Splitting dialogue with action statements

[aj1981]

Thanks, Don, for the information.

[ScriptNurse]

Also, is CONT'D, in the character line, after a break like that necessary? In some scripts I see them and in others I don't. What's the verdict?

In submission scripts, all of the MORE and CONT'D are generally left out, as is CUT TO:

Thanks, Don. Why are some words in dialogue underlined?

This is the ONLY form of emphasis allowed ... no bold ... no italics ... and if you write it right, they'll read it right.  In other words, if the emphasis is needed that bad, you probably ought to try and rewrite the line.

[aj1981]

Also, is CONT'D, in the character line, after a break like that necessary? In some scripts I see them and in others I don't. What's the verdict?

[aj1981]

Thanks, Don. Why are some words in dialogue underlined?

[ScriptNurse]

I prefer to insert the action description just before the associated dialogue, like this ...

AUDITOR

Don't worry. We'll get you the help you need. Just look at me.

She holds up one of the books on display and grins proudly.

AUDITOR

Because I had gone clear in a past life, I went clear on Book One in this incarnation, and it can happen to you, too!

I have also seen it done like this and while technically incorrect, it's not uncommon.

AUDITOR

Don't worry. We'll get you the help you need. Just look at me.

(grins, holds up book)

Because I had gone clear in a past life, I went clear on Book One in this incarnation, and it can happen to you, too!

The most important thing is do what will make it the most readable.

[aj1981]

When you want to add an action statement mid-sentence, how do you format the interrupted dialogue? I added (…) but I don’t know if that is allowed or even correct.

AUDITOR

Don't worry. We'll get you the help you need. Just look at me. Because I had gone clear in a past life, I went clear on Book One...

She holds up one of the books on display and grins proudly.

AUDITOR

...in this incarnation, and it can happen to you, too!

Can someone please clarify this rule for me. Thanks.

AJ