The Origins and Formatting of Modern Screenplays

Summary

This video by John Hess from FilmmakerIQ.com explores the history and evolution of screenplay formatting in narrative films. Starting with early film scenarios, the video traces the development from simple descriptions to more structured formats like the Master Scene format and the Continuity Script, introduced by Thomas Ince. It delves into the rise of the studio system, the anti-trust case against Paramount, and the transition to the modern package unit production. The video emphasizes the importance of proper screenplay formatting for readability and professionalism in the filmmaking industry.

Takeaways

• 🎬 Film started as a novelty in the late 1800s, evolving from simple visual tricks using photography and light projection.
• 🎥 The first 'scenarios' were just written descriptions of short films like the Lumiere Brothers' early screenings.
• 📝 The development of the 'Master Scene Format' in the early 1900s helped organize films into individual scenes with scene headings and descriptions.
• 🎞️ Thomas Ince revolutionized filmmaking by introducing the 'Continuity Script,' enabling more efficient production and cost control.
• 🏭 The studio system became more industrialized in the early 20th century, with the central office model streamlining film production like a factory.
• ⚖️ The 1948 antitrust case, United States vs Paramount, ended the studio system's dominance by breaking their control over theaters, changing the industry's business model.
• 📺 The rise of television in the 1950s further eroded the power of Hollywood studios, leading to the package unit production system centered around independent producers.
• 🖋️ The modern 'Master Scene Format' for screenwriting emphasizes readability and clarity, focusing on telling a compelling story rather than including technical details.
• ✍️ Proper screenplay formatting is essential, as industry professionals expect a precise structure, including margin sizes and scene elements like character names, action, and dialogue.
• 🛠️ Screenwriting software like Final Draft or Celtx is recommended for formatting scripts to industry standards, ensuring professionalism and easier production scheduling.

Q & A

What were some of the earliest films demonstrated by the Lumiere Brothers?

The Lumiere Brothers' screenings included films such as 'Workers leaving the Lumiere Factory,' 'Bathing in the Sea,' and 'Baby's Breakfast.' These films were approximately 40 seconds long and required only simple written descriptions.

How did filmmakers initially use 'Scenarios' in the early years of motion picture development?

'Scenarios' were synopses used both as a description of the film and in marketing. They provided a simple written description of the film's content.

What is the 'Master Scene Format' that emerged around 1903?

The 'Master Scene Format' breaks down the film into master scenes (not cuts), with each scene having a scene heading followed by a description of the action. This format became more prevalent with Scott Marble's scenario for Edwin S. Porter's 'The Great Train Robbery.'

How did Thomas Ince revolutionize the filmmaking process?

Thomas Ince revolutionized the filmmaking process by applying scientific principles similar to Henry Ford's assembly line in the automobile industry. He pioneered the use of the 'Continuity Script,' which contained detailed information for planning and production, enabling the creation of shooting schedules and cost control.

What was the significance of the central office studio system introduced by Ince?

The central office studio system worked like a manufacturing plant, using division of labor to streamline the filmmaking process. It allowed studios to produce a large number of movies efficiently, with specialized roles for writers, directors, cinematographers, actors, editors, and sound recordists.

How did the Supreme Court decision in United States vs Paramount Et Al in 1948 affect the film industry?

The Supreme Court decision forced studios to divest their interests in movie theaters, ending practices like block booking. This decision reduced the power of major studios and encouraged independent filmmaking, shifting the focus to marketing and quality over quantity.

What is the difference between a Master Scene screenplay and a shooting script?

A Master Scene screenplay focuses on readability and telling the story without technical details like camera angles and cuts. It is used to generate interest and secure financing. Once a film is greenlit, the Master Scene screenplay is turned into a shooting script, which includes all the technical details required for production under the director's guidance.

What are the six main elements of the Master Scene Format?

The six main elements are: 1) Scene Heading (Slug Line), 2) Action, 3) Character Name, 4) Parentheticals, 5) Dialogue Blocks, and 6) Scene Transition. These elements ensure the screenplay is readable and properly formatted for production use.

Why are the strict formatting rules of screenplays important?

Strict formatting rules ensure that the screenplay is easy to read, can be broken down into production schedules, and adheres to industry standards. This demonstrates the writer's professionalism and understanding of the industry, which is crucial for gaining interest and investment.

What role does the screenplay play in the modern package unit production system?

In the modern package unit production system, the screenplay is a document used to sell the story to potential collaborators, such as producers, directors, and investors. It needs to be readable and compelling to generate interest and secure the necessary resources for production.