A standard movie script typically runs between 90 to 120 pages. This range provides ample room to develop characters, plot, and themes within the average cinematic runtime.
The Golden Range: Why 90-120 Pages?
The length of a screenplay isn’t arbitrary. It’s intrinsically linked to the estimated screen time it translates to. A generally accepted rule of thumb is that one page of script equates to roughly one minute of screen time. Therefore, a 90-page script should theoretically result in a 90-minute movie. Similarly, a 120-page script would aim for a two-hour film.
This isn’t a rigid rule, of course. Fast-paced action scripts might play faster, while dialogue-heavy dramas might play slower. However, adhering to the 90-120 page range offers a good benchmark and demonstrates to producers and readers that you understand the conventions of the industry. Going significantly outside this range, especially as a new screenwriter, can raise red flags.
Factors Influencing Script Length
Several factors can influence the final length of a screenplay. Let’s explore the most common:
Genre Conventions
Different genres often have different pacing and narrative structures, which impacts script length.
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Action Movies: Action-packed films might lean towards the shorter end of the spectrum, focusing on visual spectacle and concise dialogue. An action movie script might effectively tell its story in 90-100 pages.
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Dramas: Character-driven dramas, particularly those delving into complex themes or relationships, often require more space for nuanced development. A 110-120 page script allows for deeper exploration.
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Comedies: Comedies can vary greatly. Slapstick comedies with rapid-fire jokes might be shorter, while character-based comedies could be longer.
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Epics: Films with expansive narratives, historical settings, or numerous characters frequently require longer scripts, even surpassing the 120-page mark. However, even epics should strive for efficient storytelling and avoid unnecessary bloat.
Screenwriting Style
A writer’s individual style also contributes to the length of their screenplay.
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Concise Writing: Some writers are masters of brevity, conveying complex ideas with minimal words. Their scripts tend to be shorter and tighter.
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Descriptive Writing: Other writers favor detailed descriptions, immersing the reader in the world and the character’s internal lives. This can naturally lead to longer scripts.
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Dialogue-Heavy vs. Action-Oriented: Scripts heavily reliant on dialogue will generally require more pages than those focused on visual action.
Studio Expectations
Studios often have preferred lengths for their movies. This preference might stem from marketing considerations, distribution agreements, or audience expectations. Experienced screenwriters are often aware of these preferences and tailor their scripts accordingly. It’s worth researching what’s typical for the type of film you’re writing.
Common Mistakes Leading to Overlong Scripts
Many aspiring screenwriters fall into the trap of writing overlong scripts. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
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Unnecessary Exposition: Overloading the script with excessive backstory or explaining every detail can make it feel sluggish and drag on. Trust your audience to infer information.
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Redundant Scenes: Scenes that don’t advance the plot or develop characters should be cut ruthlessly. Each scene should serve a purpose.
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Poor Formatting: Incorrect formatting, such as excessively long action lines or dialogue blocks, can artificially inflate the page count.
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Lack of Focus: A meandering plot with numerous subplots that don’t contribute to the central narrative can easily lead to an overlong script.
FAQs About Movie Script Length
Here are some frequently asked questions that address concerns and clarify nuances about script length in the screenwriting world.
FAQ 1: Is it better to be under 90 pages or over 120 pages?
Generally, it’s slightly better to be under 90 pages than significantly over 120. A shorter, well-paced script demonstrates discipline and respect for the reader’s time. However, aim for the 90-120 page range for best results. Quality always trumps quantity.
FAQ 2: What is considered too short for a movie script?
Anything under 70 pages is generally considered too short for a feature film, unless it’s a very specific genre or a highly experimental piece. Such a short script may lack sufficient character development, plot complexity, and thematic depth.
FAQ 3: Does script length matter for short films?
Yes, but the standard length conventions don’t apply. Short films typically range from 1 to 40 minutes, with the majority falling between 5 and 20 minutes. A script for a short film should proportionally reflect this runtime.
FAQ 4: How do I cut down a script that’s too long?
Identify scenes that are redundant, unnecessary, or don’t advance the plot. Trim excessive dialogue, tighten action lines, and consolidate scenes wherever possible. Seek feedback from trusted readers for objective opinions.
FAQ 5: Should I worry about script length in the first draft?
Not excessively. The first draft is about getting the story down on paper. Focus on telling the story, and then refine and trim the length in subsequent drafts. Don’t let page count paralyze you during the initial writing process.
FAQ 6: Does script length affect my chances of selling the script?
Yes. A script significantly outside the 90-120 page range can be a red flag to producers and agents, suggesting a lack of understanding of industry conventions.
FAQ 7: Are there exceptions to the 90-120 page rule?
Yes, but they are rare. Some epic films or art-house films might justify exceeding 120 pages. However, these are usually established filmmakers with a proven track record.
FAQ 8: What role does proper formatting play in script length?
Proper formatting is crucial. Incorrect formatting can artificially inflate the page count. Use standard screenwriting software and adhere to industry formatting guidelines.
FAQ 9: Does the font size and margins affect script length?
While seemingly minor, font size and margin settings can affect the perceived length of the script. Standard screenwriting software automatically uses Courier New 12pt font and specific margin settings to ensure consistency and adherence to industry norms. Do not alter these.
FAQ 10: Are scripts for streaming services like Netflix different in length?
Not significantly. While streaming services may be more open to unconventional narratives, the fundamental principles of storytelling and pacing still apply. The 90-120 page range remains a good guideline.
FAQ 11: How do I ensure my script feels longer/shorter than it actually is?
You can’t artificially manipulate this perception much, but focusing on pacing and scene density can help. Dense scenes with lots of action and quick cuts will feel faster, while slower, dialogue-heavy scenes will feel longer. Focus on crafting compelling scenes.
FAQ 12: If my script is 125 pages but perfect, should I still cut it down?
This is a judgment call. If the script is truly exceptional and every scene is crucial, the extra five pages might be forgivable. However, it’s always worth examining if there are any areas for tightening and streamlining. Ask yourself if the script needs those extra pages to be effective.