Hi everyone! Question for you. If I have a character whose first name is never mentioned, can I just label him by his title? He's always referred to as Senator (Last Name). Do I have to give him a first name just for the sake of labeling dialogue? Thanks!
Screenwriting : Formatting Question by Renee N. Meland
Formatting Question
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If he's the only senator in the story then I don't see why you couldn't just call him SENATOR. It might be confusing if there's another senator though. But why not give him at least a last name?
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Or a letter..ie Senator D?
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No need at all! Especially if you are referring to him as Senator Last_Name.
It might cause issues if you just use Senator. Not because it's technically incorrect, but because most readers will pay less attention to characters with just a title, e.g., COP versus SERGEANT JEFFERS. Giving a character their own name cues to the reader that they are worth remembering.
But again, based on your example of using title + last name, you are more than fine!
Thanks everyone! The character is only important as he relates to his wife. His wife is a main character. He's only in 3 scenes.
Although since it's a pilot I suppose someone could choose to expand his role?
I prefer to give first and last name, sometimes a nickname, Or first and last name and apply emphasis to the last name as you develop the story line.
No. Not necessary. I’ve had characters referred to as nothing more than “barista” or “sergeant”. Unless they are a significant part of your story, it doesn’t matter.
If you want to keep his name a secret or want to save it just leave it out. As long as you know for now.
Me personally, I would label the character just senator if it's a small passing role. Unless as Jody said it's a bigger part then assign a name.
I wouldn't even use OFFICER DECKER: I would introduce him as HAMMER (40), burly in full police regalia ...