The Challenges of Adapting a Script to Book

The story is written, the dialogue is done. Right?

Movies are continually changing all the way through post production, so how do you adapt your script to a book?

Know what story you are telling and why the details matter more in the book. As a script expands with details for the reader to understand, the details that are left for production designers and props managers are only as important as they are highlighted. A good production designer will be able to interpret the script and build the character based on what is presented in the script, this is what makes cinema a collaborative process. Lending the creativity to someone outside of the director, while also working closely with the director, eases stress on the production because the director can be mindful of the performances.

Why would anyone in their right mind adapt a script or series to a book?

Complete creative control as the novel is the source material. George Lucas authored his books before creating scripts to be shopped by Hollywood. This in turn created an even greater opportunity to franchise because the rights to the film are licensed to the production company. Every toy, lunch box, bedsheet, video game and poster were all licensed through Lucas Film Ltd.

Why am I teaching this? I am tired of gatekeepers holding the keys to success. A wise man named Donell Rawlings once said, "People are know the recipes, but not everyone has the ingredients." Everyone has a cellphone, everyone has the main ingredient. A lesson in the benefits of writing is essential to independence, and it is necessary to point out IT COSTS ALMOST NOTHING TO WRITE YOUR IDEAS ON PAPER. Diversity in cinema is finally being appreciated and it is necessary to continue to push for more equity in this newly emerging industry for People of Color.