Introduction
We are preparing to shoot two movies back to back second week in January 2025 and talking to the screenwriter yesterday, I realised how effortless it could be if one would know what they’re doing. The truth is, there are A LOT of screenwriters in Hollywood complaining about the lack of jobs, but if you stay on track, write a good script with an incredible foundation and characters, people would want to make those movies. The most important rule is: KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE. And you can’t just be general – women, men, children, you have to be specific.
And if you are serious about screenwriting, do yourself a favour and read or reread Sid Field’s book.
For decades, Syd Field’s Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting has been the gold standard for screenwriters across the globe. Often referred to as the “bible of screenwriting”, this book provides aspiring and experienced filmmakers with a clear roadmap to craft compelling, well-structured stories.
But what makes this book so special? Is it still relevant in today’s fast-evolving film industry? In this review, we’ll dive into why Screenplay remains a timeless classic, explore its core teachings, and discuss how it continues to inspire writers to create stories that captivate audiences.
Who Is Syd Field?
Syd Field is considered one of the most influential figures in screenwriting education. A veteran in the industry, his work revolutionized the way scripts are taught and written. With Screenplay, first published in 1979, Field introduced a structured approach to storytelling that has been adopted by writers, producers, and studios worldwide.
Whether you’re crafting a short film or a Hollywood blockbuster, Field’s insights on the three-act structure, character development, and visual storytelling provide a foundation to build upon.
Key Takeaways from Screenplay
1. The Three-Act Structure
The heart of Field’s teaching is the three-act structure, which divides a screenplay into three parts:
- Act One (Setup): Introduces the characters, setting, and central conflict.
- Act Two (Confrontation): Deepens the conflict and builds the stakes.
- Act Three (Resolution): Resolves the conflict and concludes the story.
Field emphasizes the importance of two major Plot Points, which act as turning points that propel the narrative forward:
- Plot Point 1: Happens at the end of Act One, catapulting the protagonist into the main conflict.
- Plot Point 2: Occurs at the end of Act Two, leading directly to the climax.
2. Character Development
“Know your characters better than they know themselves.” Field stresses the need to fully understand your characters, including their goals, motivations, and backstory. His exercises encourage writers to explore:
- What does the protagonist want?
- What obstacles are in their way?
- How do they change by the end of the story?
3. Writing Visually
Field’s philosophy is rooted in the idea that film is a visual medium. He encourages writers to “show, don’t tell,” using actions and images to convey emotion and advance the plot.
4. The First Ten Pages
Field emphasizes that the first ten pages of a screenplay are critical. These pages must hook the audience, set the tone, and establish the protagonist and their world. In his words, “The first ten pages can make or break your screenplay.”
Why Screenplay Still Matters in the Modern Film Industry
Even in the age of streaming, AI-driven content creation, and evolving narrative formats, the core principles of Screenplay remain relevant:
- Streaming Platforms: Netflix, Amazon, and other platforms still demand engaging, well-structured scripts that keep viewers hooked.
- AI and Technology: While tools like ChatGPT can assist in generating ideas, Field’s book reminds us that storytelling is ultimately about emotional connection, which only humans can create.
- Indie Filmmaking: For independent filmmakers working with tight budgets, Field’s framework offers clarity and direction, ensuring every scene serves the story.
Strengths of Screenplay
- Accessibility: Field’s writing style is clear, concise, and easy to follow, making it perfect for beginners.
- Timeless Structure: The three-act structure is still the backbone of most successful films.
- Actionable Advice: From exercises to examples, the book provides tools that writers can immediately apply to their scripts.
Critiques of Screenplay
While Screenplay is a classic, it’s not without its critics:
- Over-Reliance on Structure: Some argue that the emphasis on the three-act structure can stifle creativity, particularly for experimental or unconventional films.
- Limited Scope: The book focuses primarily on feature-length screenplays, offering less guidance for TV, web series, or interactive storytelling.
Despite these limitations, Screenplay remains an invaluable resource for understanding the fundamentals of storytelling.
Actionable Tips Inspired by Screenplay
1. Map Out Your Three Acts
Before writing, outline your story using the three-act structure. Identify the key turning points that drive your narrative.
2. Write a Character Biography
Develop a one-page backstory for your protagonist. Explore their desires, fears, and defining moments.
3. Review Your First Ten Pages
Ask yourself: Does the opening grab attention? Is the protagonist introduced effectively? Does it set up the main conflict?
4. Visualize Your Story
Remove dialogue from a scene and focus solely on the visuals. Does the action alone convey the intended emotion and plot progression?
Conclusion
Syd Field’s Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting is more than a guide—it’s a masterclass in the art and craft of storytelling. While some may find its structure rigid, its core principles continue to provide a solid framework for writers at any stage of their career.
Whether you’re drafting your first script or refining your latest masterpiece, Screenplay is a must-read. It’s a reminder that great storytelling is both an art and a science—one that starts with a solid foundation.
So, grab your copy, start writing, and let Syd Field guide you in creating stories that captivate audiences for years to come.
