Writing film scripts is not an easy thing to do, as it requires creativity, knowledge of the subject and hold in the language or languages the script is narrated in. And, when it comes to writing script for a feature length documentary, it becomes tough to impress if not narrated effectively.
In this article, we will delve deeper into how to write a feature length documentary.
1.The first step is to find a compelling idea. Since, this would be generally a 90-minute short feature film, events would happen very quickly. Normally, there are no sub-plots in the storyline, as the whole script revolves around a central plot or one key scene. There must be some resolution at the end that must not seem forced or out-of-place. Certain genres are very difficult to portray in this feature documentary, which includes, horror or science fiction.
2.A treatment for the feature film documentary would be necessary to visualize the final shooting, and will also provide certain amount of flexibility to the script during its final development. A general feedback from others would be better as it is very important to know whether viewers are able to view what the writer has actually envisioned.
3.While writing the original script, a few parameters must be maintained. Characters must be few, and the main character should be etched in such a way that the target audience can understand it. The scenes are to be described in the greatest details and what is it focusing on. The dialogues must be centered on the main theme of the documentary.
4.Most importantly, the subject of the documentary must be displayed prominently. The characters and the actions must lead to the resolution that is required of the film. In a short story based feature film, the script cannot afford to have any diversion, and yet it should not be stuffed in with too much content so that the audience gets confused.
5.In short films, a lot can be said through background narrations. So, it must be employed intelligently, if the story is longer than the script can accommodate through the characters and actions. However, too much use of the background narrations would spoil the script, as it would make it boring for the audience.
6.Sound and music plays an important role in such documentaries. It should be emphasized where sounds are to be used, mentioning the scene as well as what kind of sound is to be played. During change of a scene, the music to be used must also be mentioned.
Feature film documentaries have a dedicated audience group, mainly of critical nature. Although, the direction of the film accounts a lot, the merit of the script is also a deciding factor.
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