Understanding Scripts

We've taken a look at a couple of scenes from films in script form, in each scene the 3 act structure is clearly identifiable. But there is a way to read a script (and write them) that is crucial for any director/ filmaker who wants to create a meaningful and dramatic story.

Lead characters in films need goals, they need an opposite (antagonist) and they need obstacles to overcome to achieve those goals. Its creates drama and intrigue which is key to an interesting story.

Reading the script you have to ask yourself a number of questions and you need to understand what your reading.

• Who is the protagonist?
• Who is (is there?) the antagonist? 
• What are their goals?
• Identify the obstacles in their way. Inner & Exterior.
• How does the hero achieve his goals, does he achieve his goals? 
• Identify the 3 act structure