Couple formatting questions.

Paradis

Paradis

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I'm not sure i've got these 2 sequences done right.

1- one of them is a montage sort of brief intercut series of sequences that has the character preparing breakfast, going for a run, showering, shaving, etc etc. I've seen that kind of thing done a few ways

2- second is a sequence that has the character performing an exagerated performance on stage. There's no real dialogue, but he's we'll dancing for the sake of simplicity. its a sequence that will last up to a minute, so how much of that should i be leaving for the director and actor to do their jobs. I'm sure its a subjective kind of thing, like how specific do i want it to be.

Anyways, appreciate you're guys' feedback.
 
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Paradis

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Thanks! Admittingly i haven't made much use of the search function in this forum, largely cause i'm still not familiar with all the proper nomenclature.
 
Paradis

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i'll read those tonight when i'm at home, but i definitely still welcome any thoughts or comments from others, particularly on the 2nd point, which is really subject to a mix of technique and discretion
 
Paradis

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okay after reading those searched threads, it appears my use of montage was erroneous. Series of shots might be more indicative. i searched and found some useful stuff but still a little wary

I'm speaking towards a sequence that would have a character start cooking breakfast, jogging down a street, taking a shower, coming hair. all roughly 10 secs in length.
as it stands i have them all with INT. Street - day. INT. Bathroom - day , etc etc. it gets tedious.
 

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When I have a sequence that I intend to be seen like a montage or a series of shots, I normally format it like this:

INT. LOCATION. MORNING.

DUDE wakes up from a long night of partying. He walks over to his radio and turns on his MP3 player. The following shots are seen as the music continues to play:


-DUDE walks into his Kitchen and begins cooking breakfast.

-DUDE is jogging down the street as his hot neighbor lady drives by on her way to work.

-DUDE steps out of a steaming shower and wraps a towel around his waist.

-DUDE stands in front of his bathroom mirror as he begins to combing his hair. In the other room we hear his cell phone ring.

-DUDE walks into his bedroom and picks up his cell phone.

DUDE
Hello?

HOT NEIGHBOR LADY
I saw you this morning.

Etc. Etc.

Now granted I called the character by his name with every shot. You don't have to do it like this, in fact it would probably be better if you didn't. If its a single character then it would be possible to think that you wouldn't have to call him by name every time.

If it's more than one character though, I would use their names just because it easier to keep up with who is doing what.

From there you can go straight into dialogue as usual and the director should get that you are coming out of the montage/sequence. I've seen it done where it was very clearly labeled:

BEGIN MONTAGE

END MONTAGE

I say it's really what ever is best for you and helps you tell the story that much better without making it hard to follow.
 
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