Great Scripts That Failed to Produce Great Movies and Vice Versa

Introduction

The journey from script to screen is often a complex and challenging one. Many scripts with great potential fail to yield films that live up to their promise, while some films that are produced may not entirely do justice to the underlying script. One such famous example is the iconic film Casablanca. This article explores the fascinating behind-the-scenes journey of how great scripts are adapted and transformed into movies, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse.

The Case of Casablanca

Counter-intuitively, some of the best scripts in cinema history didn't turn out to be great movies, and vice versa. A prime example of this is the classic film Casablanca. Originally, the story was a simple play titled "Everyone Comes to Rick's." When the studio acquired the rights, a script was written, but the work didn't quite resonate with the studio, leading to multiple re-writes and script changes.

A Journey through Multiple Re-writes

The story of Casablanca is one of multiple hands improving a script rather than ruining it. Here's a detailed look at the evolution of the script that eventually produced the timeless film:

Initial Rewrite: Enhancing the Romantic Storyline

The first scriptwriter added depth and romantic tension. By weaving in more compelling relationships and drama, the core story became richer and more emotionally engaging. This foundational work laid the groundwork for the subsequent re-writes and ultimately strengthened the film.

Second Rewrite: Refining Dialogue and Pacing

The second scriptwriter focused on the dialogue and pacing. They created a tighter narrative, ensuring that every line of dialogue served a purpose and moved the story forward. This ensured that the film maintained a high level of interest and momentum throughout.

Final Rewrite: Adding Humor to Balance Drama

The final touch was added by a pair of brothers, who introduced humor into the script. They lightened the dark, dramatic tone of the film, providing a counterpoint to the intense storyline. This balance between drama and comedy is often what elevates a great script to a truly unforgettable film.

The Importance of Maintaining the Core Concept

What was crucial in all these re-writes was that the scriptwriters didn't destroy the core concept of the play. They built upon the strength of the original idea, enhancing it rather than overhauling it. This consistency is something all screenwriters and filmmakers should strive for. Here are a few more examples where an initial script had to evolve significantly to produce a successful film:

The Shining

Xandon derates the classic novel The Shining by Stephen King, which was initially turned into a screenplay. The screenplay retained the essence of King's work, with Danny Torrance and his psychic visions as key elements. However, the screenplay was so different from the final film that many readers of the novel would be shocked by the stark contrast. This transformation served to enhance the horror and tension present in the story.

The Challenge of Adapting Scripts to Films

Adapting scripts from literature, plays, or even other scripts is a challenging endeavor. It requires a deep understanding of the source material and the ability to translate that material into a cinematic experience that resonates with audiences. Some scripts work perfectly on paper, but fail on screen, and vice versa. On the other hand, some scripts that start out as simple stories gain depth and complexity as they are re-written and adapted, becoming timeless classics in the process.

Conclusion

The journey from a script to a great movie is a multifaceted process that requires not only excellent writing but also careful adaptation. Casablanca is a testament to how multiple hands working in tandem can transform a simple story into something iconic and enduring. As filmmakers and screenwriters continue to hone their craft, it's important to remember that a great script is only the beginning. It's the re-writes and the adaptation that can truly bring a story to life and make it a memorable experience for audiences.