Re-learning from Screenwriting books?

[Bono]

Re: Re-learning from Screenwriting books?

Just finished Stephen King's On Writing. Doesn't matter what you think of him, and though not specifically about screenwriting, it's hand's down the best book on writing I've read (okay, listened to).

That is a great book and the only King book I've read. I'm the jerk that waits for the movies to be made from his books.

Another great non screenwriting book is ART AND FEAR. Robert Rodriguez recommend it during Spy Kids 2 commentary (yes I'm a geek) and it really was awesome. It sounds pretentious, but it's the opposite.

http://www.amazon.com/Art-Fear-Obser.../dp/0961454733

[johnmonster]

Re: Re-learning from Screenwriting books?

Two books I have enjoyed, that probably inspired me to get into this crazy business, are:

HOLLYWOOD ANIMAL and THE DEVIL'S GUIDE TO HOLLYWOOD, both by Joe Ezsterhas.

[Telly]

Re: Re-learning from Screenwriting books?

Went to a Borders Express today and purchased the Screenwriter's Bible and the latest Save the Cat. (It was all they had per writing, but they had a lot of filmmaking books in general)

You happened to choose the only two fundamentals books that ever resonated with me, and I've read them ALL. Seriously, I have dozens of these books and wish I had started with those two. With that said, take the basics from those two and move on to other reading scripts and writing your own. You can easily get swept up in over guru stimulation and get lost in the mumbo-jumbo. I wouldn't buy another book unless it's a book on screenwriter's experiences in the industry, those can be fun. No more fundamentals books are needed after these two. Trottier and Snyder are both cool and good enough to kick start your work.

Good luck.

[Gillyflower Cooms]

Re: Re-learning from Screenwriting books?

Snyder books are awesome!!

[dgl]

Re: Re-learning from Screenwriting books?

Snyder books are awesome!!

They're useful but dangerous, like dynamite. Handle with care. That goes for the rest of 'em too.

[The Road Warrior]

Re: Re-learning from Screenwriting books?

Just finished Stephen King's On Writing. Doesn't matter what you think of him, and though not specifically about screenwriting, it's hand's down the best book on writing I've read (okay, listened to).

Agree, I was reading it again over last two days, very useful and inspiring imho. And also believe an overdose of screenwriting books can be fatal.

[via negativa]

Re: Re-learning from Screenwriting books?

Your Screenplay Sucks, by William Akers

Spoken like a true writer talking to other writers...