Production: Read Through

 Zunairah and I tried to finalize our script because we need for production. While we consider this version close to final, we still view it as a working document. At this stage, the script needed to be tested aloud; That is why we did a read through with our actors. This step was important because hearing the dialogue performed helps reveal pacing issues, awkward lines, and moments that may not translate well on screen.

Preparing the Final Rough Draft

Before the read-through, we finalized what we consider our final rough draft of the script. However, we did not print out physical copies. On the day we met, there was a weather warning for rain, and we did not want to risk printed scripts getting wet or damaged. Instead, we kept the script as an online document.

We shared the script with our actors through our media studies project group chat, which allowed everyone to access it easily. Even without printed copies, this worked well because our actors were still able to read the script in advance and come prepared to the read-through. Keeping the script digital also made it easier for us to make quick edits and updates if needed.

Sharing it ahead of time ensured that everyone had a clear understanding of the story, their characters, and the overall flow of the script before reading it together. This preparation helped make the read-through more productive and focused.

Differences from Rough Drafts

During the process of refining our script, Zunairah and I made a few key changes to improve character development and make certain scenes feel more natural on screen. One major addition was an alternative opening sequence. Instead of starting immediately with Audrey running, we introduced a slow montage of her morning routine. This sequence shows her preparing for the day, making snacks, and getting ready for her birthday run. By giving the audience a glimpse into her daily life, Audrey becomes more relatable and likeable. It softens her initial attitude and helps viewers connect with her as a character before she enters the competitive, energetic part of the story.

We also adjusted the fight scene involving the ball. In the original rough draft, Audrey and Mattias were going to physically struggle over the ball with their hands. After discussing it, we realized this could look awkward and stiff on screen. Instead, we rewrote the scene so they interact with the ball using their feet, kicking it toward each other. This change not only made the physical comedy more dynamic but also allowed them to naturally trip and collide in a way that feels playful and realistic. These adjustments help the scene maintain energy and humor while keeping the characters’ interactions believable.

Nearly Finalized Script:

Conducting the Read-Through

For the read-through, we decided to sit in a circle and read the script together as a group. This felt like the most natural choice for us because we are all part of the drama program, and this is exactly how we are used to doing read-throughs. When cast lists are released in drama, we typically sit in a circle and read the script aloud together, so committing to this format felt familiar and comfortable rather than forced or awkward.

Because we were already used to this type of exercise, the read-through felt productive and engaging. Everyone stayed focused, and it allowed us to listen closely to how the dialogue sounded out loud. Hearing the lines spoken helped us understand the pacing of scenes and how naturally the interactions flowed. This setup also encouraged collaboration, since it created an open environment where everyone felt comfortable sharing thoughts as the read-through progressed.

After completing the read-through, we took time to go through parts of the script that could be confusing or unclear when read aloud. Not everything in the stage directions or descriptions translates perfectly just from the words on the page, so it was important to explain our ideas thoroughly to the actors. This helped them understand how each moment should feel, what the characters were thinking, and how their actions should connect to the story.

For example. one important detail we discussed during planning was how the soccer ball would physically interact with Audrey and Matthias. In the scene, a random kid kicks the ball toward them, and it accidentally hits them during their encounter. We wanted to make sure this moment felt natural and fun rather than staged or awkward. Part of the planning involved deciding how the ball would leave the frame after the collision.

This discussion ensured that the actors could perform each scene confidently and authentically. By walking them through the details and reasoning behind each action, we gave them the context they needed to bring the characters to life. It also reinforced the collaborative nature of production, showing that scripts are not just words but a blueprint for performance that benefits from teamwork and shared understanding.

Inviting Actor Feedback and Taking Critique

After the read-through, we made space for feedback and open discussion. Even though this was our final rough draft, we wanted our actors to be honest about what worked and what did not. Because they are the ones performing the script, their critiques helped us see the story from a new perspective.

One major piece of feedback we took seriously involved Audrey’s voiceovers in the opening section. During the read-through, we realized that there were moments where Audrey was explaining things that were already clear through her actions. For example, while she is at home preparing healthy food and making smoothies, the voiceover explains exactly what she is doing. This felt unnecessary and overly explanatory. Instead of trusting the audience to understand her routine, the script was telling them too much. Based on this critique, we decided to reduce the amount of voiceover so that Audrey’s dedication and discipline can be shown visually rather than verbally.

Another area we discussed was Matthias’ introduction. While his personality came through, we felt there was room to make him more cocky and confident during his first interaction with Audrey. Strengthening this aspect of his character helps establish the rivalry more clearly and creates a stronger contrast between him and Audrey right from the beginning.

Taking in these critiques helped us understand that refining a script is not about adding more, but about choosing what to remove or emphasize. Listening to feedback allowed us to make the script more natural, character-driven, and visually engaging. This process reinforced how important collaboration is in filmmaking and showed us how constructive criticism can directly improve the quality of our story.

After completing the read-through, we are now in a better position to make final adjustments to the script. Any changes moving forward will be intentional and based on real feedback rather than assumptions. This step gave us confidence in our story while also reminding us that improvement is always possible.

Overall, finalizing our rough draft and completing a full read-through was a crucial milestone in our production process. It allowed us to test our ideas, refine our script, and prepare for filming with a clearer vision of how the story will come to life on screen.

Some parts we want to refine: