Let’s have a quick look at a common dubbing script layout, and explain the columns first:
- Loop Code / Line No = This is essentially what ‘line’ you are on in the overall script, and the director will often use this to ensure all parties are at the same point of the script and ready to go, ie. “Okay, let’s move on to line 19,” etc.
- Timecode = The time that the line of dialogue starts, typically formatted as hours:minutes:seconds:frames / hr:mm:ss:fr or – 01:14:07:20 †
- Character Name = Indicates which character is speaking the dialogue that starts at this timecode.
- Script Lines / Dialogue = The main space where your dialogue, reaction markup codes, and other direction terms are placed.
- Direct Translation = Not all studios or clients will provide this.
- Director’s Notes = These can be notes for the director from the client, or notes from the director to the actor.
Remember: this layout can all change depending on the studio you’re working with! Make sure to be thorough (but quick!) when first reviewing and assessing the script, just in case if there is anything you’re not familiar with or used to and will need to ask about / confirm with the director.
Cool Anime Show Name #431 – Timed Script
“Individual Episode Title Here”
- TEXT = Indicates to talent (and others referring to the script) that there will be text shown on screen at this particular timecode, and the actual text is often shown in the dialog cell.
- This might also be used for CAPTION or NOTE or MESSAGE – or similar notices, especially in situations where the ADR dialogue is shown on screen, etc.