I found some more notes I took while reading The Perfect Screenplay by Katherine Atwell Herbert:
Each scene needs to:
- Have a purpose and story arch
- Tell a small piece of the story
- Push the plot forward
- Reveal something about the characters
When writing dialogue:
- Save the most important information until the end
- Give each character a unique voice
- Make sure the characters are doing something while talking; avoid talking heads
Act I:
- Introduces the main characters, their relationships and personalities
- Establishes the setting and time period
Act II:
- Includes complications and subplots and reveals more about each character
- Shows the personal side of the protagonist by revealing what he would do if all his problems were solved
- It’s here that things get really bad and the protagonist loses all hope in himself
- Remember to dramatize the theme
- Vary the tone, rhythm and length of scenes to keep things interesting
- Use subplots to add texture and cultural variety
Act III:
- Often opens with the main character at a low point
- Main character somehow gathers himself together to try again
- Encouragement to keep going may come from another character
- Eventually the main character figures out what’s been holding him back and preventing him from reaching his goal
Climax:
- Make sure the hero is on stage and facing the antagonist
- Don’t rush this scene
Post climax:
- Often includes a hint of marriage or a promise of a future relationship