The Best Screenplays of 2024: A Year of Cinematic Storytelling Excellence
Posted on Jun 09, 2025
The year 2024 was a remarkable one for cinema, with screenplays that pushed boundaries, challenged conventions, and delivered unforgettable narratives. The Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay and Best Adapted Screenplay highlighted some of the finest writing in film, showcasing a range of genres, themes, and storytelling styles. From thought-provoking dramas to satirical comedies, the nominated films demonstrated the power of a well-crafted script. Below, we explore five standout films from 2024 that were celebrated for their exceptional screenplays, diving into what made their writing so compelling.
1. Anatomy of a Fall (Best Original Screenplay Winner)
Screenplay by Justine Triet and Arthur Harari Anatomy of a Fall, directed by Justine Triet and co-written with Arthur Harari, took home the 2024 Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, and it’s no surprise why. This French legal drama is a masterclass in narrative ambiguity, weaving a courtroom thriller that doubles as a profound exploration of relationships, truth, and perception. The story follows Sandra Voyter (Sandra Hüller), a writer accused of murdering her husband after he falls from their chalet’s balcony. The screenplay’s brilliance lies in its refusal to provide easy answers, instead inviting the audience to question what they believe.
Triet and Harari craft a script that balances procedural precision with emotional depth. The dialogue is sharp and layered, revealing character motivations through subtle exchanges rather than expository monologues. The courtroom scenes are particularly gripping, as they dissect the couple’s marriage through testimonies, recordings, and the perspective of their visually impaired son, Daniel. The script’s strength is its ability to maintain tension while exploring complex themes like guilt, trust, and the subjectivity of truth. By leaving key details unresolved, Anatomy of a Fall challenges viewers to engage actively with the narrative, making it a standout in 2024’s screenplay landscape. Its Golden Globe and BAFTA wins for Best Screenplay further cemented its critical acclaim.
2. American Fiction (Best Adapted Screenplay Winner)
Screenplay by Cord Jefferson, based on Erasure by Percival Everett American Fiction, written and directed by Cord Jefferson, won the 2024 Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay, marking a historic moment as Jefferson became one of the few Black solo writers to claim this award. Adapted from Percival Everett’s novel Erasure, the film is a biting satire that tackles racial stereotypes, the publishing industry, and the commodification of Black narratives. The story centers on Thelonious “Monk” Ellison (Jeffrey Wright), a frustrated Black author who writes a stereotypically “Black” novel as a joke, only to see it become a commercial success.
Jefferson’s screenplay is a triumph of tone, seamlessly blending humor with poignant social commentary. The dialogue is witty and incisive, particularly in scenes where Monk navigates the absurd expectations of white publishers and audiences. The script also weaves in a heartfelt family drama, exploring Monk’s relationships with his siblings and his aging mother. This balance of satire and sincerity makes American Fiction a deeply human story, resonating with audiences and critics alike. Its wins at BAFTA, Critics Choice, and USC Scripter underscored its strength in the adapted screenplay category, proving Jefferson’s ability to transform Everett’s novel into a cinematic gem.
3. The Holdovers
Screenplay by David Hemingson Directed by Alexander Payne, The Holdovers earned a Best Original Screenplay nomination for its heartfelt and nostalgic script by David Hemingson. Set in a New England boarding school during the 1970 Christmas break, the film follows Paul Hunham (Paul Giamatti), a curmudgeonly teacher, as he forms an unlikely bond with a troubled student, Angus (Dominic Sessa), and the school’s cook, Mary (Da’Vine Joy Randolph).
Hemingson’s screenplay is a love letter to 1970s cinema, with its character-driven storytelling and bittersweet tone. The dialogue crackles with wit, particularly in Paul’s acerbic exchanges, but it’s the quieter moments that shine, revealing the characters’ vulnerabilities. The script deftly explores themes of loneliness, grief, and found family, creating a narrative that feels both timeless and deeply personal. While it didn’t win the Oscar, The Holdovers was a strong contender, praised for its emotional resonance and tightly crafted story. Its ability to balance humor and heartache made it one of 2024’s most beloved scripts.
4. Barbie
Screenplay by Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, based on characters by Mattel Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig and co-written with Noah Baumbach, was a cultural phenomenon in 2023, and its screenplay earned a Best Adapted Screenplay nomination in 2024. Based on Mattel’s iconic doll, the script transforms a toy brand into a sharp, feminist satire that explores identity, patriarchy, and existentialism. The story follows Stereotypical Barbie (Margot Robbie) as she ventures from Barbieland to the real world, confronting societal expectations and her own sense of self.
Gerwig and Baumbach’s screenplay is a dazzling blend of humor, heart, and subversive commentary. The dialogue is playful yet profound, with moments like America Ferrera’s powerful monologue about the contradictions of womanhood resonating widely. The script’s ability to appeal to both mainstream audiences and critics is a testament to its versatility, making it a standout in a competitive adapted screenplay field. While it faced debate over its classification as an adapted script (due to its basis on Mattel’s characters), Barbie’s nomination highlighted its creative ambition and cultural impact.
5. Oppenheimer
Screenplay by Christopher Nolan, based on American Prometheus by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer was a juggernaut at the 2024 Oscars, and its screenplay, adapted from American Prometheus, was a key part of its success. The film chronicles the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy), the physicist behind the atomic bomb, weaving together his scientific achievements, personal struggles, and the moral complexities of his legacy.
Nolan’s script is a dense, ambitious work that juggles multiple timelines and perspectives with precision. The dialogue is cerebral yet accessible, capturing the intensity of scientific discovery and the weight of ethical dilemmas. The screenplay’s structure, alternating between Oppenheimer’s rise and his post-war scrutiny, creates a gripping narrative that never loses momentum. While it didn’t win the Adapted Screenplay Oscar, Oppenheimer’s script was lauded for its intellectual rigor and emotional depth, contributing to the film’s Best Picture win and Nolan’s Best Director accolade.
Why These Screenplays Stand Out
The 2024 screenplay nominees reflect the diversity of modern cinema, from intimate character studies to blockbuster spectacles. Anatomy of a Fall and American Fiction won their respective categories by tackling complex themes with nuance and originality. The Holdovers charmed with its heartfelt simplicity, while Barbie and Oppenheimer proved that mainstream films could deliver profound, thought-provoking narratives. Each script showcases the power of storytelling to entertain, challenge, and move audiences. What unites these screenplays is their ability to transcend their genres. Anatomy of a Fall elevates the courtroom drama into a philosophical inquiry, while American Fiction uses satire to confront systemic issues. The Holdovers finds universal truths in a specific setting, and Barbie and Oppenheimer transform familiar stories into bold, innovative narratives. These films remind us that a great screenplay is the foundation of a great film, providing the blueprint for unforgettable performances, direction, and visuals. As we look back on 2024, these five screenplays stand as testaments to the art of writing for the screen. They invite us to laugh, cry, question, and reflect proving that the written word remains at the heart of cinematic excellence. Whether you’re drawn to the psychological depth of Anatomy of a Fall, the sharp wit of American Fiction, the warmth of The Holdovers, the boldness of Barbie, or the ambition of Oppenheimer, these films offer something for every cinephile. Which screenplay resonated with you the most? Share your thoughts and celebrate the power of storytelling in 2024’s finest films.
Screenplay by Justine Triet and Arthur Harari Anatomy of a Fall, directed by Justine Triet and co-written with Arthur Harari, took home the 2024 Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, and it’s no surprise why. This French legal drama is a masterclass in narrative ambiguity, weaving a courtroom thriller that doubles as a profound exploration of relationships, truth, and perception. The story follows Sandra Voyter (Sandra Hüller), a writer accused of murdering her husband after he falls from their chalet’s balcony. The screenplay’s brilliance lies in its refusal to provide easy answers, instead inviting the audience to question what they believe.
Triet and Harari craft a script that balances procedural precision with emotional depth. The dialogue is sharp and layered, revealing character motivations through subtle exchanges rather than expository monologues. The courtroom scenes are particularly gripping, as they dissect the couple’s marriage through testimonies, recordings, and the perspective of their visually impaired son, Daniel. The script’s strength is its ability to maintain tension while exploring complex themes like guilt, trust, and the subjectivity of truth. By leaving key details unresolved, Anatomy of a Fall challenges viewers to engage actively with the narrative, making it a standout in 2024’s screenplay landscape. Its Golden Globe and BAFTA wins for Best Screenplay further cemented its critical acclaim.
2. American Fiction (Best Adapted Screenplay Winner)Screenplay by Cord Jefferson, based on Erasure by Percival Everett American Fiction, written and directed by Cord Jefferson, won the 2024 Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay, marking a historic moment as Jefferson became one of the few Black solo writers to claim this award. Adapted from Percival Everett’s novel Erasure, the film is a biting satire that tackles racial stereotypes, the publishing industry, and the commodification of Black narratives. The story centers on Thelonious “Monk” Ellison (Jeffrey Wright), a frustrated Black author who writes a stereotypically “Black” novel as a joke, only to see it become a commercial success.
Jefferson’s screenplay is a triumph of tone, seamlessly blending humor with poignant social commentary. The dialogue is witty and incisive, particularly in scenes where Monk navigates the absurd expectations of white publishers and audiences. The script also weaves in a heartfelt family drama, exploring Monk’s relationships with his siblings and his aging mother. This balance of satire and sincerity makes American Fiction a deeply human story, resonating with audiences and critics alike. Its wins at BAFTA, Critics Choice, and USC Scripter underscored its strength in the adapted screenplay category, proving Jefferson’s ability to transform Everett’s novel into a cinematic gem.
3. The HoldoversScreenplay by David Hemingson Directed by Alexander Payne, The Holdovers earned a Best Original Screenplay nomination for its heartfelt and nostalgic script by David Hemingson. Set in a New England boarding school during the 1970 Christmas break, the film follows Paul Hunham (Paul Giamatti), a curmudgeonly teacher, as he forms an unlikely bond with a troubled student, Angus (Dominic Sessa), and the school’s cook, Mary (Da’Vine Joy Randolph).
Hemingson’s screenplay is a love letter to 1970s cinema, with its character-driven storytelling and bittersweet tone. The dialogue crackles with wit, particularly in Paul’s acerbic exchanges, but it’s the quieter moments that shine, revealing the characters’ vulnerabilities. The script deftly explores themes of loneliness, grief, and found family, creating a narrative that feels both timeless and deeply personal. While it didn’t win the Oscar, The Holdovers was a strong contender, praised for its emotional resonance and tightly crafted story. Its ability to balance humor and heartache made it one of 2024’s most beloved scripts.
4. BarbieScreenplay by Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, based on characters by Mattel Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig and co-written with Noah Baumbach, was a cultural phenomenon in 2023, and its screenplay earned a Best Adapted Screenplay nomination in 2024. Based on Mattel’s iconic doll, the script transforms a toy brand into a sharp, feminist satire that explores identity, patriarchy, and existentialism. The story follows Stereotypical Barbie (Margot Robbie) as she ventures from Barbieland to the real world, confronting societal expectations and her own sense of self.
Gerwig and Baumbach’s screenplay is a dazzling blend of humor, heart, and subversive commentary. The dialogue is playful yet profound, with moments like America Ferrera’s powerful monologue about the contradictions of womanhood resonating widely. The script’s ability to appeal to both mainstream audiences and critics is a testament to its versatility, making it a standout in a competitive adapted screenplay field. While it faced debate over its classification as an adapted script (due to its basis on Mattel’s characters), Barbie’s nomination highlighted its creative ambition and cultural impact.
5. OppenheimerScreenplay by Christopher Nolan, based on American Prometheus by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer was a juggernaut at the 2024 Oscars, and its screenplay, adapted from American Prometheus, was a key part of its success. The film chronicles the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy), the physicist behind the atomic bomb, weaving together his scientific achievements, personal struggles, and the moral complexities of his legacy.
Nolan’s script is a dense, ambitious work that juggles multiple timelines and perspectives with precision. The dialogue is cerebral yet accessible, capturing the intensity of scientific discovery and the weight of ethical dilemmas. The screenplay’s structure, alternating between Oppenheimer’s rise and his post-war scrutiny, creates a gripping narrative that never loses momentum. While it didn’t win the Adapted Screenplay Oscar, Oppenheimer’s script was lauded for its intellectual rigor and emotional depth, contributing to the film’s Best Picture win and Nolan’s Best Director accolade.
Why These Screenplays Stand OutThe 2024 screenplay nominees reflect the diversity of modern cinema, from intimate character studies to blockbuster spectacles. Anatomy of a Fall and American Fiction won their respective categories by tackling complex themes with nuance and originality. The Holdovers charmed with its heartfelt simplicity, while Barbie and Oppenheimer proved that mainstream films could deliver profound, thought-provoking narratives. Each script showcases the power of storytelling to entertain, challenge, and move audiences. What unites these screenplays is their ability to transcend their genres. Anatomy of a Fall elevates the courtroom drama into a philosophical inquiry, while American Fiction uses satire to confront systemic issues. The Holdovers finds universal truths in a specific setting, and Barbie and Oppenheimer transform familiar stories into bold, innovative narratives. These films remind us that a great screenplay is the foundation of a great film, providing the blueprint for unforgettable performances, direction, and visuals. As we look back on 2024, these five screenplays stand as testaments to the art of writing for the screen. They invite us to laugh, cry, question, and reflect proving that the written word remains at the heart of cinematic excellence. Whether you’re drawn to the psychological depth of Anatomy of a Fall, the sharp wit of American Fiction, the warmth of The Holdovers, the boldness of Barbie, or the ambition of Oppenheimer, these films offer something for every cinephile. Which screenplay resonated with you the most? Share your thoughts and celebrate the power of storytelling in 2024’s finest films.
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