Original Screenplay Outline Examples (PDF) Examples

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Table of Contents

1. What is a Pre-Lap?
2. Why Use Pre-Laps in Your Screenplay?
3. How to Format Pre-Laps in Your Screenplay
4. Examples of Pre-Laps in Screenplays
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Pre-Laps

What is a Pre-Lap?

A pre-lap is a type of transition used in screenplays where the sound from the following scene starts playing over the last shot of the previous scene, before the cut to the next scene. This technique is often used to create a sense of continuity between scenes, or to create a sense of anticipation for what's about to come.

Pre-laps can be used with any sound, but they are most commonly used with dialogue. For example, a pre-lap might be used to introduce a character's voice before they appear on screen, or to hint at what's coming up in the next scene.

Why Use Pre-Laps in Your Screenplay?

Pre-laps can be an effective way to transition between scenes and create a sense of continuity in your screenplay. By using a pre-lap, you can create a smooth transition between scenes, without the need for a hard cut or fade out.

Pre-laps can also be used to create a sense of anticipation for what's coming up in the next scene. By playing the sound from the following scene over the last shot of the previous scene, you can create a sense of tension or excitement, and keep your audience engaged in the story.

How to Format Pre-Laps in Your Screenplay

To format a pre-lap in your screenplay, you should follow these steps:

1. Start the pre-lap on the last shot of the previous scene.
2. Include a transition indicator, such as "PRE-LAP" or "OVER BLACK".
3. Include the sound description in parentheses, such as "(MUFFLED VOICES)" or "(PHONE RINGING)".
4. End the pre-lap with a transition indicator, such as "FADE IN" or "CUT TO".
5. Start the following scene with the description of the action and dialogue.

Here's an example of how to format a pre-lap:

 FADE OUT. PRE-LAP: (OVER BLACK) "I don't know what you're talking about." FADE IN: INT. OFFICE - DAY John sits at his desk, staring at his computer screen. The phone rings. 

Examples of Pre-Laps in Screenplays

Pre-laps can be found in many famous screenplays. Here are a few examples:

 FROM HERE TO ETERNITY (1953) PRE-LAP: (OVER BLACK) "I never knew it could be like this. Nobody ever kissed me the way you do." FADE IN: INT. BARRACKS - DAY Prewitt and Lorene are kissing passionately. THE GODFATHER (1972) PRE-LAP: (OVER BLACK) "I believe in America." FADE IN: INT. OFFICE - DAY Bonasera tells the Godfather his story. PULP FICTION (1994) PRE-LAP: (OVER BLACK) "I love you, Pumpkin." FADE IN: INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY Pumpkin and Honey Bunny hold up the diner. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Pre-Laps

While pre-laps can be an effective tool in your screenwriting arsenal, there are some common mistakes you should avoid:

• Using pre-laps too frequently can be distracting and take away from the impact of the technique.
• Using pre-laps with dialogue that doesn't have any significance can confuse the audience.
• Not giving enough time for the pre-lap to breathe can make the transition feel rushed.

Conclusion

Pre-laps can be a powerful tool in your screenwriting arsenal, allowing you to create smooth transitions between scenes and build anticipation for what's coming up next. By following the proper formatting guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you can effectively use pre-laps to enhance your screenplay and engage your audience.