Slugline Explanation, Instances, and Suggestions:
A slugline, also known as a scene heading, is a key aspect of any screenplay. It provides essential information on the location and time of a scene for readers, directors, and production crew to quickly understand the setting and context.
A standard slugline includes:* Location - e.g., "INT. COFFEE SHOP"* Time of day - e.g., "DAY" or "NIGHT"* Action/Context - optional, added when specific circumstances are important (e.g., "EXT. DESERT - NIGHT")
Use descriptive sluglines when necessary, like when the scene takes place in a complex or dynamic location. Be mindful of unnecessary detail, avoiding overloading the slugline with excessive descriptors. Establish consistency in your script by using similar patterns for sluglines.
A master slugline is used when a scene spans multiple locations or times of day, and helps the reader comprehend the scene's broader context. Sluglines with subheadings indicate location, visual, time, or insert shot changes, making transitions in your story clearer. Don't overuse insert shots or subheadings, and ensure to include all required information in master sluglines.
For more insights, check out our reading on What Does "INT" Stand for in Scriptwriting?
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References:[1] "8 Key Elements of a Screenplay Scene Heading (Slugline)". Youtube. 2017. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cisau7ZJSh4[2] "Slugline"]. Wikipedia. 2021. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slugline[3] "Screenplay Format Guide". Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. 2017. http://www.oscars.org/sites/oscars/files/uploads/rules-2017-18-screener-guidelines.pdf[4] "How to Write a Slugline". Reedsy. 2018. https://blog.reedsy.com/how-to-write-a-slugline/
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