How To
Use an Intercut
In a Screenplay?

Read more Screenwriting

How to Use an Intercut in a Screenplay?

One of the reason to use intercutting in a screenplay, is to reduces the number of pages. It is particularly useful when changing frequently between two scenes or describe actions that occur simultaneously. When two scenes alternates and they occur at the same time, we have an intercut. This allows to quickly move the focus from one location to another without the need of adding new scene headings.

Common uses of intercuts are: People talking on the phone, conversations in which we want to avoid the Off-Screen, action scenes.


How to Write an Intercut

Example: Two people talking on the phone.

  • The first scene: insert a scene heading followed by actions and a dialogue (John).
  • The second scene: insert a new scene heading followed by actions and a dialogue (Kate).
  • Insert the intercut on a new line: INTERCUT JOHN/KATE
  • Add alternating, the two characters talking.

To exit from an intercut, just add a new action paragraph and / or add a new scene.

INT. JOHN's ROOM - NIGHT

JOHN using the mobile phone.

JOHN
Hello Kate!

INT. KATE's ROOM - NIGHT

KATE
Hello John!

INTERCUT JOHN/KATE

JOHN
I forgot to tell you something!

KATE
What is it?

JOHN
This weekend is Georgi's birthday.

KATE
Great, Let's organize a party!

JOHN
Perfect!

John disconnects the call.

CUT TO:

EXT. ON THE STREET - NIGHT

MARK is walking the dog in the park.





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