The USC Scripter Awards, held on Saturday night, honored the finest adapted projects of the year. The prestigious event celebrated both original authors and screenwriters who brought their works to life on screen. Among the notable achievements, the television adaptation category saw a significant win for the writers of "Say Nothing," while other finalists showcased remarkable talent across film and TV adaptations. The jury, led by USC professor Howard Rodman, selected winners from an impressive list of nominees. This year's ceremony also marked the anticipation of potential Oscar nominations for some of the finalists.

TV Adaptations Shine at the 37th Annual Scripter Awards

The television adaptation category was particularly competitive this year. Several outstanding episodes were nominated, reflecting the depth and breadth of storytelling in contemporary TV. Notable mentions include episodes from "Baby Reindeer," "Ripley," "Shogun," and "Slow Horses." Each nomination highlighted the meticulous work required to adapt literary sources into compelling television scripts. The evening’s highlight was the victory for "Say Nothing," which stood out for its powerful narrative and impeccable writing.

In more detail, the TV adaptation finalists included Richard Gadd's episode of "Baby Reindeer," inspired by his stage play; Steven Zaillian's "V Lucio" from "Ripley," based on Patricia Highsmith's novel; Joshua Zetumer's "The People in the Dirt" from "Say Nothing," rooted in Patrick Radden Keefe's nonfiction book; Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks' "Anjin" from "Shogun," derived from James Clavell's novel; and Will Smith's "Hello Goodbye" from "Slow Horses," adapted from Mick Herron's "Spook Street." These selections underscored the diverse range of source materials that can be transformed into captivating television series. The winning episode of "Say Nothing" was praised for its ability to translate complex historical events into a gripping narrative, resonating deeply with audiences and critics alike.

Film Adaptations Compete for Glory at Scripter Awards

The film adaptation category was equally impressive, featuring a mix of novels, nonfiction books, and magazine articles that have been meticulously adapted for the big screen. Finalists ranged from historical dramas to contemporary thrillers, each demonstrating the artistry involved in translating written words into cinematic experiences. While the film award winner was announced during the ceremony, several finalists are also in contention for the upcoming Oscars, adding another layer of excitement to the event.

Among the film finalists were James Mangold and Jay Cocks' "A Complete Unknown," inspired by Elijah Wald's book on Bob Dylan; Peter Straughan's "Conclave," based on Robert Harris' novel; RaMell Ross and Joslyn Barnes' "Nickel Boys," adapted from Colson Whitehead's book; Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar's "Sing Sing," derived from John H. Richardson's Esquire article; and Chris Sanders and Peter Brown's animated feature "The Wild Robot." Each project exemplified the intricate process of adapting different forms of literature into visually stunning films. Notably, "A Complete Unknown," "Conclave," "Nickel Boys," and "Sing Sing" are also nominated for the best adapted screenplay at the Oscars, further highlighting the significance of these adaptations. The inclusion of "The Wild Robot" in the Scripter Awards underscores the growing recognition of animation as a vital form of storytelling, competing alongside live-action films for top honors.