
Image source: www.screamproductions.com Scream: A Screenplay was written by Kevin Williamson and released by Miramax Books in 1997.
Today, Scream Franchise Examiner (alias: Hartford Books Examiner) is focusing on the literary libations available to Scream fans who need to bide their time before the latest chapter in the celebrated movie franchise stalks into theaters on April 15, 2011.
Here is a brief overview of the titles available to interested readers…
Scream: A Screenplay by Kevin Williamson – Released by Miramax Books in 1997, this out-of-print title features the shooting script for the first Scream film. Of note is an introduction written by director Wes Craven and a foreword by Williamson in which he details his awakening to the horror genre and the real-life events that inspired Scream. Hardcore fans of the film will enjoy comparing the script to the film, as there are subtle differences between the two, while for casual readers will enjoy the black and white photos throughout—and the (then) sneak peek at Scream 2. Used copies can be purchased here.
Scream: The Unofficial Companion to the Scream Trilogy by John Brosnan – Released in the UK in the year 2000, this book from Boxtree is the only title that focuses solely on the Scream series. In addition to individual plot breakdowns, the author presents behind-the-scenes trivia, lists of the insider references made in each film, and photographs & biographies of the cast and creators. While the exploration is somewhat superficial, fans will appreciate owning such a scarce book. Used copies can be purchased here.
Screams & Nightmares: The Films of Wes Craven by Brian Robb – Released as an updated paperback by Overlook TP in 2000, this title provides a comprehensive look at Craven’s movies, from Last House on the Left (1972) to Scream 3 (2000). Robb spent more than a decade researching his subject, and much of the source material (and many of the book’s 200-plus photographs) came from his many interviews with Craven. In addition to feature films, the writer/director’s television work and foray into novels are covered. New copies can be purchased here.
From Scream to Dawson’s Creek: An Unauthorized Take on the Phenomenal Career of Kevin Williamson by Andy Mangels. An unofficial biography of the Scream scribe released by Renaissance Books in 2000, this book traces the genesis of Williamson’s career from struggling actor to Hollywood success story. Additionally, each of his film and television projects is profiled. The astute reader will note that many of the so-called facts concerning Scream 3 are inaccurate, as they were based on misinformation fed to the media before the film’s release. Used copies can be purchased here.
***
Please be sure to visit Hartford Books Examiner often for the latest in book news, reviews, and author interviews…
And don’t forget to subscribe to Scream Franchise Examiner—your behind-the-scenes look at Scream 4.










Comments