FILM STUDIES: Senior Project MPF042

Script Breakdown

Step 1 - divide the script into scenes with a line across the script where the scene ends

Step 2 - underline the following elements of the script for production consideration: o characters (main character, bit parts, extras, atmosphere) o key props o locations o atmosphere (background atmosphere extras) o special effects (e.g., rain, snow, explosions, etc.) o sound (foley, music, etc.) o special camera or grip equipment (crane, rigging, etc.) o special lighting equipment (dimmers, etc.) o makeup and hair o wardrobe - page length ( in 1/8ths of a page)

Step 3 Transfer the information to the Script Breakdown sheet This format identifies the elements: - number the scenes - give the scene a name - give a synopsis of the action

This information is used to create: - Shooting Schedule, - Production Boards, and - Call Sheet.

Intermediate Steps Scheduling: Transfer Script Breakdown information into strips - information is coded into D/N, and colour codings e.g., white for sound stage, yellow for exterior, green for locations, blue for blue screen, etc.

The Strips become the sequence of shooting days – the shooting schedule and the Production Boards (graphic representation of Script Breakdown)

JWarrack 1 FILM STUDIES: Senior Project MPF042

Organizing the Schedule Organize shooting days around common elements: - Locations - Interior/Exterior - Day/Night - Continuity

The Production Schedule - Organizing principle – start with eh the most complex and move to the simplest - Shoot locations up front – usually more complex, more time consuming, more logistics, etc. - then stage scenes.

Day-Out-Of-Days The Day-Out-Of-Days form is a chart of the workdays for all the cast (performer and extras) Created by the Assistant Director The Day-Out-Of-Days is a top sheet of the shooting schedule

The Shooting Schedule Reproduces the sequence of work from the production board and the Breakdown sheet information that is distributed to the cast and crew. The details of props, costumes, cars, stand-ins, etc.

Deal Making Deal memos for below-the-line personnel Don’t promise what you cannot deliver.

JWarrack 2