Screenwriting : How Many Montages are Too Many? by Maureen Mahon

Good plan; cut one. Two is fine.

I've seen scripts with upwards of seven so you're ahead of the curve already. Good luck.

Thank you, E Langley!

I had the same issue. I think whatever moves the story forward. I think I have 4 in mine.

As many as you feel is necessary is the correct answer.

Thanks, Christine and Michael! The story takes place in the 1960s and 70s, so really cool music will accompany the montages.

Thanks, Ty.

I think 1 or 2, not three, but certainly 7 or more is fine if we decide to go that way, I think it's all about the cinematic lexicon you choose with authority so your vocabulary and structure welcome that vernacular as strongly as you embrace it.

Thank you, Daniel!

Thanks for connecting! Really interesting Q&A topic and convergent feelings on this. I’ve certainly written a few dream sequences which can be a similar kind of concern as to whether or when it becomes a gimmick; and recently I’m now adding a new short fantasy daydream montage of AI images into my current project (a micro-budget proof-of-concept reel). Glad to see the level of support and encouragement!

How many montages? As many as the inches to a dog’s tail. (Depends on the dog—depends on your tale.)

Thanks, Rhonda! I love the analogy. :-)

Can they become scenes on their own?

Hi Scott. YES! I turned one of the short montages into a series of short scenes without dialogue, but not really a montage. I think it works really well.

I would say it all depends on timing and flow. You should know and get the feel of that when you are writing.

Thanks, Geoff!

Maureen Mahon There you go... you can establish a time jump that same way, too.

When people think “oh no another montage”.

Hahaha! Thanks, Craig!

I don't think there's a given number as long as the story flow and dose not irritate the reader. Great question

Thanks, Hakim.