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How to Format a Documentary Script

Creating a documentary poses an interesting challenge for the writer as the final script cannot be completed until after the audiovisual components (photos, interviews, written materials) have been collected. Once the raw footage and materials have been collected, the writer uses a standard, 2-column audiovisual script format to bring all the components together into a compelling film experience.

Instructions

    • 1

      Write on the first page the title and subtitle of the documentary, your name, the date and the total running time of the film both with and without credits.

    • 2

      Divide the remainder of page one and the subsequent pages into two columns, using your word processor or specialized script software.

    • 3

      Transcribe the audio, including portions of interviews and the script for voice-overs in the right-hand column. Delineate the speaker in each section using uppercase letters.

    • 4

      Describe in uppercase letters the visuals (photos and graphics) in the left column. Include time lengths for video segments.

    • 5

      Add your surname and the date as your copyright and set this as a footer on each page.

Film Production

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