What is an Adapted Screenplay?
An adapted screenplay refers to a screenplay that is based on pre-existing source material, such as a novel, play, short story, or even another film. The process of adapting a screenplay involves transforming the original material into a script that can be filmed and brought to life on screen.
Types of Source Material
There are various types of source material that can be adapted into a screenplay:
- Novels
- Plays
- Short stories
- Comic books
- Biographies
Challenges of Adapting Screenplays
Adapting a screenplay from existing material comes with its own set of challenges. One of the main difficulties is condensing a large amount of content into a feature-length film. This often requires cutting out subplots, combining characters, or changing the narrative structure.
Examples of Adapted Screenplays
Some well-known films that were adapted from existing material include:
- The Lord of the Rings trilogy – adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien’s novels
- The Shawshank Redemption – adapted from Stephen King’s novella
- Gone Girl – adapted from Gillian Flynn’s novel
Case Studies
One notable case study is the adaptation of the book ‘The Martian’ by Andy Weir into a screenplay by Drew Goddard. The film went on to receive critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Statistics on Adapted Screenplays
According to a study by the Writers Guild of America, a significant portion of the films that receive nominations for Best Adapted Screenplay at the Academy Awards are based on novels or non-fiction books. This highlights the importance of adapting existing material in the world of filmmaking.
