The Core Function
A parenthetical, sometimes called a ‘wryly,’ is a small note from the screenwriter to the actor and director. Its purpose is to clarify the delivery of a line of dialogue when the intended meaning is not obvious from the context of the scene. It can suggest a tone of voice, an emotion, or a small, simultaneous physical action.
Standard Industry Formatting
A parenthetical is placed in parentheses on its own line, situated between the character’s name and their dialogue. It has a slightly more narrow margin than the dialogue block itself.
MARTHA
(sarcastically)
I can't wait.
DAVID
(to himself)
This is never going to work.Best Practices and Common Mistakes
The most important rule of parentheticals is to use them as sparingly as possible. Overusing them is one of the clearest signs of an amateur screenplay.
- Use Only When Necessary: If a line like “Get out of my house” is delivered in a tense scene, you do not need to add
(angrily). The context should make the emotion clear. Only use a parenthetical when a line could be interpreted in multiple ways and the specific subtext is crucial. - Keep Them Brief: A parenthetical should be just one or two words. If you need a full sentence to describe the action, it belongs in the action lines, not in a parenthetical.
- Don’t Direct the Actor: Avoid telling the actor how to act. Parentheticals should be suggestions of intent or subtext, not line readings. The actor’s job is to interpret the character.
Why It Matters
When used correctly and sparingly, a parenthetical can be a powerful tool to clarify a moment of subtext or irony. However, when overused, it clutters the screenplay, slows down the read, and can be perceived as insulting to the intelligence of the actors and the director, who are hired for their ability to interpret a script. A professional screenwriter trusts their collaborators and lets the scene’s context do the heavy lifting.