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Exploring the Art of Screenwriting with Jake Disch

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Chapter 1: Introduction to Jake Disch

In this interview series, we delve into the mind of Jake Disch, a talented writer recognized on the 2023 Black List for his screenplay, "The Adults in the Room."

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Section 1.1: The Journey of Jake Disch

Jake Disch has achieved the prestigious Black List honor twice: first in 2018 for his script "Gunfight" and again in 2023 with "The Adults in the Room." In this segment, we discuss his creative journey, the intricacies of screenwriting, and the unique challenges he faced while writing about historical events.

Interview with Jake Disch, Black List writer

Section 1.2: Crafting the Script

Scott: I've noticed lively debates on social media regarding the use of bolded slug lines in scripts. You’ve taken that plunge yourself. What’s your take?

Jake: I often incorporate image files into my scripts. I utilize a text generator to create fake texts, then capture screenshots. Why? It adds a visual flair that I find appealing.

Scott: Referring to the page you mentioned, where the character posts tweets, what inspired you?

Jake: That was after he filed for bankruptcy, and those tweets were his initial reactions. I thought it was crucial to capture them before they disappeared.

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Section 1.3: Audience Engagement

Scott: You use supers and chapter titles creatively. How did you come up with the idea to include FTT valuations?

Jake: It was a way to convey information succinctly. Different audiences absorb content in various ways, and visual numbers can sometimes convey more than words.

Scott: Your narrative style reminds me of "Social Network," using dual depositions to shift timeframes. What was your intent with that?

Jake: It was a blend of fun and efficiency. If I can inject humor into an exposition-heavy script, I will. Why revert to a dull conference room when I can have a US attorney in a hot tub?

Chapter 2: Inspiration and Originality

Section 2.1: Finding Story Ideas

Scott: How do you generate your story ideas? Do you draw from current events or actively seek concepts?

Jake: I do a mix of both. I consume a lot of news and long-form journalism for inspiration. Sometimes, it’s a conversation with a producer or a personal reaction to events that sparks a story.

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Section 2.2: Learning from Experience

Jake shares a cautionary tale about missed opportunities. While vacationing in Hawaii, his wife sent him an article about a man who owned a private zoo and plotted a crime. Despite its potential, his agents dismissed it as unmarketable.

Jake: Eight months later, the subject became a viral phenomenon. That moment taught me to trust my instincts.

Section 2.3: The Freedom of Creativity

Scott: Hollywood tends to label writers based on their previous works. Do you find this limiting?

Jake: Not yet. I aim to be remembered for my unique tone and approach, regardless of whether a piece is based on reality or not. Most of my projects reflect social or political commentary, even the fictional ones.

Tomorrow, in Part 6, Jake will offer guidance to aspiring screenwriters. For previous installments, refer to Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4.

Jake is represented by Bellevue Productions.

Follow him on social media: @jake_disch and @jakedisch.bsky.social

For more interviews with Black List writers, click here.

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