American Screenwriters / the Insider's Look at the Art, the Craft, and the Business of Writing Movies : Book Review

"American Screenwriters: The Insider's Look at the Art, the Craft, and the Business of Writing Movies" written by Karl Schanzer is a captivating exploration of the world of screenwriting. As an industry insider, Schanzer provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of both the creative and business aspects of writing for film.

The book covers a wide range of topics, taking readers through the entire process of developing a screenplay, from the initial concept to the final product. Schanzer delves into the complexities of character development, dialogue, and the art of crafting compelling stories. Through real-life examples and interviews with successful screenwriters, readers gain valuable insights and practical advice that can be applied to their own writing.

One of the standout features of this book is its focus on the business side of screenwriting. Schanzer delves into the intricacies of pitching, selling, and navigating the film industry, equipping readers with essential knowledge on how to navigate a competitive landscape. He also provides guidance on building relationships with industry professionals and understanding the importance of agents and managers.

In addition, Schanzer pays close attention to the ever-changing landscape of the film industry, particularly the impact of digital platforms. He addresses the opportunities and challenges that arise from these developments, offering invaluable advice on how screenwriters can adapt and thrive in an evolving industry.

Overall, "American Screenwriters: The Insider's Look at the Art, the Craft, and the Business of Writing Movies" is an invaluable resource for aspiring and experienced screenwriters alike. Schanzer's insider perspective, practical advice, and comprehensive coverage of the creative and business aspects of screenwriting make this book a must-read for anyone interested in pursuing a career in the film industry.

What are readers saying?

"American Screenwriters: The Insider's Look at the Art, the Craft, and the Business of Writing Movies" by Karl Schanzer has generated a diversity of opinions among readers. This book, which explores the world of screenwriting, has garnered both positive and negative feedback.

One reviewer hailed the book for its informative and all-encompassing approach to the art of screenwriting. They found it well-structured and filled with valuable insights and tips. According to this reviewer, Schanzer's expertise in the industry shines through, making it an invaluable resource for aspiring screenwriters.

Another reviewer appreciated the book's emphasis on the business aspect of screenwriting. They found the sections that discussed acquiring an agent, pitching scripts, and navigating the industry to be particularly beneficial. This reviewer also praised Schanzer for his clear and accessible writing style, which facilitated understanding of complex topics.

However, some reviewers found the book to be lacking depth and outdated. They felt that the information presented was generic and could be found in any screenwriting guide. These readers were disappointed with the absence of unique insights or real-life examples from successful screenwriters.

One reviewer also noted that the book displayed a bias towards Hollywood and lacked sufficient information about screenwriting in other countries or independent film scenes. They believed that this limited perspective undermined the book's overall value and utility.

#AmericanScreenwriters #InsidersLook #WritingMovies