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Okay to use bold for scene headers?

May 16, 2011 Formatting, QandA

questionmarkSounds trivial, but I’ve been seeing a lot of scripts recently with sluglines (or scene headers) in bold formatting. Is this a trend? I kind of like it, but is it appropriate to use bold sluglines in a spec as a first-time writer?

— Shane

It’s simply a matter of personal preference. As long as you’re consistent through the script, either bold or normal weight is fine.

KYLE’S DAD

Half-done is half-assed, Kyle.

KYLE

So you want full ass, you’re saying.

KYLE’S DAD

I want less lip and more hustle. Now.

CUT TO:

EXT. HOUSE – DAY

Kyle drags the giant spider’s carcass from the garage to the curb. It’s too big to fit in the garbage can -- he couldn’t lift it anyway -- so he tucks the legs underneath the body.

or…

INT. BENNIGAN’S – NIGHT

Aspiring mixologist JIMMY WAKE (24) strains his latest creation into a chilled martini glass. The liquid has an unsettling yellow-green hue with streaks of blood. He garnishes it with a pickled crow’s foot.

Either is fine.

Related Posts

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  3. The not-so-well-dressed screenwriter

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