What does the parenthetical format indicate in a screenplay?

In a screenplay, the parenthetical format is used primarily to provide specific instructions for actors regarding how they should deliver a line of dialogue. This can include emotional tone, volume, or a particular action that should accompany the spoken words, all intended to enhance the performance and ensure that the actor conveys the intended meaning of the scene. By indicating how a line should be delivered, the parenthetical helps create more nuanced performances that align closely with the vision of the scriptwriter.

In contrast, the other options address different elements of screenplay writing. Subtext is conveyed through dialogue and the interactions between characters, rather than through parentheticals. Character thoughts and feelings are typically implied through the action and dialogue rather than stated directly in parentheticals. Lastly, settings of the scene are described in the action or scene heading, not within parentheses. Each of these aspects plays a distinct role in storytelling, but the parenthetical format specifically pertains to actor direction.