Howard Rodman, chair of the Scripter Selection Committee for twelve years, received the Ex Libris Award for his dedication to USC Libraries, recognizing his influence on many writers.

The Scripters featured a diverse array of nominees this year, including adaptations from various source materials such as magazine articles and children's books.

Finalists for the film adaptation category included 'A Complete Unknown,' 'Nickel Boys,' 'Sing Sing,' and 'The Wild Robot,' with multiple nominees also vying for Oscars.

Zetumer reflected on his journey as a writer, recalling his time at USC's Leavey Library and the inspirations that fueled his passion for storytelling.

Past winners of the Scripter Award, such as 'American Fiction' and 'Moonlight,' have often gone on to achieve Oscar success, underscoring the award's significance.

The awards ceremony took place at the Town & Gown ballroom at USC, honoring the collaborative efforts of writers and original authors in adaptations.

Actress Jennifer Beals spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of libraries as vital repositories of knowledge and creativity essential to society.

The 37th annual USC Libraries Scripter Award was held on February 22, 2025, celebrating excellence in adapted screenplays and their source materials.

This year's award for Film Adaptation went to Peter Straughan for 'Conclave,' adapted from Robert Harris's novel, highlighting the challenges of translating beloved literature to screen.

Straughan, who previously received an Oscar nomination for 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy,' expressed gratitude to Harris for his support during the adaptation process.

In the television category, the award was won by Joshua Zetumer for the episode 'The People in the Dirt' from 'Say Nothing,' which is based on Patrick Radden Keefe's nonfiction book about the Troubles in Ireland.

Zetumer took five years to adapt the complex source material, emphasizing the intricate balance between honoring the original work and crafting a screenplay.