From SlashFilm · Joe Roberts · · 50s
Andy Weir's Screenplay Struggles
Andy Weir says writing screenplays feels 'claustrophobic' after trying to adapt his novels.
In brief
Andy Weir says writing screenplays feels 'claustrophobic' after trying to adapt his novels. Andy Weir feels constrained by screenplays' lack of exposition space compared to novels. Originally reported by SlashFilm.
Andy Weir's screenwriting challenge
Andy Weir tried writing screenplays but feels constrained by the lack of space for exposition.
“I've tried my hand at writing scripts and screenplays in the past, and I've always felt really constrained and claustrophobic by that”
Exoplanet audiobook challenge
Exoplanet audiobook writer Benjamin Percy shut down the idea of a narrator for the sci-fi thriller.
“Everything is sounds that are happening in the setting”
Exposition in screenplays
Screenplays require exposition through dialogue or visuals, not paragraphs of explanation.
“Exposition now has to be done through dialogue or visuals. Usually visuals.”
Weir's current work
Weir is writing a new AI-focused book while fans hope for a Project Hail Mary sequel.
“I've always felt really constrained and claustrophobic by that because you have very little space to do things”
Weir's preference
Weir prefers novels over screenplays, saying visuals help convey exposition better than narration.
“Visuals do a great job of exposition because you can see the whole everything that's going on”
The essence
Andy Weir feels constrained by screenplays' lack of exposition space compared to novels.
