For every movie that’s made you laugh, cry or scream, there was a screenwriter who hunched over the script, hoping to make it perfect. Screenwriters pour their hearts and souls into every project they create. Show the screenwriter in your life, whether they’re aspiring professionals, that you’re proud of them and their passion for creating meaningful stories. But what do you even get a screenwriter? What do they need? Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it seems. Check out the list below for the best gifts for screenwriters!
1. Masterclass Subscription
Gifts for aspiring screenwriters
The best gifts for screenwriters aren’t material things, but the knowledge that helps them advance their craft. Give them a gift they’ll treasure forever with a year’s subscription to a Masterclass screenwriting course directed by Aaron Sorkin, Academy Award-Winning writer of The West Wing and A Few Good Men.
Want more gift ideas to push them to become better writers? Help them stay organized with a subscription to Evernote Premium, the internet’s favorite note-taking software. Or, set them up with a script coverage service, so they can have their script evaluated by a professional reader.
2. Home Writing Desk
Creative gifts for screenplay writers
What’s that practical gift that every screenwriter needs but would never ask for? You’re sure to blow them away with a brand new writing desk. They’ll love having a designated place to work that feels fresh and new, without all the coffee stains and pen marks! It’s also a thoughtful dorm gift for writers going into college.
If you’re considering getting the screenwriter in your life a gift to help them build their home office, consider a comfortable and stylish desk chair, or a pair of noise-canceling headphones (a must-have for any easily-distracted writer)!
3. Kneeling Rocking Chair for Desk
Useful gifts for screenwriters
As a writer, I know what it is like being hunched over a desk all day. Your back aches, your shoulders are tense, and you end up with a stiff neck and a headache by the end of the day. Why? Bad posture. While this chair isn’t a cure all, it definitely helps shift your weight so you aren’t hunched over as much.
I like to switch off between this and my regular desk chair which I use with an elliptical machine.
You can also get a kneeling chair with wheels. Just make sure you check the weight limits for each before buying.
4. Hardcover Executive Notebook
Classic, thoughtful gift for screenwriters on the go
You never know where inspiration will strike, so make sure that your screenwriter is never without their hardcover journal. Get one that’s lightweight, yet made to last. The durable cover means that the notebook is protected, wherever they happen to be. It also looks sharp, so they always seem presentable, even if they’re just jotting down ideas for the next great sci-fi epic!
No notebook is complete without a quality fountain pen that they can treasure for years to come. Or, for a fun novelty gift, get them a notepad that’s waterproof so they can jot down their ideas no matter where they are!
5. Writing Prompts
Getting started screenwriter gifts
Even the best writers get writer’s block. That is why it is important to write everyday even when in between projects. Get them out of a rut with some writing prompts to get their imaginations flowing again.
6. Bluetooth Typewriter Keyboard
Scriptwriting gifts for tech fans
Every writer needs a quality laptop or tablet to get the job done, but there’s nothing like the sensation of typing out your screenplay onto an old-fashioned typewriter. So compromise with a typewriter mechanical keyboard. It’s the look and feel of a typewriter with the convenience of a computer! This gift is sure to get them inspired to knock out some serious word counts!
If the screenwriter in your life is really old school, consider finding them a traditional typewriter instead! There’s less room for error than a computer, but that’s half the fun! You can also consider getting them a digital voice recorder so they can keep track of their thoughts as they come.
7. Typewriter Pen Holder
Fun office gifts for screenwriters
How perfect is this? An old fashioned mini typewriter to keep their writing implements on hand.
You can also give them typewriter themed bookends to keep all those reference books from toppling off the shelf.
Make sure to give them a set of typewriter coasters to prevent their papers getting ruined from condensation from their drinks.
8. Screenplay Hard Copy
Best gift for screenplay writers
It’s no secret that screenwriters love movies, but how often do they get a chance to pore over the script for their favorite film? They’ll love having a hard copy of one of their favorite movies– it works great as both a learning tool for aspiring screenwriters and a thoughtful mind exercise for seasoned pros. Which screenplay will you get them? The possibilities are as limitless as their film collection and your imagination!
You can also consider getting them a biography of their favorite filmmaker, like Hitchcock: A Life in Darkness and Light. Or, if your screenwriter loves a challenge, get them the latest version of 1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die; it’s sure to keep them busy for a while!
You might want to take a look at gifts for other jobs too!
9. Trumbo
Movie gift for screenwriters
What better gift to give a screenwriter than a movie? Your own screenwriter will love having their own copy of this classic film depicting the life of Dalton Trumbo, legendary screenwriter who was eventually blacklisted because of his politics. It’s an inspiring and riveting story for creatives of all sorts, but it will certainly go over well with your screenwriter, and they’re bound to relate.
Looking for more ideas of movies to get your favorite screenwriter? Stories about creatives looking to make meaningful art will always be relatable to them! Try Midnight in Paris or The Rewrite.
10. Book for Screenwriters
Helpful gift idea for aspiring screenwriters
You want to give your screenwriter something practical. Something that will give them an edge, whether that’s in their writing career or their first Screenwriting 101 class. They’re sure to thank you for helping them hone their craft when you give them a book dedicated to that very thing. There are mountains of information (and misinformation) out there when it comes to how to write a film, so leave it to the experts who have been there and done that.
While Save the Cat! Is a must-have for any aspiring screenwriter’s bookshelf, you should also consider getting them Emmanuel Oberg’s Screenwriting Unchained, or The Screenwriter’s Workout by Will Hicks.
11. Vintage Tripod Floor Lamp
Home decor gift for screenwriters
What do you buy a screenwriter who seems to have everything? You can get them something for their home that not only serves a purpose, but acts as a fun conversation starter, too! A vintage tripod lamp brings the glamour of old Hollywood right to their living room, and they’ll think of you every time they see it!
If you’re looking for other gift ideas to add a bit of movie magic to their home, why not this quirky set of typewriter design prints, or if you’re looking last-minute, a Top 100 Movies scratch-off poster?
12. Screenwriter Coffee Mug
Thoughtful gift idea for scriptwriters
Looking for that perfect last-minute gift for that special screenwriter? No writing session is complete without a comforting hot beverage, so give the screenwriter in your life their very own screenwriter-themed coffee mug! Whether they’re a coffee fiend, a teetotaler or just love a nice hot chocolate, they’ll love having a mug that appreciates the work they put into their craft, and it makes a great conversation piece as well!
Coffee mugs make a great gift for just about anyone, and they’re inexpensive to boot. Complete the gift with a set of typewriter coasters!
13. Novelty T-Shirt for Screenwriters
Funny birthday gift for writers
When all else fails, everyone loves getting a new t-shirt (especially when it helps them show off their favorite interests)! T-shirts make the perfect Secret Santa or stocking stuffer gift for a coworker, teacher, or professor. Show them that you care and support their passion with the ultimate versatile gift idea.
If you’re looking for some more fun last-minute gifts for screenwriters, why not a keychain or piece of jewelry?
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