Scriptnotes Podcast

Join Pamela Ribon, a talented writer known for her work on hits like Nimona and Moana, along with Anthony Sparks, an accomplished showrunner from Queen Sugar and Bel-Air. They dive into the intricate dynamics of character relationships and their central role in storytelling. The duo shares insights on how to navigate career transitions in writing and the art of teaching. Questions from the audience lead to discussions about overcoming writer's block, the ethics of AI in writing, and the delicate balance between exposition and character engagement.

This week, John and Craig dive into three captivating stories of deception and rivalry. They discuss a flamboyant grifter with a penchant for showbiz, the fierce sibling rivalry of LA billboard queens, and the absurdity of American students scammed into a fake Oxford college. The duo also tackles the rise of AI in Hollywood and how it might affect writers. Plus, they share tips for staying connected to your favorite shows while traveling. Tune in for a mix of drama, comedy potential, and expert advice!

Nora Garrett, a writer and actress, reveals the inspiring journey of her first feature screenplay, After the Hunt, which caught the attention of director Luca Guadagnino and star Julia Roberts. She shares how her background in ballet shaped her discipline in storytelling and acting. Nora discusses the challenges of drafting her script and navigating industry feedback, emphasizing the importance of structured deadlines. The conversation also delves into writing character-driven narratives, building tension, and knowing when to show versus tell in storytelling.

Aline Brosh McKenna, a prolific film and television writer, returns to discuss vital screenwriting techniques. She shares insights on flipping character motivations to reignite stalled scenes and the importance of scene geography in storytelling. Aline also emphasizes the role of emotional intelligence in a writer's career, cautioning against oversimplified narratives. The trio explores innovative ways to invigorate characters, including altering gender or background, and highlights the significance of precise yet evocative details in scripts.

John and Craig wonder, how has TV changed in the last ten years? They compare what's better and worse, the tradeoffs between quality and quantity, how curation is changing, the pros and cons of shorter seasons, and what this all means for writers and viewers. We also look forward to our time at the Austin Film Festival, offer paths for writers to keep their health insurance, follow up on Three Page Challenge selections that actually got made, and answer listener questions on adapting a screenplay into an audio drama and payment for work after a script is turned in. In our bonus segment for premium members, John and Craig looks at what makes a damn fine cup of coffee. Links: Going to the Austin Film Festival this year? Submit for our LIVE Three Page Challenge here! Entertainment Community Fund Services & Programs Signed editions of the Scriptnotes Book Destination: Earth audio drama Weekend Read Episode 163: Ghost WGA Showrunner Training Program Phantom Ink The House of Tesla Preorder the Scriptnotes Book! Get a Scriptnotes T-shirt! Check out the Inneresting Newsletter Become a Scriptnotes Premium member, or gift a subscription Subscribe to Scriptnotes on YouTube Scriptnotes on Instagram John August on Bluesky and Instagram Outro by Nick Moore (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Drew Marquardt and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at ask@johnaugust.com You can download the episode here.

Dive into the world of short films as the hosts dissect what makes them great and how they can serve as career springboards for writers. They ponder the existential threats to screenwriter careers amidst evolving industry dynamics and the rise of digital platforms. A lively debate ensues over new challenges like authoritarianism and censorship. Listeners also get insights on staff writer wages, the intricacies of writing for new TV models, and the practicality of fictional URLs in scripts. Plus, cool recommendations like a Devo documentary and a neat clipboard manager!

John welcomes back Liz Hannah (The Post, The Girl from Plainville) to discuss how to construct and communicate setting in a script. They talk about the balance between establishing a sense of space while avoiding the beginner's mistake of over-blocking. We also follow up on accountability groups, last looks, and French composers. Then, we answer listener questions on revisions and getting your Hollywood Card revoked. In our bonus segment for premium members, John and Liz consider how to explain screenwriting to your kids (and others). LINKS: Bob The Musical has a Director! Download Weekend Read on the App Store Oxo Carbon Steel Pan Dehv Candle Company Apply for a student license for Highland Pro! Interested in being our new UI/UX designer? More info here! Preorder the Scriptnotes Book! Get a Scriptnotes T-shirt! Check out the Inneresting Newsletter Become a Scriptnotes Premium member, or gift a subscription Subscribe to Scriptnotes on YouTube Scriptnotes on Instagram John August on Bluesky and Instagram Liz Hannah on Instagram Outro by Spencer Lackey (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Drew Marquardt and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at ask@johnaugust.com You can download the episode here.

Discover how to make period films captivating instead of dull history lessons with ten essential tips. The hosts discuss balancing historical accuracy with modern relevance, along with strategies for navigating the complexities of dialogue and transitions between time periods. They also tackle historical sensitivities with humor and insight. In a bonus segment, they rank iconic witches, adding a fun twist to the conversation. Dive into nostalgia and innovative storytelling techniques that resonate with both filmmakers and audiences alike.

Producer and script consultant Megana Rao joins to share her expert insights on polishing scripts before submission. She discusses the nuances of script refinement, from typos to the tricky art of cutting and transitions. The trio also dives into their Three Page Challenge, providing critique on listener-submitted scripts, emphasizing clarity and character dynamics. In a bonus segment, they explore the pivotal role of soundtracks in films and strategies for collaborating with composers. It’s a blend of practical advice and creative discourse!

John and Craig dive into the art of leveraging connections without being manipulative. They explore the strength of professional relationships and the importance of reciprocity. The conversation shifts to creator compensation in the streaming world, revealing progress for newer writers. Listener questions tackle the impact of parenthood on storytelling and emotional responses to media. In a lighter segment, they share their thoughts on puzzle games and reminisce about LEGO nostalgia, keeping the mix educational yet fun!