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Movie Magic Screenwriter

Scene Heading (also called a slugline)—This signifies the beginning of a new scene and tells the reader where and when it takes place.

Formatting

Flush with the left margin (1.5").

Right margin is approximately 1.0" from the right edge of the page and staggered.

ALL CAPS; usually underlined.

One blank line (double-spaced) above.

Never at the bottom of a page.

There are three components of a standard Scene Heading:  the Start of Scene, Location and the Time-of-Day.

Start of Scene—A typical Scene Heading begins with INT. (interior) or EXT. (exterior).

Location—This signifies where the scene actually takes place (e.g., MANHATTAN HIGHRISE).

Time-of-Day—Shows what time the scene takes place (typically DAY or NIGHT).  The Time-of-Day is separated from the Location commonly by one hyphen, although a dash (double hyphen) is also acceptable.

EXAMPLES:

 

INT. MANHATTAN HIGHRISE - DAY

 

INT. MANHATTAN HIGHRISE -- DAY