In today's post, we'll systematically dismantle the "skit".scene-by-scene script"What exactly is it, how do you write it, what sets can you copy, and at the end you'll get a set ofAI skitsThe universal template + practical examples of prompts, so that you from "inspiration a beat of the head" to "work that is a blockbuster", in the middle of the missing a good subplot!
I. What is a split script?
In a nutshell: a "director's blueprint" that breaks down the picture in your head, mirror by mirror, into words and images.
It can be a visual planner "for yourself" or a precise instruction sheet "for AI".
Distinguished from the narrative language of ordinary scripts, split-screen scripts are specific, visual and action-oriented, including the frame composition, camera scheduling, character movement, line credits, sound effects and pacing of each scene.
Analogy:
A regular script is like writing a novel, andsplit-screen scriptLike drawing comics, except you're drawing pictures with words for the AI!
Second, what does a subplot script contain?
A standard split script usually contains the following:
- Shot numbering: facilitates team communication and post editing.
- Picture description: describe the content and action of the picture in simple language.
- Dialogue/Narration: involves character lines or narration.
- Types of shots: e.g., telephoto, close-up, close-up, push-pull-pan, etc.
- Duration: the estimated length of each shot.
- Screen sketch: a simple hand-drawn or AI-generated schematic of the screen.
- Technical notes: e.g. additional notes on lighting, camera positions, movement patterns, etc.
Typically a standard split script consists of the following 7 elements:
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| movement of aircraft |
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| Lines/Narration |
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| sound effects music |
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| pace |
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✅ Note: For AI generation, you don't need to draw a split-screen diagram, just write the above content clearly, and the AI will be able to "fill in the picture"!
Third, how to write a subplot script? (with structural flow)
A simple and clear process for writing a subplot is as follows:
Step 1: Clarify the story logic
Start by writing a "three-part" structure: start - finish - turn - close. For example:
- From: Character appearance, setting the scene
- Commitment: Conflict occurs and action is taken
- Spin: Emotional Outbursts, Climaxes
- Huddle up: results are presented, emotions are wrapped up
Step 2: Split the rhythm of the shot
Split each segment further into shots, keeping the length of each shot at 3-6 seconds to ensure smooth pacing.
Step 3: Supplemental footage information
Add for each shot:
- Composition (subject and object position, symmetry or contrast)
- Operate the mirror (slow advance, sudden switch, etc.)
- Light and shadow/color (high contrast, low saturation, warm/cold contrast)
- Emotion perception (allowing AI to understand the atmosphere)
Fourth, subplot script writing tips: speak human but professional!
- Write in "visual language": more picture language, less abstract expression.
✅ Instead of "He was angry", write "He clenched his fists and his eyes burned as the camera slowly pushed into his face."
- Emphasize movement + composition
✅ Writing "girl standing in front of a window, backlit and silhouetted, slowly turning her head to look into the camera" is much more advanced than "girl looking into the camera".
- Keyword Trigger AI Understanding
Keywords like "Cinematic lighting", "Moody atmosphere", "Drone top view" etc. Midjourney/Veo/Sora keywords are recommended to be embedded in the lens description.
- Rhythm: The length of the shot and changes in movement reflect the rhythm.
- Logical flow: shots are articulated naturally, avoiding jumps.
- Details to add: special needs (e.g., slow motion, special effects) should be clearly written.
- Team communication: scripts should be understandable to non-specialists.
V. Universal sub-plot script template (can be directly applied)
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You can copy this form and add or delete content as needed, it's very versatile!
VI. How can AI help you write subplot scripts?
The power of AI lies in the fact that all you have to do is type in a prompt (Prompt), and it will help you generate a well-structured and graphic split-screen script.
✅ Case Prompt (Prompt) Example:
"Please help me write a 1-minute split script for a short movie with the theme of 'urban loneliness', in a literary style, containing 5 shots and featuring a night-shift cab driver."
✅ Example of an AI-generated split script:
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Comment:
This script is clearly structured, emotionally spot on, and rich in camera language, and is perfectly suited to be used as a reference for filming.
All you need to do is tell AI the theme, style, and character, and it quickly generates a usable split-screen script!
Seven, advanced suggestions: three small tips for writing subplots with AI
1. Structure-first approach
Let GPT write the structure of the 3-act play for you first, and then automatically break it down into shot content (cue word: "Please help me break down this story into a 10-shot script, with information about movement, composition, lighting, etc. in each shot.")
2, style sets of templates
Do you want Nolan style? Miyazaki style? Directly let GPT+Midjourney set of templates, one-click to generate a unified style of subplot content.
3. Rhythm control method
AI generates videos with a fixed time, so you can preset the duration (e.g. 5 seconds * 6 shots = 30 seconds short movie) to make each shot just right.
VIII. A guide to avoiding pitfalls in split-screen scripts
A few final remindersNewbieA common mistake:
- Don't overdo it: 10-15 shots are usually enough for a 1-minute video; too many can make the viewer dizzy.
- The scene is not the closer the better: far panoramic account of the environment, close-up highlights the mood, alternating use of advanced!
- Be sure to mark the duration: otherwise you have no idea how to shoot it, and cut it until it crashes in post!
- Make good use of the comment box: write down details like "cool colors" and "slow motion 0.5x speed" to save fights on the spot!
IX. Conclusion: the creation of subplots in the age of AI is a manifestation of directorial power
Don't think that AI generation is as simple as "clicking the mouse", what really opens up the creative gap is the ability to subplot. Who can more accurately describe the picture, control the rhythm, express the mood, who will be able to harness AI to shoot a sense of high level and movie.
Starting from today, practicing the expression of "speaking but precise" split-screen, mastering the rhythm of the language of the camera, AI will become your most obedient, most talented director of photography!
This is what I shared today, did you learn it?