ACTION-DESCRIPTIONS
WHAT WE SEE ON THE SCREEN.
In addition to telling the reader what we see on the screen, the action-description also provides us
with a sense of tone and atmosphere. Here’s an example of what I mean by that:
EXT. THE CONGO RIVER – AFRICA – TO ESTABLISH – DAY
A long stretch of the murky brown water flows against the lush green
jungle on both sides.
In the distance, the yawl chugs steadily, its engine belches black
smoke into the pristine blue sky.
CHAPTER 5
INT. YAWL – CONGO RIVER – AFRICA – DAY
Alone, the Lese Tribesman lounges on the front of the boat, stares
out at the passing jungle.
Pee Wee, Skeeter and Tish, in the rear of the boat, are soaking in
their own sweat.
Tish and Skeeter have shed most of their stylish hip-hop outfits,
while Pee Wee has rolled up the pant legs and sleeves of his colorful
pajamas.
The above action-description not only orients the reader as to the visuals on the screen but also
attempts to instill a certain feeling about the scenes, the characters, thus, the overall story.
