The Evolution of Screenwriting: From Classic Hollywood to Modern Times

Introduction

Screenwriting has undergone significant changes since the golden era of Classic Hollywood. What were once laboriously typed out on typewriters have now transformed into digital documents, written on advanced word processors. These changes have not only impacted the format and content of screenplays but have also reflected broader shifts in the cinematic landscape. This article explores how screenwriting has evolved and continues to adapt.

From Typewriters to Digital Documents

During the days of Classic Hollywood, screenplays were written on typewriters. The process was cumbersome; if a writer made a change, they had to retype the entire page. This changed with the advent of computer technology. Early in the digital age, the Courier font was still prevalent partly as a homage to the past and for consistency. Today, writers use modern software that offers real-time updates and collaboration features, making the writing process more efficient and versatile.

The Shift in Filmmaking Length

Classic Hollywood films were often shorter, typically around 90 minutes. Modern films, however, have become significantly longer, with 2-hour films being the standard and some reaching 2.5 hours or more. This shift reflects changes in narrative structure and pacing, as well as the increasing complexity of storylines. Viewers today are accustomed to longer films, and filmmakers often aim to pack as much content and development into their stories as possible.

Condensed Scene and Character Descriptions

Screenplays from the past often contained detailed descriptions of scenes and characters, with filmmakers taking great care to show every nuance of a character's journey. However, modern screenplays have become more succinct. Long, descriptive scenes are rare. Instead, writers use tighter, more efficient descriptions, compressing the timeline of a character's journey. For instance, a scene that once depicted someone walking out their front door, closing it, getting in their car, backing out, driving to work, and walking to their office, might now simply show the character arriving at their office and engaging in dialogue. Filmmakers now understand that modern audiences are savvy and don't need to see every detail; they can infer much of the backstory and emotional journey through context and action.

The Demise of Censorship

Another significant change in screenwriting is the end of censorship. In the mid-20th century, the Hays Code (1930-1968) heavily censored content in films, preventing the inclusion of certain types of dialogue and behavior. Today, films are rated by the MPAA, and filmmakers often write with specific ratings in mind. This allows for a wider range of content and storytelling techniques. While the vast majority of films receive a PG or PG-13 rating, the industry has become increasingly open to mature themes and content. Thus, writers no longer need to shy away from intense scenes of sex or violence as they once did.

The Rise of Visual Storytelling

The evolution of screenwriting has also seen a shift towards more visual storytelling. Early sound films were often adaptations of stage plays, leading to a reliance on dialogue. However, filmmakers have since realized the power of visual storytelling. Nowadays, many films place a greater emphasis on visuals, harking back to the iconic silent films of the early 20th century. This has led to a more cinematic approach to screenwriting, where the writer must consider how to visually tell the story rather than relying solely on dialogue.

In conclusion, the evolution of screenwriting reflects the changing landscape of filmmaking. From the cumbersome process of typing on typewriters to the efficiency of digital document creation, from the brevity of early screenplays to the complexity of modern narratives, the art of screenwriting has continually adapted to meet the demands of the industry. As technology and audience expectations continue to evolve, so too will the craft of screenwriting.