You're writing a screenplay. There is one scene where a character is walking through a convent and meets two nuns that are only in this one scene and both have a speaking line. You could write Nun #1 and Nun #2, but you think it would be funny to name them after nuns from Sister Act (Sister Mary Clarence, Sister Mary Lazurus). These names won't be spoken, so if the movie is made, It really doesn't matter what you call them. What would you do? Name them or stick with #1 and #2. Would naming them at all be confusing to a script reader, director, producer etc.
Screenwriting : Nun for me, thanks by Chad Descoteaux
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I got advice once in coverage to name minor roles by their personaility traits or behavior e.g. ANGRY COP or DOUR NUN which I guess can be more helpful for casting and to the actor. Based on scripts I've read, there seems to be no hard and fast rules.
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I ditto Greg's advice. Giving important names makes a reader think they are important, or in your case, where you're referencing Sister Act, sets up and expectation that there is a REASON why you named them that (like a metaphor for something in sister act) Don't create confusion. Stick with what's most clear for the READER.
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Thanks for the input. I was looking over this thing I wrote a while back and that was something that jumped out at me. Lol. My random Sister Act reference in a sci-fi movie.
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Yup, and I found that on a read by professional actors... be creative...these little things is what catches the eye of the reader and separates you from the flock...use it...use every chance uve got if writing spec...
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I suggest using numbers or a descriptive term (RUDE DOCTOR, CRAZY TEEN). With description, the name can do double duty.