Screen Direction
Screen direction is the direction a character is facing as they interact with other people or objects within a shot.
Maintaining screen direction is a major factor in preserving the illusion of continuity. However, it can be disrupted if we accidentally place the camera in the wrong position while shooting coverage.
Look at the following shots placed side by side.
The person on the left looks right, while the person on the right looks left. They appear to be looking at each other.
Now look at the following shots.
Are they confusing? Where has the camera been placed to create this situation?
Both people face the same direction, and they no longer appear to be looking at each other.
So, how do we avoid issues of screen direction?
The 180° rule, also known as the axis of action or “the line,” helps maintain screen direction. It is established by drawing an invisible line between the two interacting characters. We then choose which side of the line we will shoot from.
If you want to maintain a sense of “real” space and geography, shoot from only one side of the line.
It is possible to “cross the line” without confusing the audience as to screen direction. However, we can only do that in the following three ways:
- During the shot, establish a new line by having characters cross the line to create a new one.
- During the shot, move the camera in an uninterrupted movement across the line to create a new one.
- Place the camera directly on the line, thereby neutralizing it. In the subsequent shot, place the camera in any position to establish a new line.
Click through the options to see how.
