Neither Chip... keep in in the the stage directions just the once. V/O is when we don't see anyone.
Scripting surveillance... Page 2
Quote: Marc P @ October 29 2010, 11:40 PM BSTNeither Chip... keep in in the the stage directions just the once. V/O is when we don't see anyone.
Cheers, Marc. Although sometimes we don't see anyone, just hear their voice as they talk to the person being watched... by jove, I'm regretting this script more by the minute!
Quote: chipolata @ October 30 2010, 9:44 AM BSTCheers, Marc. Although sometimes we don't see anyone, just hear their voice as they talk to the person being watched... by jove, I'm regretting this script more by the minute!
? how is the watcher talking to the remote person anyway?
I'd be inclined to use
COPPER1
(via Jill's earpiece)
Keep Jack busy for a moment.
Let the DIRECTOR worry about that aspect; your job as writer is to get the story and dialogue right.
Quote: billwill @ October 30 2010, 7:22 PM BST? how is the watcher talking to the remote person anyway?
I can't reveal all my script's secrets, billwill! But I think I've nailed it now.
Quote: billwill @ October 30 2010, 7:22 PM BST? how is the watcher talking to the remote person anyway?
I'd be inclined to use
COPPER1
(via Jill's earpiece)
Keep Jack busy for a moment.Let the DIRECTOR worry about that aspect; your job as writer is to get the story and dialogue right.
And the script Bill and the script. You still have to direct the director.Not with camera angles but by putting the right pictures in his/her mind which which he/she will go out and capture.
Quote: Marc P @ October 31 2010, 8:38 AM BSTAnd the script Bill and the script. You still have to direct the director.Not with camera angles but by putting the right pictures in his/her mind which which he/she will go out and capture.
I refer the Hon Gentleman to the answer that I gave earlier:
"In a submission script, it doesn't matter a lot how you write it as long as what you mean is clear."
Quote: billwill @ October 31 2010, 11:25 AM BSTI refer the Hon Gentleman to the answer that I gave earlier:
"In a submission script, it doesn't matter a lot how you write it as long as what you mean is clear."
There is a big difference between format and content Bill. Likewise in submission scripts for sitcom as opposed to drama/screenplay. I could be wrong but I didn't get the impression Chip was writing a sitcom here. Even if he is my point still applies. 
If a character is 'in' a scene but not visible on screen, rather than a voice over then I'd suggest OOV for Out Of View (although I'd include characters who ALWAYS speak in v/o, ie have no physical presence at all, as v/o, eg the Star Trek computer)
eg:
INT BUNKER DAY
NARRATOR (V/O)
What James doesn't know is Billy's hiding in the hamper.
BILLY (OOV)
Boo!
JAMES
Aaargh! A talking hamper!
etc.
Quote: andyblacksheep @ November 2 2010, 1:33 PM BSTIf a character is 'in' a scene but not visible on screen, rather than a voice over then I'd suggest OOV
Is this not (O.S.).
Not heard of OOV
OOV is ok for TV - stands for Out of Vision
But is irrelevant to the original question posted mind you.