In this episode of The Screenplay Lab, host and screenwriter Jeff Barker takes a closer look at the screenplay behind La La Land by Damien Chazelle. Known for its music and emotional impact, this film offers just as much inspiration on the page as it does on the screen.

Jeff explores how the screenplay handles musical storytelling without lyrics, how it subverts traditional romantic structure, and how it uses formatting and choreography to express character and emotion. He also shares the backstory behind the script’s development, early rejections, and how Whiplash helped bring La La Land back to life.

Whether you are a screenwriter, filmmaker, or a fan of the film and its stars, Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, this episode reveals what makes the script stand out and what writers can take into their own work.

Highlights include
• Writing visual musical sequences
• How the screenplay was originally developed and rejected
• Chazelle’s use of structure and seasonality
• Standout dialogue and formatting choices
• What the ending teaches about character and storytelling

🎙️ About The Screenplay Lab:
Welcome to The Screenplay Lab, where we study and appreciate screenplays as stand-alone literary works, not just blueprints for film. We deconstruct a script in each episode, uncovering what makes it unique and exploring what writers can learn.

#screenwriting #filmmaking #movies #screenplay #LaLaLand #moviemaking #EmaStone #RyanGosling #Damien Brazelle

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There are screenplay breakdowns on:

• Anora (Mikey Madison) by Sean Baker
• Nosferatu (Lily Rose Depp, Bill Skarsgard) by Robert Eggers
• Heretic (Hugh Grant) by Scott Beck and Brian Woods
• A Complete Unknown (Timothee Chalamet, Edward Norton, Elle Fanning) by James Mangold
• The Substance (Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley) by Coralie Fargeat
• A Real Pain (Kieran Culkin) by Jesse Eisenberg
• Conclave (Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow) by Peter Straughan
• The Brutalist (Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce) by Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold
• Us (Lupita Nyong'o) by Jordan Peele (with Curry Barker interview)
• Babygirl (Nicole Kidman, Harris Dickinson) by Halina Reijn
• The Lighthouse (William Dafoe, Robert Pattinson) by Robert and Max Eggers
• La La Land (Emma Stone, Ryan Gosling) by Damien Chazelle

In this episode of The Screenplay Lab, host and screenwriter Jeff Barker takes a deep dive into the brilliantly unhinged screenplay for The Lighthouse (2019), written by Robert and Max Eggers. This A24 psychological horror film, starring Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, is a claustrophobic two-hander soaked in myth, madness, and maritime misery.

We explore how the Eggers brothers crafted a literary and cinematic fever dream - from unique formatting and surreal dialogue to powerful monologues, historical dialect, and deep symbolism. This script is weird in all the right ways - and there's a ton writers can learn from it.

🧠 Topics covered:

• Development history & Poe inspiration

• Dialogue rhythm & page formatting tricks

• Character duality & identity symbolism

• Cinematic writing techniques on the page

• Why this screenplay is a masterclass in tension and tone

🎙️ About The Screenplay Lab:
Welcome to The Screenplay Lab, where we study and appreciate screenplays as stand-alone literary works, not just blueprints for film. We deconstruct a script in each episode, uncovering what makes it unique and exploring what writers can learn.

#screenwriting #filmmaking #movies #screenplay #Babygirl #moviemaking #nicolekidman #halinareijn

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✅ Jeff Barker's Website

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There are screenplay breakdowns on:

• Anora (Mikey Madison) by Sean Baker
• Nosferatu (Lily Rose Depp, Bill Skarsgard) by Robert Eggers
• Heretic (Hugh Grant) by Scott Beck and Brian Woods
• A Complete Unknown (Timothee Chalamet, Edward Norton, Elle Fanning) by James Mangold
• The Substance (Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley) by Coralie Fargeat
• A Real Pain (Kieran Culkin) by Jesse Eisenberg
• Conclave (Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow) by Peter Straughan
• The Brutalist (Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce) by Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold
• Us (Lupita Nyong'o) by Jordan Peele (with Curry Barker interview)
• Babygirl (Nicole Kidman, Harris Dickinson) by Halina Reijn
• The Lighthouse (William Dafoe, Robert Pattinson) by Robert and Max Eggers

In this episode of The Screenplay Lab, Jeff Barker deconstructs the provocative and award-winning screenplay for Babygirl (2024), written and directed by Halina Reijn and starring Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson. This psychological erotic thriller, produced by A24, subverts the genre by placing a powerful woman at the center of a dark, complex, and unapologetic power dynamic.

We explore the screenplay as a literary document, not just a blueprint for the film. From formatting and scene structure to dialogue, symbolism, and raw emotional dynamics, this in-depth exploration offers genuine insight for screenwriters, filmmakers, and storytelling enthusiasts.

📌 In this episode:

• What makes Babygirl’s screenplay bold and original

• The use of power, shame, and desire in character-driven storytelling

• How Halina Reijn formats scenes, montages, and intercut sequences

• Key screenwriting techniques: pre-laps, interiority, camera direction, and more

• Dialogue breakdowns that show character tension at its finest

• Themes of vulnerability, domination, and identity

Whether you're writing your first screenplay or are a seasoned professional, this episode offers a fresh perspective on crafting emotionally layered, visually rich, and thematically daring stories.

BABYGIRL SCREENPLAY

🎙️ About The Screenplay Lab:
Welcome to The Screenplay Lab, where we study and appreciate screenplays as stand-alone literary works, not just blueprints for film. We deconstruct a script in each episode, uncovering what makes it unique and exploring what writers can learn.

#screenwriting #filmmaking #movies #screenplay #Babygirl #moviemaking #nicolekidman #halinareijn

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There are screenplay breakdowns on:

• Anora (Mikey Madison) by Sean Baker
• Nosferatu (Lily Rose Depp, Bill Skarsgard) by Robert Eggers
• Heretic (Hugh Grant) by Scott Beck and Brian Woods
• A Complete Unknown (Timothee Chalamet, Edward Norton, Elle Fanning) by James Mangold
• The Substance (Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley) by Coralie Fargeat
• A Real Pain (Kieran Culkin) by Jesse Eisenberg
• Conclave (Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow) by Peter Straughan
• The Brutalist (Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce) by Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold
• Us (Lupita Nyong'o) by Jordan Peele (with Curry Barker interview)
• Babygirl (Nicole Kidman, Harris Dickinson) by Halina Reijn

In this deep-dive podcast episode, screenwriter Jeff Barker explores Trey Edward Shults' emotionally captivating screenplay, Waves (2019), an A24 cult classic praised especially by Gen Z audiences for its unique storytelling and profound emotional resonance.

Discover how Shults innovatively uses screenplay conventions alongside experimental techniques like dual dialogue columns, creative text-message formatting, bold musical integration featuring artists like Frank Ocean, Kendrick Lamar, Radiohead, and Tyler the Creator; and striking cinematography choices, including shifting aspect ratios and immersive camera movements to heighten storytelling.

Jeff reveals the deeply personal origins behind Shults' powerful narrative, examining how themes of grief, family trauma, generational conflict, toxic masculinity, forgiveness, and resilience create authenticity and emotional depth.

Whether you're a filmmaker, screenwriter, or film enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into:

• Crafting dual-dialogue columns and unconventional screenplay formatting
• The symbolic meaning behind "Waves"
• Integrating contemporary music to amplify storytelling
• Techniques for portraying complex family dynamics and emotional landscapes
• Cinematic strategies like unique aspect ratios, camera techniques, and pacing
• Key screenplay statistics and comparisons to traditional screenwriting practice

🎙️ About The Screenplay Lab:
Welcome to The Screenplay Lab, where we study and appreciate screenplays as stand-alone literary works - not just blueprints for film. We deconstruct a script in each episode, uncover what makes it unique, and explore what writers can learn.

#screenwriting #filmmaking #movies #screenplay #Waves #SterlingKBrown #taylorrussell

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✅ Jeff Barker's Website

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There are screenplay breakdowns on:

• Anora (Mikey Madison) by Sean Baker
• Nosferatu (Lily Rose Depp, Bill Skarsgard) by Robert Eggers
• Heretic (Hugh Grant) by Scott Beck and Brian Woods
• A Complete Unknown (Timothee Chalamet, Edward Norton, Elle Fanning) by James Mangold
• The Substance (Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley) by Coralie Fargeat
• A Real Pain (Kieran Culkin) by Jesse Eisenberg
• Conclave (Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow) by Peter Straughan
• The Brutalist (Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce) by Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold
• Us (Lupita Nyong'o) by Jordan Peele (with Curry Barker interview)

In this special audio episode, host and screenwriter Jeff Barker dives deep into the genius behind Jordan Peele's groundbreaking screenplay, "Us" (2019). Explore how Peele intricately weaves supernatural horror, psychological depth, and relentless suspense into a captivating narrative that examines powerful societal themes like class division, identity, and confronting our inner darkness.

Plus, enjoy an insightful conversation with acclaimed actor, comedian, and director Curry Barker, discussing the profound influence of Jordan Peele and "Key & Peele" on his comedic style (That's A Bad Idea) and filmmaking career (Milk & Serial).

Jeff meticulously analyzes Peele’s unique screenwriting style, unpacking his use of pacing, symbolism, compelling flashbacks, and sharp dialogue. You'll also discover practical screenwriting techniques inspired by Peele’s visionary storytelling to help elevate your writing.

Whether you're a screenwriter, filmmaker, or a dedicated Jordan Peele fan, this episode provides invaluable insights into the art and craft of storytelling.

Episode Highlights:

• Deep screenplay analysis of Jordan Peele’s "Us"

• Exploration of symbolism, hidden meanings, and societal commentary

• Practical tips and screenwriting strategies inspired by Peele’s writing

• Behind-the-scenes insights into Peele’s filmmaking approach

• Exclusive interview with Curry Barker on comedy, creativity, and Jordan Peele's legacy

🎙️ About The Screenplay Lab:
Welcome to The Screenplay Lab, where we study and appreciate screenplays as stand-alone literary works - not just blueprints for film. We deconstruct a script in each episode, uncover what makes it unique, and explore what writers can learn.

#screenwriting #filmmaking #movies #JordanPeele #CurryBarker

US - Screenplay

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Join us for a riveting exploration of THE BRUTALIST, the film that has stormed the Oscars with ten nominations, including Best Original Screenplay, Best Picture, and Best Director. In this episode, we dissect the genius of Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold’s screenplay, an intense period drama that goes beyond mere architectural discourse to challenge the very fabric of the American Dream.

What we’ll cover:

✅ Screenwriting: Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold’s visionary writing that’s as bold and uncompromising as the brutalist structures that frame this narrative.

✅ Narrative Architecture: How the screenplay constructs a compelling narrative that intertwines personal trauma with societal reconstruction.

✅ Character Analysis: Deep dives into the complex characters portrayed by Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, and Guy Pearce—each adding depth and authenticity to this riveting story.

✅ Symbolic Structures: The role of brutalist architecture in reflecting the inner turmoil and ideological battles of the protagonists.

✅ Scene Breakdowns: Key scenes that define the screenplay’s strength and why they resonate with audiences and critics alike.

Why Listen: Whether you’re a film student, a screenwriter, or just a lover of finely-crafted cinema, this episode offers you a detailed behind-the-scenes look at what makes THE BRUTALIST a potential Oscar winner. From the script’s intricate layers to the stellar performances and groundbreaking direction, find out what sets this film apart in the panorama of modern cinema.

🎙️ About The Screenplay Lab:
Welcome to The Screenplay Lab, where we study and appreciate screenplays as stand-alone literary works - not just blueprints for film. We deconstruct a script in each episode, uncover what makes it unique, and explore what writers can learn.

#screenwriting #filmmaking #movies #writing #TheBrutalist

THE BRUTALIST - Screenplay

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In this episode, we take a deep dive into CONCLAVE, the Oscar-nominated screenplay written by Peter Straughan. Adapted from Robert Harris’ novel, this gripping script blends political intrigue, religious drama, and even sports movie elements, creating one of the most unique and suspenseful screenplays of the year.

🔥 What We Cover in This Episode:
✔️ The real-life inspiration behind CONCLAVE
✔️ Why this screenplay feels like a sports movie disguised as a political thriller
✔️ The screenplay’s unique formatting, dialogue techniques, and structure
✔️ The power struggles, ethical dilemmas, and conspiracies at the heart of the story
✔️ How Edward Berger’s direction and an all-star cast brought the script to life

🏆 Award Buzz & Recognition:

• 8 Academy Award Nominations, including Best Picture & Best Adapted Screenplay
• Golden Globe Winner – Best Screenplay
• BAFTA & AFI Movie of the Year Winner

🎙️ About The Screenplay Lab:
Welcome to The Screenplay Lab, where we study and appreciate screenplays as stand-alone literary works - not just blueprints for film. We deconstruct a script in each episode, uncover what makes it unique, and explore what writers can learn.

#screenwriting #filmmaking #conclave #writing

CONVLAVE - Screenplay

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Keywords:

screenwriting, screenplay analysis, film podcast, Conclave movie, Peter Straughan, Oscar-nominated films, political thriller, religious drama, sports movie, filmmaking, storytelling, best adapted screenplay, Hollywood screenwriting, movie breakdown, film industry.

Sean Baker’s Anora is a Romantic Drama turned Thriller infused with comedy and sharp social commentary. Recently nominated for SIX Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay, this modern anti-Cinderella story explores love, independence, and class conflict with breathtaking nuance.

What to expect in this episode:

• The brilliance of Sean Baker’s character-driven storytelling and unique writing style.
• How Anora balances slapstick humor and emotional depth.
• A scene-by-scene breakdown: what makes this script so gripping and worthy of an Oscar nod.
• Symbolism, setting, and the themes of agency and societal expectations.
• Behind-the-scenes insights, from Mikey Madison’s standout performance to Baker’s collaboration with real-world consultants.

This podcast is perfect for screenwriters, film enthusiasts, and anyone who loves diving into the craft of storytelling.

Keywords: screenplay podcast, screenwriting analysis, Sean Baker, Anora, Academy Awards 2024, storytelling techniques, character-driven scripts, romantic drama thriller, filmmaking insights, The Screenplay Lab.

🎙️ About The Screenplay Lab:
Welcome to The Screenplay Lab, where we study and appreciate screenplays as stand-alone literary works - not just blueprints for film. We deconstruct a script in each episode, uncover what makes it unique, and explore what writers can learn.

Anora - Screenplay

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✅ Jeff Barker's Website

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