Helpful Literature
Never written a screenplay? Don't let that get in the way of writing and entering! Learn how to master the format with any of these books available online or in libraries. Use this Screenwriting Word template.
Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting
by Syd Field
The granddaddy of books on screenwriting, still used today. This is a good book to get started. Read it, then burn it. But read it. Paperback. 272 pages.
Adventures in the Screen Trade: A Personal View of Hollywood and Screenwriting
by William Goldman
An inside account from the screenwriter of Princess Bride, All The Presidents Men, Marathon Man, and Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid. Paperback. 594 pages.
Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting
by Robert McKee
The latest hot screenwriting instructor. Some find this extensive book definitive. Others find it just long-winded. Hardcover. 483 pages.
Making a Good Script Great
by Linda Seger
A good alternative to Syd Field. Uses extensive examples from Witness. Strong on subplots. Paperback. 242 pages.
The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers
by Christopher Vogler
For Joseph Campbell fans, Vogler uses mythic structure to explain screenwriting. Paperback. 326 pages.
Screenplay Story Analysis
by Asher Garfinkel (Steeltown Adviser)
Screenplay Story Analysis explains exactly how to become a professional story analyst. Along with a basic how-to on writing a story analysis--or "coverage"--this book explains the techniques and thought processes involved in reading and evaluating a screenplay. Paperback. 208 pages.
How to Write a Movie in 21 Days: The Inner Movie Method
by Viki King
A get-it-done guide for the desperate. By the way, The Breakfast Club was written in three days. Rocky and Taxi Driver in a week. Paperback. 208 pages.
Steeltown Spotlight
"The Film Factory has done a wonderful job of nurturing emerging talent in Pittsburgh, while at the same time, reconnecting established people in the entertainment industry with the hometown they still love."
- Jamie Widdoes
Director: 'Two & a Half Men'
Co-Star:'Animal House'
