“Unveiling Tomorrow’s Voices: Secrets from the THR 2025 Writers Roundtable That Could Shape the Future of Storytelling”
In the world of filmmaking, screenwriters often play the unsung heroes, laboring behind the curtains while directors and actors take center stage. Wouldn’t it be refreshing to hear their stories—those tales of inspiration and struggle that shape the characters we love? The Hollywood Reporter’s annual roundtable does just that, bringing together six talented screenwriters who made waves with their notable films from the past year. Among them are Jesse Eisenberg, Payal Kapadia, Justin Kuritzkes, James Mangold, Halina Reijn, and Jason Reitman, each sharing their unique paths into the art of screenwriting. As we explore their insights, we’re reminded that the road to storytelling is paved with passion, perseverance, and sometimes a little pain. So, let’s dive into these fascinating conversations and uncover what drives these creators to bring their visions to life. LEARN MORE.
The Hollywood Reporter’s annual sit-down with six screenwriters with notable films from the previous year.
I love interviews with screenwriters. First, I can learn something from pro writers. Second, any time screenwriters are featured in the press is worth noting. All too often with movies, the press covers everybody BUT the writers. So, thanks THR for this annual feature.
This year’s gathering features Jesse Eisenberg (A Real Pain), Payal Kapadia (All We Imagine is Light), Justin Kuritzkes (Challengers), James Mangold (A Complete Unknown), Halina Reijn (Babygirl), and Jason Reitman (Saturday Night).
Here are excerpts from the roundtable in which each participant shares how they got into screenwriting.
Jim, what set you on the path to writing?
JAMES MANGOLD A burning desire to shoot and direct. It was a chore for me early on — extremely painful, which it still is. But for some reason, with age, I’ve come to a kind of respect and appreciation for it.
Jason, your late father, Ivan, was a terrific director but wrote very few of the films that he made.
JASON REITMAN I’m a filmmaker today because I grew up on sets and wanted to be on the trucks and part of the crew. But I realized the only way I was going to get there was if I wrote something for…
