Script-of-the-week: Rear Window

by John Michael Hayes (based on the short by Cornell Woolrich)

This script is a massive 161 page turner that Hitchcock followed quite closely. Following are some main points of note:

1. The script is very long - new slug lines for each camera angle, followed by gigantic page-long descriptions.
   
2. Although long, the writing is quite tight.  Fairly accurate descriptions can be found in the movies action.
   
3. The script is a good character study - characters are complex and developed.
   
4. Good plotting - the script moves quickly and effectively conveys a lot in a short time.
   
5. It’s too long - today this script would need to be much and could streamlined accordingly.
   

All in all it was an enjoyable read even if I did skim large parts of it.

I would recommend this script for writers who want to improve their pacing and character development.

script-of-the-week: Young Frankenstein

For self-study I have decided to start writing notes about all the scripts I read.

This week will be Young Frankenstein by Gene Wilder.

I want to focus on specific points but I have not yet determined what the criteria will be. I don't want to spend too much time but I want it to be useful for me.

Although parts of this script were different from the film, the script was very similar to the movie. In fact I found myself laughing several times during the read.

Things of note:

1. The pacing is good. Wilder keeps the audience engaged with fairly fast moving scenes.
2. The characters come alive. Each character is distinct and recognizable from the others.
3. The jokes, even though silly, are funny. Wilder pokes fun at common dialect.
4. Vivid description. Scenes, locations are described well with specifics.

I would recommend this script for anyone looking to improve their comedic writing and site gag writing.