Exposition
Exposition is a storytelling technique used in scripts, screenplays, and other narrative works to provide important background information to the audience. Think of it as the way writers cleverly introduce key details about characters, settings, or past events without making it feel forced. Rather than having characters directly tell the story, good exposition weaves this information naturally through dialogue, actions, or visual elements. When reviewing resumes in the entertainment industry, this term shows that a writer understands how to effectively share necessary information with viewers or readers.
Examples in Resumes
Crafted natural exposition in pilot episode that established complex character backgrounds
Rewrote scene exposition to show character motivation through action rather than dialogue
Developed creative exposition techniques for revealing plot twists in mystery series
Typical job title: "Screenwriters"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Screenwriters
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle exposition in a script that has a complex backstory without relying on dialogue?
Expected Answer: A senior writer should discuss various techniques like visual storytelling, character actions, environmental details, and strategic placement of information throughout the script. They should provide examples of successful exposition in well-known works.
Q: How do you balance the need for exposition with maintaining audience engagement?
Expected Answer: The answer should cover pacing strategies, knowing when to reveal information, and how to make exposition serve multiple purposes in the story while keeping viewers interested.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are some common exposition mistakes you've learned to avoid?
Expected Answer: Should discuss issues like information dumping, obvious dialogue, redundant information, and how they've learned to fix these problems in their writing.
Q: How do you determine what background information is essential to include in your script?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for deciding what information audiences need to know versus what can be left out, and how they make these decisions based on story requirements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is exposition and why is it important in screenwriting?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that exposition is how background information is shared with the audience and why it's crucial for understanding the story and characters.
Q: Can you give examples of different ways to deliver exposition?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic techniques like dialogue, visual cues, character actions, and perhaps reference examples from well-known movies or TV shows.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of exposition techniques
- Ability to write clear character introductions
- Understanding of show vs. tell principle
- Basic script formatting
Mid (2-5 years)
- Natural dialogue writing
- Strategic information placement
- Character development through action
- Scene structure and pacing
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced exposition techniques
- Complex narrative development
- Script supervision and revision
- Mentoring other writers
Red Flags to Watch For
- Heavy reliance on dialogue for exposition
- Information dumping in opening scenes
- Inability to naturally weave background information into story
- Lack of understanding about pacing and timing of reveals
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Refining Job Descriptions to Expand Applicant Pools: Casting a Wider Talent Net
Speak Their Language: How Localized Job Descriptions Unlock Regional Talent
From Farewells to Future Allies: Transforming Exit Interviews into Lifelong Connections
