How to Break Down a Script for Film Production Scheduling

Reminder - Writers can now import their script from Final Draft into The Reel Production Calendar.

Source - eHow by msmarymac

To know how many days a film shoot will be and to schedule it accurately, you must first do a script breakdown. This is a very important step to complete as soon as possible in pre-production, as it will keep you organized throughout your planning and your shoot.

Step1 - Read the script at least once, preferably several times.

Step2 - Assign each scene a number and draw a horizontal line across the page at the bottom of each scene.

Step3 - Measure each scene by its page count and by dividing each page into eighths. Generally, the rule of thumb is that each inch of text equals 1/8. For example, a scene that is one page long and spills over onto the top of the next page would be identified as a scene that is 1 and 1/8 pages in length.

Step4 - Next, highlight each specific component of the scene, such as interior or exterior, day or night, number of characters, wardrobe needs, special equipment, etc.

Step5 - Assign a number to each speaking role in the script. Once this number is established it is important that it never change, as the character will be identified by this number in all schedules that follow. Generally, assign the character with the most scenes #1, the character with the second most number of scenes #2, etc.

Step6 - Transfer the information you have gathered on each scene to its own Breakdown Sheet and make sure you have one sheet for each scene. This will help keep you organized as you continue on with your scheduling. Include on this sheet everything you will need to shoot this scene. This includes the characters, the page count, the location, whether it is interior or exterior, day or night, wardrobe, props, makeup needs, effects needed and anything of importance.