Philippa Boyens on Adapting Tolkien
"We don’t start writing until we know where we are, what we’re doing, and why we’re doing it.” Phillipa Boyens talks about the writing and adaptation process, and explains why changes were necessary.
By Scott Essman and John Davis. Assistance and Research by Chelsea Beebe. No one could deny that Peter Jackson’s double trilogy of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, based on the novels of J.R.R. Tolkien, have been hugely successful. In fact, they are one of the biggest movie franchises in history, grossing over […]
Big Eyes: “A Parable for the Role of Women”
Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski discuss researching for a script, collaborating with Tim Burton, and their ten year journey to bring Big Eyes to the big screen.
By Scott Essman. Research and Assistance by Lindsey Newman. For over 10 years, Margaret Keane produced infamously unforgettable paintings of waiflike children with big, elfin eyes, while her husband Walter ruthlessly took credit for her work—that is, until she finally mustered the courage to stand up to him. While the story made headlines in the […]
The Academy Nicholl Fellowship: Opening doors for Emerging Writers
"Writing is the foundation of cinema.” Interviews with the 2014-15 Academy Screenwriting Nicholl Fellows.
By Scott Essman. “Very often screenwriters are like shadows passing through the history of cinema.” Jean-Claude Carriere The Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting is an international screenwriting competition established to identify and encourage talented new screenwriters. The Academy has 17 different branches, but screenwriting is the only branch with a dedicated fellowship. “Over the years, […]
Jonathan Nolan on “Interstellar”
Why Jonathan Nolan turned to his brother Christopher after the Spielberg rocket didn't launch.
By Scott Essman. “Every collaboration I’ve had with Jonah has been different, because of different circumstances, and how we would work together. This one was very unique.” Christopher Nolan. Jonathan Nolan, known to his friends as Jonah, has worked with his brother Christopher as co-writer on several films, including The Prestige, The Dark Knight, and […]
Jungian Possession: Dream or Nightmare?
Director David Jung talks about his new film "The Possession of Michael King".
By Scott Essman. WARNING – THERE ARE KEY PLOT SPOILERS IN THIS ARTICLE. With elements of other found-footage horror movies including Paranormal Activity and “prove it” films which challenge the supernatural such as Room 1408, The Possession of Michael King presents director David Jung’s unique vision of the modern fright film. Beginning with Jung’s urge […]
