Six renowned screenwriters, including James Mangold, Jason Reitman, Jesse Eisenberg, Halina Reijn, Justin Kuritzkes, and Payal Kapadia, gathered for a vibrant discussion at The Hollywood Reporter’s Writer Roundtable. Their conversation delved into the challenges and triumphs of crafting screenplays that have captivated audiences in 2024. From personal inspirations to professional breakthroughs, these writers shared profound insights into their creative processes. They explored the transition from acting to writing, the influence of mentors, and the impact of societal movements on their storytelling. This roundtable not only highlighted their individual journeys but also underscored the universal themes that connect their work.
From Acting to Writing: A Transformative Journey
Several of the screenwriters present had backgrounds in acting before transitioning to writing. For instance, Halina Reijn, known for her stage and screen performances in the Netherlands, found inspiration in classic plays like Shakespeare and Ibsen. Her shift to screenwriting was driven by a desire to explore deeper narratives about self-acceptance and sexuality. Similarly, Jesse Eisenberg, an Oscar-nominated actor, began writing comedic sketches before venturing into more complex character studies. His screenplay, A Real Pain, blends elements of his past with family history, creating a poignant exploration of male friendships and emotional vulnerability.
The transition from acting to writing allowed these artists to delve into new dimensions of storytelling. Reijn emphasized how her experiences on stage shaped her approach to screenwriting, particularly in understanding character development and dialogue. Eisenberg recounted a pivotal moment when he received critical feedback from Bob Odenkirk, which pushed him to write more authentically. Both writers highlighted the importance of finding one's unique voice and embracing the challenges that come with it. Their stories illustrate how the intersection of different artistic disciplines can lead to richer, more nuanced narratives.
Influences and Breakthroughs: Crafting Compelling Stories
The roundtable also shed light on the diverse influences that shaped each writer's craft. James Mangold, who has been writing and directing for decades, spoke about his fascination with storytelling without modern technology, as seen in his latest project, A Complete Unknown. He drew inspiration from Bob Dylan's life and music, crafting a narrative that explores themes of reinvention and artistic freedom. On the other hand, Payal Kapadia's debut film, All We Imagine as Light, was influenced by experimental cinema, leading her to create a visually striking and emotionally resonant story about identity and transformation.
For Justin Kuritzkes, the impetus to write came from a serendipitous moment during a tennis match between Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka. This event sparked an idea that evolved into two distinct screenplays: Challengers, an original story about competitive tennis, and Queer, an adaptation of William S. Burroughs' novella. Kuritzkes emphasized the importance of responding to changing circumstances and staying true to one's artistic vision. Meanwhile, Jason Reitman's Saturday Night was inspired by his love for the people behind Saturday Night Live, resulting in a film that captures the essence of the show's production process. These varied influences highlight the richness and diversity of storytelling in contemporary cinema.