Ep 12. Writers

Close Up with The Hollywood Reporter season 5 episode 12, titled Writers, focuses on the art of screenwriting and the individuals behind some of the most beloved movies and television shows in recent years. Hosted by The Hollywood Reporter's executive features editor Stephen Galloway, the episode brings together six accomplished writers who share their insights into the creative process and the challenges they face in bringing their stories to life.

The first guest on the show is Emily V. Gordon, who co-wrote the critically acclaimed film The Big Sick with her husband Kumail Nanjiani. She talks about the personal inspiration behind the movie, which is based on the real-life story of their courtship and Nanjiani's illness, and discusses the importance of authenticity and emotional truth in writing comedy.

Next up is Scott Frank, who penned the hit Netflix series The Queen's Gambit. Frank talks about the process of adapting the novel of the same name into a limited series and the challenges of creating compelling characters in a male-dominated world of chess. He also reflects on his career as a writer, which includes scripts for movies like Logan and Out of Sight.

The third guest is Radha Blank, writer and director of the indie hit The Forty-Year-Old Version. Blank, who also stars in the film, discusses her journey from playwright to filmmaker and the personal experiences that inspired her award-winning debut. She talks about the challenges of being a Black woman in Hollywood and the importance of telling authentic stories that showcase diverse perspectives.

The fourth guest is Jesse Armstrong, creator of the HBO series Succession. Armstrong talks about the show's satirical take on the wealthy and powerful, and the importance of creating complex and flawed characters who are still compelling to watch. He also reflects on his previous work, which includes writing for shows like Peep Show and Veep.

The fifth guest is Steve McQueen, director and co-writer of the Amazon Prime anthology series Small Axe. McQueen talks about the personal significance of the stories he is telling, which are based on his own experiences growing up as a Black man in London. He also discusses the challenges of making a series that showcases multiple distinct narratives while still maintaining a cohesive vision.

Finally, the episode features Kemp Powers, who co-wrote the Pixar film Soul. Powers talks about the film's exploration of the meaning of life and the challenges of creating a story that is accessible to both children and adults. He also reflects on his career as a writer and his work on projects like One Night in Miami and Star Trek: Discovery.

Throughout the episode, the writers discuss their writing processes, the importance of collaboration, and the ways in which their personal experiences have influenced their work. They also touch on larger issues facing the industry, such as diversity and representation, and offer advice for aspiring writers. With its talented and diverse lineup, Close Up with The Hollywood Reporter season 5 episode 12 is a must-watch for anyone interested in the art of screenwriting.