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The Importance of Colored Pages in Film and Television Production

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  • The Importance of Colored Pages in Film and Television Production

The Rainbow Road of Filmmaking: Why Colored Pages Matter

In the chaotic world of film and television production, keeping track of script changes is crucial. One of the most effective methods for managing these changes is the use of colored pages. This system, while seemingly simple, plays a vital role in ensuring that everyone on set is literally on the same page. As a producer, I can attest to the transformative power of this color-coded system. 

So, what’s the deal with these technicolor pages?

The Role of Colored Pages

Colored pages are used to track revisions in a script once it has entered the production phase. Unlike spec screenplays or those in development, which remain on white paper, shooting scripts undergo numerous changes that need to be meticulously documented. Each time a revision is made, the changes are printed on a different colored paper, allowing everyone to quickly identify the most current version of the script.

This system is not just about aesthetics; it’s about efficiency and clarity. Imagine a bustling film set with dozens of crew members, each with their own copy of the script. Without a clear way to identify the latest changes, chaos would ensue. Colored pages provide a visual cue that ensures everyone is working from the same script, reducing the risk of errors and miscommunication.

The Significance of Each Color

The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has established a standard order for script revision colors, which most productions follow. Here’s a breakdown of what each color represents:

  • White: The original, unrevised script.
  • Blue: The first set of revisions.
  • Pink: The second set of revisions.
  • Yellow: The third set of revisions.
  • Green: The fourth set of revisions.
  • Goldenrod: The fifth set of revisions.
  • Buff: The sixth set of revisions.
  • Salmon: The seventh set of revisions.
  • Cherry: The eighth set of revisions.

After cherry, the sequence starts over with second blue, second pink, and so on.

Each color signifies a new layer of changes, making it easy to track the evolution of the script. For example, if a crew member is holding a pink page, they know it’s the second revision and can cross-reference it with the title page, which lists all the revision dates and colors in order.

Historical Context

The use of colored pages dates back to the early days of Hollywood. Before the advent of digital tools, scripts were manually typed and photocopied. Each time a change was made, it was more economical to print only the revised pages rather than the entire script. Colored paper made it easy to identify and distribute these changes.

This system became standardized over time, with the WGA establishing the order of colors to ensure consistency across productions. While the specific colors and their order can vary slightly between productions, the underlying principle remains the same: to provide a clear, visual method for tracking script changes.

Practical Benefits on Set

The practical benefits of using colored pages are manifold:

  • Efficiency: Crew members can quickly identify the latest changes without sifting through the entire script. This is particularly useful for departments like props, costumes, and set design, which need to stay updated on even the smallest changes.
  • Clarity: With colored pages, there’s no ambiguity about which version of the script is current. This reduces the risk of mistakes and ensures that everyone is working from the same playbook.
  • Cost-Effective: Printing only the revised pages saves on photocopying expenses and reduces waste. In an industry where budgets can be tight, this is a significant advantage.
  • Historical Record: The sequence of colored pages provides a historical record of the script’s evolution. This can be invaluable for post-production, legal purposes, and even for future reference.

The Script Supervisor’s Perspective

As a script supervisor, the use of colored pages is a lifesaver. Their job is to ensure continuity and accuracy, and colored pages are an essential tool in the arsenal. Each day, they update their script with the latest revisions, noting the color and date of each change. This meticulous record-keeping ensures that they can track every alteration and maintain continuity throughout the production.

Moreover, colored pages help the script department communicate effectively with other departments. When a new revision is issued, they can quickly inform the relevant teams and ensure they have the updated pages. This streamlined communication is crucial for maintaining the smooth operation of a film set.

The Producer’s Perspective

From a producer’s standpoint, colored pages are equally important. They provide a clear overview of the script’s development and help manage the logistics of production. By keeping track of revisions, producers can ensure that the budget and schedule are aligned with the latest version of the script.

Colored pages also facilitate better decision-making. For instance, if a significant change is made to a scene, the producer can assess the impact on the production schedule and make necessary adjustments. This proactive approach helps avoid delays and keeps the production on track.

Embracing Technology

While the traditional method of using colored paper is still prevalent, digital tools have also made their mark. Software like StudioBinder allows for electronic tracking of script revisions, automatically assigning colors to new versions and making it easy to distribute updates digitally.

These digital tools offer additional benefits, such as the ability to revert to previous versions and track changes more comprehensively. However, the fundamental principle remains the same: using color to provide clarity and organization.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

The use of colored pages in film and television production is a time-tested method that offers numerous benefits. It ensures efficiency, clarity, and cost-effectiveness, all of which are crucial for the smooth operation of a film set. For script supervisors, producers, and other crew members, colored pages are an indispensable tool that helps keep everyone on the same page.

Now, some might argue that in this age of iPads and cloud computing, colored pages are as outdated as a flip phone. And sure, there are fancy digital tools that can track changes with the click of a mouse. But, there’s something viscerally satisfying about flipping through a rainbow-colored script. It’s tangible proof of the creative process, each hue a battle scar from the war of words. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a film student just starting out, understanding the importance of colored pages will give you a deeper appreciation for the meticulous planning and coordination that goes into every production. 

So the next time you’re watching your favorite show or sitting in a darkened movie theater, spare a thought for the humble colored page. It might not have its name in lights, but without it, Hollywood would be a lot less colorful.

And remember, in the world of film and TV, if you’re not seeing colors, you’re not really in the game. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a pink page to attend to. Looks like that bluejay just became a flamingo.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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