3 Must-Read Screenplays to Improve Your Writing
A great way to get more comfortable with your own writing is by reading the work of others. With so many scripts out there, it’s hard to decide where to start. Instead of having to sift through hundreds of scripts, here are 3 scripts to dive into first.
These screenplays will give you a strong foundation in effective storytelling, helping you recognize what style speaks to you. Once you’ve finished reading each script, I recommend watching the movie to see how it translates to the screen!
Back to the Future (1985)
Written by Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale
A Brief Synopsis:
Using a time machine made by his friend Doc Brown, Marty McFly gets stuck in the 1950s when his parents were in high school. He must find a way back to his time, the 1980s, and ensure his parents fall in love.
Writing Takeaway: Story Structure
This screenplay is a prime example of how to structure a story. It hits each plot point at a steady pace that keeps the audience engaged by utilizing the three-act structure. The first act establishes the everyday life of Marty, his family, and Doc. This information lends itself to the second act where the pieces start to come together. With two timelines to be considered, the stakes become easily apparent. Choices made in the 50s will have a significant impact on the reality of the 80s. If Marty fails, he will cease to exist.
You can access the full screenplay here.
Lost In Translation (2003)
written by Sofia Coppola
A Brief Synopsis:
In Tokyo for her husband’s job as a celebrity photographer, Charlotte feels isolated in the big city. She befriends Bob, a jaded actor staying at the same hotel. They connect over their feelings of loneliness. While exploring the city together, they find comfort and a sense of understanding in the company of one another.
Writing Takeaway: Creating Atmosphere with Action Descriptions
Coppola uses her action and setting descriptions to establish a space and atmosphere the reader can envision from the page. By utilizing small and quiet moments, she creates an overall feeling to connect to. With quietness used to set a melancholic tone, we feel the loneliness Charlotte feels in the bustling city. Coppola’s descriptions help you get inside the heads of the main characters. Charlotte and Bob’s body language is just as significant as their dialogue. They have an understanding of each other that does not always need to be expressed with words. Sometimes characters just need to sit with their thoughts.
You can access the full screenplay here.
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Written by Nora Ephron
A Brief Synopsis:
Harry and Sally first meet in college. After graduating, they take a road trip to New York together. On this trip, they argue over whether men and women can actually be friends. Ten years later, after both going through breakups, they run into each other and form a close friendship that is tested by the possibility of romantic feelings for one another.
Writing Takeaway: Characters & Relationship Development
Ephron has a clear idea of who her characters are. She lets them make mistakes while also respecting them enough to know their flaws don't completely define them. Harry and Sally are not perfect people, and that makes them relatable characters. They have hang-ups and problems everyday people experience. This often comes through in their sharp and witty dialogue. Their banter is used to reveal who they are and the way they look at the world. Even when they dislike each other, this banter displays the chemistry between them. Their dynamic makes their eventual friendship and romantic relationship feel earned rather than forced. They don't switch from hating each other to suddenly being madly in love. They go from mere acquaintances, to friends, to more. With the story spanning over a decade, they are given the time and space to grow as individuals and as a pair.
You can access the full screenplay here.
