I am still rewriting and have a question. I don't want to use another flashback, but want to overlap a scene from the past with the present. My question is, how do I indicate this in my script. Suggestions are appreciated, happy writing.
Screenwriting : DMaria Woods - Screenwriter / Visual Artist by DMaria Woods
DMaria Woods - Screenwriter / Visual Artist
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Hey DMaria, this is Karen from the Stage 32 team. I just wanted to let you know I moved your post from Introduce Yourself to Screenwriting, as it fits much better there. Let me know if you have any questions, and all the best to you!
Flashback. That is the tool. I can’t think of another way.
you should look up basic thoughts on the formatting of flashbacks and series of shots.. but I think the general consensus is to pick a formatting style that fits you and just be consistent throughout the entire script.
Write the story which ever ways works best for you. Like that which has been said before me, FLASHBACK will probably suit you. If needs be, clarify in a slugline that this flashback is from a different period, or maybe even a subtitle.
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FLASH FORWARD
Your scene within a scene.
END FLASH FORWARD
I would try to avoid any flashback
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Read produced screenplays similar to what you're doing and mimic how the writers did it on the page. "Edge of Tomorrow," "Inception," "Little Women"... Lots of different ways.
I'd have to know the story and see the script first but I think CJ's 'FLASH FORWARD' would be worth looking into. A Director may use a cross fade with maybe a stop at white or black - but I'd need to see the script.
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FLASH TO: 1981: (as an example) Write it in the body of the scene you want to overlap....
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In one of my pilots I tell the story in 2 timelines and I use THEN and NOW at the end of the header when I change from one time to the other...but also within scenes use FLASH TO and then indicate where we're going. I find these methods use the least white space and are simple and direct ways to tell the "viewer" "when" we are.
Great feedback, thank you