Understanding the Use of V.O. and CONT'D in Screenplay Dialogue

In the craft of screenplay writing, clarity and precision in conveying the sequence of events are paramount. This includes the distinct use of screen directions such as V.O. and CONT'D. These terms help the director, actors, and readers understand how dialogue and voiceovers should be interpreted in a scene.

The Role of V.O. (Voice-over)

V.O. is an abbreviation used to indicate that a character is speaking in voice-over. This technique is often employed in scenes where a character's internal monologue or thoughts are being conveyed without the actor's visible presence. For example, a character might be looking out a window while narrating their feelings or reminiscing. Here's how you might write it:

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

SARAH sits at a table staring out the window.

SARAH V.O.

"],[" Sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever find my way.

She takes a deep breath and looks around the café.

SARAH

to the barista

Can I get a latte please

Here, the scene transitions smoothly from the visible action with Sarah to her voice-over monologue, followed by her interacting with the barista. This example highlights that the voice-over is a distinct element and doesn't require CONT'D if it's part of its own narrative flow.

The Role of CONT'D (Continued Dialogue)

CONT'D is typically used when a line of dialogue or thought continues from a previous section or page. This is more common in dialogue-heavy scenes where actors need to pick up where they left off. However, if a character is speaking in V.O. and is not visible, the continuation should be indicated only if the dialogue continues beyond the current scene.

EXT. LIBRARY - DAY (CONT'D)

JOE

Thank you for meeting with me. Your insights have truly been valuable.

CONT'D

Your analysis on the market trends is…

In this case, if Joe's thoughts or dialogue continue to another page, you would use CONT'D at the top of the next page to signify a continuation of the dialogue. However, if the voice-over is a distinct, standalone monologue, CONT'D is not necessary.

Best Practices for Formatting in Screenplay Writing

Proper formatting in screenplays is crucial for clarity and consistency. Most screenwriting software can automatically format V.O. and CONT'D for you, which can be toggled on or off in the format settings. If your software doesn't automatically add these elements, it is generally implied that a scene continues without explicit indication.

Experienced screenwriters often minimize the use of V.O.. It should be reserved for instances where the character's internal thought-process or otherworldly elements are necessary. For instance, CONT'D might be used if a scene extends across multiple pages, but it's rarely needed if a line continues within a single scene.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Some screenwriters might mistakenly use CONT'D for voice-over when the character is still present and visible, which can confuse readers and directors. It's important to distinguish between V.O. and CONT'D to ensure clarity. Overuse of V.O. can also make the script feel cluttered and less engaging.

Additionally, the length of dialogue in a script can become overwhelming. Scrolling through pages of dialogue without any breaks can be monotonous for readers and can distract from the script's intended message. It's a good idea to keep the pacing of the script engaging and dynamic.

Conclusion

Understanding and correctly using V.O. and CONT'D in screenplay dialogue is crucial for maintaining the integrity and clarity of your script. By following best practices and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a compelling and well-formatted screenplay that resonates with both readers and directors.

Related Keywords

screenplay dialogue V.O. CONT'D