This chapter delves into the nuanced portrayal of character culpability and societal responsibility in films through a discussion based on the adaptation of true stories like the Boston Globe's investigation depicted in 'Spotlight'. It emphasizes the importance of internal conflict, character depth, and moral dilemmas for engaging narratives, contrasting it with external conflict. The conversation confronts the challenges of presenting characters with evolving empathy and the choices they must make in navigating complex societal issues.
Before Charles Randolph won an Oscar for writing “The Big Short,” he adapted a memoir called “The Birthday Party”: the true story of a white man kidnapped by three young Black men. Is there a way to bring a story like that to screen, in a way that's honest and authentic? Randolph gives us a masterclass on a screenwriter's many minefields.
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