Step+Two

=Step Two: Select and Analyze Your Scene=

Once you've worked up a range of ideas, it's time to commit to a scene and //really// get to know it well.

This step is simple to describe but **extremely important**! Do not rush through this work in your desire to start manipulating the text and writing your screenplay.

Collectively, read your chosen scene closely from start to finish, taking the time to discuss possible interpretations of interesting passages and to work through any parts that are confusing. You need a far better grasp of the scene than just the "big picture"; sharpen your focus down to the level of individual word choices (definitely take the time to look up any that you don't know).

Make use of the helpful ancillary information in your //Cambridge School Romeo and Juliet// text. Check out all the clarifying information and the study prompts on the left-hand pages and give consideration to the "Looking Back" sections that follow each act.

Finally (and most importantly), mark the scene for "beat changes," those points where the action or the feeling of the scene shifts:


 * Topic of conversation changes
 * Character changes direction of conversation
 * Character not getting what he or she wants and attempts new approach
 * Character enters or exits
 * Character’s emotional state changes
 * Shift in power occurs between two or more characters
 * Character finally gets what he or she wants

These beat changes will be the foundation of many decisions to follow. Beat changes will guide the development of your screenplay, dictate the way characters and actions are staged, influence your music selections, and suggest specific camera shots or sequences.