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.