What is a Parenthetical in Screenwriting?
In screenwriting, a parenthetical is a brief description or direction that appears in parentheses next to a character’s name in a screenplay. It is used to provide additional information about how a line of dialogue should be delivered or to convey important actions or emotions that are not explicitly stated in the dialogue itself. Parentheticals are typically used to guide actors on how to interpret a character’s lines and can help to clarify the intended tone or subtext of a scene.
When to Use Parentheticals in a Script
Parentheticals should be used sparingly in a screenplay and only when absolutely necessary to convey important information that is not evident from the dialogue alone. They are most commonly used to indicate a character’s tone of voice, emotions, or actions while delivering a line of dialogue. For example, a parenthetical might indicate that a character is speaking sarcastically, whispering, or shouting.
It is important to use parentheticals judiciously and only when they add value to the scene. Overusing parentheticals can clutter the script and make it difficult for actors and directors to interpret the writer’s intentions. When in doubt, it is often better to rely on the dialogue and the context of the scene to convey the desired meaning.
Formatting Guidelines for Parentheticals
In a screenplay, parentheticals should be placed in parentheses directly below the character’s name and above the line of dialogue they are intended to modify. They should be written in lowercase letters and should be brief and to the point. It is important to keep parentheticals concise and avoid including unnecessary or overly detailed information.
For example:
JOHN
(angrily)
I can’t believe you would do that.
In this example, the parenthetical “(angrily)” indicates that John is speaking in a tone of anger.
Types of Information to Include in Parentheticals
There are several types of information that can be included in a parenthetical to help guide actors and directors in interpreting a character’s lines. Some common types of information that can be conveyed through parentheticals include:
– Tone of voice: Indicating whether a character is speaking angrily, sarcastically, softly, etc.
– Emotions: Describing a character’s emotional state while delivering a line of dialogue.
– Actions: Providing directions for physical actions that accompany a character’s dialogue, such as whispering, laughing, or crying.
– Context: Clarifying the subtext or underlying meaning of a character’s words.
By including this type of information in parentheticals, screenwriters can help ensure that their intended meaning is conveyed accurately on screen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Parentheticals
One common mistake that screenwriters make when using parentheticals is overusing them. It is important to remember that dialogue and actions should be able to stand on their own without the need for excessive parentheticals. Another common mistake is including too much detail in a parenthetical, which can clutter the script and make it difficult to read.
It is also important to avoid using parentheticals to convey information that should be evident from the context of the scene or the dialogue itself. For example, if a character’s anger is already clear from the dialogue, there may be no need to include a parenthetical indicating that they are speaking angrily.
Examples of Effective Use of Parenthheticals in Screenplays
1. INT. LIVING ROOM – DAY
SARAH
(excitedly)
I can’t believe it’s finally here!
In this example, the parenthetical “(excitedly)” indicates that Sarah is speaking in a tone of excitement.
2. INT. KITCHEN – NIGHT
JAMES
(whispering)
Did you hear that?
In this example, the parenthetical “(whispering)” indicates that James is speaking in a hushed tone.
3. INT. OFFICE – DAY
EMILY
(tearfully)
I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to hurt you.
In this example, the parenthetical “(tearfully)” indicates that Emily is speaking with tears in her eyes.
By using parentheticals effectively in a screenplay, screenwriters can help to ensure that their intended meaning is conveyed accurately on screen and that actors and directors have the guidance they need to bring the script to life.