Screenwriting : How to add a flash back to the script by Julie Griffin

Welcome to the community, Julie Griffin. This is how I add a flashback in my scripts:

FLASHBACK: INT. HOUSE - KITCHEN - DAY

Write the scene.

I used to write my flashbacks like this:

FLASHBACK BEGINS:

INT. HOUSE - KITCHEN - DAY

Write the scene.

FLASHBACK ENDS.

Thank you

I agree with Maurice's style but what I do is this:

INT. LOCATION - DAY/NIGHT (FLASHBACk) *Note you can add a time for the flashback if you have multiple time periods for clarity like INT. LOCATION - DAY (FLASHBACK - 1920s) versus INT. LOCATION - DAY (FLASHBACK - 1930s). It helps streamline and clarifies the read, especially if you have multiple flashbacks in your story.

That said, it looks like this;

INT. LOCATION - DAY (FLASHBACK - TIME)

Write scene.

FLASHBACK ENDS.

I typically add a transition like DISSOLVE TO: to allow editors to have script space to set apart the flashback as well as set apart the FLASHBACK for ease of read and clarity.

I hope that helps.

You're welcome, Julie.

Julie:

I don't use flashbacks. I use a Super and insert the date like this:

INT. FLOP HOUSE - NIGHT

Super: Philadelphia, 1944

Charles sleeps face down on the bed in a tiny room.

This allows me to jump around time without using flashbacks.

The correct way to insert a flashback (you should underline “FLASHBACK”) is:

FLASHBACK – EXT. FERRIS WHEEL — NIGHT

Arlene stands watching the big wheel carry laughing riders up and around.

END FLASHBACK.

^^^^ this is the correct way for specs.

However, Ive read some clever ways of doing flashbacks on the page.

Filmmaker Greta Gerwig's Little Women, she wrote flashbacks in red font color.

Hi Julie, I agree with Dane, that is the most professional way to format it.

Learned something new. I stand corrected. FLASHBACK - EXT. FERRIS WHEEL - NIGHT it is.