Script Doctor
An experienced screenwriter hired to revise, polish, or fix problems in an existing screenplay, often uncredited.
Definition
A script doctor is a professional screenwriter brought in to fix specific problems in an existing screenplay. Their work might involve restructuring acts, rewriting dialogue, strengthening character motivation, punching up humor, or resolving plot holes. Script doctors are typically experienced writers with a track record of produced credits.
Script doctoring is usually uncredited work. The original writer or writing team retains credit while the doctor makes targeted improvements. This arrangement is common on studio films where significant development investment has already been made and a complete rewrite is not desired.
Why It Matters
Most produced films go through multiple writing passes, and script doctoring is a normal part of the development process. Understanding this practice reveals why many successful films have contributions from writers who never appear in the credits.
For the industry, script doctors represent a valuable specialist role. Some of the most highly paid writers in Hollywood earn millions per project as script doctors, commanding premium rates because their interventions are targeted, efficient, and can salvage projects with tens of millions already invested.
Examples in Practice
A studio has a $150 million action film in pre-production, but the director feels the dialogue is flat and the villain's motivation is unclear. Rather than delay production for a full rewrite, they hire a script doctor for three weeks to sharpen dialogue and add depth to the antagonist.
A comedy writer known for sharp dialogue is brought in as a script doctor to punch up a romantic comedy that tested well for story but low for humor. They rewrite key exchanges over two weeks, significantly improving the film's comedic energy without altering the plot structure.