How to Write Freakishly Good Dialogue

Summary

This video reveals the secret to writing captivating dialogue that goes beyond realism or avoiding exposition. The key is the iceberg theory, where subtext and hidden motives add depth and complexity to a screenplay. By using indirect dialogue, hidden agendas, and unspoken intentions, writers can immerse readers by making them 'fill in the blanks' and uncover the true meaning behind every interaction. Examples from films like 'Whiplash' and 'Crazy, Stupid, Love' illustrate how subtext can transform ordinary dialogue into engaging, layered conversations. The video emphasizes the importance of giving characters clear goals and secrets, ensuring every line of dialogue serves a purpose.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dialogue becomes captivating when characters have hidden agendas and unspoken intentions, adding layers of meaning.
• 😀 The iceberg theory, popularized by Ernest Hemingway, explains that what is unsaid in dialogue adds depth and richness to a screenplay.
• 😀 The key to good dialogue is providing just enough information for the audience to piece together the story without over-explaining.
• 😀 Characters should not directly reveal their true motivations; instead, their actions and words should hint at deeper layers of meaning.
• 😀 Subtext is the underlying message that gives dialogue its power, making the audience work to understand the true intentions of characters.
• 😀 Effective dialogue involves characters saying or doing one thing while meaning something completely different, creating intrigue and tension.
• 😀 Use indirect communication in dialogue to convey emotions or desires without stating them outright, making the interaction more subtle and layered.
• 😀 In scenes, avoid unnecessary small talk unless it serves a purpose, like revealing a character's hidden agenda or progressing the plot.
• 😀 By withholding key details from the audience, like in 'The Contest' episode of Seinfeld, you can encourage them to think and draw conclusions themselves.
• 😀 Every line of dialogue should reflect a character's specific goal and underlying secret, driving the story forward and adding depth to interactions.

Q & A

What is the main secret to writing captivating dialogue according to the script?

The main secret is using subtext effectively. It's about giving the audience just enough information so they can piece it together, rather than making dialogue sound like real conversation or avoiding exposition.

Why do most screenplays fail to immerse readers in the dialogue?

Most screenplays fail because they lack subtext and hidden layers beneath the surface. Dialogue that’s too straightforward or lacks depth makes it hard for readers to engage and invest in the story.

What is the Iceberg Theory, and how does it apply to dialogue?

The Iceberg Theory, proposed by Ernest Hemingway, suggests that only the tip of the iceberg (visible elements) should be shown, while the rest (subtext and hidden layers) should remain beneath the surface. In dialogue, this means conveying deeper meaning without explicitly stating everything.

How can subtext make dialogue more powerful?

Subtext makes dialogue more powerful by adding hidden agendas and allowing the audience to read between the lines. When characters don’t directly state their intentions, it creates mystery and depth, keeping the audience engaged.

Can you give an example of subtext in a film or TV show?

In *Whiplash*, Fletcher's questioning of Andrew seems casual but actually serves to gather information for manipulation. The subtext reveals Fletcher's hidden agenda—he’s trying to break Andrew emotionally, even though he’s pretending to be interested in his background.

What role do hidden agendas play in writing good dialogue?

Hidden agendas make dialogue more interesting and complex. When characters have secrets or ulterior motives, their words carry additional weight, creating tension and intrigue. The audience is drawn in as they uncover these hidden motivations.

How does the example from *Crazy, Stupid, Love* illustrate subtext in dialogue?

In *Crazy, Stupid, Love*, Emily calls Cal for help with a water heater, but the subtext reveals that she’s really reaching out to him because she misses him. The dialogue is indirect and layered with emotional complexity, even though the surface conversation seems trivial.

What exercise can writers use to practice subtext in dialogue?

Writers can practice subtext by writing a scene where characters talk about something without directly stating what’s really going on. For example, in a divorce mediation scene, the word 'divorce' is never mentioned, but the context and subtext make it clear.

How does a character’s secret affect their dialogue?

A character's secret adds depth to their dialogue by influencing how they speak and what they reveal. The secret often drives them to speak indirectly or manipulate others, which creates tension and makes the dialogue more engaging.

What is the importance of goals in dialogue writing?

Every line of dialogue should reflect a character’s underlying goal. Without a specific goal, the dialogue becomes pointless, and the characters’ actions and words lose their impact. Goals keep the dialogue focused and meaningful, ensuring that each exchange serves a purpose.