"Vice": Read The Screenplay By Adam McKay
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Have you read the "Vice" screenplay by Adam McKay? See it right here, right now! This isn't a product of fan labor, and it's not a transcript. Get ready, because you're about to immerse yourself in something fantastic.
And, for your consideration, we offer the final/FYC draft script from November 2018. Free, courtesy of 8FLiX and Amazon MGM Studios.
This one's loaded with screenwriting lessons on power, structure, and satire — perfect for classroom discussion or solo study. Let's dive right in.
Discover More About the "Vice" Screenplay
The Story Behind the Film.
Written and directed by Adam McKay, "Vice" is a bold, satirical biopic chronicling the rise and reign of Dick Cheney, the once-quiet Washington insider who reshaped American politics as Vice President under George W. Bush. The film explores Cheney’s accumulation of power through manipulation, strategy, and a stunning lack of accountability — all told with biting humor, meta-narration, and a playful disregard for traditional storytelling rules.
Starring Christian Bale in a physically transformative role, the film blends real history with cinematic sleight-of-hand to reveal how one man changed the course of global events — from post-9/11 foreign policy to domestic surveillance.
Explored Themes.
1. Power in the Shadows.
Cheney’s influence isn’t shown through bombast or big speeches, but through strategic silences, calculated decisions, and backroom deals. The film reframes what "power" can look like on screen.
Screenwriting takeaway:
- Portray influence through implication and consequence.
- Quiet characters can still command dramatic momentum.
2. Narrative Risk-Taking.
"Vice" features fake endings, fourth-wall breaks, Shakespearean asides, and even a restaurant menu of executive orders. It throws out the rulebook — and dares you to keep up.
Screenwriting takeaway:
- Break structure if it elevates the theme or tone.
- Meta elements can enhance meaning when grounded in character.
3. Satire With Teeth.
McKay uses irony and exaggeration to spotlight real-world absurdities. The film never loses sight of the stakes — it’s funny because it’s frightening.
Screenwriting takeaway:
- Satire works best when the humor exposes deeper truths.
- Stay focused on your message to keep tone from drifting into parody.
4. Humanizing Power.
Lynne Cheney and the couple’s daughters aren't background figures — they’re central to Dick’s emotional and ideological foundation. This gives the political story a human heartbeat.
Screenwriting takeaway:
- Family dynamics can ground lofty or abstract plots.
- Let personal relationships inform character motivation.
5. No Easy Answers.
Cheney isn’t portrayed as a mustache-twirling villain. He’s flawed, brilliant, ruthless, and — occasionally — sympathetic. The film invites judgment, but never demands it.
Screenwriting takeaway:
- Resist moral binaries. Complex characters fuel better discussion.
- Show, don’t tell, your protagonist’s impact — and let the audience decide how to feel.
Why It’s Worth Studying.
"Vice" is a masterclass in tone management, unconventional storytelling, and political screenwriting. It’s brave, messy, and impossible to ignore — just like its subject. Whether you’re studying satire, biopics, or character deconstruction, this is one script that rewards a close read.
Screenwriting Lessons.
Dive into the screenwriting lessons behind "Vice" (2018). This free educator PDF explores themes of power, satire, and unconventional storytelling—ideal for students, teachers, and writers.
Take a look at the "Vice" logline.
The story of Dick Cheney, an unassuming bureaucratic Washington insider, who quietly wielded immense power as Vice President to George W. Bush, reshaping the country and the globe in ways that are still felt today. Amazon MGM
"Vice" Screenplay Details.
Whether you're a fan or an aspiring screenwriter, here are key insights to know.
To get the "Vice" script now, keep scrolling until you see the READ / DOWNLOAD button. And, just a reminder, for a better understanding of our color-coded classifications, scroll a little further down until you find the "Glossary."
Okay, here are the facts:
| Type | ... |
ORIGINAL
|
| Version | ... | FinalFYC |
| Date | ... | 11.07.2018 |
| Pages | ... | 105 |
| Genres | ... | BioComedyDrama |
| Screenplay | ... | Adam McKay |
| IMDb ID | ... | 6266538 |
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