ABSTRACT
This chapter distinguishes a dramatic scene from other scenes. An important difference is that in a dramatic scene one character always has a strong want that the other character or characters in the scene are opposed to. Much of the action in such a scene is usually contained in dialogue, though there are exceptions, and much of the character's reactions are psychological. Therefore it is important that the articulation of action in these scenes makes the interior life of the characters available to the audience. A proper organization and articulation of a dramatic scene will not merely make it more interesting, also more importantly, it will assure that the psychology of each moment is made available to the audience. The chapter presents Dramatic Elements in Alfred Hitchcock's Notorious Patio Scene. It is a clear, unambiguous example of a dramatic scene, rendered by a master director whose methodical preparation before shooting is reflected in his staging, camera, and editing.
