what is screenplay in movies

A screenplay, also known as a script, is a written work by screenwriters for a film, television show, or video game that expresses the movement, actions, and dialogue of characters. It is the blueprint for the final product and is written in a specific format to distinguish between characters, action lines, and dialogue. The formatting is also used to guide the budget and schedule for its production. A screenplay includes the dialogue of all characters, their movements, place setting descriptions, and acting style indications. It might also include certain filmmaking instructions for camera operators to follow. The four basic components of a screenplay are images, action, sound, and dialogue. The ultimate goal of most screenwriters is to sell their screenplay, and the value of a screenplay is usually 10 to 15 percent of the productions budget. Without a screenplay, a film project cannot begin, as it is the blueprint that everyone working on the film refers to when they are fulfilling their part of the process.