14.2 Creating a Strong Title Page and First Impression

Creating a strong title page is crucial for making a great first impression with your screenplay. It's the gateway to your story, setting the tone and professionalism of your work. From formatting to essential elements, every detail matters.

Your title page should include key information like your contact details and copyright info. The title itself needs to be catchy, relevant, and well-formatted. Remember, this is your chance to grab attention and showcase your screenplay's potential.

Title Page Formatting

Essential Elements of a Professional Title Page

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• Center-align all text on the title page creates a clean, professional appearance
• Use 12-point Courier font maintains industry standard formatting
• Double-space the entire title page ensures readability and proper spacing
• Place the script title approximately 1/3 down the page draws attention to the most important element
• Capitalize the entire script title makes it stand out prominently
• Include "written by" credit below the title identifies the screenwriter
• List writer's name below the "written by" credit provides clear attribution

Logline Placement and Formatting

• Position logline approximately 2/3 down the page separates it from other title page elements
• Use single-spacing for the logline distinguishes it from other double-spaced text
• Limit logline to 1-2 sentences captures the essence of the story concisely
• Enclose logline in quotation marks sets it apart visually on the page
• Align logline to the left margin creates a distinct visual break from centered elements

Key Information to Include

Essential Contact Details

• Include writer's full name allows for proper identification and credit
• Provide complete mailing address enables physical correspondence if needed
• List phone number facilitates direct communication with the writer
• Include email address offers a quick and convenient method of contact
• Add representation information (if applicable) directs inquiries to the appropriate agent or manager

Legal Protection and Copyright Information

• Include Writers Guild of America (WGA) registration number proves the script's registration date
• Place WGA registration number in the bottom left corner of the title page follows industry convention
• Add copyright notice in the bottom right corner protects intellectual property rights
• Format copyright notice as "Copyright © [Year] by [Writer's Name]" follows legal standards
• Consider including "All Rights Reserved" statement strengthens copyright protection

Crafting an Effective Title

Title Selection Strategies

• Choose a title that reflects the genre helps set audience expectations (The Terminator, Jurassic Park)
• Ensure the title captures the essence of the story piques interest and conveys the main theme
• Keep the title concise and memorable aids in marketing and word-of-mouth promotion
• Avoid generic or overused titles helps the script stand out in a crowded market
• Consider using wordplay or double meanings adds depth and intrigue to the title (Inception, The Sixth Sense)

Title Formatting and Presentation

• Capitalize all words in the title except articles, conjunctions, and prepositions shorter than five letters follows standard title case rules
• Use a larger font size for the title makes it the focal point of the title page
• Avoid using fancy fonts or special characters maintains professionalism and readability
• Ensure the title is easily readable when reduced to thumbnail size helps with digital submissions
• Consider the visual impact of the title on the page contributes to the overall first impression