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How can I effectively convey a character's perspective in my screenplay?
How can I effectively convey a character's perspective in my screenplay?
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Written by Naz Ozturk
Updated this week

In a script, you can indicate that a particular scene or moment is from a character's point of view (POV) by using a variety of techniques. Here are some common methods:

1. Character's Name: You can simply start the scene description or action line with the character's name in all caps. For example:

JOHN'S POV - He scans the room nervously, searching for any signs of danger.

2. Camera Direction: You can use camera direction terms like "we see" or "the camera shows" to imply the character's perspective. For example:

We see JANE'S HAND tremble as she reaches for the doorknob.

3. First-Person Voiceover: If the character is narrating their own thoughts, you can use voiceover or narration elements. For example:

JAMES (V.O.)
This city is full of secrets, and I'm about to uncover them all.

4. Subjective Language: Use subjective language in the description to convey the character's emotions or perceptions. For example:

The room seems to close in on SARAH as she clutches her chest, struggling to breathe.

5. POV Shot: You can use specific camera shots like "POV SHOT" to indicate that the camera is showing exactly what the character is seeing. For example:

INT. KITCHEN - POV SHOT from LISA's perspective as she opens the refrigerator.

6. Italics: Some screenwriters use italics for the character's name or key actions to emphasize the character's POV. For example:

SARAH* picks up the envelope, her hands trembling.

Choose the method that works best for your script and fits the style you want to convey. Remember that clarity is essential, so make sure your readers can easily identify when the script is presenting a character's point of view.

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