, written in brackets in a script as (BEAT), is a directional word used to indicate a pause in an actor’s speech or action. When using a stopwatch to time a scene, the script editor counts the beat as part of the dialogue by saying out loud the word “beat”.
Beat, written in brackets in a script as (BEAT), is a directional word used to indicate a pause in an actor’s speech or action. When using a stopwatch to time a scene, the script editor counts the beat as part of the dialogue by saying out loud the word “beat”.
Bible
A bible is a written guide for a television series or serial that records the original idea for the show, its intentions and direction. The bible also records each story, as well as the main characters/actors and minor, recurring or shadow (unseen) characters. It also includes the setting, format, genre, style, themes, sets, props, locations and continuing story elements. It tracks the ‘who, what, where, why, when and how’ of characters and their stories. Production requirements may also be included. In musical productions, a bible is called a book.
A bible is a written guide for a television series or serial that records the original idea for the show, its intentions and direction. The bible also records each story, as well as the main characters/actors and minor, recurring or shadow (unseen) characters. It also includes the setting, format, genre, style, themes, sets, props, locations and continuing story elements. It tracks the ‘who, what, where, why, when and how’ of characters and their stories. Production requirements may also be included. In musical productions, a bible is called a book.
Big print
Big print (TV) is written before the dialogue. It is the description of attitudes you’d like the characters in the scene to take. It is called an action line in film.
Big print (TV) is written before the dialogue. It is the description of attitudes you’d like the characters in the scene to take. It is called an action line in film.
Biographic picture/bio-pic
A filmed story of a person’s life story is called a biographic picture or a bio-pic.
A filmed story of a person’s life story is called a biographic picture or a bio-pic.
Black comedy
Black comedy is a drama where humour is derived from characters who find themselves in an unsuitable or unwanted situation, such as a carefree holiday hotel, with a serious subject juxtaposed against it, e.g. war, a dead body or officialdom.
Black comedy is a drama where humour is derived from characters who find themselves in an unsuitable or unwanted situation, such as a carefree holiday hotel, with a serious subject juxtaposed against it, e.g. war, a dead body or officialdom.
Blind spot
A blind spot is a false goal, held by a character, which is removed in the climatic scene. The character discovers some element in their environment or character they had not been aware of or had not previously taken into account.
A blind spot is a false goal, held by a character, which is removed in the climatic scene. The character discovers some element in their environment or character they had not been aware of or had not previously taken into account.
Blockbuster
Blockbuster is a film that is a huge financial success. Its success has usually been achieved through positive ‘word of mouth’.
Blockbuster is a film that is a huge financial success. Its success has usually been achieved through positive ‘word of mouth’.
Breakdown script
A breakdown script is a detailed list of all items, people, props, etc. required for a shoot on a day-by-day basis.
A breakdown script is a detailed list of all items, people, props, etc. required for a shoot on a day-by-day basis.
Budget
A budget is the total (and final cost) required for production. It is derived by combining all projected expenses for scripting fees, equipment, salaries, locations, travel and all other above-the-line and below-the-line production costs. A certified budget is one that has been approved in writing by the completion guarantor. See Completion Guarantor.
A budget is the total (and final cost) required for production. It is derived by combining all projected expenses for scripting fees, equipment, salaries, locations, travel and all other above-the-line and below-the-line production costs. A certified budget is one that has been approved in writing by the completion guarantor. See Completion Guarantor.
Business
Business is the direction given to actors in the BIG PRINT of a television script or in the action line of a screenplay that adds to character or gives the actor appropriate action to undertake while they deliver dialogue. Business can take the form of making tea, serving beer, cleaning, bonsai, fixing a car, gardening, playing a musical instrument and so on, but it must be relevant to the story and add to character. It is usually devised by a story editor from their extensive character notes and written into the production bible.
Business is the direction given to actors in the BIG PRINT of a television script or in the action line of a screenplay that adds to character or gives the actor appropriate action to undertake while they deliver dialogue. Business can take the form of making tea, serving beer, cleaning, bonsai, fixing a car, gardening, playing a musical instrument and so on, but it must be relevant to the story and add to character. It is usually devised by a story editor from their extensive character notes and written into the production bible.
Camp/campy
Camp or campy is the term used for a form of comedy where the cliché conventions of a dramatic form, like adventure, are deliberately exaggerated to the point of absurdity or parody.
Camp or campy is the term used for a form of comedy where the cliché conventions of a dramatic form, like adventure, are deliberately exaggerated to the point of absurdity or parody.
Caricature
A caricature is a character that is portrayed very broadly or in a stereotypical fashion or in an objectionable manner.
A caricature is a character that is portrayed very broadly or in a stereotypical fashion or in an objectionable manner.
Certificate of Authorship
Certificate of Authorship is a legal document signed by a writer. It states the work is original and it will not libel another party nor invade anyone’s privacy. It will not cause the buyer of the work to be sued.
Certificate of Authorship is a legal document signed by a writer. It states the work is original and it will not libel another party nor invade anyone’s privacy. It will not cause the buyer of the work to be sued.
Change pages
W hen a script is being edited during production, changes are distributed to actors and the filmmakers on ‘change pages’. They are usually a different colour to the original pages of the script. Keeping track of change pages is the responsibility of the script editor. If these changes have altered story, the script editor reports it to the story editor.
W hen a script is being edited during production, changes are distributed to actors and the filmmakers on ‘change pages’. They are usually a different colour to the original pages of the script. Keeping track of change pages is the responsibility of the script editor. If these changes have altered story, the script editor reports it to the story editor.
Character
A character is the protagonist, antagonist or other, which is performed by an actor. Characters may or may not be based on real people.
A character is the protagonist, antagonist or other, which is performed by an actor. Characters may or may not be based on real people.
Character actor
A character actor is one who specializes in playing a particular style of character such as a nosy person, a criminal, a police officer, a spy and so on.
A character actor is one who specializes in playing a particular style of character such as a nosy person, a criminal, a police officer, a spy and so on.
Character arc
A character arc traces the development, growth and transformation of a character over the course of a script.
A character arc traces the development, growth and transformation of a character over the course of a script.
Cinema verité
Cinema verité or cinema truth is a documentary style film that is not written by a writer nor controlled by a director. The subject or the subject matter tells its own truth.
Cinema verité or cinema truth is a documentary style film that is not written by a writer nor controlled by a director. The subject or the subject matter tells its own truth.
Cinematographer
A cinematographer is an individual whose art and expertise captures images electronically or on film stock with visual recording devices. They also select and arrange lighting.
A cinematographer is an individual whose art and expertise captures images electronically or on film stock with visual recording devices. They also select and arrange lighting.
Claymation
Claymation is the name of a model constructed from clay or plasticine for use in animation. Before the model is made, the characters and their story have to be written and the script has to be edited.
Claymation is the name of a model constructed from clay or plasticine for use in animation. Before the model is made, the characters and their story have to be written and the script has to be edited.
Cliffhanger
A cliffhanger is the climax or high drama used at the end of television serials to suspend action and story for another time. Cliffhangers can present a problem with a production budget especially for those actors who are only employed for one episode. As the cliffhanger is repeated the next day to bring the audience up to date on the serial or series, a non-speaker, 50-worder or a daily actor should not appear in a cliffhanger, unless their contracts allow it.
A cliffhanger is the climax or high drama used at the end of television serials to suspend action and story for another time. Cliffhangers can present a problem with a production budget especially for those actors who are only employed for one episode. As the cliffhanger is repeated the next day to bring the audience up to date on the serial or series, a non-speaker, 50-worder or a daily actor should not appear in a cliffhanger, unless their contracts allow it.
Climax
The end scene where the conflicts in the script have reached their highest point of tension is called a climax. It is the scene in which the mystery or problem presented at the outset of the story is finally faced and resolved. It is when the blind spot is removed.
The end scene where the conflicts in the script have reached their highest point of tension is called a climax. It is the scene in which the mystery or problem presented at the outset of the story is finally faced and resolved. It is when the blind spot is removed.
Co-incidence
There is no such thing as co-incidence in a well-structured script nor are there accidental meetings. Co-incidences and improbable storylines occur most often in daytime soap operas.
There is no such thing as co-incidence in a well-structured script nor are there accidental meetings. Co-incidences and improbable storylines occur most often in daytime soap operas.
Comedy
Comedy is essentially a drama that treats light or serious subjects in an amusing way. Situation comedy is probably the most commonly seen drama on television.
Comedy is essentially a drama that treats light or serious subjects in an amusing way. Situation comedy is probably the most commonly seen drama on television.
Comic relief
Comic relief provides an ironic counterpoint to a tragic action.
Comic relief provides an ironic counterpoint to a tragic action.
Commissioning conference
A commissioning conference is a meeting held between the story editor and the script editor and other relevant parties to hire or cast a scriptwriter to write for a television series or serial or film.
A commissioning conference is a meeting held between the story editor and the script editor and other relevant parties to hire or cast a scriptwriter to write for a television series or serial or film.
Compensation/consideration
Compensation is an agreed upon sum of money paid to a writer for writing services or for the sale of a script or screenplay.
Compensation is an agreed upon sum of money paid to a writer for writing services or for the sale of a script or screenplay.
Completion guarantee
A completion guarantee is a legal document that guarantees investors that the production they have financed will be delivered using the script, budget, production personnel and contracts they have agreed to. The completion guarantee includes an allowance, under certain circumstances, for over and above funding agreed to in the budget so that the production can be completed.
A completion guarantee is a legal document that guarantees investors that the production they have financed will be delivered using the script, budget, production personnel and contracts they have agreed to. The completion guarantee includes an allowance, under certain circumstances, for over and above funding agreed to in the budget so that the production can be completed.
Completion guarantor
A completion guarantor is an individual that provides expert services to both the investor and the producer, which includes monitoring the production progress as well as the budget, personnel and general management.
A completion guarantor is an individual that provides expert services to both the investor and the producer, which includes monitoring the production progress as well as the budget, personnel and general management.
Composer
A composer is an individual who writes original music for a film or television script.
A composer is an individual who writes original music for a film or television script.
Concept/concept document
A concept document is the material written to submit and support an idea for film, television or new media to a production company. It consists of an outline of the idea, a paragraph describing the background to the story, format, synopsis, dramatic description of the areas of drama and conflict, extended background, description of major and minor characters, storyline, same scene containing dialogue, suggestion for a time slot, your resume.
A concept document is the material written to submit and support an idea for film, television or new media to a production company. It consists of an outline of the idea, a paragraph describing the background to the story, format, synopsis, dramatic description of the areas of drama and conflict, extended background, description of major and minor characters, storyline, same scene containing dialogue, suggestion for a time slot, your resume.
Concept meeting
A concept meeting is held between the producer, director, casting director, editor and writer to reach an initial agreement about how a project will look and the quality of each character in the script.
A concept meeting is held between the producer, director, casting director, editor and writer to reach an initial agreement about how a project will look and the quality of each character in the script.
Contingent compensation
Contingent compensation is a form of compensation received by a writer, after the writing services have been completed, if they are awarded writing credit for the project. The contingent compensation may include a production bonus, net profits, reserved rights, and/or additional payments in the event of a film or television sequel, remake or spin-off. It is rarely entered into by an Australian writer.
Contingent compensation is a form of compensation received by a writer, after the writing services have been completed, if they are awarded writing credit for the project. The contingent compensation may include a production bonus, net profits, reserved rights, and/or additional payments in the event of a film or television sequel, remake or spin-off. It is rarely entered into by an Australian writer.
Continuity/link material
Material not written by the contracted or first writer that is used to link one program element with another is called continuity or link material.
Material not written by the contracted or first writer that is used to link one program element with another is called continuity or link material.
Continuity writer
A continuity writer is an individual who is contracted on a magazine-style program to write material to link program elements that have not been written or provided by the original or first writer. The first writer is given the right of first refusal to write continuity material for the entire television series. Sometimes continuity writing is undertaken by the script editor.
A continuity writer is an individual who is contracted on a magazine-style program to write material to link program elements that have not been written or provided by the original or first writer. The first writer is given the right of first refusal to write continuity material for the entire television series. Sometimes continuity writing is undertaken by the script editor.
Contributing writer
A contributing writer is an individual who is contracted to write specific segments or units for use in a variety program or a magazine-style program.
A contributing writer is an individual who is contracted to write specific segments or units for use in a variety program or a magazine-style program.
Co-production/CoPro
A co-production (CoPro) raises investment money from different countries to make a common project. Canadian film and television production is mainly financed by co-production.
A co-production (CoPro) raises investment money from different countries to make a common project. Canadian film and television production is mainly financed by co-production.
Corporate production
Corporate production is material that includes programs containing visual, audio tape, animation, graphics, photographs, print, interactive video disk, CD-ROM, slide tape, computers, chips and any other existing or new technologies to advertise or showcase a corporation or business.
Corporate production is material that includes programs containing visual, audio tape, animation, graphics, photographs, print, interactive video disk, CD-ROM, slide tape, computers, chips and any other existing or new technologies to advertise or showcase a corporation or business.
Convention
Convention is a custom that allows an audience to accept a situation without thinking about it because they have seen it in drama or writing before. It is a form of suspended disbelief (see disbelief, suspension of).
Convention is a custom that allows an audience to accept a situation without thinking about it because they have seen it in drama or writing before. It is a form of suspended disbelief (see disbelief, suspension of).
Convergence
Convergence places telecommunications, broadcasting, gaming, information technology and consumer electronic markets under one umbrella.
Convergence places telecommunications, broadcasting, gaming, information technology and consumer electronic markets under one umbrella.
Co-producer
A co-producer is an individual who has equal responsibility for the completion of a film or television project.
A co-producer is an individual who has equal responsibility for the completion of a film or television project.
Copyright
Copyright is a set of exclusive rights that regulate the use of a particular expression of an idea or information. At its most general, it is literally “the right to copy” an original creation. In most cases, these rights are of limited duration. The symbol for copyright is © , and in some jurisdictions may alternately be written (c) . Copyright may subsist in a wide range of creative, intellectual, or artistic forms or “works”. Copyright is a type of intellectual property that covers only the particular form or manner in which ideas or information have been manifested, the “form of material expression”. It is not designed or intended to cover the actual idea, concepts, facts, styles, or techniques which may be embodied in or represented by the copyright work. Copyright law provides scope for satirical or interpretive works, which themselves may be copyrighted. For example, the copyright which subsists in relation to a Mickey Mouse cartoon prohibits unauthorized parties from distributing copies of the cartoon or creating derivative works that copy or mimic Disney’s particular type of mouse, but does not prohibit the creation of artistic works about mice in general, so long as they are sufficiently different to not be imitative of the original. Other laws may impose legal restrictions on reproduction or use where copyright does not – such as trademarks and patents. Copyright covers the expression of an idea, not the idea itself — this is called the idea/expression or fact/expression dichotomy. For example, if a book is written describing a new way to organize books in a library, a copyright does not prohibit a reader from freely using and describing that concept to others; it is only the particular expression of that process as originally described that is covered by copyright. One might be able to obtain a patent for the method, but that is a different area of law. Compilations of facts or data may also be copyrighted, but such a copyright is thin; it only applies to the particular selection and arrangement of the included items, not to the particular items themselves. In some jurisdictions the contents of databases are expressly covered by statute. In some cases, ideas may be capable of intelligible expression in only one or a limited number of ways. Therefore even the expression in these circumstances is not covered. In the United States this is known as the merger doctrine, because the expression is considered to be inextricably merged with the idea. Merger is often pleaded as an affirmative defence to charges of infringement. That doctrine is not necessarily accepted in other jurisdictions.
Copyright is a set of exclusive rights that regulate the use of a particular expression of an idea or information. At its most general, it is literally “the right to copy” an original creation. In most cases, these rights are of limited duration. The symbol for copyright is © , and in some jurisdictions may alternately be written (c) . Copyright may subsist in a wide range of creative, intellectual, or artistic forms or “works”. Copyright is a type of intellectual property that covers only the particular form or manner in which ideas or information have been manifested, the “form of material expression”. It is not designed or intended to cover the actual idea, concepts, facts, styles, or techniques which may be embodied in or represented by the copyright work. Copyright law provides scope for satirical or interpretive works, which themselves may be copyrighted. For example, the copyright which subsists in relation to a Mickey Mouse cartoon prohibits unauthorized parties from distributing copies of the cartoon or creating derivative works that copy or mimic Disney’s particular type of mouse, but does not prohibit the creation of artistic works about mice in general, so long as they are sufficiently different to not be imitative of the original. Other laws may impose legal restrictions on reproduction or use where copyright does not – such as trademarks and patents. Copyright covers the expression of an idea, not the idea itself — this is called the idea/expression or fact/expression dichotomy. For example, if a book is written describing a new way to organize books in a library, a copyright does not prohibit a reader from freely using and describing that concept to others; it is only the particular expression of that process as originally described that is covered by copyright. One might be able to obtain a patent for the method, but that is a different area of law. Compilations of facts or data may also be copyrighted, but such a copyright is thin; it only applies to the particular selection and arrangement of the included items, not to the particular items themselves. In some jurisdictions the contents of databases are expressly covered by statute. In some cases, ideas may be capable of intelligible expression in only one or a limited number of ways. Therefore even the expression in these circumstances is not covered. In the United States this is known as the merger doctrine, because the expression is considered to be inextricably merged with the idea. Merger is often pleaded as an affirmative defence to charges of infringement. That doctrine is not necessarily accepted in other jurisdictions.
Coverage
Coverage is performed by a reader, usually a senior writer, story or script editor, on material submitted to a production company. Coverage involves the synopsis, review, evaluation and rating of the story, characters and their development, plot and so on. The reader then informs interested parties or hiring bodies as to whether or not the script is worth further consideration.
Coverage is performed by a reader, usually a senior writer, story or script editor, on material submitted to a production company. Coverage involves the synopsis, review, evaluation and rating of the story, characters and their development, plot and so on. The reader then informs interested parties or hiring bodies as to whether or not the script is worth further consideration.
Co-writer
A co-writer is an individual who has joint authorship of one work written by two or more writers.
A co-writer is an individual who has joint authorship of one work written by two or more writers.
Credit
Credit is the authorship given to a written work. For example in film it is displayed as story by, screenplay by or written by. In television it is displayed as created by, story by or teleplay by.
Credit is the authorship given to a written work. For example in film it is displayed as story by, screenplay by or written by. In television it is displayed as created by, story by or teleplay by.
Credit arbitration
Credit arbitration is a process run by the Australian Writers Guild (AWG) or similar Union or Guild in other countries in which disputes about the award of a writing credit are settled. The AWG sends all drafts of the disputed work to three individuals who, separately and without knowledge of each other, decide which writer deserves the award of the writing credit. When two of the three individuals agree on the award of the writing credit, the credit is awarded to the majority decision. The decision is considered final.
Credit arbitration is a process run by the Australian Writers Guild (AWG) or similar Union or Guild in other countries in which disputes about the award of a writing credit are settled. The AWG sends all drafts of the disputed work to three individuals who, separately and without knowledge of each other, decide which writer deserves the award of the writing credit. When two of the three individuals agree on the award of the writing credit, the credit is awarded to the majority decision. The decision is considered final.
Cue/Cut in
The last word of one speech by an actor becomes the cue for the other to speak at the exact moment the first actor finishes. Sometimes, the words (CUT IN) are written into an actor’s dialogue. This means that when one actor is speaking another may ‘cut in’ to the dialogue at any time with their written dialogue.
The last word of one speech by an actor becomes the cue for the other to speak at the exact moment the first actor finishes. Sometimes, the words (CUT IN) are written into an actor’s dialogue. This means that when one actor is speaking another may ‘cut in’ to the dialogue at any time with their written dialogue.
Meet Cute or Cute Meet
A meet cute or cute meet sets up the sticky circumstances of boy-meets-girl for the ensuing classic romantic comedy.
A meet cute or cute meet sets up the sticky circumstances of boy-meets-girl for the ensuing classic romantic comedy.
Cut to
Cut to or C2 is a written direction by a writer to indicate a new scene to the director. It also helps to create more white space on the page. This makes the script easier to read.
Cut to or C2 is a written direction by a writer to indicate a new scene to the director. It also helps to create more white space on the page. This makes the script easier to read.
D to F
Daily dramatic serial/serial
A serial is a drama that is produced for first run broadcast of five episodes per week usually after 6pm with a core cast of characters usually numbering no more than 12. Serial has a beginning, middle and end to stories. If the serial is shown during daytime hours with open-ended and sometimes improbable stories, it is known as ‘a soap’, ‘soapie’ or a ‘soap opera’. The structure and story between serial and soap opera is markedly different.
A serial is a drama that is produced for first run broadcast of five episodes per week usually after 6pm with a core cast of characters usually numbering no more than 12. Serial has a beginning, middle and end to stories. If the serial is shown during daytime hours with open-ended and sometimes improbable stories, it is known as ‘a soap’, ‘soapie’ or a ‘soap opera’. The structure and story between serial and soap opera is markedly different.
Data-casting/digital television
Data-casting is the delivery of the internet through home television sets, in the digital part of the spectrum. Digital television is a cheap, effective way of delivering internet services.
Data-casting is the delivery of the internet through home television sets, in the digital part of the spectrum. Digital television is a cheap, effective way of delivering internet services.
Deal memo
A deal memo is a legal document signed by all parties that sets out the terms and conditions or specifications agreed upon for writing a script.
Defamation
Writers who wish to write about a contemporary or historical figure or a member of their own family often contact the ASA wanting to know about the issues surrounding writing about real people.
A deal memo is a legal document signed by all parties that sets out the terms and conditions or specifications agreed upon for writing a script.
Defamation
Writers who wish to write about a contemporary or historical figure or a member of their own family often contact the ASA wanting to know about the issues surrounding writing about real people.
There is no law that prevents writers from representing real people or real-life events. However, there are a number of legal and other concerns with which writers of both fiction and non-fiction should become familiar. What follows is a brief introduction to each. Authors should contact the ASA or the Arts Law Centre of Australiaif they require more information, or consider having their manuscript vetted by a lawyer prior to publication.
If you are writing about real people, you should familiarize yourself with defamation laws, as well as the various defenses to defamation.
A publication is defamatory of a person if it tends, in the minds of ordinary people, to injure his/her reputation by disparaging him/her, causing others to shun him/her, or subjecting him/her to hatred, ridicule or contempt. The defamatory publication does not have to identify the person by name. If their identity can be reasonably inferred from your text, you’re not off the hook!
Defamation laws operate to protect living people so writing about deceased people won’t be a problem … unless you defame one of their living descendants.
Be very careful about identifying any children in your writing, as there are some restrictions on identifying children in certain circumstances, such as where they are involved in Family Court proceedings.
Consider who owns copyright in any sources you will be using to write your book and seek permissions where necessary. For example, in preparing a family history, you might want to reference personal letters, photographs and transcribe oral interviews. These are all works in which copyright will generally be owned by the author, photographer and interviewee respectively, unless copyright has expired and they have entered the public domain.
You should also consider people’s reasonable expectation of privacy. Even though the privacy principles set out in the Privacy Act 1988 may not apply legally to you in your writing, they are a good guide for ethical practice. You could also have reference to the Australia Press Council’s Statement of Privacy Principles, available on its website.
Consider whether information you have obtained about real people was provided to you under an obligation of confidence (such as a Non-Disclosure Agreement) or in circumstances where you understood secrecy was implied, which will prevent publication.
Many authors include a disclaimer at the start of their work along the lines of: “This work is entirely fictional. Any resemblance to a living person is purely co-incidental.”
Be warned: such a disclaimer at the beginning of your book is unlikely to protect you from legal issues such as defamation.
Arts Law Centre of Australia: www.artslaw.com.au
Australian Copyright Council: www.copyright.org.au
Deferred compensation
Deferred compensation is money to be paid from funds that, for a
writer, are generally the net profits. A writer will almost never see such
compensation.
Dénouement
A dénouement is the concluding scene in a production where the story elements are finished and, after the climax, the characters’ new status is revealed.
A dénouement is the concluding scene in a production where the story elements are finished and, after the climax, the characters’ new status is revealed.
Deus ex machina
A deus ex machina is a contrivance or a clumsy plot device that an unskilled writer uses to solve a story problem. It’s commonly known as an “oh by the way …” ending. Your loyal viewers will resent you deeply for using this device. See disbelief, suspension of.
A deus ex machina is a contrivance or a clumsy plot device that an unskilled writer uses to solve a story problem. It’s commonly known as an “oh by the way …” ending. Your loyal viewers will resent you deeply for using this device. See disbelief, suspension of.
Development
Development is the process in which a script is altered, changed, modified, etc., by a series of collaborative meetings between the writer and/or production executive, studio executive, director, editors or other individuals who may be attached to the project.
Development is the process in which a script is altered, changed, modified, etc., by a series of collaborative meetings between the writer and/or production executive, studio executive, director, editors or other individuals who may be attached to the project.
Development proposal
A development proposal is the written presentation of an idea for a film or television project. It consists of basic story elements and general descriptions of the principal characters and runs to about ten pages.
A development proposal is the written presentation of an idea for a film or television project. It consists of basic story elements and general descriptions of the principal characters and runs to about ten pages.
Dialogue
Dialogue is the speech delivered by one character to another. Dialogue comments on and forwards action.
Dialogue is the speech delivered by one character to another. Dialogue comments on and forwards action.
Didactic drama/worthy drama/pushing a wheelbarrow or a cause
This type of drama is specifically designed to make an audience directly aware of current political or other issues. It is designed to provoke debate or discussion as in ‘the water cooler effect’. It is usually most effective in a documentary or magazine-style format. See moral entrepreneur and moral panic.
This type of drama is specifically designed to make an audience directly aware of current political or other issues. It is designed to provoke debate or discussion as in ‘the water cooler effect’. It is usually most effective in a documentary or magazine-style format. See moral entrepreneur and moral panic.
Director
A director is an individual who is the principal creative artist on a movie set.
A director is an individual who is the principal creative artist on a movie set.
Director of photography/cinematographer
Director of photography (DoP) is a cinematographer who is ultimately responsible for the process of recording a scene the way a director has indicated.
Director of photography (DoP) is a cinematographer who is ultimately responsible for the process of recording a scene the way a director has indicated.
Director’s cut
A director’s cut is the preferred edit by a director of a film without studio interference.
A director’s cut is the preferred edit by a director of a film without studio interference.
Disbelief, suspension of
Suspension of disbelief occurs when the audience agrees to suspend judgement about the limitations of the medium and improbability of the story in return for being entertained. However the writer must plot the story very carefully so that the trust the audience has placed in them is not broken. (Coined by S T Coleridge, 1817)
Suspension of disbelief occurs when the audience agrees to suspend judgement about the limitations of the medium and improbability of the story in return for being entertained. However the writer must plot the story very carefully so that the trust the audience has placed in them is not broken. (Coined by S T Coleridge, 1817)
Dissolve
Dissolve is an editing technique whereby the images of one shot are gradually replaced by the images of another. The instruction, dissolve, is written into a script by the writer.
Dissolve is an editing technique whereby the images of one shot are gradually replaced by the images of another. The instruction, dissolve, is written into a script by the writer.
Distribution royalty
A distribution royalty is a payment based on the distributors’ gross revenue.
A distribution royalty is a payment based on the distributors’ gross revenue.
Distributors’ gross revenue
A distributors’ gross revenue is the money derived from distribution of a film or television program.
A distributors’ gross revenue is the money derived from distribution of a film or television program.
Documentary
A documentary is n on-fiction narrative that uses ‘real people’ rather than actors. It is made for cinema release or television. See didactic drama.
A documentary is n on-fiction narrative that uses ‘real people’ rather than actors. It is made for cinema release or television. See didactic drama.
Documentary drama
Documentary drama presents historical facts in a non-fictionalized, or only slightly fictionalized, manner.
Documentary drama presents historical facts in a non-fictionalized, or only slightly fictionalized, manner.
Documentary outline or proposal
Documentary outline or proposal is a concept document that indicates the intent, style, proposed structure and content that serves as a guide for further development of the project. See hunter-gatherer.
Documentary outline or proposal is a concept document that indicates the intent, style, proposed structure and content that serves as a guide for further development of the project. See hunter-gatherer.
Documentary script
A documentary script provides all the written material necessary for the production. It may have a structural plan that includes interviews, locations, recreations, archival material and other elements together with the intent of the production.
A documentary script provides all the written material necessary for the production. It may have a structural plan that includes interviews, locations, recreations, archival material and other elements together with the intent of the production.
Domestic drama/kitchen sink drama
Domestic drama is a tragic type of drama written for film, television, radio or theatre, which is based on the lives of ordinary people in their suburban homes. Television usually broadcasts it during the daytime.
Domestic drama is a tragic type of drama written for film, television, radio or theatre, which is based on the lives of ordinary people in their suburban homes. Television usually broadcasts it during the daytime.
Draft script
A draft script is a complete draft of any script submitted in a mutually agreed form in a length that has been specified by a producer. A draft script can be a first draft or a fifty-first draft. It should be numbered and tracked in the writer’s asset register.
A draft script is a complete draft of any script submitted in a mutually agreed form in a length that has been specified by a producer. A draft script can be a first draft or a fifty-first draft. It should be numbered and tracked in the writer’s asset register.
Dramatic action
Dramatic action is that action which brings forth an emotional response in an audience. In order for dramatic action to succeed it must have structural unity.
Dramatic action is that action which brings forth an emotional response in an audience. In order for dramatic action to succeed it must have structural unity.
Dramatic irony
Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something the characters in the script don’t. (See Macguffin)
Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something the characters in the script don’t. (See Macguffin)
Dramaturg/dramaturge/dramaturgy
A dramaturge is an individual who works as a story and script editor in theatre. They are specialists in dramatic construction and dramatic literature. Dramaturges are frequently engaged to choose and analyse scripted material and to assist in choosing and analysing plays, or the development of production concepts. They can research topics pertinent to an historical period or develop a play’s production style. Dramaturgs also write program essays to inform the public about the play. Well-known dramaturges include Bertold Bretch (1898-1956); Lessing (1763); Diderot (1758); Kenneth Tynan (1927-1980) and Nick Lathouris, actor/dramaturge, Australia . Dramaturgs are increasingly being hired to work with actors in film and television productions.
A dramaturge is an individual who works as a story and script editor in theatre. They are specialists in dramatic construction and dramatic literature. Dramaturges are frequently engaged to choose and analyse scripted material and to assist in choosing and analysing plays, or the development of production concepts. They can research topics pertinent to an historical period or develop a play’s production style. Dramaturgs also write program essays to inform the public about the play. Well-known dramaturges include Bertold Bretch (1898-1956); Lessing (1763); Diderot (1758); Kenneth Tynan (1927-1980) and Nick Lathouris, actor/dramaturge, Australia . Dramaturgs are increasingly being hired to work with actors in film and television productions.
Editor
An editor is an individual who works with a writer to realise a first-class screenplay, script or written material for publication. There are many types of editors and each one has a different role in a production.
An editor is an individual who works with a writer to realise a first-class screenplay, script or written material for publication. There are many types of editors and each one has a different role in a production.
Electronic cinema/e-cinema
Electronic cinema is one where feature films are delivered directly to theatres by electronic means and are projected electronically.
Electronic cinema is one where feature films are delivered directly to theatres by electronic means and are projected electronically.
Empathy
Empathy is felt by an audience when they identify with the characters by realizing they have shared feelings in common. Empathy is one of the principal effects of good drama. It gets the audience on side.
Empathy is felt by an audience when they identify with the characters by realizing they have shared feelings in common. Empathy is one of the principal effects of good drama. It gets the audience on side.
Epilogue
An epilogue is the concluding scene set substantially beyond the time frame of the rest of the film, in which characters, now somewhat older, reflect on the preceding events.
An epilogue is the concluding scene set substantially beyond the time frame of the rest of the film, in which characters, now somewhat older, reflect on the preceding events.
Epic
An epic is a film with large dramatic scope or one that requires an immense production. Often referred to asbigger than Ben Hur.
An epic is a film with large dramatic scope or one that requires an immense production. Often referred to asbigger than Ben Hur.
Episodic script
An episodic script is one that has a sequence of events with no causal connection, that is, there is no cause and effect from scene to scene. Episodic scripts do not work and will not hold an audience. It usually fails to satisfactorily answer the questions of who, what, where, why, how, when and why. An episodic script is a failure of structure and as such cannot be ‘fixed’. It can only be scrapped and the script started again from scratch, but only if the idea is brilliant. Episodic scripts usually result from poorly thought out ideas.
An episodic script is one that has a sequence of events with no causal connection, that is, there is no cause and effect from scene to scene. Episodic scripts do not work and will not hold an audience. It usually fails to satisfactorily answer the questions of who, what, where, why, how, when and why. An episodic script is a failure of structure and as such cannot be ‘fixed’. It can only be scrapped and the script started again from scratch, but only if the idea is brilliant. Episodic scripts usually result from poorly thought out ideas.
Establishing shot
Establishing shot is a wide shot that shows much of the location where the dramatic action will take place. Every frame adds to the story. Nothing about the establishing shot is accidental or without meaning.
Establishing shot is a wide shot that shows much of the location where the dramatic action will take place. Every frame adds to the story. Nothing about the establishing shot is accidental or without meaning.
Excerpt
Excerpt is an extract or clip containing characters that are recognisable from a previously produced program.
Excerpt is an extract or clip containing characters that are recognisable from a previously produced program.
Executive producer (film)
An executive producer or EP is an individual who is not involved in the technical aspects of the filmmaking process. They are responsible for the overall production by handling business and legal issues.
An executive producer or EP is an individual who is not involved in the technical aspects of the filmmaking process. They are responsible for the overall production by handling business and legal issues.
Executive producer (television)
An executive producer in television or EP is an individual who has oversight of the television production, which may be based on his or her idea. The executive producer employs a story editor to develop the idea and the characters and write a bible for the production. The execution of the scripts is undertaken by a story editor, a script editor and writers.
An executive producer in television or EP is an individual who has oversight of the television production, which may be based on his or her idea. The executive producer employs a story editor to develop the idea and the characters and write a bible for the production. The execution of the scripts is undertaken by a story editor, a script editor and writers.
Existentialism/existentialist drama
Existentialism theorises that you are what you do and that people must be held fully accountable for their own behaviour. It was developed by Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-1980).
Existentialism theorises that you are what you do and that people must be held fully accountable for their own behaviour. It was developed by Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-1980).
Exposition
Exposition is the art of unfolding, naturally, to the audience only that necessary information concerning characters and events that have taken place in the past. Simultaneously, the writer keeps the drama moving and the plot developing while bits and pieces of information are revealed along the way. Exposition, preparation and motivation overlap in script construction. Their main purpose is to get the audience to ‘suspend disbelief’ and accept the actions of the characters as true and believable. The opposite of exposition is monologue and soliloquy. These are sometimes called ‘sloppy writing’ by editors.
Exposition is the art of unfolding, naturally, to the audience only that necessary information concerning characters and events that have taken place in the past. Simultaneously, the writer keeps the drama moving and the plot developing while bits and pieces of information are revealed along the way. Exposition, preparation and motivation overlap in script construction. Their main purpose is to get the audience to ‘suspend disbelief’ and accept the actions of the characters as true and believable. The opposite of exposition is monologue and soliloquy. These are sometimes called ‘sloppy writing’ by editors.
Expressionism
Expressionism greatly exaggerates perceived reality in order to express inner truths directly. Popular mainly in Germany between last century’s world wars, expressionism in the theatre was notable for its gutsy dialogue, piercing sounds, bright lighting and colouring, bold scenery and shocking, vivid imagery.
Expressionism greatly exaggerates perceived reality in order to express inner truths directly. Popular mainly in Germany between last century’s world wars, expressionism in the theatre was notable for its gutsy dialogue, piercing sounds, bright lighting and colouring, bold scenery and shocking, vivid imagery.
Exterior
Exterior (EXT) is used in a slug line to indicate that the scene occurs outdoors.
Exterior (EXT) is used in a slug line to indicate that the scene occurs outdoors.
Extra/non-speaking role
An extra is an actor who appears in film or television productions where a non-specific, non-speaking character is required, usually as part of a crowd or in the background of a scene.
An extra is an actor who appears in film or television productions where a non-specific, non-speaking character is required, usually as part of a crowd or in the background of a scene.
Extreme close up
Extreme close-up (ECU) is a shot in which the subject is much larger than the frame. Provides more detail than a close-up.
Extreme close-up (ECU) is a shot in which the subject is much larger than the frame. Provides more detail than a close-up.
Extreme long shot
Extreme long shot (ELS) is a camera cue in direction used to describe a shot taken by a long distance from the subject.
Extreme long shot (ELS) is a camera cue in direction used to describe a shot taken by a long distance from the subject.
Eye line
Eye line is the direction an actor should be focused on, off-screen, so as to match a reverse angle or point-of-view shot.
Eye line is the direction an actor should be focused on, off-screen, so as to match a reverse angle or point-of-view shot.
Fade
Fade is the smooth, gradual transition from a normal image to complete blackness (fade out), or vice versa (fade in).
Fade is the smooth, gradual transition from a normal image to complete blackness (fade out), or vice versa (fade in).
Fade IN
Fade IN begins the story in a script.
Fade IN begins the story in a script.
Fade OUT
Fade OUT ends the script.
Fade OUT ends the script.
Farce
Over-the-top comedy or light-hearted but gleefully contrived drama, usually involving stock situations used in a comedic way such as mistaken identity or unmasked lovers’ trysts, punctuated with broad physical stunts and pratfalls.
Over-the-top comedy or light-hearted but gleefully contrived drama, usually involving stock situations used in a comedic way such as mistaken identity or unmasked lovers’ trysts, punctuated with broad physical stunts and pratfalls.
Fast motion
Fast motion moves time more quickly than normal. It is written into the script.
Fast motion moves time more quickly than normal. It is written into the script.
Feature/feature film
A feature film is over 60 minutes long. Its intention is for theatrical release. The screenplay or script is timed at roughly one minute for each page, i.e. a 90-minute script will be 90 pages in length.
A feature film is over 60 minutes long. Its intention is for theatrical release. The screenplay or script is timed at roughly one minute for each page, i.e. a 90-minute script will be 90 pages in length.
Feature film script/screenplay
A feature film script or screenplay contains characters, scenes and dialogue and is over 60 minutes in length.
A feature film script or screenplay contains characters, scenes and dialogue and is over 60 minutes in length.
Free television/free-to-air television
Free television is a free service provided directly to a home TV receiver.
Free television is a free service provided directly to a home TV receiver.
Festivals
Festivals are a gathering of people for specific events and to premiere films.
Festivals are a gathering of people for specific events and to premiere films.
Film noir
Film noir is a genre of film that typically features dark, brooding characters, corruption, detectives and the seedy side of the big city, for example, Tartan noir, Danish noir etc.
Film noir is a genre of film that typically features dark, brooding characters, corruption, detectives and the seedy side of the big city, for example, Tartan noir, Danish noir etc.
Filmmaker
Filmmaker is the collective term used to refer to people who have a significant degree of control over the creation of a film, that is, directors, producers, scenographers, screenwriters and story or script editors and script supervisors.
Filmmaker is the collective term used to refer to people who have a significant degree of control over the creation of a film, that is, directors, producers, scenographers, screenwriters and story or script editors and script supervisors.
First draft
First draft , as set forth in the Australian Writers Guild Minimum Basic Agreement, is a first complete draft of any script in continuous form, including dialogue.
First draft , as set forth in the Australian Writers Guild Minimum Basic Agreement, is a first complete draft of any script in continuous form, including dialogue.
Flashback
A flashback is a scene that breaks the chronological continuity of the main narrative by depicting relevant events that happened in the past. It cannot save an episodic script.
A flashback is a scene that breaks the chronological continuity of the main narrative by depicting relevant events that happened in the past. It cannot save an episodic script.
Flashforward
Flashforward is a scene that breaks up the chronological continuity of the main narrative by depicting events that happen in the future.
Flashforward is a scene that breaks up the chronological continuity of the main narrative by depicting events that happen in the future.
Focus group
A focus group is made up of approximately 10-12 members of the public that represent a target audience for a film or television project. They attend a sneak preview and then offer feedback or their opinions to producers, before further technical editing takes place in the editing room. I hold my focus groups by eavesdropping on conversations, life stories, language, grocery shopping and literature that are held between groups of people at the back of a bus or similar public transport.
A focus group is made up of approximately 10-12 members of the public that represent a target audience for a film or television project. They attend a sneak preview and then offer feedback or their opinions to producers, before further technical editing takes place in the editing room. I hold my focus groups by eavesdropping on conversations, life stories, language, grocery shopping and literature that are held between groups of people at the back of a bus or similar public transport.
Freeze frame
Freeze frame is the optical printing effect whereby a single frame is repeated to give the illusion that all action has stopped. It is written into a script by the writer.
Freeze frame is the optical printing effect whereby a single frame is repeated to give the illusion that all action has stopped. It is written into a script by the writer.
Front loading
In scriptwriting, front loading is used to pose a problem at the beginning of a series that will take almost the length of the series to resolve. It hooks an audience into watching a television production.
In scriptwriting, front loading is used to pose a problem at the beginning of a series that will take almost the length of the series to resolve. It hooks an audience into watching a television production.
G to I
General meeting
General meeting is a ‘look-see’ type of meeting in which a writer meets with a producer, production executive, story and script editors and others as a form of introduction to each other. Generally this meeting’s purpose is for each person to gauge the characteristics and/or philosophy of the other with a view to working together in some future production. It is a form of audition for all parties. General meetings are also held with authors as a ‘look-see’ before optioning their work to gauge whether the author is comfortable with their work being adapted to another genre.
General meeting is a ‘look-see’ type of meeting in which a writer meets with a producer, production executive, story and script editors and others as a form of introduction to each other. Generally this meeting’s purpose is for each person to gauge the characteristics and/or philosophy of the other with a view to working together in some future production. It is a form of audition for all parties. General meetings are also held with authors as a ‘look-see’ before optioning their work to gauge whether the author is comfortable with their work being adapted to another genre.
Go motion
Go motion is a form of animation similar to stop motion and it usually incorporates motion blur.
Go motion is a form of animation similar to stop motion and it usually incorporates motion blur.
Green light
A green light is a statement that means a film or television project has the financial backing to proceed, as in my project has been green-lighted.
A green light is a statement that means a film or television project has the financial backing to proceed, as in my project has been green-lighted.
Guerrilla producer
Guerrilla producer is an individual who produces an effective video or similar on a shoestring budget.
Guerrilla producer is an individual who produces an effective video or similar on a shoestring budget.
Head writer
A head writer is an individual who, in addition to researching, writing or supplying material for a magazine-style program or variety show, supervises all written material for a program, including re-writing material as is necessary. They report to the producer with the finished script.
A head writer is an individual who, in addition to researching, writing or supplying material for a magazine-style program or variety show, supervises all written material for a program, including re-writing material as is necessary. They report to the producer with the finished script.
High concept
High concept is a phrase used about scripts that have a premise or storyline that is easily reduced to a simple and appealing one line (the log line). They are easy to pitch to a hiring body as you can use words that are iconic and self-suggesting. For example, a high concept pitch could be one word, Gladiator or two , Star Wars.
High concept is a phrase used about scripts that have a premise or storyline that is easily reduced to a simple and appealing one line (the log line). They are easy to pitch to a hiring body as you can use words that are iconic and self-suggesting. For example, a high concept pitch could be one word, Gladiator or two , Star Wars.
Hip-pocketing
Hip-pocketing is practised by an agent who represents only one project for an artist. There is no agreement to represent an artist long-term.
Hip-pocketing is practised by an agent who represents only one project for an artist. There is no agreement to represent an artist long-term.
Hook
A hook is a dramatic or comedic storyline that entices an audience into watching your production.
A hook is a dramatic or comedic storyline that entices an audience into watching your production.
Hunter-gatherer style documentary
Hunter-gatherer is a ‘moving content’ mini-documentary, which can be used as mobisode, webisode or episode. The hunter-gatherer documentary maker, using a client’s brief and brand, finds/hunts ‘real people’ to generate then capture a compelling humanistic story of a behind-the-scenes nature. The documentary maker is the researcher, writer, director and the camera, lighting, sound and editing technician as well as the interviewer and manager of clients and ‘talent’.
Hunter-gatherer is a ‘moving content’ mini-documentary, which can be used as mobisode, webisode or episode. The hunter-gatherer documentary maker, using a client’s brief and brand, finds/hunts ‘real people’ to generate then capture a compelling humanistic story of a behind-the-scenes nature. The documentary maker is the researcher, writer, director and the camera, lighting, sound and editing technician as well as the interviewer and manager of clients and ‘talent’.
Hyper distribution
Hyper distribution is the blanket distribution of media content as a means of preventing piracy or unfavourable ‘word of mouth’ or public opinion damaging the box office receipts.
Hyper distribution is the blanket distribution of media content as a means of preventing piracy or unfavourable ‘word of mouth’ or public opinion damaging the box office receipts.
Improvisation
Improvisation is spur-of-the-moment comedy. It happens when the minds fools with ideas and invents ways of expressing them. It makes jokes out of everyday life. It is high-risk comedy that tests the ingenuity of a performer – it can fall flat on its face if it doesn’t come off. However, an actor in a television series or serial or in a film should not be allowed to improvise except under strict supervision and in limited circumstances. All improvisation undertaken by an actor in a television production should be reported immediately to the story editor.
Improvisation is spur-of-the-moment comedy. It happens when the minds fools with ideas and invents ways of expressing them. It makes jokes out of everyday life. It is high-risk comedy that tests the ingenuity of a performer – it can fall flat on its face if it doesn’t come off. However, an actor in a television series or serial or in a film should not be allowed to improvise except under strict supervision and in limited circumstances. All improvisation undertaken by an actor in a television production should be reported immediately to the story editor.
Inciting incident
The inciting incident, as suggested by the author, Syd Field in Screenplay is the single action that initiates the major conflict of in the film, television or radio script. It has to happen within the first three minutes of a script to set the drama in motion. [Field, S. (1994). Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting. New York : Dell Publishing].
The inciting incident, as suggested by the author, Syd Field in Screenplay is the single action that initiates the major conflict of in the film, television or radio script. It has to happen within the first three minutes of a script to set the drama in motion. [Field, S. (1994). Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting. New York : Dell Publishing].
Internet production/new media
Internet production or new media is an original audio-visual production made for an internet-only exhibition.
Internet production or new media is an original audio-visual production made for an internet-only exhibition.
Independent film/indie
Independent film/indie is one that has not been funded nor produced by a major studio or production company.
Independent film/indie is one that has not been funded nor produced by a major studio or production company.
Ink
Ink means t o sign a contract. Wet ink means that a contract or legal document was signed in person on a piece of paper with a pen or similar. It was not signed electronically.
Ink means t o sign a contract. Wet ink means that a contract or legal document was signed in person on a piece of paper with a pen or similar. It was not signed electronically.
Insert
Insert is a c lose-up shot of an object, often produced by the second unit. Inserts can be used very creatively to quicken time. They are written into a script.
Insert is a c lose-up shot of an object, often produced by the second unit. Inserts can be used very creatively to quicken time. They are written into a script.
Interior/INT
Interior or INT. is a direction that is used to indicate that a scene occurs indoors.
Interior or INT. is a direction that is used to indicate that a scene occurs indoors.
Intertitles
Intertitles is a title card that intercuts with a scene.
Intertitles is a title card that intercuts with a scene.
J to M
Jump cut
A jump cut is a direction in a script that indicates an interruption to the continuity of time.
A jump cut is a direction in a script that indicates an interruption to the continuity of time.
Jump the shark
This term was coined to define the precise moment when a good show goes bad. Similarly, in Australia this is also referred to as a Yasmin, after the reality show Yasmin’s Getting Married , a television series that was taken off air after four outings.
This term was coined to define the precise moment when a good show goes bad. Similarly, in Australia this is also referred to as a Yasmin, after the reality show Yasmin’s Getting Married , a television series that was taken off air after four outings.
Lead role
A lead role is the most important character in a movie, often distinguished by gender.
A lead role is the most important character in a movie, often distinguished by gender.
Legs
Legs is a term that describes whether a project has the potential for longevity or a long run. Any project with ‘legs’ has large production potential. Therefore it is more able to attract investment money to it.
Legs is a term that describes whether a project has the potential for longevity or a long run. Any project with ‘legs’ has large production potential. Therefore it is more able to attract investment money to it.
Line producer
A line producer is an individual responsible for managing every person and issue during film and television production.
A line producer is an individual responsible for managing every person and issue during film and television production.
Lined script
Lined script is a copy of the shooting script, with oversight by a script supervisor, during production to indicate, via notations and vertical lines drawn directly onto the script pages, exactly what coverage has been shot.
Lined script is a copy of the shooting script, with oversight by a script supervisor, during production to indicate, via notations and vertical lines drawn directly onto the script pages, exactly what coverage has been shot.
Literary manager/dramaturge
A literary manager is an individual hired by a writer to promote their career, offer advice on the best steps to take to achieve their desired goal and give advice on the best people to hire to help a writer to maximize their potential. See also, dramaturge.
A literary manager is an individual hired by a writer to promote their career, offer advice on the best steps to take to achieve their desired goal and give advice on the best people to hire to help a writer to maximize their potential. See also, dramaturge.
Lochlear/to lochlear/lochlearing it
This term was coined to describe the precise moment that a bad show became good through the introduction of a guest character who by sheer force of personality, gives energy or oxygen to every other character in the project. Their character turns the show from failure to success. The term was inspired by the actor, Heather Lochlear.
This term was coined to describe the precise moment that a bad show became good through the introduction of a guest character who by sheer force of personality, gives energy or oxygen to every other character in the project. Their character turns the show from failure to success. The term was inspired by the actor, Heather Lochlear.
Log line
A log line is a one-line description of the story in the script. Production personnel who receive the script will also ‘log’ it using your description. The writer logs the script in their asset register. A log line is very hard to write as it is the marketing line or sales pitch for your script.
A log line is a one-line description of the story in the script. Production personnel who receive the script will also ‘log’ it using your description. The writer logs the script in their asset register. A log line is very hard to write as it is the marketing line or sales pitch for your script.
Long-form television
Long-form television is also known as Movie of the Week (MOW). It includes made-for- television movies and miniseries. Long-form TV is aired on either free or pay television.
Long-form television is also known as Movie of the Week (MOW). It includes made-for- television movies and miniseries. Long-form TV is aired on either free or pay television.
Low comedy
Comic actions based on broad physical humour, scatology, crude punning and the argumentative behaviour of ignorant and lower-class characters is called low comedy. Low comedy can be mixed with high comedy with great effect.
Comic actions based on broad physical humour, scatology, crude punning and the argumentative behaviour of ignorant and lower-class characters is called low comedy. Low comedy can be mixed with high comedy with great effect.
Macguffin
A macguffin is the term used by director, Alfred Hitchcock, to refer to an item, event or piece of knowledge that the characters in a film consider extremely important. The audience either doesn’t know or doesn’t care about it.
A macguffin is the term used by director, Alfred Hitchcock, to refer to an item, event or piece of knowledge that the characters in a film consider extremely important. The audience either doesn’t know or doesn’t care about it.
Machinema
Machinema manipulates characters from established games, movie trailers and other sources to create a new storyline for them in a different format. The end result is mainly broadcast on the Internet.
Machinema manipulates characters from established games, movie trailers and other sources to create a new storyline for them in a different format. The end result is mainly broadcast on the Internet.
Magazine-style television
A magazine-style television program contains stand-alone segments, interviews, commentaries and/or panel discussions and other informational pieces. It is integrated with a unifying device such as a host.
A magazine-style television program contains stand-alone segments, interviews, commentaries and/or panel discussions and other informational pieces. It is integrated with a unifying device such as a host.
Materials contract
A materials contract is a written agreement for representation by an agency about the sale of a work that the writer has created on their own, in a situation where the writer was not hired to create the work.
A materials contract is a written agreement for representation by an agency about the sale of a work that the writer has created on their own, in a situation where the writer was not hired to create the work.
Melodrama
Melodrama was originally used in musical theatre. Currently melodrama refers to material that has black and white characters, bravura acting, simplistic dialogue and exceptionally moral conclusions.
Melodrama was originally used in musical theatre. Currently melodrama refers to material that has black and white characters, bravura acting, simplistic dialogue and exceptionally moral conclusions.
Metaphor
Metaphor is a literary term that compares and contrasts the identity of one thing with another in a subtle manner. It communicates a complex idea clearly and succinctly by the use of associative imagery.
Metaphor is a literary term that compares and contrasts the identity of one thing with another in a subtle manner. It communicates a complex idea clearly and succinctly by the use of associative imagery.
Method acting
This type of acting required actors to draw on their life experiences and to use them to create the characters written by a writer into a script. However characters are the writer’s invention and are ‘owned’ by them not the actor. The oft-heard expression by an actor that ‘my character would not do that’ usually gets a response from the writer of ‘it’s not your character – it’s mine.’
This type of acting required actors to draw on their life experiences and to use them to create the characters written by a writer into a script. However characters are the writer’s invention and are ‘owned’ by them not the actor. The oft-heard expression by an actor that ‘my character would not do that’ usually gets a response from the writer of ‘it’s not your character – it’s mine.’
Mini-series
A mini-series is a drama written for broadcast in pre-determined segments. A mini-series has a storyline beginning in the first segment of the first episode and concluding in the last episode.
A mini-series is a drama written for broadcast in pre-determined segments. A mini-series has a storyline beginning in the first segment of the first episode and concluding in the last episode.
Minimum basic agreement
Minimum basic agreement (MBA) is the fee and basic working conditions for the employment of writers within the entertainment industry as negotiated and set forth by the Australian Writers Guild.
Minimum basic agreement (MBA) is the fee and basic working conditions for the employment of writers within the entertainment industry as negotiated and set forth by the Australian Writers Guild.
Mise-en-abyme
Mise en abyme is, in film, a dream within a dream – characters do not know whether they are awake or asleep or being ‘placed into infinity’ or being ‘placed into the abyss’.
Mise en abyme is, in film, a dream within a dream – characters do not know whether they are awake or asleep or being ‘placed into infinity’ or being ‘placed into the abyss’.
Mise-en-piece
Mise-en-piece is the deconstruction, fragmentation, butchering or ripping apart of a script or screenplay into small pieces or tiny units by an editor for the purposes of story and script editing. This term comes from theatre.
Mise-en-piece is the deconstruction, fragmentation, butchering or ripping apart of a script or screenplay into small pieces or tiny units by an editor for the purposes of story and script editing. This term comes from theatre.
Mise-en-scene
Mise-en-scene is the sum total of all factors that affect the artistic look or feel of a shot or scene.
Mise-en-scene is the sum total of all factors that affect the artistic look or feel of a shot or scene.
Monologue
A long unbroken speech, often delivered directly to camera, is called a monologue. When it is used for exposition it can become very boring and is indicative of a poorly structured drama. In theatre, a monologue is more technically referred to as a soliloquy.
A long unbroken speech, often delivered directly to camera, is called a monologue. When it is used for exposition it can become very boring and is indicative of a poorly structured drama. In theatre, a monologue is more technically referred to as a soliloquy.
Montage
Montage is a rapid succession of shots, through the use of visual editing, which creates the artistic look of a scene. It is written by a writer into the script.
Montage is a rapid succession of shots, through the use of visual editing, which creates the artistic look of a scene. It is written by a writer into the script.
Moral panic/moral entrepreneur
Moral panic is created by the demonizing of one group by another for a particular gain. A moral entrepreneur is an individual that has identified an evil, caused a moral panic and come up with the only solution for it. It affects writers and editors in television because moral entrepreneurs often contact the production company of popular programs to ‘push their wheelbarrow’ or particular point of view. It is becoming more common for a moral entrepreneur to film their own footage and offer it for little cost to a production company or set up a ‘fake’ service that only offers only their point of view and solutions to a problem.
Moral panic is created by the demonizing of one group by another for a particular gain. A moral entrepreneur is an individual that has identified an evil, caused a moral panic and come up with the only solution for it. It affects writers and editors in television because moral entrepreneurs often contact the production company of popular programs to ‘push their wheelbarrow’ or particular point of view. It is becoming more common for a moral entrepreneur to film their own footage and offer it for little cost to a production company or set up a ‘fake’ service that only offers only their point of view and solutions to a problem.
Motherhood statement
A motherhood statement is one that no reasonable person or nationality could disagree with. It is bland, comforting, and usually holds a narrow conservative point of view that few could object to. The same holds true for ‘family values’. See moral panic, moral entrepreneur.
A motherhood statement is one that no reasonable person or nationality could disagree with. It is bland, comforting, and usually holds a narrow conservative point of view that few could object to. The same holds true for ‘family values’. See moral panic, moral entrepreneur.
Motion blur
Motion blur is written into a script and indicates that shots of objects move very quickly in the camera’s frame, and/or shots with a slow shutter speed that produce a smearing effect, since the object is in a range of positions during a single exposure. Motion blur can be used to great effect to move time.
Motion blur is written into a script and indicates that shots of objects move very quickly in the camera’s frame, and/or shots with a slow shutter speed that produce a smearing effect, since the object is in a range of positions during a single exposure. Motion blur can be used to great effect to move time.
Motion capture
Motion capture is an animation technique in which the actions of an animated object are derived automatically from the motion of a real-world actor or object.
Motion capture is an animation technique in which the actions of an animated object are derived automatically from the motion of a real-world actor or object.
Motivation/objective
Motivation or objective is the set of behaviours of a character discovered through past or present events that shaped their life during the course of the production.
Motivation or objective is the set of behaviours of a character discovered through past or present events that shaped their life during the course of the production.
Multimedia
Multimedia is the term used for products, mainly software, that may involve the combination of written text, visual imagery, film, and/or music.
Multimedia is the term used for products, mainly software, that may involve the combination of written text, visual imagery, film, and/or music.
Multiplatform
Multiplatform creates multiple versions of a program, where each is designed for a specific platform. Each version maintains the same functions and appearance. It is also the term given to video games released on a range of consoles and handheld equipment.
Multiplatform creates multiple versions of a program, where each is designed for a specific platform. Each version maintains the same functions and appearance. It is also the term given to video games released on a range of consoles and handheld equipment.
Musical
A musical is a production whose dramatic story structure includes unrealistic episodes of musical performance and/or dancing.
A musical is a production whose dramatic story structure includes unrealistic episodes of musical performance and/or dancing.
N to P
Naturalism/slice of life
Naturalism or slice of life is an extreme form of realism, which stated it is the natural and social environment, more than individual willpower that controls human behaviour.
Naturalism or slice of life is an extreme form of realism, which stated it is the natural and social environment, more than individual willpower that controls human behaviour.
New media
New media is an umbrella terms used to describe interactive audio and or video services on the Internet, cell phone or games.
New media is an umbrella terms used to describe interactive audio and or video services on the Internet, cell phone or games.
Narration
Narration is the dialogue that is spoken off camera to explain a scene or sequences of action. It is most used in documentary but is currently used to great effect in the television series, Desperate Housewives. [Desperate Housewives. (2004). Writer: M. Cherry]. It goes in and out of fashion.
Narration is the dialogue that is spoken off camera to explain a scene or sequences of action. It is most used in documentary but is currently used to great effect in the television series, Desperate Housewives. [Desperate Housewives. (2004). Writer: M. Cherry]. It goes in and out of fashion.
Narration script
A narration script is used in documentary. It is prepared out of all the material that will be used in the making of a documentary. It may have a number or narrators either speaking to or off camera.
A narration script is used in documentary. It is prepared out of all the material that will be used in the making of a documentary. It may have a number or narrators either speaking to or off camera.
Non-certified budget
A non-certified budget is one that has no completion guarantor. The producer signs a letter that accompanies this budget to attest that it is the final one before principal photography. [Jeffrey, T. (2006).Film Business. Sydney : Allen & Unwin]
A non-certified budget is one that has no completion guarantor. The producer signs a letter that accompanies this budget to attest that it is the final one before principal photography. [Jeffrey, T. (2006).Film Business. Sydney : Allen & Unwin]
Outline
An outline is usually requested by a producer. It is a short proposal for a television project that contains the idea, the main characters and the location written in the style of the proposed genre.
An outline is usually requested by a producer. It is a short proposal for a television project that contains the idea, the main characters and the location written in the style of the proposed genre.
OPC/One person crew
OPC is a term that means One Person Crew. OPC is the result of digital technology that has lowered production costs with cheap, broadcast quality equipment. Writing, acting and production has been adapted to fit this, i.e. reality shows, movies shot on cell phones and other new media. See hunter-gatherer, documentary.
OPC is a term that means One Person Crew. OPC is the result of digital technology that has lowered production costs with cheap, broadcast quality equipment. Writing, acting and production has been adapted to fit this, i.e. reality shows, movies shot on cell phones and other new media. See hunter-gatherer, documentary.
Option
An option is the agreement that rents the rights to a script, novel or other written material from an author for a specific period of time and fee in order to create another genre from it.
An option is the agreement that rents the rights to a script, novel or other written material from an author for a specific period of time and fee in order to create another genre from it.
Other productions
Other productions are sponsored industrial or other short films including audio visual productions that are not produced for television broadcast.
Other productions are sponsored industrial or other short films including audio visual productions that are not produced for television broadcast.
Off screen (OS)/out of shot or sight (OOS)
Off screen (OS) is the dialogue or sounds heard while the camera is on another subject. The actor cannot be seen by the audience.
Off screen (OS) is the dialogue or sounds heard while the camera is on another subject. The actor cannot be seen by the audience.
Outside broadcasting ( OB )
Outside broadcasting ( OB ) or location is when a series or serial uses a location outside the studio. OB or location is usually shot a week ahead of studio production so continuity plays a major role in these scenes.
Outside broadcasting ( OB ) or location is when a series or serial uses a location outside the studio. OB or location is usually shot a week ahead of studio production so continuity plays a major role in these scenes.
Packaging
Packaging is the process of putting ‘star talent’ (accredited writer, editor, director, producer) together on the same project. These artists are generally represented by the same agency that present them as a package to a studio.
Packaging is the process of putting ‘star talent’ (accredited writer, editor, director, producer) together on the same project. These artists are generally represented by the same agency that present them as a package to a studio.
Parody
Parody is dramatic material that makes fun of a dramatic genre or mode or of specific written works. It is often highly entertaining but rarely has lasting value. Parody is used in magazine-style programs.
Parody is dramatic material that makes fun of a dramatic genre or mode or of specific written works. It is often highly entertaining but rarely has lasting value. Parody is used in magazine-style programs.
Pen
To pen a work means to author, compose or write. Your pen to your paper equals your copyright.
To pen a work means to author, compose or write. Your pen to your paper equals your copyright.
Performance capture
Performance capture, designed by Imageworks, allows an actor to get into the skin of another performer and recreate them. There are no traditional sets, no locations, no crews or employment of the large amount of personnel that film employs. It is completely computerised process. This virtual film will still have the look of a conventional movie. It has the potential to restore the writer and the story and script editor to prominence in making film and television projects. Virtual movies will need superb writing and editing in order to succeed as well as a great scenographer or designer.
Performance capture, designed by Imageworks, allows an actor to get into the skin of another performer and recreate them. There are no traditional sets, no locations, no crews or employment of the large amount of personnel that film employs. It is completely computerised process. This virtual film will still have the look of a conventional movie. It has the potential to restore the writer and the story and script editor to prominence in making film and television projects. Virtual movies will need superb writing and editing in order to succeed as well as a great scenographer or designer.
Pilot
A pilot is the sample episode for a proposed television series that sets up the initial premise, characters and format.
A pilot is the sample episode for a proposed television series that sets up the initial premise, characters and format.
Pitch
A pitch occurs when one party will attempt to interest another party or hiring body in a particular work or in a version of a particular work. A pitch sells a story in such an exciting manner that the interested parties will either buy the work or pay the pitching party to write the work. An iconic and self-suggesting pitch is preferred by some production companies. Others ask that a pitch be kept to 60 words or under or the length of time it takes to ride an elevator with a captive audience.
A pitch occurs when one party will attempt to interest another party or hiring body in a particular work or in a version of a particular work. A pitch sells a story in such an exciting manner that the interested parties will either buy the work or pay the pitching party to write the work. An iconic and self-suggesting pitch is preferred by some production companies. Others ask that a pitch be kept to 60 words or under or the length of time it takes to ride an elevator with a captive audience.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is theft of an individual’s intellectual property and it is very common. It occurs when an individual takes someone’s idea and then presents it as their own or takes credit for someone else’s work or refuses to give credit to another’s work.
Plagiarism is theft of an individual’s intellectual property and it is very common. It occurs when an individual takes someone’s idea and then presents it as their own or takes credit for someone else’s work or refuses to give credit to another’s work.
However,
it is not plagiarism when two (or more) people independently come up with the
same new ideas. This is commonly termed simultaneous
inspiration . It
happens when several people, usually scientists, have been exposed to the same
source and interpret it similarly. Reference should be made to original source
material as much as possible because it helps writers to avoid taking credit
for others’ work. The use of facts in non-academic settings (e.g. journalism,
speeches), rather than works of creative expression, does not usually
constitute plagiarism. However, if those giving a speech (e.g. politicians)
have power over the lives of others, then they usually have a moral duty to
ensure their claims are seen to be based on reliable and easily sourced
evidence. Anti-plagiarism software that uses key-phrase comparison is now used
to check submitted work.
Plot
A plot is the basic storyline about the characters and what happens to them, expressed as a series of linked dramatic actions.
A plot is the basic storyline about the characters and what happens to them, expressed as a series of linked dramatic actions.
Plot point
A plot point is an incident or event that ‘hooks’ into the action and spins it in another direction. It moves the story forward towards its resolution.
A plot point is an incident or event that ‘hooks’ into the action and spins it in another direction. It moves the story forward towards its resolution.
Point of view/POV
Point of view or POV is the camera angle in which the camera views a subjective shot from the actor’s point of view.
Point of view or POV is the camera angle in which the camera views a subjective shot from the actor’s point of view.
Polish
A polish is writing changes to dialogue, narration or action. It is not a rewrite of the script. They are the minor improvements to the script details within the basic structure of the scenes as written. A polish does not include changes in the structure, addition or deletion of characters, alterations of plot or reworking of more than five percent of the dialogue. The specifications can be written out in a deal memo.
A polish is writing changes to dialogue, narration or action. It is not a rewrite of the script. They are the minor improvements to the script details within the basic structure of the scenes as written. A polish does not include changes in the structure, addition or deletion of characters, alterations of plot or reworking of more than five percent of the dialogue. The specifications can be written out in a deal memo.
Post-modern
Post-modern is a wide-ranging term that describes some post-World War II artistic works, characterised by nonlinearity, self-referentially if not self-parody, and multiple/simultaneous sensory impressions. It is sometimes referred to as PoMo.
Post-modern is a wide-ranging term that describes some post-World War II artistic works, characterised by nonlinearity, self-referentially if not self-parody, and multiple/simultaneous sensory impressions. It is sometimes referred to as PoMo.
Post-production
Post-production is work performed on a film or television project after principal photography ends.
Post-production is work performed on a film or television project after principal photography ends.
Pre-production
Pre-production is the arrangement made before the start of filming that includes but is not limited to story and script editing, set construction, location search and casting.
Pre-production is the arrangement made before the start of filming that includes but is not limited to story and script editing, set construction, location search and casting.
Premiere/opening
A premiere is the first official public screening of a production.
A premiere is the first official public screening of a production.
Premise
Premise is the basic idea for a story often taking the form of a question or the posing of a problem, what if …..?
Premise is the basic idea for a story often taking the form of a question or the posing of a problem, what if …..?
Prequel
Prequel is a film that presents the characters and/or events chronologically before the setting of a previously filmed movie.
Prequel is a film that presents the characters and/or events chronologically before the setting of a previously filmed movie.
Principal photography
Principal photography is the filming of major or significant components of a movie that involve lead actors. This is where payment of the writer takes place.
Principal photography is the filming of major or significant components of a movie that involve lead actors. This is where payment of the writer takes place.
Print
Print is the version of a production that consists of one or more reels.
Print is the version of a production that consists of one or more reels.
Problem screenplay/pushing a wheelbarrow or cause/worthy script
A problem screenplay is a realistic script that deals, often narrowly, with a specific social problem. Today it describes certain movies for television or documentaries.
A problem screenplay is a realistic script that deals, often narrowly, with a specific social problem. Today it describes certain movies for television or documentaries.
Producer (film)
Producer (film) is the chief executive on a film production in all matters save the creative efforts of the director. The producer writes a budget, obtains funding, hires key personnel, and arranges distribution. They are not ordinarily involved in the day-to-day artistic direction of the production but can control a production through their authority over personnel selection and budgeting.
Producer (film) is the chief executive on a film production in all matters save the creative efforts of the director. The producer writes a budget, obtains funding, hires key personnel, and arranges distribution. They are not ordinarily involved in the day-to-day artistic direction of the production but can control a production through their authority over personnel selection and budgeting.
Producer (television)
Producer (television) is usually a current or former writer or editor who has successfully written a production over a number of years as a staff member. They are responsible for the creative aspects of the show but must have in-depth knowledge of the production process.
Producer (television) is usually a current or former writer or editor who has successfully written a production over a number of years as a staff member. They are responsible for the creative aspects of the show but must have in-depth knowledge of the production process.
Production assistant
Production assistant is the i ndividual responsible for various odd jobs, such as stopping traffic, acting as couriers, etc.
Production assistant is the i ndividual responsible for various odd jobs, such as stopping traffic, acting as couriers, etc.
Production bonus
Production bonus is the cash bonus given to the writer of a screenplay who receives a shared or sole screenplay or written by credit when the screenplay is turned into a film.
Production bonus is the cash bonus given to the writer of a screenplay who receives a shared or sole screenplay or written by credit when the screenplay is turned into a film.
Production buyer
Production buyer is an individual who purchases supplies, equipment and property necessary for a production.
Production buyer is an individual who purchases supplies, equipment and property necessary for a production.
Production company
A production company is headed by a producer, director, actor or writer for the purpose of creating general entertainment products such as film, television, infomercials, commercials, gaming, publishing and multimedia.
A production company is headed by a producer, director, actor or writer for the purpose of creating general entertainment products such as film, television, infomercials, commercials, gaming, publishing and multimedia.
Production date
Production date is the time nominated to begin principal photography.
Production date is the time nominated to begin principal photography.
Production designer
A production designer is the artist responsible for designing the overall visual appearance of a film or television production. See scenographer.
A production designer is the artist responsible for designing the overall visual appearance of a film or television production. See scenographer.
Production manager
A production manager is the individual responsible for the practical matters such as ordering equipment, getting near-location accommodations for the cast and crew, etc.
A production manager is the individual responsible for the practical matters such as ordering equipment, getting near-location accommodations for the cast and crew, etc.
Production schedule
Production schedule is a detailed plan of the timing of activities associated with the making of a production.
Production schedule is a detailed plan of the timing of activities associated with the making of a production.
Program writer
A program writer is an individual who is hired to work on magazine-style formats.
A program writer is an individual who is hired to work on magazine-style formats.
Protagonist
A protagonist is the principal character in a screenplay or script, usually opposed by an antagonist.
A protagonist is the principal character in a screenplay or script, usually opposed by an antagonist.
Public domain
Public domain is the state in which the creator of a work loses the copyright on it through the passage of the copyright period, failure to renew the work or problems with the original registration of the work with the copyright office.
Public domain is the state in which the creator of a work loses the copyright on it through the passage of the copyright period, failure to renew the work or problems with the original registration of the work with the copyright office.
R to S
Reaction shot
A reaction shot is the capture on film of the character’s reaction to dialogue or action.
A reaction shot is the capture on film of the character’s reaction to dialogue or action.
Reader
A reader is an individual, usually a writer, story or script editor or dramaturge, who reads scripts and writes down the synopsis of the plotline. They offer positive or negative comments during a process called providing coverage that assists a hiring body in assessing if the script is worthwhile or has ‘legs’ or the depth, audience interest or writer ability to continue.
A reader is an individual, usually a writer, story or script editor or dramaturge, who reads scripts and writes down the synopsis of the plotline. They offer positive or negative comments during a process called providing coverage that assists a hiring body in assessing if the script is worthwhile or has ‘legs’ or the depth, audience interest or writer ability to continue.
Reading period
Reading period is the time between the hiring of a writer to write material and its presentation and the review of it by the hiring body. The hiring body will make suggestions about the material and decide whether to pick up the option to have the writer produce further work.
Reading period is the time between the hiring of a writer to write material and its presentation and the review of it by the hiring body. The hiring body will make suggestions about the material and decide whether to pick up the option to have the writer produce further work.
Realism
Realism states that material could portray ordinary people in ordinary circumstances and the actors portraying the characters should behave, as much as possible, as real people do in real life. See hunter-gatherer; documentary.
Realism states that material could portray ordinary people in ordinary circumstances and the actors portraying the characters should behave, as much as possible, as real people do in real life. See hunter-gatherer; documentary.
Recognition scene
A recognition scene is one in which the protagonist discovers either some fact unknown to her or him or some moral flaw in her or his character.
A recognition scene is one in which the protagonist discovers either some fact unknown to her or him or some moral flaw in her or his character.
Release form
A release form is a legal document signed by an individual usually the creator of the document that frees a hiring body or other from any kind of liability.
A release form is a legal document signed by an individual usually the creator of the document that frees a hiring body or other from any kind of liability.
Requel
A requel describes the remake of a movie but the story is taken in a different direction to that of the original; a do-over. See sequel and prequel.
A requel describes the remake of a movie but the story is taken in a different direction to that of the original; a do-over. See sequel and prequel.
Residual/run/royalties
Residual is the payment based on a scripting fee. It can also mean additional fees paid to a writer for repeats of a television production.
Residual is the payment based on a scripting fee. It can also mean additional fees paid to a writer for repeats of a television production.
Retcon
A retcon deliberately changes the facts established in a prior work of fiction.
A retcon deliberately changes the facts established in a prior work of fiction.
Rewrite
Rewrite is m ore than a polish. It is considered to be the writing of significant changes to plot, storyline, characters or interrelationship of characters in a screenplay or other material. A rewrite should be spelled out in a deal memo or similar.
Rewrite is m ore than a polish. It is considered to be the writing of significant changes to plot, storyline, characters or interrelationship of characters in a screenplay or other material. A rewrite should be spelled out in a deal memo or similar.
Rising action
Rising action is where events in a story build upon one another with increasing momentum. In dramatic structure it is the escalating conflict, events and actions that follow an inciting incident.
Rising action is where events in a story build upon one another with increasing momentum. In dramatic structure it is the escalating conflict, events and actions that follow an inciting incident.
Sample script/spec script
A sample script is material that a writer has created on their own initiative with the intentions to get a meeting with a hiring body. It is a form of audition. A sample script is used to expose a writer to the entertainment industry. It is written on a speculative basis.
A sample script is material that a writer has created on their own initiative with the intentions to get a meeting with a hiring body. It is a form of audition. A sample script is used to expose a writer to the entertainment industry. It is written on a speculative basis.
Scale
Scale is the payment on the minimum rates set forth in the Australian Writers Guild Minimum Basic Agreement. Basic rate is scale plus 10 percent in order to include the commission that the writer’s agent will receive.
Scale is the payment on the minimum rates set forth in the Australian Writers Guild Minimum Basic Agreement. Basic rate is scale plus 10 percent in order to include the commission that the writer’s agent will receive.
Scene
A scene is a continuous block of units in a drama. It is the basic structural unit of a script and it is the essential building block in the construction of a drama. A scene involves a change of setting or location and it is always indicated as such, that is, a piece of the action giving some further development in a setting different from the last scene. Each scene has a beginning, middle and an end or climax or resolution. Each scene not only contains conflict but also has a crisis that grows out of the conflict in it. A scene advances the plot through conflict and crisis. Each scene must reveal at least one additional element of necessary plot information. Another function of a scene is to reveal character. When you write a scene you must ask and answer the following questions: does the scene advance the plot? does it contain conflict? is it structured with a beginning, middle and an end or resolution. If your scene cannot meet these requirements, cut the scene out. Any scene you remove will tell you what scene needs to be put in, if any. The solution can always be found within the problem itself.
A scene is a continuous block of units in a drama. It is the basic structural unit of a script and it is the essential building block in the construction of a drama. A scene involves a change of setting or location and it is always indicated as such, that is, a piece of the action giving some further development in a setting different from the last scene. Each scene has a beginning, middle and an end or climax or resolution. Each scene not only contains conflict but also has a crisis that grows out of the conflict in it. A scene advances the plot through conflict and crisis. Each scene must reveal at least one additional element of necessary plot information. Another function of a scene is to reveal character. When you write a scene you must ask and answer the following questions: does the scene advance the plot? does it contain conflict? is it structured with a beginning, middle and an end or resolution. If your scene cannot meet these requirements, cut the scene out. Any scene you remove will tell you what scene needs to be put in, if any. The solution can always be found within the problem itself.
Scènes à faire
Scènes à faire are certain situations that are so typical of a genre that they cannot be copyrighted, e.g. a police drama would show corruption, politics, gangs, and violence; a film in the spy genre would feature assassinations, secret identities and codes, double agents double crossing, and villains drawn from every corner of the globe; a murder mystery would most likely have a murder and a suspect/s. However when substantial similarities are found between works, there is likely to be a claim of plagiarism or copyright infringement. See plagiarism; copyright. [Arts Law Centre, from http://www.artslaw.asn.au%5D
Scènes à faire are certain situations that are so typical of a genre that they cannot be copyrighted, e.g. a police drama would show corruption, politics, gangs, and violence; a film in the spy genre would feature assassinations, secret identities and codes, double agents double crossing, and villains drawn from every corner of the globe; a murder mystery would most likely have a murder and a suspect/s. However when substantial similarities are found between works, there is likely to be a claim of plagiarism or copyright infringement. See plagiarism; copyright. [Arts Law Centre, from http://www.artslaw.asn.au%5D
Scene cards
Scene cards are a method used by some writers to outline their script by describing each scene on an index card, then arranging and rearranging them to work out the story structure. Some writers work with colour coded scene cards.
Scene cards are a method used by some writers to outline their script by describing each scene on an index card, then arranging and rearranging them to work out the story structure. Some writers work with colour coded scene cards.
Screenplay
Screenplay is a script that is written to be produced as a film. Each page is roughly timed as one minute. Film is usually 90 minutes in length.
Screenplay is a script that is written to be produced as a film. Each page is roughly timed as one minute. Film is usually 90 minutes in length.
Screen story (credit)
Screen story is the credit given to a writer who has written a screenplay based on another writer’s work but has used the other writer’s work only as a springboard, a characterization, an incident, or some equally limited contribution, creating a story that is substantially new and different from the other writer’s work.
Screen story is the credit given to a writer who has written a screenplay based on another writer’s work but has used the other writer’s work only as a springboard, a characterization, an incident, or some equally limited contribution, creating a story that is substantially new and different from the other writer’s work.
Screen story (material)
Screen story is the written narrative material contracted from a writer by a hiring body. It consists of basic narrative, idea or theme and indicates character development and action. In the case of a feature film, the story or screen story is included in the treatment.
Screen story is the written narrative material contracted from a writer by a hiring body. It consists of basic narrative, idea or theme and indicates character development and action. In the case of a feature film, the story or screen story is included in the treatment.
Screenwriter
A screenwriter is an individual who either adapts an existing work, such as a novel or play, for production as a film or creates a new work from an original idea.
A screenwriter is an individual who either adapts an existing work, such as a novel or play, for production as a film or creates a new work from an original idea.
Scenographer
A scenographer is an individual who develops the design of a production set, a game, a trade fair exhibition, a museum exhibition, digital set design or performance capture from a written work.
A scenographer is an individual who develops the design of a production set, a game, a trade fair exhibition, a museum exhibition, digital set design or performance capture from a written work.
Script
A script is a fully written work for a production in screen terms, embodying individual scenes, full dialogue or narration and any other descriptions or details necessary to facilitate production. A script may take the form of a screenplay, shooting script, lined script, continuity script or a spec script (a non-commissioned script).
A script is a fully written work for a production in screen terms, embodying individual scenes, full dialogue or narration and any other descriptions or details necessary to facilitate production. A script may take the form of a screenplay, shooting script, lined script, continuity script or a spec script (a non-commissioned script).
Script fee
A script fee is the payment of a negotiated fee to a writer.
A script fee is the payment of a negotiated fee to a writer.
Script material
Script material is all the scripts or any material covered by an agreement. It includes the bible, continuity, draft scripts, outlines, polishes, rewrites, screen stories, treatments or anything written for the production process. It is held by the production company.
Script material is all the scripts or any material covered by an agreement. It includes the bible, continuity, draft scripts, outlines, polishes, rewrites, screen stories, treatments or anything written for the production process. It is held by the production company.
Script editor
A script editor can be hired by a writer to edit their script or they work with a writer for and on behalf of a producer, investment organisation or television network to review or suggest changes or alternatives to a script. Usually with a solid background as a writer themselves, script editors have an extensive knowledge of writing, production, acting, sound and budgets.
A script editor can be hired by a writer to edit their script or they work with a writer for and on behalf of a producer, investment organisation or television network to review or suggest changes or alternatives to a script. Usually with a solid background as a writer themselves, script editors have an extensive knowledge of writing, production, acting, sound and budgets.
Script supervisor
A script supervisor is an individual who tracks the script during production and keeps extensive notes about which parts have been filmed and how the filmed scenes deviated from the script; they also make continuity notes, creating a lined script. Hero , a film directed by Zhang Yimou, used five script supervisors during production. [Hero. (2002). Writers: Feng Li. Bin Wang]
A script supervisor is an individual who tracks the script during production and keeps extensive notes about which parts have been filmed and how the filmed scenes deviated from the script; they also make continuity notes, creating a lined script. Hero , a film directed by Zhang Yimou, used five script supervisors during production. [Hero. (2002). Writers: Feng Li. Bin Wang]
Semiotics
Semiotics is the study of signs found in literary works. Semiotics is used in an editing analysis to find all the dramatic ingredients and how they relate to the drama.
Semiotics is the study of signs found in literary works. Semiotics is used in an editing analysis to find all the dramatic ingredients and how they relate to the drama.
Sequel
A sequel is a film that presents the continuation of characters and/or events of a previously filmed movie. See prequel.
A sequel is a film that presents the continuation of characters and/or events of a previously filmed movie. See prequel.
Sequence of scenes
A sequence of scenes is the unit of dramatic action held together by one central idea. They have unity of purpose and action as they are sequential and held together by a causal connection. Each sequence of scenes must have a beginning, middle and end together with cause and effect. A sequence of scenes is more commonly used in a chase scene.
A sequence of scenes is the unit of dramatic action held together by one central idea. They have unity of purpose and action as they are sequential and held together by a causal connection. Each sequence of scenes must have a beginning, middle and end together with cause and effect. A sequence of scenes is more commonly used in a chase scene.
Serial
A serial is a televised program where the same characters carry a continuing narrative in half-four segments, five nights per week.
A serial is a televised program where the same characters carry a continuing narrative in half-four segments, five nights per week.
Series
A series is a televised hour-long series of episodes, each complete in itself but held together by the same title or identifying devices, common to all the programs in the series, or in the main characters common to many or all of the episodes. It is usually televised once a week.
A series is a televised hour-long series of episodes, each complete in itself but held together by the same title or identifying devices, common to all the programs in the series, or in the main characters common to many or all of the episodes. It is usually televised once a week.
Series or serial story editor (television)
Story editors are the key person in a television series as their skills as a senior writer and a seasoned script editor are combined with their experiences as a human being and their spirit, their ethos and their spark are the flesh, blood and backbone of the series or serial.
Story editors are the key person in a television series as their skills as a senior writer and a seasoned script editor are combined with their experiences as a human being and their spirit, their ethos and their spark are the flesh, blood and backbone of the series or serial.
Series producer (television)
A series producer is an individual who has worked as a story editor and is moving into the role of producer.
A series producer is an individual who has worked as a story editor and is moving into the role of producer.
Services contract
A services contract is a legal document that a writer signs with an agency for representation in order to receive writing assignments.
A services contract is a legal document that a writer signs with an agency for representation in order to receive writing assignments.
Set
A set is an artificial environment that is constructed to make filming easier but still appear natural when viewed from a camera angle. In television the number of sets and what they will be used for is determined by the story editor, eg. a hospital set, corner set and so on. In a series there are usually five permanent and two guest sets. Corner sets are the temporary redressing of permanent sets; i.e. to make a telephone call; dining for one and a waiter or two patrons and no waiter. It is small.
A set is an artificial environment that is constructed to make filming easier but still appear natural when viewed from a camera angle. In television the number of sets and what they will be used for is determined by the story editor, eg. a hospital set, corner set and so on. In a series there are usually five permanent and two guest sets. Corner sets are the temporary redressing of permanent sets; i.e. to make a telephone call; dining for one and a waiter or two patrons and no waiter. It is small.
Set designer
A set designer is an i ndividual responsible for translating a production designer’s vision of the television or movie’s environment into a set, which can be used for filming or television. See scenographer.
A set designer is an i ndividual responsible for translating a production designer’s vision of the television or movie’s environment into a set, which can be used for filming or television. See scenographer.
Set-up
A set-up is a scripting term that describes the problem posed in the first scenes, which will be resolved by the end of the script. A set-up lays the groundwork for a dramatic or comic situation that will become quite complicated in the middle of the story before it is resolved or ‘paid off’. It has to happen within the first few minutes of a script.
A set-up is a scripting term that describes the problem posed in the first scenes, which will be resolved by the end of the script. A set-up lays the groundwork for a dramatic or comic situation that will become quite complicated in the middle of the story before it is resolved or ‘paid off’. It has to happen within the first few minutes of a script.
Shooting script
A shooting script contains scene numbers, camera angles, inserts and the director’s, cinematographer’s, producers’ and editors’ input.
A shooting script contains scene numbers, camera angles, inserts and the director’s, cinematographer’s, producers’ and editors’ input.
Shorthand
Shorthand is the use of universal signs or assumed knowledge to cover large periods of time without having to provide a lengthy explanation. In Kubrick’s 2001- A Space Odyssey opened with a pre-historic ape throwing a bone in the air that turned into a spacecraft. He ‘shorthanded’ 2001 years in a matter of seconds. [ 2001- A Space Odyssey. (1968). Writers: S. Kubrick. A. C. Clarke]
Shorthand is the use of universal signs or assumed knowledge to cover large periods of time without having to provide a lengthy explanation. In Kubrick’s 2001- A Space Odyssey opened with a pre-historic ape throwing a bone in the air that turned into a spacecraft. He ‘shorthanded’ 2001 years in a matter of seconds. [ 2001- A Space Odyssey. (1968). Writers: S. Kubrick. A. C. Clarke]
Short subject/short course/short film
A short subject is a film that is less than 60 minutes in length.
A short subject is a film that is less than 60 minutes in length.
Silent film
A silent film is one that has no soundtrack and no spoken dialogue.
A silent film is one that has no soundtrack and no spoken dialogue.
Situation comedy
Situation comedy is a drama used in television in which humour is derived from people being placed in uncomfortable, embarrassing or unfamiliar situations.
Situation comedy is a drama used in television in which humour is derived from people being placed in uncomfortable, embarrassing or unfamiliar situations.
Slapstick comedy
Slapstick comedy is one in which the humour is derived from physical interactions, often involving exaggerated but ultimately harmless violence directed towards individuals.
Slapstick comedy is one in which the humour is derived from physical interactions, often involving exaggerated but ultimately harmless violence directed towards individuals.
Slow motion
Slow motion is a shot in which time appears to move more slowly than normal.
Slow motion is a shot in which time appears to move more slowly than normal.
Slug line/slug
A slug line appears in a script before each scene or shot detailing the location, date and time that the following action is intended to occur.
A slug line appears in a script before each scene or shot detailing the location, date and time that the following action is intended to occur.
Source material
Source material is material that becomes the basis for a script or screen story.
Source material is material that becomes the basis for a script or screen story.
Speaking role
A speaking role is a role in which a character speaks scripted dialogue. Go to your national actor’s union to find other defined roles for actors plus their cost.
A speaking role is a role in which a character speaks scripted dialogue. Go to your national actor’s union to find other defined roles for actors plus their cost.
Special effects
Special effects (SFX) are an a rtificial effect used to create an illusion.
Special effects (SFX) are an a rtificial effect used to create an illusion.
Step outline
Step outline is a method used by some writers to outline their story by numbering the major scenes and the order in which they occur.
Step outline is a method used by some writers to outline their story by numbering the major scenes and the order in which they occur.
Stock character
A stock character is one that is recognisable mainly for their conformity to a standard dramatic stereotype, that is, the wily but wise bar tender, the sensitive soldier, the crusty movie agent with the heart of gold, the gossip, the whinger and so on.
A stock character is one that is recognisable mainly for their conformity to a standard dramatic stereotype, that is, the wily but wise bar tender, the sensitive soldier, the crusty movie agent with the heart of gold, the gossip, the whinger and so on.
Stock situation
A stock situation is one of a number of basic plot situations, such as the lover hiding under the bed, twins mistaken for each other and so on. Used in comedy.
A stock situation is one of a number of basic plot situations, such as the lover hiding under the bed, twins mistaken for each other and so on. Used in comedy.
Stock footage
Stock footage is f ootage from other films or locations that are used in a new film or television production. In television serials or series, exterior stock footage is shot of the permanent locations at various times and is used in three to five second segments to identify that location and to change time.
Stock footage is f ootage from other films or locations that are used in a new film or television production. In television serials or series, exterior stock footage is shot of the permanent locations at various times and is used in three to five second segments to identify that location and to change time.
Story
A story is written material for use in a television production that consists of an idea or theme that indicates character development and action. To see if story works, try breaking it into three acts, once upon a time (Act 1), and then something happened (Act 2) and after that, it was resolved (Act 3) and then they all lived happily ever after and initially write it as a short story. If you can’t do this with your idea, then it is probably episodic and unworkable.
A story is written material for use in a television production that consists of an idea or theme that indicates character development and action. To see if story works, try breaking it into three acts, once upon a time (Act 1), and then something happened (Act 2) and after that, it was resolved (Act 3) and then they all lived happily ever after and initially write it as a short story. If you can’t do this with your idea, then it is probably episodic and unworkable.
Storyboard
A storyboard is used to illustrate a drama. It is also a s equence of pictures used to communicate the desired general visual appearance on camera of a scene or movie. It can be set up on a website specifically designed to pitch a project.
A storyboard is used to illustrate a drama. It is also a s equence of pictures used to communicate the desired general visual appearance on camera of a scene or movie. It can be set up on a website specifically designed to pitch a project.
Story consultant
A story consultant is an experienced writer or editor whose duties include analysis, consultation, research and editorial advice about script material for the creative industries.
A story consultant is an experienced writer or editor whose duties include analysis, consultation, research and editorial advice about script material for the creative industries.
Story editor (feature film)
A film or feature story editor is an individual who works on a screenplay with a writer. They have a similar role to a dramaturge in theatre.
A film or feature story editor is an individual who works on a screenplay with a writer. They have a similar role to a dramaturge in theatre.
Story editor (television) In television a story editor
creates the template and style for a drama serial or a drama. They create
the characters and develop their storylines. After the story editor ‘beds’ a
character in, for continuity purposes, staff writers follow the character
template set by the story editor.
Storyliner
A storyliner is a new writer or trainee story or script editor who works in a television production house with experienced editors for on-the-job training.
A storyliner is a new writer or trainee story or script editor who works in a television production house with experienced editors for on-the-job training.
Structure
Structure is about the execution of a quality or high concept idea, the construction of the central character, the major characters and the minor characters, the dialogue, the construction of the central plot and the sub-plots, the dramatic qualities, the visual realisation, suitability of the proposed format and cost in a scene by scene breakdown.
Structure is about the execution of a quality or high concept idea, the construction of the central character, the major characters and the minor characters, the dialogue, the construction of the central plot and the sub-plots, the dramatic qualities, the visual realisation, suitability of the proposed format and cost in a scene by scene breakdown.
Style
Style is a manner of expression that is unique to the creator of a work. It is also called a writer’s voice. It takes a writer approximately seven years to get their authentic voice on the page and with a life of its own. The specific manner in which a script is shaped, as determined by its genre, its historical period, the sort of impact the director wishes to convey to the audience and the skill of the artists involved is also called style.
Style is a manner of expression that is unique to the creator of a work. It is also called a writer’s voice. It takes a writer approximately seven years to get their authentic voice on the page and with a life of its own. The specific manner in which a script is shaped, as determined by its genre, its historical period, the sort of impact the director wishes to convey to the audience and the skill of the artists involved is also called style.
Stylise
To stylise is to deliberately shape a script in a specifically non-naturalistic manner.
To stylise is to deliberately shape a script in a specifically non-naturalistic manner.
Subplot
Subplot is also called the B Story that must be continued in the script and resolved at the end of the script. A subplot weaves in and out of the main action.
Subplot is also called the B Story that must be continued in the script and resolved at the end of the script. A subplot weaves in and out of the main action.
Subtext
The subtext is the subtleties between the lines of a scene, as in ‘reading between the lines’. The action is often as much between the lines as in them.
The subtext is the subtleties between the lines of a scene, as in ‘reading between the lines’. The action is often as much between the lines as in them.
Summary
Summary is a synopsis of the drama, told in 60 words or under for use in television guides, caption work or promotional material. It is usually written by a television script editor for each serial or series script. See thumbnail.
Summary is a synopsis of the drama, told in 60 words or under for use in television guides, caption work or promotional material. It is usually written by a television script editor for each serial or series script. See thumbnail.
Suspended disbelief
Suspension of disbelief is an aesthetic theory intended to characterise people’s relationships to art. It refers to the alleged willingness of a reader or viewer to accept as true the premises of a work of fiction, even if they are fantastic, impossible, or contradictory. It also refers to the willingness of the audience to overlook the limitations of a medium, so that these do not interfere with the acceptance of those premises. According to the theory, suspension of disbelief is a quid pro quo: the audience agrees to provisionally suspend their judgment in exchange for the promise of entertainment.
Suspension of disbelief is an aesthetic theory intended to characterise people’s relationships to art. It refers to the alleged willingness of a reader or viewer to accept as true the premises of a work of fiction, even if they are fantastic, impossible, or contradictory. It also refers to the willingness of the audience to overlook the limitations of a medium, so that these do not interfere with the acceptance of those premises. According to the theory, suspension of disbelief is a quid pro quo: the audience agrees to provisionally suspend their judgment in exchange for the promise of entertainment.
Further,
inconsistencies or plot holes that violate the initial premise,
established cannon, continuity, or common sense, are often viewed as breaking
this agreement. For particularly loyal fans, these deal-breakers are usually
accompanied by a sense of betrayal. However, the extent to which the suspension
can be called compromised is often dependent on the beholder. A physicist, for
example, may be more likely to question a fantastical breach of known physics,
while an architect’s suspension of disbelief may be damaged by being introduced
to a building of unrealistic proportions. Similarly, ‘common sense’ is a
relative term, and so the same piece of fiction may stand up or not, depending
on the particular audience. Though, as a theory, suspended disbelief is
pervasive amongst critics — particularly film critics — most aesthetic
philosophers reject it.
Synopsis
Synopsis is the summary of a story told in present tense. See thumbnail.
Synopsis is the summary of a story told in present tense. See thumbnail.
T to Z
Take
A take is a term used when a producer or hiring body wants a quick verbal summary of the script and its direction or its vision that the reader, assessor, writer, editor or dramaturge thinks it can be taken. It is not to be confused with ‘a take’, which is used in the shooting of a film or television script.
A take is a term used when a producer or hiring body wants a quick verbal summary of the script and its direction or its vision that the reader, assessor, writer, editor or dramaturge thinks it can be taken. It is not to be confused with ‘a take’, which is used in the shooting of a film or television script.
Team
A team is made up of two or more writers and their editors to write and edit a television production. It is usually put together by a producer.
A team is made up of two or more writers and their editors to write and edit a television production. It is usually put together by a producer.
Teaser
A teaser is the opening scene or sequence of scenes that sets up the mood in a television production as it presents the dramatic problem to be resolved. The teaser hooks the audience into the story in that crucial few seconds when it is still possible for them to change channels.
A teaser is the opening scene or sequence of scenes that sets up the mood in a television production as it presents the dramatic problem to be resolved. The teaser hooks the audience into the story in that crucial few seconds when it is still possible for them to change channels.
Telegraphing
Telegraphing means telling the audience well in advance what the outcome is going to be. This device comes about because of poor dramatic structure.
Telegraphing means telling the audience well in advance what the outcome is going to be. This device comes about because of poor dramatic structure.
Teleplay
Teleplay is a script written to be produced for television whose length is 42-48 minutes long for a standard one-hour TV show.
Teleplay is a script written to be produced for television whose length is 42-48 minutes long for a standard one-hour TV show.
Television business The TV business is uglier than
most things. It is normally perceived as some kind of cruel and shallow money
trench through the heart of the journalism industry, a long plastic hallway
where thieves and pimps run free and good men die like dogs, for no good
reason. (Hunter S Thompson. Gonzo Journalist)
Telewriter
Telewriter is a writer who either adapts an existing work for production or writes a new one for television.
Telewriter is a writer who either adapts an existing work for production or writes a new one for television.
Terms
Close-up (c/u); voiceover (v/o); off screen or o/screen (o/s, oos); below screen or behind screen (b/s); post action visual (PAV); fade out (Fd.out). It is wise not to tell a director how to direct the entire film or television script.
Close-up (c/u); voiceover (v/o); off screen or o/screen (o/s, oos); below screen or behind screen (b/s); post action visual (PAV); fade out (Fd.out). It is wise not to tell a director how to direct the entire film or television script.
Three-act structure
Three-act structure is the traditional storytelling sequence which includes (1) the set-up (2) the complication and (3) the resolution.
Three-act structure is the traditional storytelling sequence which includes (1) the set-up (2) the complication and (3) the resolution.
Thumbnail
A thumbnail is a summary of the synopsis of a series or serial. It is used to advertise a show in television guide or magazine. It is written by a script editor. In theatre it is written by a dramaturge.
A thumbnail is a summary of the synopsis of a series or serial. It is used to advertise a show in television guide or magazine. It is written by a script editor. In theatre it is written by a dramaturge.
Title
A title is the name of the work. It cannot be copyrighted.
A title is the name of the work. It cannot be copyrighted.
Time lock
A time lock exists when a pre-determined action is set to take place at a specific time and the audience is kept in suspense. Time becomes an element of suspense in itself. A time lock is a dramatic device that is used to create additional tension. It is used to great effect in comedy writing.
A time lock exists when a pre-determined action is set to take place at a specific time and the audience is kept in suspense. Time becomes an element of suspense in itself. A time lock is a dramatic device that is used to create additional tension. It is used to great effect in comedy writing.
Traction
Traction describes a television project that is beginning to get a grip on its audience.
Traction describes a television project that is beginning to get a grip on its audience.
Unity of action
Unity of action is the cause-and-effect relationship between all the scenes and all the characters from the beginning to the end.
Unity of action is the cause-and-effect relationship between all the scenes and all the characters from the beginning to the end.
Unity of time
Unity of time means that your time is in logical agreement from scene to scene and that there is a smooth transition from scene to scene. When dealing with time you have to make sure that cause and effect holds together.
Unity of time means that your time is in logical agreement from scene to scene and that there is a smooth transition from scene to scene. When dealing with time you have to make sure that cause and effect holds together.
Voice-over (VO)
Voice-over (VO) indicates that dialogue will be heard but the speaker will not be seen.
Voice-over (VO) indicates that dialogue will be heard but the speaker will not be seen.
Wipe
A wipe is a term to describe an image where one shot is fully replaced by the images of another, delineated by a definite border that moves across or around the frame. It is written into the script.
A wipe is a term to describe an image where one shot is fully replaced by the images of another, delineated by a definite border that moves across or around the frame. It is written into the script.
Wrangler
A wrangler is an individual who is responsible for the care and control of entities used on a set that can’t be given a direction by speech alone, for example a wrangler who works with animals. They can add considerable cost to a budget.
A wrangler is an individual who is responsible for the care and control of entities used on a set that can’t be given a direction by speech alone, for example a wrangler who works with animals. They can add considerable cost to a budget.
Writer
According to CREATE Australia (2002: 23-34) in Australia over 500,000 individuals identify themselves as writers. Writers write works of fiction and non-fiction that includes indigenous, ethnic, workplace and academic writing, novels, textbooks, short stories, poetry, plays, scripts, lyrics, screenplays, biographies, newsletters, copy writing, captioning, journalism, journals, magazines, researching, technical and community writing plus writing for cell phones, games, CD-ROM, information, e-zines, web writers and designers and other emerging media that in turns influences how writing is undertaken. Film and television scripts, lyrics and plays require additional skills as they are spoken out loud or written for performance. Most writers become skilled in a number of genres. All genres require an editor. Additionally writers need to have a good understanding of ethics, moral rights, knowledge of different cultures and what is appropriate to writing, privacy laws and legal issues. As a cottage industry writers need to know about copyright law and how to protect themselves, insurance, taxation and running a small business to name a few issues. Some writers and editors are now referred to as word wranglers. [Australian National Training Authority. (2002). CREATE Australia . Final Report: Writing, Publishing and Journalism Scoping Study fromhttp://www.createaust.com.au ]
According to CREATE Australia (2002: 23-34) in Australia over 500,000 individuals identify themselves as writers. Writers write works of fiction and non-fiction that includes indigenous, ethnic, workplace and academic writing, novels, textbooks, short stories, poetry, plays, scripts, lyrics, screenplays, biographies, newsletters, copy writing, captioning, journalism, journals, magazines, researching, technical and community writing plus writing for cell phones, games, CD-ROM, information, e-zines, web writers and designers and other emerging media that in turns influences how writing is undertaken. Film and television scripts, lyrics and plays require additional skills as they are spoken out loud or written for performance. Most writers become skilled in a number of genres. All genres require an editor. Additionally writers need to have a good understanding of ethics, moral rights, knowledge of different cultures and what is appropriate to writing, privacy laws and legal issues. As a cottage industry writers need to know about copyright law and how to protect themselves, insurance, taxation and running a small business to name a few issues. Some writers and editors are now referred to as word wranglers. [Australian National Training Authority. (2002). CREATE Australia . Final Report: Writing, Publishing and Journalism Scoping Study fromhttp://www.createaust.com.au ]
Writer’s block
Writer’s block occurs when your structure does not support your work. Scrap it
and start again.
Writing period
Writing period is the time given to a writer to complete their work. During this time the writer’s services are generally exclusive to the production company that has hired them.
Writing period is the time given to a writer to complete their work. During this time the writer’s services are generally exclusive to the production company that has hired them.
Written by
Written by is the credit given when one or several writers have created both the story and the screenplay, and there is no source material. This credit is also given in television if the writer has created both the story and the teleplay.
Written by is the credit given when one or several writers have created both the story and the screenplay, and there is no source material. This credit is also given in television if the writer has created both the story and the teleplay.
Zoom
Zoom is the s hot in which the magnification of the objects by the camera’s lenses is increased (zoom in) or decreased (zoom out/back). This direction is written into the body of the script.
Zoom is the s hot in which the magnification of the objects by the camera’s lenses is increased (zoom in) or decreased (zoom out/back). This direction is written into the body of the script.
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