Gathering the luminaries of the film and television industry, the 37th annual USC Scripter Awards celebrated outstanding achievements in adapted screenwriting. This prestigious event, held at the Town & Gown ballroom at the University of Southern California, recognized the creative minds behind some of the year’s most compelling narratives, both in film and episodic series. The Scripter Awards, presented annually by USC Libraries, seek not only to honor the writers of screen adaptations but also the original authors whose works provided the foundation for these captivating stories.
One of the evening’s highlights was the recognition of the adapted screenplay for *Conclave*, a film that intricately weaves a tale of intrigue and power within the Vatican. Written by Peter Straughan and based on Robert Harris’s novel, *Conclave* has made waves in the cinematic landscape, earning eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and a nod for lead actor Ralph Fiennes. The narrative unfolds in the tense atmosphere of a papal election, as 118 cardinals gather to make pivotal decisions following the untimely death of the Pope. This layered plot not only showcases political maneuvering but also a rich exploration of human relationships under pressure.
In addition to *Conclave*, *Say Nothing*, a gripping limited series, also earned accolades, particularly for an episode penned by creator Joshua Zetumer. This series, based on the acclaimed book by Patrick Radden Keefe, delves deep into the murky waters of Northern Ireland during The Troubles, capturing the emotional weight of murder and memory. The episode “The People in the Dirt” stood out amongst a diverse field of nominees, reaffirming the significance of storytelling in understanding complex historical narratives.
The nominees at this year’s ceremony illustrated a rich tapestry of source material, ranging from magazine articles to children’s literature. With entries including *Sing Sing*, *The Wild Robot*, and *Nickel Boys*, the Scripter Awards showcased the creative flexibility inherent in contemporary storytelling. The range of adaptations not only highlights the depth of available material but also underscores the importance of diverse voices and perspectives in the industry. This year’s award for best adapted screenplay went to *American Fiction*, a film based on Percival Everett’s novel, marking a continuing trend of honoring innovative works derived from different literary forms.
As the entertainment landscape evolves, the significance of adapted works continues to grow. The 2025 Scripter selection committee reviewed an impressive slate of 42 film adaptations and 66 episodic series, indicative of the industry’s ongoing commitment to excellent storytelling. The recognition of such diverse works invites reflection on how these adaptations not only entertain but also prompt dialogue about societal issues. With a strong focus on originality and creativity, this year’s Scripter Awards remind audiences and creators alike of the profound impact that literature, when translated to screen, can have on culture and society.