Dialogue Writing Techniques in Screenwriting

Introduction to Dialogue Writing Techniques in Screenwriting

Introduction

Writing compelling dialogue is an essential part of screenwriting. Dialogue in a script does more than just convey information; it reveals character, sets the mood, and drives the plot forward. Here are some techniques that can help you write dialogue that is engaging, authentic, and purposeful.

1. Character's Voice:

Every character should have a distinct voice. This voice depends on their background, age, education, profession, and personality. A teenager wouldn't speak the same way a middle-aged professor would, and a doctor wouldn't use the same vocabulary as a carpenter. The key is to know your characters well enough to know how they would talk.

2. Subtext:

Subtext is what's unsaid but implied in the dialogue. Characters often have motives or feelings they don't express directly. For example, if a character says, "Nice weather we're having," they might actually mean, "I don't want to talk about our argument right now." Using subtext can add depth and realism to your dialogue.

3. Conflict and Tension:

Dialogue is a great place to showcase conflict. Characters should want or need different things, and this should come out in their conversations. Conflict doesn't always have to be big or dramatic; it can be as simple as differing opinions or desires. This keeps the audience engaged as they want to see how the conflict will be resolved.

4. Show, Don't Tell:

Just like in other aspects of writing, showing instead of telling is crucial in dialogue too. For example, instead of having a character say they're angry, show it through their words. Instead of "I'm angry at you!", a character might say, "You always think about yourself. Can't you consider others for once?"

5. Keep It Brief:

In real life, people often ramble or go off on tangents, but in film, it's essential to keep dialogue concise and to the point. Each line should serve a purpose, whether it's advancing the plot or revealing something about the character. If a line doesn't do either of these, it might be best to cut it.

6. Use Interruptions:

People often interrupt each other in real-life conversations, and using this in your script can make your dialogue feel more realistic. Interruptions can also be used to increase tension or show power dynamics between characters.

7. Avoid On-the-Nose Dialogue:

On-the-nose dialogue is when characters say exactly what they feel or think. While it can be tempting to use such dialogue to convey information or emotions, it often comes across as unnatural and melodramatic. Instead, try to express emotions or information indirectly through dialogue.

Conclusion

Mastering dialogue writing techniques can take time and practice. The best way to improve is by writing regularly, studying scripts with good dialogue, and seeking feedback on your work. By understanding these techniques, you'll be able to write dialogue that is engaging, reveals character, and drives your story forward.