Screenwriting Basics
How to Write a Beat in a Screenplay: A Guide for Aspiring Screenwriters
Dec 1, 2023
By
Avinash Prabhakaran
Screenplays are the blueprints for any successful film or television production. They are a collection of dialogues and scenes and a meticulously crafted narrative that guides directors, actors, and production teams to bring a story to life.
Within the screenplay, one essential element that adds depth and emotion to a scene is the "beat."
In this guide, we will explore what a beat is, why it's essential, and how to effectively write a beat in a screenplay.
What is a Beat?
A beat, in the context of screenwriting, is a moment of action, emotion, or change within a scene. It's a pause in the dialogue or a description that conveys something significant about a character's thoughts, feelings, or intentions. A beat can be as short as a single line or as long as a paragraph, but it provides insight or impact within the story.
Why are Beats Important?
Character Development: Beats allow screenwriters to delve into a character's inner thoughts and emotions, providing a deeper understanding of their motivations and desires. They help the audience connect with the characters on a more profound level.
Pacing and Rhythm: Beats help control the pace of the screenplay. They provide moments of tension, release, or reflection, ensuring that the story doesn't feel rushed or stagnant. A well-timed beat can keep the audience engaged and invested.
Subtext and Conflict: The most crucial information in a scene is often not explicitly stated in the dialogue. Beats enable screenwriters to convey subtext and underlying conflicts through actions, expressions, or thoughts, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.
How to Write a Beat in a Screenplay
Identify the Purpose: Before writing a beat, understand its purpose within the scene. What information or emotion do you want to convey? Is it a moment of revelation, hesitation, or realization? Knowing the purpose will guide your writing.
Choose the Right Timing: The placement of a beat is crucial. It should interrupt the dialogue or action at the most impactful moment. Avoid overusing beats, as they can disrupt the flow if not well-timed.
Use Descriptive Language: When describing a beat, use descriptive language that paints a vivid picture for the reader. Show, don't tell. Instead of saying, "John is sad," write something like, "John's eyes fill with tears as he turns away."
Keep it Concise: While beats can vary in length, they should be concise and to the point. Don't overburden the reader with excessive detail. Choose your words carefully to maximize impact.
Focus on Emotion: Emotions are often at the core of a beat. Explore your character's feelings in that moment, whether it's joy, anger, fear, or confusion. A beat should evoke an emotional response from the reader.
Highlight Significant Actions: If the beat involves a character's actions, make them significant and purposeful. Every action should contribute to the scene's overall meaning or character development.
Examples of Beats
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
Sarah stirs her coffee absentmindedly, lost in thought. Her fingers tremble as she clutches the spoon.
In this example, the beat conveys Sarah's inner turmoil and anxiety through her actions and physical sensations.
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INT. POLICE INTERROGATION ROOM - NIGHT
Detective Smith leans in, his eyes narrowing as he scrutinizes the suspect's alibi.
Here, the beat emphasizes Detective Smith's suspicious attitude, setting up an atmosphere of tension and suspicion in the room.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - NIGHT
Mary clutches a bouquet of wilting flowers, her eyes welling up with tears. She places the flowers on the empty bedside table, her heart heavy with grief.
In this beat, Mary's actions and emotions reveal her sorrow and the moment's significance.
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EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - DAY
As the pitcher winds up, Joe takes a deep breath out of the batter's box. He glances at the stands, where his son watches with bated breath.
This beat showcases Joe's internal struggle and the weight of his son's expectations.
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INT. LIVING ROOM - EVENING
Sarah picks up the old, dusty photo album from the shelf. She opens it, and a faded photograph of her and her late husband falls out. She clutches the photo, tears streaming down her face.
Here, the beat emphasizes the emotional impact of Sarah revisiting memories of her husband.
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EXT. FOREST CLEARING - NIGHT
The moonlight filters through the trees, casting eerie shadows. A twig snaps, and Emily whirls around, gripping a branch as her heart races.
This beat creates suspense and tension, revealing Emily's fear of the unknown.
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INT. CLASSROOM - DAY
Professor Stevens erases the equation from the chalkboard, the room now silent. He turns to face the students, a confident smile on his face.
This beat indicates a shift in the professor's demeanor, signaling a change in the dynamics of the class.
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INT. KITCHEN - MORNING
Tom nervously twirls his wedding ring on his finger, his gaze darting to the divorce papers on the table.
Tom's action with the wedding ring conveys his inner turmoil and uncertainty about his impending divorce.
Conclusion
Incorporating beats effectively into your screenplay can elevate your storytelling and engage the audience deeper. Beats are not just pauses or descriptions but tools for conveying emotions, character development, and subtext.
By mastering the art of writing beats, you'll be able to create more compelling and impactful screenplays that resonate with both readers and viewers alike.
