Even the best writers stumble. Take Akiva Goldsman, a Hollywood heavyweight with an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay under his belt. Yet, his career also includes the infamous "Batman & Robin", a film he himself has deemed "terrible." So, what can we learn from his experience to avoid writing a cinematic train wreck?
1. Don't Ignore the Source Material:
Batman & Robin deviated significantly from the gritty, noirish tone of the comics. Instead, it embraced camp and silliness, resulting in a jarring disconnect for fans. Respect your source material, even if you want to put your own spin on it.
2. Avoid Overcrowding the Narrative:
The film crammed in too many villains, subplots, and characters, leaving them all underdeveloped and the story convoluted. Focus on a clear, central conflict and build your narrative around it. Don't be afraid to cut unnecessary elements.
3. Resist the Urge to Overplay the Jokes:
B&R relied heavily on puns and slapstick, sacrificing the seriousness of the superhero genre for cheap laughs. Humor can be effective, but don't let it overshadow the core themes and tone of your story.
4. Prioritize Believable Dialogue:
Many lines in B&R are cringe-inducing and unrealistic, pulling viewers out of the narrative. Write dialogue that sounds natural and fits the characters' personalities and motivations.
5. Remember, Less is More:
B&R suffered from excessive action sequences and special effects. While these elements can be thrilling, focus on building tension and suspense, letting the action enhance the story rather than drive it.
6. Embrace Criticism and Learn from Mistakes:
Goldsman's willingness to acknowledge the film's flaws demonstrates valuable self-awareness. Listen to constructive criticism and use it to improve your future work.
7. Don't Be Afraid to Walk Away:
Sometimes, the best decision is to step away from a project that doesn't feel right. If you have doubts about the script, don't be afraid to speak up or even walk away before it's too late.
Remembering these lessons and learning from the mistakes of others like Goldsman can help aspiring screenwriters navigate the treacherous waters of Hollywood and avoid creating cinematic disasters.