How to Use the Best Screenplays of 2020 as a Writing Guide

Best Screenplays of 2020 Writing Resource

I’m a visual learner. Sometimes things don’t immediately click in my brain when I read an explanation or someone is teaching me something. But, if I can look at it - see it in action - then I get it right away.

There are tons of screenwriting books out there that are actually pretty great for helping to learn and hone your craft. There’s also a lot of bullshit. One of the things I struggled with in the beginning was wanting to make sure that I didn’t come across as an amateur even though I was one. So, I read almost anything I could get my hands on.

Unfortunately, there isn’t one comprehensive tome with everything you might need to learn. So, I did the next best thing and learned from what was already out there.

If I had a scene I couldn’t get quite right or just flat out didn’t know the proper way to write; I thought of a movie that did what I was trying to do and printed out the script. If I wondered how to write certain dialogue or narration or the exchange of a phone call, I looked up a script and printed it. I could visualize the scenes in a movie, so I was able to utilize the script as, essentially, a textbook. It’s like getting a masterclass in screenwriting from some pretty heavy hitters.

I think this is one of the most underutilized resources for screenwriters. And it’s free.

Studios and production companies and even some screenwriters will make scripts available for download for a period of time. And during awards season, it’s the best time to grab them as they make them available for consideration. So, here’s a list with links to download some of the best from this year.

1917

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

Ad Astra

Dolemite is my Name

Ford v Ferrari

Harriet (Shooting Script)

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World

Hustlers

Joker

Joker (Final Shooting Script)

Knives Out

Little Women