The Story Behind the Black List: Unveiling its History and Impact

Creating alist to comprehend the best screenplays of the year is no small feat, especially when the industryrsquo;s standards and expectations can be asshaky as the correlation between script quality and cinematic success. However, the Black List, which has been a significant player in the screenwriting world for over a decade, has carved out its own narrative.

On March 1st, in San Francisco, Franklin Leonardrsquo;s journey and insights into the formation and evolution of the Black List will be the spotlight of the Founders Series, an event that promises to delve deep into its history and methodology.

Origins of the Black List

The story of the Black List begins in a time when Franklin Leonard, primarily known for his daily screenplay podcastrdquo;The One Page Wonder,rdquo; found himself disenchanted with the quality of screenplays he was encountering. For months, he consumed little but garbagesomewhat fitting for a show about screenwriting. Concluding that the current evaluation methods were inadequate, Leonard decided to take matters into his own hands.

He sent out an email to his network in Hollywood, asking for their opinions on the best screenplays of the year. The response was overwhelming; ninety fellow professionals participated, each sharing the best scripts they had come across. Inspired by the idea of a simple and straightforward system, Leonard developed a ranking mechanism. The script that garnered the most votes would be crowned the number one on his list.

The Black List and Its Methodology

The Black List has since evolved into a comprehensive platform that not only ranks scripts but also serves as a network for aspiring screenwriters. Its methodology remains rooted in the initial idea of gathering peer recommendations, but it has since been refined and expanded.

Each year, the Black List sends out invitations to hundreds of industry professionals, urging them to nominate scripts they have read and believe to be of exceptional quality. This participatory approach ensures that the list reflects the collective opinion of the industryrsquo;s most knowledgeable and discerning individuals. Additionally, the list has expanded to include categories such as ten-minute scripts, animation, and television series, catering to a broader range of screenwriting communities.

Navigating the Founders Series

The upcoming event, Founders Series, on March 1st, will be a unique opportunity to hear Franklin Leonard and Noah Oppenheim, the writer behind a notable script, share their insights. This event invites attendees to dive into the history and methodology behind the Black List, bringing to light the personal journey of Franklin Leonard and the impact of his creation on the screenwriting world.

Leonard will discuss the challenges he faced in the process of creating a reliable list of scripts and the lessons learned along the way. He will also address the criticisms and controversies surrounding the Black List, discussing how the platform has evolved to address these issues and continue to serve its intended purpose.

Noah Oppenheim, on the other hand, will provide insights into the world of screenwriting, offering practical advice and sharing his personal experiences as a writer. Combined, their perspectives will offer a comprehensive view of the Black Listrsquo;s significance and its role in the industry.

The Black List has become a tool for aspiring screenwriters to showcase their work, for industry professionals to discover new talent, and for everyone involved to stay informed about the trends and standards in screenwriting. As the screenwriting world continues to evolve, the Black List remains a vital player in shaping the landscape.

Conclusion

The story of the Black List is a testament to the power of community and the importance of peer recognition in the screenwriting industry. Franklin Leonard and the Black List have not only created a platform for evaluating screenplays but have also inspired a cultural shift in how we think about and approach screenwriting.

As the Founders Series approaches, itrsquo;s an exciting time to explore the future of screenwriting and the role the Black List will play in it. For those interested in attending, tickets can be purchased through the official Founders Series website.

Join us on March 1st in San Francisco, and be a part of this fascinating discussion that will shape the future of screenwriting for years to come!