How to Write an Adapted Screenplay | No Film School
Have you ever had the urge to turn a captivating article or book into a thrilling movie or TV show? Learning the art of writing an adapted screenplay is the key. In a Hollywood industry dominated by intellectual property, mastering this skill can be incredibly beneficial.
Let's delve into the process of writing an adapted screenplay. We will explore some examples of adapted screenplays, understand how to obtain the rights for your adapted screenplay, and analyze the essential plot points and story elements from the source material.
Dream Big
If you aspire to win a prestigious award like the Best Adapted Screenplay Academy Award, creating an adapted screenplay is a must. This award is presented annually to the writer of a screenplay adapted from another source, such as a novel, play, short story, or TV series. Notable scripts like A Star is Born and Whiplash fall under this category as they are based on existing material. It's crucial to distinguish between adapted and original screenplays to ensure your work is eligible for consideration.
In Hollywood, intellectual property plays a crucial role in attracting audiences. Adapting existing stories with established audiences enhances the chances of success. Identifying compelling ideas for your adapted screenplay is essential. Look for inspiration in the public domain, trending articles, books, or classical works.
Securing Rights
If you aspire to win a prestigious award like the Best Adapted Screenplay Academy Award, creating an adapted screenplay is a must. This award is presented annually to the writer of a screenplay adapted from another source, such as a novel, play, short story, or TV series. Notable scripts like A Star is Born and Whiplash fall under this category as they are based on existing material. It's crucial to distinguish between adapted and original screenplays to ensure your work is eligible for consideration.
Authors and publishers hold the key to acquiring rights. Contacting them directly or through their representatives is the initial step. Be prepared to negotiate and potentially pay for the rights, as it varies based on the material's popularity and demand.
Choosing Plot Points
Adapting a story requires selecting the essential plot points that can be effectively translated onto the screen. This process involves condensing the source material into a screenplay format while retaining the core narrative elements.
Writing a treatment can aid in visualizing the story's structure and identifying key plot points. By outlining the screenplay's progression, you can determine what elements to include and what to omit.
Examples of Adapted Screenplays
Examining successful adapted screenplays can offer valuable insights into the adaptation process. Let's explore a few notable examples:
- Forrest Gump: Screenwriter Eric Roth transformed the larger-than-life character from the book into a relatable protagonist, emphasizing his love story with Jenny. The adaptation maintained the book's spirit while catering to a broader audience.
- Pain & Gain: Based on a true story, this screenplay navigated the challenges of adapting a news report into a compelling narrative. Screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely creatively crafted a script from real events, emphasizing storytelling elements.
- In The Bedroom: Adapted from the short story "Killings" by Andre Dubus, this screenplay expanded on the original narrative, particularly enhancing character development and emotional depth. The adaptation successfully translated the short story's essence onto the screen.
By studying diverse adapted screenplays, aspiring writers can learn from established professionals and hone their adaptation skills. Remember, writing an adapted screenplay requires meticulous planning and a deep understanding of the source material.
