Screenwriting Advice You’ll Actually Use with John August
May 20, 2024
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John August, screenwriter of Charlie’s Angels and Big Fish, shares practical advice on crafting authentic stories, compelling endings, and navigating the screenwriting industry. The conversation delves into the nuances of conflict dynamics, AI in screenwriting, and writing discipline. Special mentions of Aura Frames and Helix Sleep sponsorships, along with a spotlight on Miri's List for refugee families.
Consistent writing discipline is crucial for script quality and progress.
Clear guidelines needed to protect writers from AI-generated content in screenwriting.
Focus on crafting engaging scenes to captivate audience and enhance storytelling.
Deep dives
Writing Discipline and Process
John emphasizes the importance of maintaining discipline in writing by highlighting the necessity of putting in consistent effort through regular writing. He stresses the significance of writing the best version of each scene to ensure quality output. By sharing his experience with disciplined writing, John underscores the importance of consistent practice and focusing on the details to enhance the overall script.
AI in Screenwriting
John delves into the complexities surrounding AI-generated content in screenwriting, emphasizing the need to establish clear guidelines and protections for writers in the face of advancing technology. He elaborates on the challenges faced during negotiations to define AI's role in the creative process to safeguard writers' rights and creative ownership. John's insights shed light on the evolving landscape of screenwriting in the digital age and the importance of writer protections against AI-generated content.
Creating Delightful Scenes
John advocates for writing scenes that are delightful and engaging, emphasizing the importance of captivating each moment for the audience's experience. He encourages writers to focus on crafting scenes that resonate and hold interest by prioritizing quality and effectiveness in every scene. By underlining the significance of scene quality, John highlights the impact of engaging storytelling on audience immersion and enjoyment.
Consistent Writing Habits
Discussing the parallels between training for a half-marathon and writing, John accentuates the necessity of putting in the 'miles' through consistent writing habits. He draws a comparison between the discipline required in running and writing to underscore the value of regular practice and dedication in achieving creative goals. John's insights underscore the importance of consistent effort and commitment in the creative process to enhance productivity and output.
Contributing to Refugees' Well-Being
John highlights Miri's List, an organization aiding refugee families in the US, as a valuable cause worth supporting. By sharing the organization's efforts to assist newly settled refugee families with essential resources, John promotes community support and compassion towards vulnerable populations. Miri's List exemplifies the impact of community-driven initiatives in fostering inclusivity and providing critical assistance to marginalized groups for their successful integration.
For this very special episode of Working It out, Mike welcomes John August, the screenwriter behind Charlie’s Angels with Drew Barrymore, Tim Burton’s Big Fish, and his breakthrough film Go, which is celebrating its 25 year anniversary. John co-hosts the screenwriting podcast Scriptnotes with Craig Mazin (The Last of Us), which is not only Mike’s favorite screenwriting podcast, but his favorite podcast about the creative process (not counting Working It Out). John shares direct, practical screenwriting advice that you’ll actually use, whether you’re an aspiring screenwriter or you want to pursue creative work of any kind.
