21 May 2025
1h 35m

Eric Roth: The Screenwriter Behind Forrest Gump and Dune | How I Write

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How I Write

In this interview, screenwriter Eric Roth discusses his writing process, emphasizing the importance of starting from page one daily to identify and fix issues, a process he calls "erosion." He shares insights into character development, highlighting the need to understand a character's psychology and create unique voices. Roth also delves into the significance of thematic depth, subtextual writing, and the use of research to enrich his stories with authentic details. He illustrates his points with anecdotes from his work on films like "Forrest Gump," "Benjamin Button," and "Killers of the Flower Moon," and also touches on his collaborations with renowned directors and his approach to creating memorable and emotionally resonant films.

Outlines

Part 1: Introduction to Roth's Process

Part 2: Character Development and Storytelling Techniques

Part 3: The Writing Process and Collaboration

Part 4: Inspiration and Legacy

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