How do you write a text message in a comic book script?

Do you mean how do you write it into the script, or how best do you present it on the comics page?

In a script, you could simply write an indication that someone has received a text message and then the content of the message that you want shown.

DAVE receives a text message from ARNOLD.

TEXT: FANCY A QUICK PINT?

If you’re talking about creative ways to present it (other than just showing the screen of the phone/device with the message on it), I always used to like the way Sherlock did it, with text of the message overlaid on-screen. That would work for a comic too.

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JRCarter

Dave wrote:

ou’re talking about creative ways to present it (other than just showing the screen of the phone/device with the message on it), I always used to like the way Sherlock did it, with text of the message overlaid on-screen. That would work for a comic too.

True – it is important to note in the script if the actual image or shot is the face of the person receiving the text or an actual shot of the text on the phone leaving some anticipation for the reaction shot.

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JRCarter

PAGE TEN

PANEL 01 – EXT. WINE SHOP

DAVE leaves the shop carrying a bag in one hand and has his smartphone in the other. He’s sending a text.

TEXT (overlay on panel): GOT THE WNE, BABE. MEET 6 AT THE FLAT. SANDRA OUT OF TWON ALL WKEND.

PANEL 02 – EXT. STREET

Moments later, Dave has his keys in his hand and pops the hood of his trunk.

PANEL 03 – EXT. CAR

Dave puts the wine in his car and he hears a text beep in his pocket.

SFX: Ba-DINK!

PANEL 04 – MEDIUM SHOT: DAVE

Dave pulls his phone out. His keys dangle from his index finger.

PANEL 05 – CLOSE SHOT: DAVE

Dave’s eyes go wide, mouth open, when he reads the text (edge of phone in foreground)

PANEL 06 – CLOSE ON SMARTPHONE

A shot of the phone screen and the text. The contact is labeled WIFE and we can read the response to the text Dave just sent.

The Text Graphics on phone screen say “THIS IS SANDRA, YOU SHIT!” (Note: “shit” is represented by the poop emoji).

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Todd, JRCarter

DavidM wrote:

I hope Sandra roasts him for his terrible spelling.

Calm down Ruinous Dave.

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JRCarter, Todd