Script / Screenplay Writing: Adding Facts to Fiction

When script /screenplay writers create a story they tend to write on topics that interest them. Sometimes they may attempt to write on topics that are uncommon knowledge to the general public. For such topics if a writer includes too much academics facts trying to explain some scientific phenomenon or legal procedure, the reader can get board. They will skip the lengthy descriptions to get to the interesting parts. So how can a writer include facts in a script/screenplay without overwhelming the reader?

Assume the reader's lack of knowledge.
When a story topic is difficult and uncommon, assume your readers have little or no knowledge. Do not show off what you know, and do not use technical jargon. You are writing a script, not a master's thesis.

When writing the script put yourself in the place of an agent, producer, or the movie's audience. If your script is a science fiction story, for instance, would agents, producers, or the audience be interested in the meticulous details of how a scientist used genetic engineering to created a super human mutant soldier for the government? Would they start yawning as the scientist explains his research in detail using scientific terms?

Of course they would. The facts should be watered down and condensed for a lay person's understanding. The facts are just needed to add seasoning to the narrative. The reader and movie audience cares about the characters and the plot, not subject matter, time period, or location. The reader and viewing audience wants to learn new things, but remember that the script is a story. Your purpose as a writer is to entertain.

Use secondary sources.
Sometimes a subject that a writer is attempting to write about is out of his or her expertise. To get a better understanding on the subject the writer should do research and preform interviews. Consult an expert, such as doctors, lawyers, or professors. Do not put the information from these experts into the story. Instead, study the information carefully and use it to develop and organize the story. Use information creatively not academically. The research is for the writer, not the reader and viewing audience.

Be believable.
Although a story may be fiction, the script reader and the viewing audience expect the writer to be as accurate as possible. There are always people out there with the knowledge of a historical incident, a town, or a culture. If the script's story is a true story, it is best to stick to the facts. However, if the story is pure fiction, the writer is free twist and turn the facts anyway he or she wants in order to make the story believable.

Using actual factual knowledge can enhance a fictitious story and give it a realistic feel. However, when writing your script do not bog the story with boring facts.