The Andrew Klavan Show Do These Writers Deserve As Much Praise As They Get?
Aug 28, 2025
The podcast dives into the often overlooked world of screenwriters, highlighting icons like Aaron Sorkin and Quentin Tarantino. A thoughtful critique reveals who truly deserves acclaim and who might be overrated. The discussion also touches on the lasting impact of writers like Woody Allen and Charlie Kaufman, considering their unique styles and contributions. Listeners are treated to a seamless blend of film critique, humor, and a light-hearted segue into the benefits of sleep with a cozy mattress ad.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Director Is The Primary Creative Force
- Andrew Klavan asserts film is primarily a director's medium and that direction can redeem weak screenplays.
- He uses Seven as an example where direction made an otherwise poor script into a great movie.
Sorkin: Talented But Shallow, Says Klavan
- Klavan praises Aaron Sorkin's talent while criticizing his perceived ideological shallowness and character framing.
- He concludes Sorkin is entertaining but overrated relative to how some view him.
William Goldman As A True Great
- Klavan calls William Goldman truly great for landmark screenplays and unseen 'doctoring' work behind many films.
- He highlights Butch Cassidy, Marathon Man, and The Princess Bride as evidence.
