Chapter 1 discusses the evolution of screenwriting in relation to the changing film industry. It highlights how screenwriters, in the past, had a close connection to the filmmaking process, working in film studios and incorporating production details in their scripts. However, as the industry shifted, screenwriters became detached from the production process, leading to a new screenplay format that focused solely on the story. Screenwriting manuals emerged during this time, offering guidance without mentioning camera angles or editing.
While this change brought benefits such as clarity and creative freedom, it also resulted in a loss. By excluding discussions about the shoot and edit, screenwriting manuals created a disconnect between the writer and the practical aspects of filmmaking. This led to a detached view of cinema as a finished product, rather than recognizing its construction from various elements.
The book argues for a shift in perspective, emphasizing the importance of the editing process in screenwriting. It suggests that considering the edit suite as the destination for the screenplay brings the writer back to the studio writing department and the act of "making" movies. By focusing on writing for the cut and acknowledging the fragmented nature of film, screenwriters can better engage with the dynamics and behaviours of the filmmaking process.
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