7 TIPS ON WRITING AN ACTION SCENE

What is Action scene?

Lets know more about action scene.

An action scene is a sequence in a movie, television programme, video game, or other media that is intended to be visually interesting and fast-paced. These moments sometimes feature physical activity, such as fighting, chasing, or fleeing, and serve to heighten the suspense and excitement of a narrative. Car chases, gunfights, hand-to-hand combat, and other forms of physical confrontation are examples of action sequences. Special effects, stunts, and choreography are frequently used to create a sense of danger and excitement. Action sequences can be utilised to advance the story, introduce new characters, or give amusement.

Action sequences are not limited to physical activity; they can also involve cerebral or emotional action, such as a negotiating scene or a decision-making moment, which can be dramatic and exciting for the spectator.

Bruce lee - Enter the dragon

7 Tips to create an action scene are :-

  • MOVEMENT AND MOTIONS​
  • NECESSITY IN NUMBERS​
  • EXPRESSIONS​
  • CHANGE IN SUPERIORITY​
  • CHANGE IN SETTING​
  • CHOREOGRAPHY
  • CHARACTERIZATION

MOVEMENT AND MOTIONS

First and foremost, include many movements and motions into your scene. A forward motion is something that always works. With a weapon of choice, include fist fighting and vice versa. The change in hitting weapons tends to interest the audience more as compared to just one. 

Deadpool - Highway Action Scene

NECESSITY IN NUMBERS

While writing your script, always remember to add the number of villains involved in the scene. For example, TWO KILLED SEVEN LEFT, etc. This makes it easier for the casting directors, directors, costume designers, crew members, and everyone to shoot the scene.

EXPRESSIONS

While writing your scene, do not forget to add expressions as well. For, e.g., “HE MOVED CALMLY AHEAD WITH A FULLY LOADED GUN”, or, “WITH FEAR FILLED EYES, HE MOVED AHEAD WITH A FULLY LOADED GUN”.

CHANGE IN SUPERIORITY

While writing your script, do not make your protagonist or the antagonist have the upper hand throughout. This makes the scene bland. Instead, show that even the protagonist is having a hard time too. 

CHANGE IN SETTING

Instead of having just one great fight scene, have various fragmented stages. After a group fight, have one-on-one scenes too with a different setting, location, and character. This brings variety to the sets and makes them more attractive. Do not have one fight scene that is more than 50 seconds. 

ONOMATOPOEIA

Adding Onomatopoeia like “SLAMS”, “SNAPS”, “BOOMS”, etc., makes it easier for the directors while shooting the scene.

CHOREOGRAPHY

Choreography refers to the way the action is staged, planned and executed. It is the process of designing and arranging the movements, positions, and interactions of the characters in an action scene. A good choreography will make the action look natural and fluid, while a poor choreography will make the action look stiff, unrealistic, and even comical. Choreography should take into account the abilities and limitations of the actors, and be designed to enhance the story and the emotions of the scene. It’s an essential aspect of an action scene, creating a believable and realistic action, and also it’s not only about physical movement but also mental or emotional action.

CHARACTERIZATION

Characterization refers to the way the characters are portrayed and developed within the scene. An action scene should reveal something new about the characters, whether it be their abilities, motivations, or weaknesses. A good action scene should show the characters’ personalities and characteristics in action, allowing the audience to understand them better. For example, a character who is initially portrayed as weak and vulnerable might surprise the audience by displaying unexpected strength or courage in an action scene. On the other hand, a character that is initially portrayed as strong, might reveal a vulnerability or weakness in an action scene. This type of revelation helps to deepen the audience’s understanding of the characters and make them more relatable. Additionally, it can also help to create a sense of unpredictability and tension in the scene, as the audience doesn’t know what to expect.

Use Professional Software for Action Scene

StudioVity ease out your work while creating a good action scene, with the help of Beat Board you can arrange your story beats and pick the right spot for your action scene can be held.
Every story plot leading to a action scene is important when writing a good movie script.

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