If I do not want to introduce a character yet, but she says something to someone in the same car, would that be like an O.S.? I plan on introducing her as a flashback in the middle of the short.

Hey Pale,

Now there are many better than me on format but as a novice I can share a few lessons I have learnt, hopefully on the  topic you raise.

If the character is in the location but not on the screen then I consider this to be off screen, O.S. If elsewhere then voice over maybe better V.O., eg telephone

Now, what if the character is seen but you don't want to introduce them. I think the lesson I have learnt is don't be too clever. If you can see the character best introduce them and give them a name. My first OWC is an example of this and it didn't go down well.

After all, you are going to name them so do it first time.

Now there is a recent script on the site by a regular which doesn't do this, so I think it is a case of start out sensible and once you have more of the craft you can then push it.

No doubts others will disagree but those are my lessons.

All the best.

O.S. is only used for off-screen but in the same location. However, if this character will be introduced later and has a name, you should use the name. You need to specify this is the same person (and therefore the same actor). Then, when you want to do the proper introduction, use the full slug and description.

Thanks....

If you have three people in a car, establish the scene first. Intro the characters and have them speak normally. Too much direction if you're focusing on one person and the other speaks (OS).

Unless this person is in the trunk then, yes, use (OS).

James

Quoted from jwent6688 If you have three people in a car, establish the scene first. Intro the characters and have them speak normally. Too much direction if you're focusing on one person and the other speaks (OS). Unless this person is in the trunk then, yes, use (OS). James

Good advice.

Quoted from jwent6688 If you have three people in a car, establish the scene first. Intro the characters and have them speak normally. Too much direction if you're focusing on one person and the other speaks (OS). Unless this person is in the trunk then, yes, use (OS). James

I'll say this is good advice. It's definitely something I'll remember. Thanks, James.

Sandra

Ok...there are two people in the car...i've introduced the passenger but the driver can only be heard so far. she is a bokor sorcerer who is controlling a group of zombies and I didn't want to let the cat out of the bag (who she is completely) until i get through some of the beginning scenes. So this is why...but if I NEED to go ahead and introduce her I guess I can ...it will just kill one of my surprises ..perhaps i should keep her silent until she is introduced??