An aspiring screenwriter may find it difficult to voice their opinion in a crowded field of media. And what’s the best way to learn how to stand out from the rest? It is to learn from the pros. These professionals have been around in the field for quite some time and know what becomes a hit among the crowd. All you need to do is go through some of the best filmmaking podcasts. If you are looking for clarity, inspiration, or industry insight, here are six essential podcast listens that will be perfect for your next session.
PODCASTS YOU MUST LISTEN TO AS A SCRIPTWRITER
Are you looking for inspiration or want to catch up with everyone else in the industry? Then let’s discuss the six most discussed and liked podcasts that have helped out every scriptwriter in need. Some of these are easily available on the Prodcast app.
1. Scriptnotes (John August & Craig Mazin)
Often considered as THE must-listen podcasts for all writers. Scriptnotes discusses everything one needs to learn about screenwriting and the film or TV industry. The hosts, John August and Craig Mazin, are seasoned writers in the industry who offer their advice in business, format, and even structure. A particular standout from their podcast is the three-page challenge episode, where you will find them giving feedback on the submitted scripts.
2. The Screenwriting Life (Meg LeFauve & Lorien McKenna)
This podcast is hosted by screenwriter Meg LeFauve and producer Lorien McKenna. The Screenwriting Life offers unsolicited and in-depth discussion about the creative journey. They talk about the trials, successes, and emotional aspects of pursuing a career in screenwriting. All these positives make it perfect to learn screenwriting and develop a professional mindset.
3. Write On: A Screenwriting Podcast
This podcast is produced by Final Draft, which is a software that many screenwriters utilize these days. The podcast covers interviews on working with agents, managers, writers, and producers. It does not stop there; the podcast also talks about understanding the flow of the industry and how professionals make their careers work.
4. Blank Check with Griffin & David
Are you curious about how a director’s career trajectory works? Blank Check performs an analysis of filmmakers who received creative freedom after early success. It also discusses the narrative case studies by breaking down the filmographies. The podcast is insightful and highly entertaining. It has been highly appreciated by critics such as Paste and The A.V. Club.
5. The Projection Booth
If you are particularly fond of in-depth reviews of individual films, then this is for you. It is hosted by Mike White. What the projection booth does is it picks an obscure or classic film and thoroughly explores it. Sometimes the episodes are covered in marathon-length episodes. Interviews with critics, filmmakers make every episode interesting
6. Modern Wisdom feat. Critical Drinker — “Why Do Modern Movies Suck So Much?”
This may not be a screenwriter podcast. However, the episode is a critical lens on contemporary cinema. It also explains what’s wrong with it. Critical Drinker is a famous critic who takes a corporate takeover of creativity. It discusses Amazon’s James Bond expansion and the oversaturation of the franchise. The episode also talks about how cultural shifts affect storytelling authenticity. If anyone is keen on learning the factors that shape mainstream movies, then this is an eye-opener.
Why These Six?
Together, the six podcasts cover:
- Foundational craft & business insight (for example, Scriptnotes, and Write On)
- The creative journey and emotional resilience (for example, The Screenwriting Life)
- Filmmaker case studies & vision (for example, Blank Check and The Projection Booth)
- Industry critique and cultural awareness (for example, Critical Drinker)
These podcasts are customized according to writers who are looking for growth not just in technique but also in art, cinematic ideas and the industry.
Bonus Quick Tips for Aspiring Screenwriters
- Mix your listening: Make a mixed list of episodes. Some of these should focus on broader film analysis, while some should give a holistic view of the industry.
- Take notes: Note down ideas that compel you. These could be structural strategies or even host wisdom talks. Something that could add spark to your next scene.
- Apply what you learn: The challenge is not just to listen to podcasts. You should also write a small piece based on the technique you have learned.
- Revisit your favorites: Some of the podcasts also have archives that are full of in-depth analysis that you may have missed. You can always go back and listen to a standout topic or guest again.
Final Word
You must think of these six podcasts as your scriptwriting gurus. These are always available for your next writing session. With these podcasts, you can learn how to refine your voice and stay inspired. They also help to understand any shift in the filmmaking industry that you may need to catch up on.
