Screenwriting Basics
Crafting Suspense: How to Write a Black Screen in a Screenplay
Jan 2, 2024
By
Avinash Prabhakaran
In the world of screenwriting, a black screen can be a powerful and evocative tool to captivate your audience and create a sense of suspense or drama.
Whether you're a seasoned screenwriter or just starting out, understanding how to use a black screen in your screenplay effectively can enhance the impact of your storytelling.
This blog post will explore a black screen, when and why you should use it, and how to write it into your screenplay.
What is a Black Screen?
In the context of a screenplay, a black screen is simply a moment when the screen goes completely black, with no visual elements or images.
It's often used to transition between scenes, create a dramatic pause, build tension, or indicate the passage of time.
While it may seem like a straightforward concept, the way you write a black screen can significantly influence its impact on your audience.
When to Use a Black Screen
Transition between Scenes: A black screen can be used to smoothly transition between different locations, time periods, or storylines. It acts as a visual break, allowing the audience to prepare for a change in the narrative.
Build Suspense: A black screen can be a powerful tool when you want to build suspense or leave your audience hanging on the edge of their seats. It creates a moment of uncertainty and anticipation, leaving viewers eager to see what happens next.
Reflect Emotional State: A black screen can convey the emotional state of a character or the overall tone of the story. For example, it can represent a character's confusion, despair, or the darkness of a situation.
Indicate the Passage of Time: When you need to show the passage of time without a specific event occurring on screen, a black screen can serve as a subtle and effective indicator.
How to Write a Black Screen
When writing a black screen into your screenplay, it's essential to convey your intentions clearly to the director, actors, and production team. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to write a black screen effectively:
Set the Scene: Begin by describing the current scene or situation in your screenplay as you usually would. Include any necessary details, character actions, or dialogue leading up to the black screen moment.
Introduce the Black Screen: To indicate a black screen, use the term "BLACK SCREEN" or "FADE TO BLACK" in all capital letters. Place it in the center of the page, ensuring it stands out.
Specify Duration: If you want the black screen to be momentary, you can write "CUT TO BLACK," indicating a quick transition. For a more extended blackout, you can specify the duration in seconds, such as "BLACK SCREEN (10 seconds)."
Add Context (Optional): If necessary, provide a brief description of why the screen goes black or what the audience should feel during this blackout. This can help convey the intended mood or emotion.
Transition to the Next Scene: After the black screen, describe the next scene or action that will follow. Use the standard format for scene headings, action lines, and dialogue to continue the narrative.
Example:
INT. DARK ALLEY - NIGHT
John stands alone in the eerie darkness, his heart pounding.
BLACK SCREEN (5 seconds)
The silence is deafening, and the tension is palpable.
INT. INTERROGATION ROOM - DAY
Detective Smith confronts the suspect.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of writing a black screen in a screenplay can elevate your storytelling and add depth to your narrative.
When used strategically, it can create suspense, convey emotions, and seamlessly transition between scenes.
Remember to be clear and concise in your descriptions, allowing your creativity to shine through while guiding the production team in bringing your vision to life.
