Writing the script

So today we started writing our script! We were able to finish the first scene. During this section, we introduced the main characters and set up the plot for the entire short film. We started in the classroom, and we began with a short explanation of what was first seen on screen. This is when we introduced Lucas. We referenced our character development notes when writing this bit because we wanted to make sure it really captured the essence of the character. We wrote the script envisioning it being used as a tool for the actors. That way when our actor gets the script he can better understand the character of Lucas. We also are still unsure of who the actor will be considering we might have to recast but that is a whole other issue.

Then we went onto establishing the idea that they were going to be working on a project. In class, we had a lesson on scriptwriting and one of thing that my teacher said really stood out to me. She mentioned how we shouldn't "spoon-feed" our audience or have an obvious or technical dialogue. Instead, we should let the actions of the actors and the dialogue speak for themselves. At first, we did have the regular "So today we are going to do a project!" and we continued with the rest of the dialogue. However, this was BORING so we decided to change it up and follow my teacher's advice.

We thought: What is not overly evident but clearly demonstrates that there is a group project? So we thought we could just drop the audience in the middle of the action and have the teacher read off the name of the partners. It turned out much better because in this way we killed two birds with one stone 1. We made the dialogue seem much more natural and realistic 2. We established the fact that the two main characters did not choose who they got to work with. It was perfect! So then, we wanted to establish this idea that Hazel is a pretty distracted person so we wrote the script in a way that demonstrated this side of her. Basically, Lucas turns around to start the project and Hazel is completely confused about what he is talking about and also in awe that he is even speaking to her.

To accentuate her mindless personality and add satire to the piece we thought of a funny misinterpretation for Lucas's dialogue. In this part, Lucas states "Hey, so when do you wanna do it?" which Hazel completely misinterprets as a sexual innuendo. We thought this was a really funny way to establish the awkwardness between them and set the tone for the short film. We continued this tone all throughout the end of the scene as we continued to have Hazel act confused and frazzled to express her nervous reactions to any interaction with Lucas. I'm really happy with what we have I just think we need to write quicker!!!