Title page

Definition

The title page is the first page of a screenplay that provides essential information about the work, including the title, writer's name, and contact information. This page is crucial for establishing the identity of the screenplay and making a strong first impression, often serving as the reader's initial point of engagement with the story.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The title page should include the screenplay's title centered on the page, typically in uppercase letters, followed by the writer's name just below it.
2. It's standard practice to include the date of completion on the title page to inform readers when the draft was finalized.
3. If applicable, writers should also include their contact information in the lower right corner of the title page for easy reference by producers or agents.
4. In professional settings, it's common to see a copyright notice included on the title page to protect the writer's intellectual property.
5. The formatting of the title page must adhere to industry standards, as a well-presented title page can set a positive tone for how readers perceive the screenplay.

Review Questions

• What elements are essential to include on a title page, and why are they important for a screenplay?
  • A title page should include the screenplay's title, the writer's name, and their contact information. These elements are vital because they establish the identity of the work and help create an initial impression. The title gives insight into the story, while the writer's details facilitate communication with industry professionals who may want to read or represent the screenplay.
• Discuss how the presentation of a title page can influence a reader's perception of a screenplay.
  • The presentation of a title page plays a significant role in shaping a reader's perception because it reflects professionalism and attention to detail. A clean and properly formatted title page suggests that the writer takes their work seriously and understands industry standards. Conversely, a messy or incorrectly formatted title page could lead to negative assumptions about the quality of the screenplay itself, potentially affecting whether it gets read further.
• Evaluate the impact of including additional information, such as copyright notices or completion dates, on a title page in terms of industry standards and writer protection.
  • Including additional information like copyright notices or completion dates on a title page enhances both professionalism and legal protection. A copyright notice serves as an official declaration of ownership, which is critical in an industry where ideas can be easily shared or misappropriated. Meanwhile, indicating the completion date helps contextualize the screenplay within its development timeline, showing that it is current and relevant. Such practices not only align with industry standards but also safeguard writers' interests in their creative works.

Related terms

logline: A one or two-sentence summary of a screenplay that encapsulates the main premise and draws interest.

screenplay format:

The specific layout and structure that a screenplay follows to ensure clarity and readability, including elements like scene headings and action lines.

query letter:

A brief letter sent to agents or producers to pitch a screenplay, often accompanied by a title page and logline.