Now about to start writing for my new sitcom idea which I've been working on for a few months now.
In the past I have written 2/3 line intro's for my chatacters as well as 3/4 lines of setting description.
Is this necessary as surely readers will discover my characters through the dialogue as apposed to an intro??
I don't bother with the intros as you're right -- the dialogue should show their characters without the need for the intro.
In fact, reading other scripts -- it quite annoys me when somebody does put an character intro in.
Dan
Give a description of how they look, age and character type. But punchily, and do the same for the setting.
1. INT. THE BAXTER'S KITCHEN. NIGHT
A BIG, COMFORTABLE, FARMHOUSE STYLE KITCHEN. THE TABLE IS LAID FOR A SMART DINNER PARTY. BRIAN BAXTER, SIXTIES, SITS ALONE AT THE KITCHEN TABLE. HE IS DRESSED COMFORTABLY IN OLD CORDS AND A SHIRT AND PULLOVER. HE HAS ONE SHOE OFF AND IS CLIPPING A BIG TOENAIL WHICH PROTUDES THROUGH A HOLE IN HIS SOCK.
EVE COMES INTO THE ROOM. SHE IS AN ATTRACTIVE WOMAN JUST RECENTLY TURNED SIXTY DRESSED IN A VERY SMART, RUBY COLOURED EVENING GOWN. SHE PRESENTS HERSELF WITH A TWIRL.
EVE
What do you think?
BRIAN DOESN'T LOOK UP FROM HIS TOENAIL
BRIAN
I think they don't make socks like they used to do. Look at the state of this.
Quote: Marc P @ October 3 2008, 11:25 AM BSTBRIAN
I think they don't make socks like they used to do. Look at the state of this.
You don't need "Look at the state of this". Less is more.
Also, "AN ATTRACTIVE WOMAN JUST TURNED SIXTY"? Keep it believable Marc.
I had her in mind.
Quote: chipolata @ October 3 2008, 11:28 AM BSTYou don't need "Look at the state of this". Less is more.
Okay, how about
1. INT. THE BAXTER'S KITCHEN. NIGHT
FARMHOUSE KITCHEN. TABLE LAID.DINNER PARTY. BRIAN BAXTER, SIXTIES, CLIPPING TOENAIL. HOLE IN SOCK.
EVE ENTERS, ATTRACTIVE, SIXTY, EVENING GOWN. TWIRLS.
EVE
Well?
BRIAN
Shit socks.
END
Put "AN ATTRACTIVE WOMAN JUST TURNED SIXTY (BUT LOOKS FORTY-FIVE)" and she won't turn you down. And she'll probably accept the script too. 
Quote: Mike Dan-Carter @ October 3 2008, 11:15 AM BSTNow about to start writing for my new sitcom idea which I've been working on for a few months now.
In the past I have written 2/3 line intro's for my chatacters as well as 3/4 lines of setting description.
Is this necessary as surely readers will discover my characters through the dialogue as apposed to an intro??
You need to briefly describe the characters as Marc P as laid out.
eg: BILL, A BALD, TOUGH-LOOKING MAN WITH THE PERSONALITY OF A ROTTWEILER ENTERS.
That description gives the actor something to start on.
Quote: Dolly Dagger @ October 3 2008, 11:49 AM BSTPut "AN ATTRACTIVE WOMAN JUST TURNED SIXTY (BUT LOOKS FORTY-FIVE)" and she won't turn you down. And she'll probably accept the script too.
LOL
She already did as it is.
Some people also do a seperate page or two with a synopsis/overview of the show with potted character biogs. Some don't.
When I've written stuff in the past, character intro's etc have stunted the flow of the script I feel, but then again i did dedicate 2/3 lines of character description which is perhaps too long.
I do think it's important to set the scene and Marc P's description seems a good one to go on.
Good call Mike.
Yeah, I tend to keep it brief when introducing a new character. Usually just the name and rough age, but sometimes what they look like or wear, if the plot requires a character wearing a certain garment or looking a certain way.
I accompany scripts with a synopsis and statement of where the show is heading and/or developing, but I don't include character breakdowns as the reader can see what the characters are like in the script.
Well.. tell a lie... I WILL be including a character bio with a 13 part supernatural drama I'm working on (where 10 peole are basically trapped and have to live/survive together) because:
1) There are a lot of main characters.
2) All characters have dark secrets revealed gradually throughout the show, using a combination of flashbacks and chance discoveries by other characters.
3) Each character changes throughout the show. (Personality/motives, etc, mostly because of the secrets and the pressure of being trapped)
Quote: Perry Nium @ October 3 2008, 11:46 AM BSTOkay, how about
1. INT. THE BAXTER'S KITCHEN. NIGHT
FARMHOUSE KITCHEN. TABLE LAID.DINNER PARTY. BRIAN BAXTER, SIXTIES, CLIPPING TOENAIL. HOLE IN SOCK.
EVE ENTERS, ATTRACTIVE, SIXTY, EVENING GOWN. TWIRLS.
EVE
Well?BRIAN
Shit socks.END
It's a terrible sketch give up and live in a hole.
What's this thread about 