The 37th annual USC Scripter Awards recently showcased the talents of screenwriters who have successfully adapted captivating stories from various media into film and television. Last Saturday, a formal black-tie event held at the Town & Gown ballroom acknowledged the efforts of these writers during a ceremony that combined prestige with the celebration of creative storytelling. The Scripter Awards, organized annually by the USC Libraries, seek to honor exceptional writing in both the film industry and episodic television, giving recognition not only to the authors of the adapted works but also to the screenwriters who bring these narratives to life on screen.
Among the evening’s notable winners was Peter Straughan for his adaptation of the political thriller *Conclave*, based on Robert Harris’s gripping novel. This significant recognition follows its prior win at the Golden Globes for Best Screenplay, and its total of eight Oscar nominations, which include accolades for Ralph Fiennes and recognition for Best Picture. Set against the backdrop of the Vatican, *Conclave* deftly navigates the intrigue of a secretive papal election following the Pope’s untimely death. With 118 cardinals converging in the holy city, the film intricately weaves themes of power struggles, alliances, and carefully guarded secrets, capturing the audience’s attention with its tense atmosphere.
Diverse Nominees in Adaptive Excellence
The Scripter Awards do not simply showcase one or two outstanding works but highlight a range of adaptations that exemplify the breadth of storytelling in modern cinema and television. This year, nominees included adaptations from magazine articles, children’s literature, and compelling novels. Alongside *Conclave*, works such as *The Wild Robot* and *Nickel Boys* were featured, demonstrating the variety of genres and narratives being transformed for screen audiences. Remarkably, the previous year’s winner for Best Adapted Screenplay, Cord Jefferson, also showcased how powerful a written narrative can be when effectively transitioned to script.
Another significant winner of the evening was the limited series *Say Nothing*, based on Patrick Radden Keefe’s acclaimed book about the complexities surrounding The Troubles in Northern Ireland. The episode “The People in the Dirt,” crafted by Joshua Zetumer, resonated with audiences due to its poignant exploration of murder and the interplay of memory within a turbulent historical context. Starring a talented ensemble, including Lola Petticrew and Hazel Doupe, the series delves deep into personal and political conflict, a reflection of the human experience amid chaos.
Selecting from a staggering number of submissions—42 films and 66 episodic series adaptations—this year’s Scripter selection committee, led by Howard Rodman, faced a challenging task. The diversity in source material and the caliber of talent involved underscore the importance of these awards in celebrating not only the art of adaptation but also the collaborative efforts of writers in creating impactful cinema and television.
The USC Scripter Awards serve as a vital platform for acknowledging those who adapt stories into compelling visual narratives, ensuring that the art of screenwriting continues to be celebrated and appreciated within the industry.