Hello everyone, I am not sure how to proceed about this. I've written scripts before and understand the basics of formatting. While I understand there is a lot to be said about what the standards are, I couldn't find any information on how to write a silent movie script (or its standards). I went ahead and looked for samples. The one seemed to be MOST professional was "THE ARTIST" it is great example but obviously no guidelines where given with the script. Someone told me to write it as if I was telling the story to a person sitting next to me in a movie theater but that person couldn't see. It seemed a bit excessive as it started to sound like the breakdown for a DP. Does anyone have experience with this? or knows anyone who does? I need help. BTW this is a short which is just one LONG scene.
Screenwriting : Need help with silent movie script by Alejandro Behar
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Alejandro, then try to find a copy of the script for The Artist. After all, it did win an Oscar.
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By silent, you mean dialogue free? I've written dialogue free scripts before and the format is exactly the same except it has no dialogue. The trick is to convey the story through actions and expressions only.
I've written about four or five shorts with no dialogue, and I agree with Pierre. They are no different than writing a script with dialogue. It's just more difficult because you can't tell the audience anything. It's all show.
Alejandro, I own a copy of "The Photoplay." Try to get a copy on ABEbooks. A fabulous read, the bk has great photos of Colleen Moore, Norma Talmadge, etc. + advice on how to write for stars. EX: A photoplay for Norma ""must have dramatic scenes." Certain actresses demanded scenes that showed their legs.
Pierre is write. Search for Charlie Chaplin's movies from the internet. He was a comic actor and film-maker who rose to fame in the silent film era. His movies will be great guide to what you want to do. I watched his movies. I enjoyed them and CRACKED to laughter. Only action added a tone to his movies. No dialogue. You can do it. Check of for The Gold Rush (1925), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nt-_DXC-aik and good luck.
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Yes Chaplin is a master in the art of dialogue free film, and audiences always get the thread of the plot from his craftsmanship in "showing" rather than telling. There is one unforgettable film, (sorry cant remember title as studied theatre some time ago), where Chaplin decides to take a short cut across a Main Street and walks through the doors of a stationary Rolls/Limo. After seeing him depart the exit door, he is suddenly treated like royalty by the whole vicinity, and acquires allies and servants. Alejandro, this is a fantastic idea you have of making silent film, and an excellent tool to hone in on character building through action only.