Scriptnotes: A Book about Screenwriting and Things That Are Interesting to Screenwriters

The ultimate guide to writing a great screenplay and building a screenwriting career, from the creators of the hit podcast Scriptnotes--featuring contributions from film and TV legends Christopher Nolan, Greta Gerwig, Michael Schur, Rian Johnson, Aline Brosh McKenna, Ashley Nicole Black, Seth Rogen, and many more.

With decades of Hollywood experience, John August and Craig Mazin know what it takes to write a successful script for the screen. And over the past twelve years, they've analyzed generation-defining movies and shared their wisdom on their popular podcast Scriptnotes, inviting experts in the craft to discuss everything that makes a script shine.

Now, in their first book, August and Mazin draw on more than a thousand hours of Scriptnotes conversations, as well as their own storied careers, to help readers begin, refine, and sell their own scripts. Part writing class, part informational interview with the best creators in the business, this essential book shares tips on:

- The Basics--including the rules of screenwriting and when to break them
- The Craft--including how to create a compelling story with captivating protagonists, worthy antagonists, and a sound structure
- The Business--including how to pitch a script and the do's (and don'ts) of working collaboratively on a project

Perfect for screenwriters, film buffs, and anyone who enjoys analysis of iconic movies like Die Hard, this one-of-a-kind resource provides exclusive access to the screenwriting process--and will inspire anyone ready to pen their own successful screenplay.

Author: John August,Craig Mazin
Publisher: Crown Publishing Group (NY)
Published: 12/02/2025
Pages: 352
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.30lbs
Size: 9.20h x 7.40w x 1.20d
ISBN: 9780593728062


Review Citation(s):
Booklist 10/01/2025

About the Author
Considered a "screenwriting guru" by Slate, John August has written screenplays for Charlie's Angels, Big Fish, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Frankenweenie, Aladdin, and more. He is a voting member of the Academy and a former member of the WGA Board of Directors.

Craig Mazin is the Emmy-winning creator and showrunner for the acclaimed HBO shows Chernobyl and The Last of Us. His feature credits include The Hangover Part II and III and Identity Thief. Craig is a former member of the WGA Board of Directors.