Optimizing Montage Usage in Screenwriting: Practical Considerations and Examples

When crafting a screenplay, the strategic use of montage sequences can be a powerful tool to enhance visual storytelling, convey character development, and move the narrative forward. However, determining the right number and placement of montages is a nuanced process that requires careful consideration of several factors, including the purpose of the montage, genre, tone, and overall story flow.

Purpose of Montage Sequences

Montages are often employed in screenwriting to compress time, showcase character development, or illustrate a series of events succinctly. A montage can be a highly effective way to condense a significant amount of information or action, making it a valuable tool in the screenwriter's arsenal. For example, in the film Maria Antoinette, a montage is used to quickly depict the lavish partying and social activities of the titular character, giving viewers a clear and engaging glimpse into her lifestyle without burdening the narrative with lengthy scenes.

Genre and Tone

The frequency and use of montages can vary greatly depending on the genre and the desired tone of the film. Certain genres, such as musicals and comedies, may benefit from more frequent montages as they can provide a dynamic and energetic feel to the narrative. In contrast, dramas often rely on montages more sparingly, using them to enhance character arcs and reveal deep emotional journeys over time.

Length of the Screenplay

A feature-length screenplay typically spans around 90-120 pages, which provides a broad range for various narrative pacing styles. When it comes to montages, it’s generally a good rule of thumb to limit their use to a few well-placed sequences that enhance the story rather than overwhelm it. Overusing montages can result in a disjointed or cluttered narrative, while underusing them might miss opportunities for storytelling.

Flow of the Story

For a montage to fit seamlessly into the overall flow of the story, it must align with the pacing and dynamics of the narrative. Too many montages can disrupt the pacing, leading to a disjointed viewing experience. Conversely, too few montages might result in a slower and less dynamic narrative, losing some of the narrative’s potential. The key is to use montages at crucial points that provide necessary information or emotional arcs without interrupting the overall flow.

Rocky Example: Training Montage Sequence

A prime example of the effective use of montage sequences is the training montage in the iconic film Rocky. This sequence is a perfect balance of brevity and impact, covering a substantial portion of Rocky’s training regimen in a concise and thrilling manner. If each training session and location were given an entire scene, the narrative would become tedious and lose its energy. The training montage allows the audience to experience the intensity and dedication of Rocky’s preparation without getting bogged down in unnecessary detail.

Using “Montage Editing” Correctly

It’s important to note that the term “montage sequence” should be used to describe these extended, visual sketched portions of a film. In contrast, “montage editing” refers to a specific style of editing that was pioneered by Russian filmmaker Sergei Eisenstein, known as “collision editing.” This technique involves a rapid succession of clips that, when juxtaposed, evoke complex meanings or emotions. While both terms are related, they describe different elements of filmmaking and editing.

Situational Appropriateness

The use of montages in a screenplay should be determined by their necessity and impact. They are a tool to enhance the story, not to force them into a narrative because they seem like a good idea. For instance, including a montaging of a character’s daily routine in a sit-com might work perfectly, but in a drama, it might come across as intrusive and out of place. The key is to use montages where they serve a specific purpose and add to the overall narrative, rather than as a one-size-fits-all solution.

Ultimately, the number of montages in a screenplay is not set in stone. Quality and relevance are more important than quantity. A few impactful montages are often more effective than many that feel forced or don’t enhance the overall story.