The Art And Craft Of Documentary Scripts
A good script is essential to creating a great film.
"In the case of documentaries, however, the role of the documentary script is often misunderstood."
Experience has taught writers to craft scripts in a particular way.
"This structure, as we’ll find out, is also used in documentary scripts."
"1. Three Acts and Traditional Structure: The blueprint generally goes like this: The film begins with an inciting incident, which propels the action."
"2. The Hero’s Journey: This framework begins with an ordinary world, where a hero receives a call to adventure, refuses it initially, but then accepts it."
Getting Down to Business Writing the Documentary Script
Writing a documentary script will be easier if the basic structure of screenwriting is used.
a. Before Shooting
1. Brainstorming: The first step is coming up with a documentary idea.
2. Research: Investigating the subject matters extensively will lay the foundations for a successful documentary script.
"3. Writing a ‘shooting script’: Since the whole script can’t be written at the start, what is often possible is to write a pre-script or outline."
b. After Shooting
"1. Transcribing Footage: This is a long, complicated process, but it will help disentangle the hours of footage."
"2. Crafting the Story: After transcribing, a story complete with plots and subplots will begin to emerge."
"3. Writing Voice Overs: When a rough documentary script is achieved, the documentarian will frequently note that there is some voice over narration needed to smooth things over and connect scenes and moments altogether."
"Documentary scripts may also use traditional story elements such as story, plot, characters, incidents, and theme."
"The use of voice over, however, and an emphasis on veracity are some of the distinguishing marks of a documentary script."
The process of writing the documentary script will often be divided into stages.
"Before shooting, research and crafting a shooting script are essential."
