What are Script Sides?
Script sides are small, easily manageable portions of the script that actors, crew, and sometimes directors use on set during filming. They typically include only the scenes being shot that day, making it easier to focus on the task at hand.
Key Elements of Script Sides:
* Scene Heading (or Scene Number): Clearly identifies the scene being shot. Include the interior/exterior location, and day/night designation (INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY). If your script uses scene numbers, use those instead.
* Character Names: The characters speaking in the scene, always in ALL CAPS.
* Dialogue: The lines spoken by each character.
* Brief Action/Description: Very short descriptions of what the character is doing during their lines (e.g., (Smiling) I'm so glad you're here.). This should be kept to a minimum. Only include essential actions.
* Page Number/Letter Designator: Indicates where in the full script the scene is located. This is critical for referencing the full script if needed. If pages have been revised and are numbered with letters (e.g., 12A, 12B), make sure to include that as well.
* "MORE" or "CONT'D": Used when a character's dialogue continues onto the next page.
* (O.S.) or (V.O.): Indicates "Off Screen" or "Voice Over" respectively.
* Date and Production Title: Often included in the header or footer for easy identification.
* Revision Color: If applicable, the current revision color (e.g., "Blue Pages").
* Side Number/Version: Important for keeping track of different versions of the sides.
Steps to Create Script Sides:
1. Identify Scenes for the Day: Work with the Assistant Director (AD) or script supervisor to determine which scenes will be shot on a particular day.
2. Extract the Relevant Pages: Copy and paste the necessary scenes from the full script into a separate document.
3. Format for Sides:
* Page Size: Usually half-letter size (5.5 x 8.5 inches) or smaller for easy handling. This allows for more pages to be printed on one standard sheet of paper, saving resources and weight. Some productions use A5 size.
* Font: Courier New (12pt) is the industry standard because it mimics typewriter font and allows for consistent character spacing.
* Margins: Narrow margins (around 0.5 inches) to maximize space on the page.
* Character Names: ALL CAPS, usually centered.
* Dialogue: Left-aligned.
* Action/Description: Parenthetical, typically centered or slightly left-aligned, italicized is helpful.
* Spacing: Single-spaced for dialogue; double-space between characters.
* Page Breaks: Start each new scene on a new page. Avoid breaking a character's dialogue across pages unless absolutely necessary.
4. Condense, But Don't Omit Important Context:
* Cut Unnecessary Description: Remove detailed descriptions that aren't essential for the actors' performance or the crew's immediate needs.
* Include Essential Action: Retain only actions that directly affect the dialogue or are crucial for understanding the scene.
* Keep Character Names and Dialogue Intact: Never alter or shorten these.
5. Add Headers/Footers:
* Production Title: At the top or bottom of each page.
* Date: At the top or bottom of each page.
* Revision Color: If using colored pages for revisions, indicate the color in the header or footer (e.g., "Blue Revision").
* Side Number/Version: Crucial for tracking updates (e.g., "Sides - Version 3").
* Page Number/Letter Designator: The most important - the corresponding page number and revision letter from the full script should be at the bottom right corner.
6. Highlight or Mark: Some productions use highlighter to indicate the actor's lines, or bracket the important portions of the scene. This is optional but can be very helpful.
7. Proofread Carefully: Check for typos, formatting errors, and missing information. Mistakes can lead to confusion and wasted time on set.
8. Distribute: Print the sides and distribute them to the relevant cast and crew members. Consider electronic distribution as well (PDF format), especially for crew members who may prefer to use tablets.
Example of Script Sides Format:
```
[Production Title: The Midnight Diner]
[Date: 2023-10-27]
[Sides - Version 2]
INT. DINER - NIGHT
MARTHA
(Smiling warmly)
Come in, come in! So glad you could make it.
FRANK
(Entering hesitantly)
Thanks, Martha. It's good to see you too.
MARTHA
I've got your usual waiting. Booth in the back?
FRANK
That would be perfect.
MORE
***
[Production Title: The Midnight Diner]
[Date: 2023-10-27]
[Sides - Version 2]
INT. DINER - NIGHT (CONT'D)
MARTHA
(Leading the way)
Follow me. Things are quiet tonight, thank goodness.
FRANK
(Looking around)
Looks cozy. Just what I needed.
MARTHA
(At the booth)
Have a seat. I'll bring over that coffee right away.
12A
```
Tips for Efficiency:
* Use Script Writing Software: Programs like Final Draft, Movie Magic Screenwriter, and Highland can automatically generate sides. Learn how to use their features for sides formatting.
* Create a Template: Set up a sides template with your preferred font, margins, and header/footer information to save time.
* Establish a Workflow: Develop a consistent process for extracting scenes, formatting, and distributing sides.
* Communicate with the Script Supervisor: The script supervisor is your key resource for ensuring accuracy and consistency.
* Electronic Distribution: Distribute PDFs electronically to save paper and allow crew members to access sides on tablets or laptops. This can be supplemented with hard copies as needed.
* Cloud Storage: Store your script sides in a shared cloud drive (Google Drive, Dropbox) so everyone has access to the latest version.
* Version Control: Clearly label each version of the sides to avoid confusion. Use version numbers (e.g., Version 1, Version 2) or date/time stamps.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
* Inaccurate Page Numbers/Letter Designators: This is the most critical error, as it makes it impossible to reference the full script.
* Missing or Incorrect Character Names: Leads to confusion about who is speaking.
* Omitting Essential Action: Can make the dialogue unclear.
* Poor Formatting: Makes the sides difficult to read.
* Using the Wrong Font/Size: Industry standard is 12pt Courier New.
* Not Proofreading: Typos and formatting errors are unprofessional and can cause problems.
* Not Distributing Sides in a Timely Manner: Ensure cast and crew have the sides well in advance of filming.
By following these guidelines, you can create clear, concise, and effective script sides that will help keep your production running smoothly. Remember to prioritize accuracy, readability, and brevity.