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HUMOROUS CLIMAX TO THEME
Y.B. looks at coin and makes topical remark. Y.M. looks astounded. Y.W.
is overcome by mirth. Fade Out.
A simple theme like this can quickly
be changed to suit cqnditions. An epis-
ode during a fami:y Xriias dinner with a
garrulous neighbour delaying the start of
the appetising meal, causing havoc
amongst the hungry family or a man
attempting to repair a radio set amidst
interruptions from his wife. Using this
particu:ar type of form, the four sequen-
ces can still be applied.
We presume that the story is now com-
(3) plete and satisfies the individual or
group. So a simple shooting script is the next transition - this decides the type
of shot to apply as the short story unfolds. It must be emphasised that prior
to writing the shooting script, one vital
factor must dominate all others, that is a
SILENT film is being made and gesture
and mime must play a large part in
explaining the plot. Moderation is
very essential, because mime overdone
becomes banal. The actions must
be subtle, each player must be
assisted by shots of explanatory ob-
jects to convey clarity to scenes that
relying on action alone become ambig- f4)
uous or over-emphatic:.
A simple example of shooting script is as follows :-
Sequence (1.) I. Long Shot Man talking seriously to Girl (Proposal).
2. Close Up Engagement Ring in box.
3. Mid. Shot Girl looks shy and suitably awed.
4. Long Shot As I.
Length of each take is dependant on several variables-economy, mood of
scene, etc. Always overshoot and edit on cutting bench.
Sequence (II.) 5. Long Shot Small boy appears from left carrying book.
6. Close Up Title of book "Financial Times".
7. Long Shot Small boy sits down beside sister and reads.
8. Mid. Shot Man embarrassed by boy's appearance
becomes annoyed - Girl glares at brother
who unperturbably continues reading.
Sequence (Ill.) 9. Mid. Shot Idea strikes man who, putting hand in pocket,
passes boy a coin.
I 0. Mid. Shot Girl looks relieved, boy looks interested.
II . Close Up Boy ponders then speaks.
Sequence (IV.) 12. Insert Title "How about the increased cost of living!!"
13. Mid. Shot Woman and especially man look dazed and
then amused. Fade out.
It would be very easy to re-write the above shooting script and change camera
shots, alter angles. It is advisable to always be prepared to re-write script several
times, because that script is the mould for the finished result it must be flexible.
Theme is important but is completely overshadowed by its treatment.
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