I have looked online and in books and cannot find an answer to this query. I'm working on a script with flashbacks within flashbacks: Begins in present/original time frame then flashes back in time to childhood forward to a middle time for most of the film then back to present/original time for the final scene. Thank you!
What is your query? Are you looking for a name for this kind of plot device? Or wondering how it works? Or looking for tips? Welcome to the forum, by the way. I'm one of the forum moderators. While I've got your attention, can I ask you to read these two links? They'll help get you started, and give you an idea of how we operate here. New Member Quick Start Forum Rules And to let you know if you run into any difficulties getting settled, feel free to 'start a conversation' with me, and I'll do my best to help. So ...back to your script issue....
Thank you! I'm trying to find put how to format this scenario in my script. I've used flashbacks before and know the way to apply the format but not with multiple flashbacks within flashbacks.
Ah, so it's formatting flashbacks into a script that you need help with? Okay, I'll back out ...because I know nothing about scriptwriting. But hopefully somebody will come across soon who does.
Perhaps, it's your present narrative that's off. Are you really starting where the story starts? Some movies can jump all over the place and handle it well, but it sounds like you're somewhat trying to stick to a linear storyline for most of it. There is no need to bookend your story. Unless done very well and seamlessly, flashbacks and flash forwards can mucky up the waters. Clarity is probably the most important thing when it comes to all writing. I suggest thinking about your whole story. Sometimes we can an idea of how something should be presented, but often that's just how the original idea comes to us. Revision always changes a lot and even spending a good amount of time with a story changes things. Anything can work in theory, but if something is troublesome I always find it helpful to really think it through and adjust accordingly. I don't know. This could be a case of killing your darlings depending on how attached to this format you are. Or it could be great, but I would think a little more about how what you are doing affects the overall story. Good luck.
