Parenthetical (wryly)—This element is used to indicate how a character's dialogue is to be spoken, usually to emphasize subtext; occasionally, they can be used for Action if it is only a few words (e.g. "palming the coin"). It is generally accepted that they should be used very sparingly since they can be a sign of an amateur writer.
Formatting
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Left margin is about 3.0" from the left edge of the page |
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About 1.5" wide. |
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Left justified. |
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Lower case. |
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There are no blank lines above a Parenthetical. |
EXAMPLE:
INT. GRANNY ALTHEA'S CAFE - DAY
The diner is full to capacity. The UNSHAVEN MAN sits at the counter. Staring at the gold amulet in front of him, steaming coffee untouched.
WAITRESS
Anything else? Sir, can I get you
anything else?
UNSHAVEN MAN
(palming the amulet)
No.
