I think it's 100% necessary to read screenplays to become a better writer. Lord knows you're not getting anywhere writing your scripts in Microsoft Word. So here are 6 awesome screenplays that you can read that will totally make you a better writer:
6) Juno by Diablo Cody
She made it to the top of the black list with this sucker, jumpstarted a writing career AND got an academy award. It's a fantastic script that illustrates how important the voice of the writer is. It's unique and a fun read that should be studied by the aspiring writer of any age.
Also, its' a damn good movie.
5) 500 Days of Summer by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber
Again, this script really nails a unique voice these writers have become known for. A few years back I had the chance to read one of their unproduced scripts like Underage (which sold for a boat) and it was quite good as well. There is plenty of white space on these pages and the characters really do bounce to life with their excellent dialogue. So don't delay, read this one today!
4) Changeling by J. Michael Straczynski
J Michael has been around for a little bit, but this breakthrough script is killer on the feels. I think this is the first script I ever teared up in whilst reading a scene that ENDED UP BEING CUT FROM THE FREAKING PICTURE (spoiler page 134-135). I still look back fondly on this script and highly recommend it as a learning device to how to really write an excellent spec over 120 pages.
3) Toy Story - by many people
Aside from being a wonderful film that bridged traditional animation with CGI, Toy Story is a perfectly structured story. Paul Gulino talks a lot about this script in his most excellent book (that comes HIGHLY recommended, believe you me) and I think that when you step back and take a look at it, you'll see too why this script is a masterwork of storytelling.
2) Lethal Weapon by Shane Black
There's a reason why this script is legendary. A young Shane Black in his early 20's has made a career out of writing fun screenplays and has a niche for making huge sales in the spec market. There's a reason for this. It wasn't because he was "lucky" or because he had a great connection. It's because at the end of the day, the man understands story, character and structure. If you don't believe, read the script that started it all.
1) The Dark Knight by Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan and David S. Goyer
This movie is amazing. The script is pretty much exactly the same as the film, so it's a good one to follow along with as well. This film is definitely the high point in the most recent Batman trilogy and there are many reasons for that. Reasons like great casting, great directing, great music and amazing performances across the board. At the end of the day though, it comes right back to the script. And this script rocks. You'll devour it. You will not be able to stop turning pages. Oh my yes. It's genius.
That's all for now. Read these and be on your way to writing great films.
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