Talking on the phone

[Compton]

I'm having trouble articulating myself here, but I'll try.

When writing a scene that contains two characters talking on a phone, one of which has already been introduced, is it necessary to highlight certain things to ensure that the unknown character is shown, as well as their surroundings?

For example, just describing the unknown character and their environment.

Is there a specific format for this type of conversation --the kind of shot reverse shot across a telephone-- I realize that in those terms it does not even seem to be up to the writer.

All things considered, it would be much more elegant to introduce this character via the telephone.

Thanks,

CG

[maestrowork]

If you can't show it, you can't describe it. If the "unknown" character is on the other line, it's a voice over. You won't be able to tell us "he's a black man in his limo." You can use dialogue to get that info across, like

JOHN
What's up? Where are you?

DAVE (V.O.)
I'm in a limo, man.


If you want to show both characters (jumping from one to another), you can use an "intercut." Then you can describe the other character, since he/she will be on screen. But keep it brief.

[Compton]

Thanks, exactly what I needed to know.

[Joe Calabrese]

Two ways. Maestro is right. V.O. is you don't see the other party and intercut if you do. An example of intercut is:

INTERCUT: JOHN''S LIVINGROOM / DAVE'S LIMO - SAME

The Phone rings. John checks the caller id and picks up the receiver.

JOHN
What's up? Where are you?

Dave sits in the back of his limo, sipping a martini.

DAVE
I'm in a limo, man.

[IWrite]

Just wanted to add to Joe's example that if it's the first time we're seeing Dave you would need to alert the reader he's a new character.

DAVE, 27, sits in the back of his limo, sipping a martini. He's wearing a tux and an ear-to-ear smile.

DAVE
I'm in a limo, man.