Dear Stage 32 Community, I'm currently reading The Tools of Screenwriting by David Howard and Edward Mabley and really enjoying the way they break down classic films. I find script analysis incredibly useful for a beginner screenwriter. What are your thoughts on this approach? What resources (books, articles, etc.) would you recommend for deep script analysis?
Screenwriting : Any Must-Read Resources for Deep Dive Script Analysis? by Anush Har
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Hi, Anush Har. You're right. Script analysis is incredibly useful for new beginner screenwriters! I didn't read and analyze scripts when I was a new writer, and it was a big mistake.
Stage 32 has a Coverage Report every Monday in the Writers' Room. WR members read a member's script and write feedback on the script before the Coverage Report, then everyone gives their feedback during the Coverage Report. You can get your first month of the Writers' Room for free (www.stage32.com/writers-room/plans-vip).
And here are some script breakdown webinars: www.stage32.com/education/search?term=breaking%20down
I like watching those videos that show the scripts and scenes at the same time. I get to see what made it onto the screen and what didn't. Like this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxjBLpQjgUo&list=PLxtbRuSKCCyu4oRuZFrsj1...
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Maurice Vaughan Thank you so much for your thoughtful response and for sharing those resources. I will definitely take a closer look at the materials you provided.
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You're welcome, Anush Har.
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I personally love to read screenplays either from my favorite movies (if I can get my hands on them) or those that are from the same genre as my work in progress. Analyzing other scripts helps me to see my own work in a new light and helps me to learn and improve. Maybe Maurice Vaughan still has the link of the Oscars screenplays that were posted here some time ago? I'm still working with them. It's a nice resource.
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Hi, Lucy Addams. Here's the link: https://mailchi.mp/stage32/oscarscripts I'm not sure if you'll be able to download the scripts now or not. You can try though.
You can also download scripts on Stage 32 (www.stage32.com/loglines) and here: www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/10-great-websites-download-movie-scripts
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Will always recommend The Hero With A Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell/ Start by learning about Dan Harmon's Story Circle (since its a simplified version of this) and then dive in. I'd also look on youtube for Kurt Vonnegut's talk on "The Shape of Stories" for a different take on character journey.
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Save The Cat!
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Lucy Addams That makes a lot of sense! Reading scripts, especially from favorite movies or within the same genre, seems like a great way to absorb structure and pacing.
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Ewan Dunbar Great recommendations! I’ve read The Hero With a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell, and it was a game-changer for me—it really shifted how I see storytelling. But Kurt Vonnegut’s take on The Shape of Stories is new to me—definitely going to explore that. Thanks for the tip!
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Mark Deuce I really like Save the Cat! It breaks down storytelling in such a clear and practical way. Definitely one of the most useful resources I've come across.
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It changed my life in regards to my writing for sure Anush Har
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"Story Development" class (you can download) by John Truby. (Yes, I know you said must-read!)
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Lindbergh E Hollingsworth Thank you very much for your advice! I've never heard of John Truby's masterclasses. After your advice, I searched on Google and found some interesting videos. My attention was drawn to two resources in particular: The Anatomy of Story and Top 25 Screenwriting Lessons. Saved them to watch on the weekend.