The best 9 Screenplay books

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1
Screenplay Books: Save The Cat! by Blake Snyder

Save The Cat!

Blake Snyder

What's Save The Cat! about?

Save The Cat! by Blake Snyder is a must-read for anyone interested in screenwriting. With wit and insight, Snyder breaks down the essential elements of successful movies and offers practical tips for crafting a compelling story. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this book will help you understand the art and science of storytelling.

Who should read Save The Cat!?

  • Aspiring screenwriters looking to understand the fundamentals of successful storytelling in the film industry

  • Filmmakers who want to learn how to craft compelling and marketable scripts

  • Anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes mechanics of creating blockbuster movies


2
Screenplay Books: Story Engineering by Larry Brooks

Story Engineering

Larry Brooks

What's Story Engineering about?

Story Engineering by Larry Brooks is a comprehensive guide that delves into the inner workings of storytelling. It breaks down the essential elements of a compelling story, such as character development, plot structure, and theme, and provides practical advice on how to effectively implement these elements in your own writing. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned writer, this book offers valuable insights and tools to help you craft engaging and impactful stories.

Who should read Story Engineering?

  • Aspiring writers who want to understand the craft of storytelling and improve their skills

  • Experienced authors looking to refine their approach to structuring and developing their stories

  • Screenwriters who want to learn how to create compelling and well-structured screenplays


3
Screenplay Books: Brokeback Mountain by Annie Proulx

Brokeback Mountain

Annie Proulx

What's Brokeback Mountain about?

Brokeback Mountain by Annie Proulx is a poignant and heartbreaking tale of forbidden love. Set against the backdrop of the American West, it tells the story of two cowboys, Ennis and Jack, who form a deep emotional and physical bond while herding sheep on Brokeback Mountain. As they navigate their complex relationship over the years, the novel explores themes of love, identity, and the societal pressures that threaten to tear them apart.

Who should read Brokeback Mountain?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and emotionally charged storytelling
  • Those interested in exploring complex themes such as love, identity, and societal expectations
  • Individuals who appreciate literary works that challenge traditional gender and sexual norms

4
Screenplay Books: Hello Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall

Hello Lighthouse

Sophie Blackall

What's Hello Lighthouse about?

Hello Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall is a beautifully illustrated children's book that tells the story of a lighthouse and the families who lived there. Through stunning artwork and poetic prose, the book takes readers on a journey through time, showcasing the importance of lighthouses and the lives intertwined with them. It is a captivating and heartwarming tale that will enchant both children and adults alike.

Who should read Hello Lighthouse?

  • Readers who enjoy beautifully illustrated and heartwarming stories

  • Those with an interest in lighthouses and maritime history

  • Parents and educators looking for a book to teach children about the passage of time and the importance of perseverance


5
Screenplay Books: The Nutshell Technique by Jill Chamberlain

The Nutshell Technique

Jill Chamberlain

What's The Nutshell Technique about?

The Nutshell Technique by Jill Chamberlain is a comprehensive guide to crafting a compelling screenplay. Through the use of a unique 'nutshell' method, the book breaks down successful films to reveal the underlying structure and elements that make them work. It offers practical advice and exercises to help aspiring screenwriters develop their own powerful stories.

Who should read The Nutshell Technique?

  • Aspiring screenwriters looking to master the art of storytelling

  • Filmmakers who want to understand the key elements of successful movie scripts

  • Storytellers who want to learn a practical and effective technique for developing compelling narratives


What's When Harry Met Sally. . . about?

When Harry Met Sally. . . is a delightful romantic comedy that explores the age-old question of whether men and women can truly be friends. Written by Nora Ephron, this book takes us on a journey through the lives of Harry and Sally as they navigate friendship, love, and the complexities of relationships. Filled with witty dialogue and charming characters, it reminds us that sometimes the person we're looking for might be right in front of us all along.

Who should read When Harry Met Sally. . .?

  • Anyone who enjoys romantic comedies

  • People looking for insights into modern relationships

  • Readers who appreciate witty and relatable dialogue


7
Screenplay Books: The Hollywood Standard by Christopher Riley

The Hollywood Standard

Christopher Riley

What's The Hollywood Standard about?

The Hollywood Standard by Christopher Riley is a comprehensive guide to formatting screenplays according to industry standards. It provides detailed instructions on everything from margins and spacing to scene headings and dialogue. Whether you're a seasoned screenwriter or a beginner, this book is an essential resource for anyone looking to properly format their scripts for the big screen.

Who should read The Hollywood Standard?

  • Aspiring screenwriters looking to learn the industry-standard formatting for scripts

  • Film and television professionals who want to improve their scriptwriting skills

  • Anyone curious about the behind-the-scenes process of bringing a script to life on screen


What's Three Uses of the Knife about?

Three Uses of the Knife by David Mamet delves into the essence of dramatic storytelling. Through insightful analysis and personal anecdotes, Mamet explores the three fundamental purposes of drama: to provide catharsis for the audience, to convey a moral lesson, and to act as a tool for social change. This thought-provoking book offers a unique perspective on the power and significance of theatre and storytelling in our lives.

Who should read Three Uses of the Knife?

  • Aspiring playwrights looking to gain insights into the art of dramatic storytelling

  • Theater enthusiasts who want to deepen their understanding of the power and purpose of drama

  • Anyone curious about David Mamet's perspective on the creative process and the role of art in society


9
Screenplay Books: In Bruges by Martin McDonagh

In Bruges

Martin McDonagh

What's In Bruges about?

In Bruges is a darkly comedic crime novel by Martin McDonagh. Set in the picturesque Belgian city of Bruges, it tells the story of two hitmen, Ray and Ken, who are sent there by their boss to lay low after a job goes wrong. As they navigate the charming yet surreal surroundings, they grapple with guilt, morality, and the consequences of their actions. With sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, the book offers a unique blend of humor and introspection.

Who should read In Bruges?

  • Readers who enjoy dark humor and unconventional storytelling

  • Those interested in exploring the complexities of morality and redemption

  • People who appreciate rich and vivid descriptions of European cities


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 FAQs 

What's the best Screenplay book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Save The Cat! as the ultimate read on Screenplay.

What are the Top 10 Screenplay books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Save The Cat! by Blake Snyder
  • Story Engineering by Larry Brooks
  • Brokeback Mountain by Annie Proulx
  • Hello Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall
  • The Nutshell Technique by Jill Chamberlain
  • When Harry Met Sally. . . by Nora Ephron
  • The Hollywood Standard by Christopher Riley
  • Three Uses of the Knife by David Mamet
  • In Bruges by Martin McDonagh

Who are the top Screenplay book authors?

When it comes to Screenplay, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Blake Snyder
  • Larry Brooks
  • Annie Proulx
  • Sophie Blackall
  • Jill Chamberlain