Exterior

Definition

In scriptwriting, 'exterior' refers to a scene that takes place outside a structure or in the open air, as opposed to an interior scene, which occurs inside. This term is crucial for setting the mood and establishing the environment, allowing writers to convey the physical location and time of day, which can significantly affect the story's tone and pacing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Exterior scenes often depict action occurring in nature or urban environments, influencing character interactions and plot development.
2. Writers typically denote an exterior scene with 'EXT.' in the scene heading, followed by the location name.
3. 'Exterior' scenes can convey different atmospheres based on weather conditions or time of day, like a sunny park versus a dark alley.
4. The use of exterior scenes can enhance visual storytelling by providing dynamic backdrops and potential obstacles for characters.
5. Transitions between exterior scenes often utilize cinematic techniques like dissolves or cuts to maintain narrative flow and pacing.

Review Questions

• How does an exterior scene differ from an interior scene in terms of setting and character interaction?
  • An exterior scene is set outside, impacting not only the visual context but also how characters interact with their environment. Unlike interior scenes, where settings are confined and controlled, exterior scenes introduce natural elements like weather or landscape, which can influence character behavior and emotions. These interactions in open spaces often allow for broader storytelling opportunities and can create dynamic contrasts with more intimate indoor scenes.
• What role do scene headings play when writing exterior scenes, and how do they enhance the script's readability?
  • Scene headings provide essential information about where and when a scene takes place, allowing readers to visualize the story's setting quickly. For exterior scenes, writers use 'EXT.' followed by the location, which sets expectations for action and atmosphere. Clear scene headings enhance a script's readability by ensuring that directors, actors, and crew understand each scene's context without confusion, making it easier to interpret and execute the screenplay.
• Evaluate how incorporating various types of transitions between exterior scenes can affect the overall pacing and tone of a screenplay.
  • Incorporating different types of transitions between exterior scenes can significantly impact a screenplay's pacing and tone. For instance, quick cuts might create a sense of urgency during an action sequence, while slow fades could evoke a more contemplative or emotional mood. The choice of transition not only serves to connect scenes but also helps to guide audience reactions and maintain narrative momentum. By thoughtfully utilizing transitions, writers can enhance thematic elements and control how viewers experience shifts in tone throughout the story.

Related terms

Scene Heading: A brief line in a script that indicates the location and time of day for a scene, typically formatted with the words 'EXT.' for exterior and 'INT.' for interior.

Transition:

A directive that indicates how one scene leads into another, such as 'CUT TO:' or 'FADE OUT,' helping to guide the flow of the narrative.

Establishing Shot: A wide-angle shot used at the beginning of a scene to establish the setting and context before moving into closer shots.