In a recent New Yorker profile, Craig Mazin, co-creator of The Last of Us and Chernobyl, sings the praises of Scott Frank, dubbing him “one of the best screenwriters of all time.” While Frank is widely known for his work on films such as Get Shorty, Out of Sight, and Logan, the article delves into his lesser-known role as a script doctor and his contributions to nearly 60 films. Despite the significant financial success of his career, Frank remains humble, referring to himself as a “bit of a hack.” This article explores Scott Frank’s journey as a screenwriter and delves into his mastery of both character work and classic structure.
According to Frank himself, 90% of the work he is called in for is character work. This aspect of storytelling is vital and often overlooked. The ability to craft complex and relatable characters is what sets Scott Frank apart. His expertise in character development is evident in the films he has worked on, such as Saving Private Ryan, The Ring, and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. By delving deep into the psyches of his characters, Frank creates rich and memorable performances that resonate with audiences.
While renowned for his adeptness at character work, Scott Frank also possesses a masterful understanding of structure. Paul Thomas Anderson, a highly respected filmmaker himself, praises Frank as a formalist and expresses admiration for his ability to grasp classic storytelling structure. This skill allows Frank to create narratives that captivate viewers from beginning to end. His attention to detail and meticulous approach to story structure sets the foundation for compelling and engaging cinematic experiences.
Despite Scott Frank’s lauded reputation and substantial earnings as a script doctor earning up to $300,000 a week, he remains grounded and self-deprecating. Frank describes himself as a “bit of a hack,” downplaying his own talent and success. However, this humility may be exactly what fuels his creative drive. Frank’s ability to maintain contentment and avoid torment allows him to focus on his craft without distraction. Even with numerous achievements under his belt, Frank’s hunger to keep creating remains strong.
Looking Toward the Future
Scott Frank’s future projects continue to demonstrate his versatility and passion for storytelling. His upcoming endeavor, Monsieur Spade for AMC, showcases his skills not only as a writer but also as a co-creator and executive producer. Collaborating with Tom Fontana, Frank is poised to deliver yet another captivating and thought-provoking series. By continually pushing himself creatively and exploring new avenues, Scott Frank solidifies his place among the pantheon of great screenwriters.
Craig Mazin’s praise for Scott Frank as “one of the best screenwriters of all time” is well-deserved. Frank’s ability to excel in both character work and classic storytelling structure sets him apart from his peers. Despite his success, Frank remains humble and focused on his craft. As he embarks on new projects, it is clear that Scott Frank’s dedication to storytelling will continue to shape the landscape of cinema.