Screenwriting Software: Script Formatting

THE PLAYWRITING SEMINARS > FILM > PLAYS vs. FILM > REALITIES > TIPS > FORMAT > SOFTWARE

'There's a lot drawn from film in my theatre. In Cuba, we haven't seen much theatre from other countries because we get few visiting companies. It's much easier for us to see an imported film.'

-- Abelardo Estorino

When you turn to Film or Television these software programs will save you weeks of agony -- and they'll make sure that the format coming out of your printer tells the world that you're a pro, or at least look like a pro. These programs combine automatic formatting with word processing. And with a click of the mouse most will do an acceptable version of professional stage play format whenever you wonder if you're doing the right thing.

Here's some help for sorting through the hype on this . . .

• Movie Magic Screenwriter is a formatting program used by a ton of folks writing for film and television in Hollywood. The claim is that something like 90% of writers nominated for Academy Awards and television's Emmy Awards use it -- or at least the production companies they work for have bought it. There's a bit of Hollywood spin floating around claims like this, but the software is what in other fields would be called an 'industry standard.' This outfit's software also gives you specialized help in outlining story ideas, character development, and story structure -- though you'll need to buy additional programs to turn your computer into a writing coach. And their Web site offers a good range of recent screenplays in standard format -- everything from the slash-and-bang stuff [TERMINATOR II] to the classy [SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE]. Here's all the info from the source . . . Screenplay Systems.

• WGA Scriptwriting Software Reviews: The WGA provides the most up-to-date reviews of the leading programs out there. Nothing's reviewed that has any real problems, but don't be surprised if you come away with a sense -- if only from the subtext -- that Movie Magic Screenwriter should be on your list. If you're not sure you're ready for the Lexus end of these things, the WGA Reviews give a nod to one of the least expensive ones out there -- Page 2 Stage -- but it still has a lot of the toys that most screenwriters like.

• Charles Deemer's Screenplay Software Evaluation: Good tips on selecting one of these software packages, but comments on specific software may date from several years ago so they don't necessarily give you the scoop on the latest versions.

• Rich Wilson's Screenwriting Software Introduction: Last time I checked [January 2001] most of these software reviews were written between 1996 and 1998 so they may not be much help unless you've got a neighbor trying to hustle you into buying his old copy of one of these programs. The reviews are still useful, but check their copyright dates and the release [edition] number of the software [2.0; 4.1, etc.] being reviewed to see if it's the latest version of the program.

Selecting software is a bit like finding that special chair to write in -- it's all in the feel. Try it or at least look at a demo on the Web sites of these companies before you buy it, or get a lot of advice from folks who've used these programs. They're expensive [about $100 - $225 U.S.]. Whether you're willing to lay out the cash is another test of how serious you are about writing for film and television.

NOTE: At least one of the best of these screenwriting programs makes more hash of play format [as of October 2002] than anyone needs to see. Try asking the folks who make this stuff to send you a demo printout of what their play format looks like before you order. Or get a special promise from them that you can return it if the play formatting doesn't measure up.