ON TV or ON THE SCREEN

razormoney · Dec 22, 2005

Anybody seen any accepted practices for pointing out what's happening on a TV or VIDEO screen. I have a script where a lawyer shows various items (photos, video) on a split screen monitor in the courtroom. Here is an example:

------
ON THE SPLIT-SCREEN

One side is blank. The other side displays the magnified needle of the skin response meter. It reads zero.

------
Is this acceptable since an action line which has nothing to do with the split screen will follow? Indenting is wrong because there is no dialogue.

Just wondered if you all had any insight on this issue.

Thanks,
R

dpaterso · Dec 23, 2005

Usual rule applies, as long as it's clear to the audience, write it any way you like, e.g. and just for fun's sake:

COURT TV (SPLIT SCREEN)

LEFT SIDE is blank. RIGHT SIDE displays the magnified needle of the skin response meter. It reads zero.

LAWYER
As you can see, ladies and
gentlemen of the jury, my
client's skin was not present
at the crime scene.

He thumbs the TV remote control--

COURT TV (SPLIT SCREEN)

LEFT SIDE shows a fluffy rabbit toy, head cut off, stuffing falling out. RIGHT SIDE shows a kitchen knife.

The Jury GASPS in shock. The Townspeople GABBLE LOUDLY. Judge BANGS his gavel.

JUDGE
Silence, or I will order the
courtroom cleared!
(to Lawyer)
You're skating on thin ice,
counselor.

-Derek
-> * <- Click on this magic star to be transported to my website. Ruby slippers optional.
________________________________________________
The practice of art isn't to make a living. It's to make your soul grow. ~The Complete Handbook of Novel Writing (Kurt Vonnegut)

razormoney · Dec 23, 2005

Excellent

Thanks D. I like the way you differentiated left from right. Great idea and it does clarify things to the reader. I'll definitely use the advice.

R

ON TV or ON THE SCREEN

razormoney

dpaterso

Also in our Discord and IRC chat channels

razormoney