Spencer Lanoue
Crafting a slugline might sound like a niche topic, but if you're diving into scriptwriting, it's one of those things you'll want to get right. A slugline, also known as a scene heading, is the part of the screenplay that sets the scene. It tells you where the action is happening and whether it's day or night. In this guide, we'll break down how to write a slugline, providing tips, examples, and practical advice along the way.
What Exactly Is a Slugline?
First things first, let's clarify what we're talking about. In screenwriting, a slugline is the line of text at the beginning of each scene that describes the location and time of day. It acts like a roadmap for your readers, giving them context before the scene unfolds. Imagine it as the “You Are Here” marker on a map. It points everyone in the right direction.
Here's a basic template for a slugline:
INT. LOCATION - DAY
“INT.” stands for interior, indicating that the scene takes place indoors. If it's outside, use “EXT.” for exterior. After that, you specify the location, followed by the time of day. Simple, right? But there’s more to it than just filling in the blanks.
Setting the Scene: Interior or Exterior?
To decide whether to use “INT.” or “EXT.”, think about where your scene is happening. Are your characters inside a cozy café, or are they strolling through a bustling city square? This distinction is crucial because it affects lighting, sound, and other technical details important for production.
For scenes that blend both indoor and outdoor elements, like a character standing at a window gazing out at the street, you might need to make a judgment call. If the focus is primarily inside, lean towards “INT.” Conversely, if the scene emphasizes the outdoor view, “EXT.” might be more appropriate.
Here's an example:
EXT. CITY PARK - NIGHT
This tells us that the scene is outside and happening at night, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Choosing the Right Location
Once you’ve determined if your scene is inside or outside, it’s time to get specific about the location. This is where you can be creative. Whether it’s “JOE’S DINER” or “ABANDONED WAREHOUSE,” your location should evoke a visual image for the reader.
Consider the tone and mood you want to convey. “ABANDONED WAREHOUSE” might suggest something eerie or suspenseful, while “SUNNY BEACH” sounds more relaxed and carefree. The location sets the atmosphere and can even hint at the scene’s emotional undertone.
Here’s how a location might influence a scene:
INT. ABANDONED WAREHOUSE - NIGHT
Immediately, this line conjures thoughts of mystery or danger. The reader can almost feel the chill in the air.
Getting the Time of Day Right
The time of day is another key part of your slugline. Common choices are “DAY” and “NIGHT,” but you can get more specific if needed. For instance, “DAWN” and “DUSK” can add a poetic touch or emphasize a transition.
Choosing the right time of day can drastically change the feel of a scene. A meeting in a “BOARDROOM - NIGHT” suggests an urgent or secretive discussion, while “DAY” might imply a routine business meeting.
Example:
INT. BOARDROOM - NIGHT
This feels clandestine, perhaps implying tension or high stakes.
Special Cases: Combining Locations
Sometimes, a scene unfolds across multiple locations, like a chase that moves from a city street into a subway. In these cases, you might need to write a composite slugline. This might seem tricky at first, but it’s all about maintaining clarity.
A composite slugline combines multiple locations in one line, like so:
EXT. CITY STREET/SUBWAY ENTRANCE - DAY
This tells the reader that the scene encompasses both the street and the subway entrance. Use this format sparingly, as it can become cumbersome if overused.
Using Sluglines to Suggest Tone
What if you want to convey something beyond just the physical setting? Sluglines can also suggest the tone or mood of a scene. While you shouldn’t get carried away with descriptions, a carefully chosen word can add layers of meaning.
For example:
INT. HAUNTED MANSION - NIGHT
The word “haunted” immediately adds a layer of intrigue and suspense. It's subtle, but effective in setting the mood.
Formatting Dos and Don’ts
When writing sluglines, sticking to the correct format is crucial for readability and professionalism. Let’s cover some dos and don’ts to keep your script polished.
- Do: Write in all caps. This makes the slugline stand out on the page, separating it from the action and dialogue.
- Do: Keep it concise. A slugline should be brief and to the point.
- Don’t: Include too much detail. Save elaborate descriptions for the action lines.
- Don’t: Use sluglines for minor location changes within a scene. Instead, use action lines to indicate these shifts.
Here's a correctly formatted slugline:
EXT. MOUNTAIN CABIN - DAY
The Role of Sluglines in Pacing
Sluglines do more than pinpoint the scene’s location and time. They also help with pacing. By breaking up scenes, sluglines create natural pauses, helping the reader visualize the flow of the story. This becomes especially important in action-packed scripts, where quick scene changes maintain the story’s momentum.
Consider how different sluglines can quicken or slow the pace:
EXT. CITY PARK - DAY
INT. BUSY CAFE - DAY
EXT. STREET MARKET - DAY
Rapid shifts like these can create a fast-paced, energetic feel, perfect for a montage or action sequence.
Sluglines as a Tool for Clarity
Clarity is the ultimate goal of any script, and sluglines play a big part in achieving it. They help the director, actors, and crew understand the scene’s requirements and logistics. If a slugline is unclear, it can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.
A clear slugline example:
EXT. DESERTED ALLEY - NIGHT
This line leaves no room for ambiguity, ensuring everyone involved in the production knows what to expect.
How Spell Can Help with Sluglines
Writing sluglines may seem straightforward, but getting them just right can be a bit of a balancing act. That’s where Spell comes in handy. With its AI-powered tools, Spell can help you draft and refine your sluglines quickly, ensuring they’re clear and concise. Whether you're writing a screenplay from scratch or polishing an existing draft, Spell's intuitive interface makes the process smoother and more efficient.
Final Thoughts
Writing a solid slugline is about precision and creativity. It sets the stage for your entire scene, guiding your readers and collaborators through your script. With practice, you'll find the right balance between detail and brevity. And for a little extra help, Spell can speed up the process, letting you focus more on crafting your story. Happy writing!
