Yes, you absolutely should be reading screenplays if you want to become a successful screenwriter! It's a pain in the arse (I know), but it's a necessary evil. If possible, find as many spec scripts to read as you can. They're the ones that will quickly teach you what NOT to do when writing. When a script is a chore to read, you know the writer's doing something wrong.
There are tons of places to find free screenplays online. (if in doubt, just google the title of the script you're looking for). But beware, scripts come in several different forms. A produced script will contain lots of elements that a spec script shouldn't, such as transitions, camera directions, over-detail. Try to avoid reading transcribes, which is a script written by someone watching the finished product on screen.
Here's a quick list of links to get you started. Happy reading!
1. BBC Writer's Room: This website is aimed at British writers, but it's a great resource for screenplays, script extracts, and writing tips.
2. Drew's Script-O-Rama: This website is a treasure trove of screenplays and teleplays. The scripts are organized by genre and can be downloaded in PDF format.
3. Horror Lair: As the name suggests, this website is dedicated to horror scripts. It also features a forum for horror screenwriters to connect and share their work.
4. Internet Movie Script Database (IMSDb): This website hosts an extensive collection of screenplays, teleplays, and movie scripts. The scripts can be downloaded in various formats, including PDF, HTML, and TXT.
5. Movie Scripts and Screenplays: This website hosts a collection of movie scripts and screenplays, including classics and newer films.
6. Sci-fi Scripts: This website is dedicated to science fiction screenplays and teleplays. It features a range of scripts, from classics to newer works.
7. Screenplays for You: This website hosts a large collection of screenplays and teleplays from various genres, including drama, comedy, and action.
8. Script Reader Pro: This website features a collection of screenplays and teleplays that have been recommended by professional script readers. It also offers script analysis and coverage services.
9. Script Slug: This website hosts a collection of screenplays, including popular movies and TV shows. The scripts can be downloaded in PDF format.
10. Scripts On Screen: This website features a collection of screenplays from popular movies and TV shows. The scripts are available in PDF format.
11. Shore Scripts: This website hosts a collection of screenplays, including contest winners and finalist scripts. It also offers script analysis and coverage services.
12. Simply Scripts: This website hosts a collection of screenplays and teleplays from various genres, including drama, comedy, and horror. The scripts can be downloaded in PDF format.
13. Studio Binder: This website features a collection of screenplays and teleplays from popular movies and TV shows. It also offers script breakdown and scheduling software.
14. The Daily Script: This website hosts a large collection of screenplays, including classics and newer films. The scripts are available in PDF format.
15. The Script Lab: This website features a collection of screenplays and teleplays, as well as articles and resources for screenwriters. It also offers script analysis and coverage services.
16. TV Writing: This website features a collection of teleplays from popular TV shows. The scripts can be downloaded in PDF format.
17. Weekend Read App: This app is available for download on iOS and Android devices. It features a collection of screenplays, teleplays, and stageplays, including newer works and classics.