Reel and Roll: Analysis: Best Original Screenplay 2015

Best Original Screenplay

Oscar Nominees:

1. Ex Machina: I just love how Garland's screenplay deals with the sci-fi element of AI intelligence so meticulously and makes it so intriguing to learn about, but also manages to make equally intriguing the character dynamics between Caleb, Nathan and Ava. In particular the character of Nathan is given such an original spin by the writing behind it. It's brilliantly written stuff that may be Garland's personal best as a writer, though I wouldn't mind if the Oscar gong goes to who it's most likely going to...

2. Spotlight: fantastically written screenplay that is one aspect of the film that is indeed, very worthy of comparison to its spiritual successor All the President's Men. I didn't have a single problem with it as I thought it made each step of the procedural just so engaging. It's definitely by far the highlight of the film and would be a most worthy winner. I think a great comparison to this is The Big Short, it handles the ensemble nature so well whereas in The Big Short it's all a big mess.

3. Bridge of Spies: Obviously the highlight here is that 'Standing Man' speech and any choice line Rylance's character utters, but the rest of the script is excellent too as it merges Coen Brothers' touch of humour with a very strong watertight plot running through it.

4. Inside Out: Yet another excellently written screenplay by Pixar. Only reason it's fourth really is that it doesn't quite have the standout moments the top 3 have, for me, though I certainly found it very moving in parts its not quite classic Pixar, but I digress. Not every film can be Wall-E.

5. ???? (Still haven't seen Straight Outta Compton)

My Nominees:

1. The Hateful Eight: Though I absolutely loved the screenplays for Ex Machina and Spotlight, I really have to hand it to Tarantino here without too many qualms as...I loved his screenplay for The Hateful Eight, and just in terms of scope, ambition and pure visceral power it's probably best work ever. I would say my favourite Tarantino script is probably still Reservoir Dogs, but QT's work here is both morbidly funny, incredibly tight-knit, and showcases his growth as a screenwriter by some genuinely affecting emotional moments that hit the heights of Kill Bill: Vol. 2 and Jackie Brown. It's a perfect show of just what a great writer Tarantino is, and yes, it is a bit indulgent in this showcase of his talents...but it works for the film.

2. Ex Machina

3. Spotlight

4. Mad Max: Fury Road: Endlessly quotable (mostly courtesy of the lovable Nux, The Dag, and Slit as literally everything spouted out of their mouth is just so quotable). The plot is simple I'll grant that...but hey, it works for the film, and anyway why have a complex plot when you have enough complex characterisation and wonderful character arcs, to drive the film (literally).