"There are hundreds, probably thousands of books out there. Having test-run a shedload, I have whittled the number down to a manageable four for those starting out, and one for the more experienced - although the first four are still invaluable however advanced you are.
Don’t underestimate Aristotle’s Poetics. He may be 2,357 years old, but he’s still great on character and plot. If you want to know how to create complex characters have another look at Hamlet and Macbeth - almost all Shakespeare can teach you a lot about structure." -- Pauline Kiernan, screenwriter, Shakespeare scholar and WW screen guru
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Lajos Egri The Art of Dramatic Writing
One of the few books that can justly be called seminal for all writers of drama and novels. Great on character and conflict, why and, more importantly, HOW they’re the essence of good drama. He also makes you realise what makes bad drama!
Linda Seger, Making a Good Script Great
Still one of the best introductions to screenwriting. Combines the basics with how to make your script unique.
Robert McKee, Story
If you’re wary of following guidelines on ‘How To’ write a script, McKee explains how principles, not rules, archetypes not stereotypes, originality not duplication are the basis of good screenplays. He’s excellent on taking the reader through the process step by step and is good on examples of scripts of actual films that work, it. Definitely one to have on the shelf.
Danny Martin Flinn, How Not To Write a Screenplay
A gem. It’s packed with examples all gleaned from actual screenplays, and what makes them bad, then gives examples of how to turn the bad into great. He’s terrific at showing you HOW something’s gone wrong and WHY so you avoid all the pitfalls of bad screenwriting. He’s also brilliant on all the technical stuff (such as DON’T number your scenes, DON’T put in visual effects, DON’T tell the actors which words to punch). Highly recommended, whether you’re a beginner or experienced.
Linda Seger, Advanced Screenwriting: Raising your script to Academy Award Level
Goes beyond the basics. This really is for the more experienced screenwriter. If you’ve thoroughly digested the fundamentals and have already written a great – or good - script, this is your next guide. Seger covers non-traditonal forms, finding a personal cinematic style, maintaining a consistent storyline (very good on this!) and the all-important developing of subtext. Particularly inspiring on sub-plots, twists and turns, using metaphor and cinematic visuals. Much more. All presented in her usual readable and motivating style. As a teaching tool for any screenwriter who’s learned a lot of the craft, and is ready for higher things, this book is up there with Aristotle and Shakespeare for me.
