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The Sequence

“Sit, Sequence. Sit. Good dog.” Woof! Okay, so sequences might not be not be our favorite four-legged friends, but they sure are killer gifts to the screenwriter. 

In screewriting, a sequence is a self-contained unit of action in your screenplay, usually between 10 to 15 pages, that has its own specific tension and an event around or towards which it is focused.

What's a Sequence?




 

A sequence is a self-contained portion of the entire story, usually about 10 to 15 minutes (pages) in length. It has its own tension (not the main tension, but related in some way) and it has its own beginning, middle, and end. 

Read more: What's a Sequence?

 

Sequences and Acts




Generally speaking there are two (sometimes three) sequences in ACT I, four (sometimes five) in ACT II and two sequences in ACT III

Read more: Sequences and Acts

 

Sequences: Two Principles




There is a lot to say about sequences, but the two most important principles to remember about sequences are: 

1. They are the screenwriters best friend. They are small and self-contained enough that they can be kept in mind all at one time (unlike the entire feature, 90 to 120 pages), can be written in one burst of energy and can be shaped and honed independent of each other. 

Read more: Sequences: Two Principles

 

The Eight Sequences




This Sequence Outline is NOT an absolute formula or perfect recipe to building a feature script, but it is something to work from. Because each script is a prototype: new, unique, custom-made just for its own story. 

Read more: The Eight Sequences

 
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Musical

Screenplay Genre
A Musical interweaves vocal and dance performances into the narrative of the film. The songs of a film can either be used to further the story or simply enhance the experience of the audience. These films are often done on a grand scale and incorporate lavish costumes and sets. Traditional musicals center on a well-known star, famous for their dancing or singing skills (i.e. Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Judy Garland). These films explore concepts such are love and success, allowing the audience to escape from reality.

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