Courtesy Lucasfilms / Paramount Pictures

Hello, loves. It’s been a long and winding road. I’m so glad to open my door and invite you in. Please, allow me to pour some tea. Let’s have a chat, shall we, about one of my favorite subjects: language and how it impacts your lines of action.

I have re-entered the world of reading and coverage (and if you ever happen to need either of these services, drop me an email).

The scripts have overall been good, or have great promise that, with work, can be developed into something quite unique. They are not yet a script. But they can be.

What do they all share in common? Execution of lines of action that do not do justice to their works. There is a remedy for this: language.

Your lines of action are where your unique voice shines, full-throat. Your lines of action are also what will cause a reader to put your work into the “Pass” pile. That’s a place where no screenwriter wants to be.

How do you write great lines of action? Practice, practice, practice… and an expansive vocabulary. This does not mean that your script needs to be littered with 10 dollar words. It does, however, mean that you should distill your language. Keep it brief. Short burts – using specific language.

Here’s an example of a script I might be given to read:

Now, take a look a different version of the same scene:

Can you see the difference? The verbs are present-active, and the choice of the verbs indicate tone and mood. No overwhelming adverbs, and the pace is tight.

When I work, the first thing I do before opening Final Draft, is to open the Merriam Webster Thesaurus online, and keep it minimized while I work. If the right word has not found its way to me, to the Thesaurus I go. Think of the verb “walk.” Here’s a few offerings: tread, stroll, step, wander, saunter, stride, amble, ambulate, mince, stagger, traipse, march, trek, hike, trot, move, parade, limp, hobble, mosey, strut, shamble, sashay… and many more.

“You must choose, but choose wisely,” the old Knight said to Indiana Jones on his quest for the Holy Grail. Indy’s life – and that of his father – depended upon his choice. Choosing wisely can make a life or death difference for you on your quest to see your script come to fruition,

This is the way.

P.S. – Do not forget to catch Howard Suber’s masterclass, “The Power of Film, airing Thursdays on TCM, and available on the TCM app.

Now, go write .

HRH, Princess Scribe