The Art of Screenwriting: Story, Script, Markets

Library Journal

There seems to be a plethora of film writing books on the market (e.g., by Dwight V. Swain, Michelle Cousin, and Syd Field), but apparently there cannot be too many, since these two new ones take different approaches and are well worth reading. The late Blacker taught at the University of Southern California, and his book is based on his screenwriting lectures. Believing that no great film was ever made from a bad script, he begins with a list of definitions and proceeds to cover conflict, structure, character, exposition, dialogue, form, and production. His book is easy reading and includes appendixes on the services and functions of the Writers Guild of America, plus a list of agents, which is invaluable. Packard takes a more historical view, as he tackles adaptation, story lines, film editing, treatment, copyright, plagiarism, and collaboration, and he includes a glossary of technical terms and a sample script, which is useful. He uses actual Hollywood films as examples. Both books are practical for the budding scriptwriter of any age or experience. Recommended for most large public libraries as well as school and college collections. James L. Limbacher, Jayell Enterprises, Dearborn, Michigan