Screenwriter to Director transition resources?

[nerdish]

Hi,

Can anyone recommend books/articles/threads on the subject of how a screenwriter has transitioned to becoming a director? Any reference to a compilation of anecdotes or stories of how one was able to maneuver through Hollywood/The System/other Powers to Be would be appreciated.

I've heard the odd story here and there on forum posts about a writer attaching himself to his studio-coveted screenplay as a director, only to relent and make a directorial debut on a lesser story (or one more downscaled than the former) as a concession. But if there's a tome out there that I'm missing that describes the myriad other ways one can become effect the transition to a directorial debut (beyond shorts and DIY scale) I would love to hear about it.

Thanks,
Isaac

 

[wcmartell]

Usually it's the way Scott Frank did it: after writing a string of hit movies that made a pile of money for studios, they allowed him to direct a small movie. Every screenwriter who directed that I can think of followed that same path...

Bill

 

[nerdish]

Thanks for the response, Bill. I guess there isn't that much variation to the formula after all: make yourself indispensable as a screenwriter with a bevy of hits under your belt, and secure a directing gig with a studio whom you've had a productive relationship with.

 

[SarahMilro]

Thanks for the response, Bill. I guess there isn't that much variation to the formula after all: make yourself indispensable as a screenwriter with a bevy of hits under your belt, and secure a directing gig with a studio whom you've had a productive relationship with.

FWIW

James Cameron said in an interview somewhere (can't remember where) that the mistake screenwriters make is thinking that they'll get successful as writers and then transition to directing.

 

[Egg Born Son]

If you want to direct, find a producer or self-produce, raise some money and direct. While having some writing skills is of benefit to a director, directing skills are far more valuable. People and leadership skills are essential (and tend to be in short supply amongst writers who spend large amounts of time in their own company). Ability to understand and communicate with actors is particularly important. Building a team is important too and takes time. Make a few shorts, keep people who are easy to work with and dedicated and see where it takes you. People are the most important thing, unlike writing you can't really do this thing alone. I would also suggest buying a script rather than making your own. It will help you be less precious, make the necessary decisions as everything is falling down around you and focus on your director's vision rather than your writer's vision.

 

[OldCorpse]

If you want to direct, find a producer or self-produce, raise some money and direct. While having some writing skills is of benefit to a director, directing skills are far more valuable. People and leadership skills are essential (and tend to be in short supply amongst writers who spend large amounts of time in their own company). Ability to understand and communicate with actors is particularly important. Building a team is important too and takes time. Make a few shorts, keep people who are easy to work with and dedicated and see where it takes you. People are the most important thing, unlike writing you can't really do this thing alone. I would also suggest buying a script rather than making your own. It will help you be less precious, make the necessary decisions as everything is falling down around you and focus on your director's vision rather than your writer's vision.

+1