Write for a phone screen
Messages need to be shorter than ordinary dialogue because the audience must read them quickly. Put the key reveal in a separate bubble and remove lines that do not move the scene forward.
Check how many bubbles remain visible after the final crop.
Create a fictional contact
Use an invented name, avatar and context. Avoid copying a real person’s photo, phone number or private conversation. If a real participant has authorized the scene, keep that permission with the project records.
The contact details should match any profile or call screen used elsewhere in the production.
Stage and record the interaction
Decide whether the audience sees a static exchange, incoming messages or typing. Time the sequence so the performer and editor have room to react.
- Test text size on the final device
- Leave recording handles before and after messages
- Disable real notifications
- Keep the fictional context clear
Make it readable, not incriminating
A fictional message scene should support storytelling. It should never be used to fabricate a real person’s words or create false evidence.