Parentheticals

Definition

Parentheticals are brief instructions or clarifications included in a screenplay, usually appearing within parentheses after a character's name in dialogue. They provide additional context about how a line should be delivered, such as tone or emotion, helping actors understand the intent behind the words. While they can enhance performance, overusing them may clutter the script and distract from the dialogue itself.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parentheticals are typically used sparingly to maintain clarity and focus on the dialogue.
2. They can indicate specific emotions or actions, such as '(sarcastically)' or '(whispers),' influencing how the dialogue is interpreted by performers.
3. In professional screenwriting, parentheticals are usually placed directly beneath the character's name before their dialogue begins.
4. While useful for conveying tone, excessive use of parentheticals can lead to confusion and disrupt the flow of the script.
5. It is essential to remember that parentheticals should not contradict the character's established personality or the overall tone of the scene.

Review Questions

• How do parentheticals enhance dialogue delivery for actors and what balance should be maintained when using them?
  • Parentheticals serve to clarify how a line should be delivered, providing actors with essential context regarding tone or emotion. They enhance the performance by guiding actors in conveying the intended sentiment of their lines. However, it's crucial to maintain balance; overusing parentheticals can clutter the script and take attention away from the dialogue itself, potentially confusing both actors and readers.
• What are some common mistakes writers make when incorporating parentheticals in their screenplays?
  • Common mistakes include using too many parentheticals, which can overwhelm readers and detract from the main dialogue. Additionally, writers sometimes create parentheticals that contradict character development or scene tone, leading to inconsistencies. Writers may also rely on vague phrases instead of specific actions or emotions, leaving actors unclear on how to deliver their lines effectively.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of using parentheticals in screenwriting compared to relying solely on dialogue and action lines for conveying emotion and intent.
  • Using parentheticals can effectively convey specific emotions and intentions that might not be apparent through dialogue alone. They allow writers to guide actors' performances more precisely, enhancing emotional delivery. However, relying solely on them can lead to an overly directive script that stifles an actor's creativity. A balanced approach that combines well-crafted dialogue and descriptive action lines often results in more nuanced performances while preserving the writer's vision.

Related terms

Dialogue: The written conversational exchange between characters in a screenplay that conveys their thoughts, feelings, and relationships.

Action Lines: Descriptions of what is happening on screen, detailing movement, setting, and character behavior within a screenplay.

Slug Line: A heading at the beginning of a scene that indicates the location and time of day, helping set the stage for the action that follows.