USC SCRIPTING SHOWDOWN: 'Hamnet' and 'One Battle After Another' Lead the Pack!

The University of Southern California’s Scripter Awards announced their finalists for 2023 on January 24, spotlighting 'Hamnet' and 'One Battle After Another' as leading contenders for Best Adapted Screenplay. This year marks the 36th edition of the Scripter Awards, which honors excellence in adapting literature into film and television.

Previous winners include Oscar contenders 'The Power of the Dog' in 2022 and 'Nomadland' in 2021. However, this year’s list reflects changes in the qualifying rules, leading to notable omissions. For instance, adaptations such as 'Dune' and 'The Handmaid's Tale' were ineligible, having been previously nominated in prior years.

Sources indicate that eligibility changes have been enacted to ensure fresh voices are recognized, leading to the exclusion of repeat nominees. In 2023, only projects that have not received a prior Scripter nomination were considered. This change directly impacts several prominent adaptations, creating opportunities for newer works.

'Hamnet,' adapted from Maggie O'Farrell's novel, has gained traction as a favorite for its emotional depth and unique storytelling. Similar to 'The Irishman,' which brought novel adaptations into mainstream conversations, 'Hamnet' signifies a continuing trend in adapting literary works for the screen. Sources confirm that director Kenneth Branagh is attached to this project.

On the other hand, 'One Battle After Another,' based on the novel by Matthew G. Kelly, follows the journey of soldiers in World War II. This project has been highlighted as a potential Oscar contender as well, reflecting the broader industry's increasing interest in war narratives. Both films are set to participate in various other award circuits, increasing their visibility leading up to the Oscars.

Industry reactions suggest that the exclusion of major titles has opened debate about the evolving nature of adaptations. For instance, during the 2022 Scripter Awards, diversity in nominative choices was also a topic, paralleling this year’s discussions concerning rules and representation.

Timeline-wise, previous critics expressed concern about the stagnation of nominations, culminating in necessary reform. The Scripter Awards adaptation criteria have not undergone major changes since 2018, indicating a significant pivot in approach this year.

Looking ahead, the Scripter Awards ceremony will take place on February 18, 2023, just days before the Academy Awards. The anticipated outcomes could set the tone for the Oscars, especially as both 'Hamnet' and 'One Battle After Another' are expected to garner attention during the awards season.

Ultimately, the 2023 USC Scripter Awards highlight a shift in the adaptation landscape. These changes may reshape not only how adaptations are viewed but also influence future adaptations, encouraging studios to invest in new narratives while reshaping the landscape of award recognition.