• Tuesday, 23 September 2025

John August

Born: 1970-08-04
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John August (born August 4, 1970) is an American screenwriter, director, producer, and novelist best known for films such as Go (1999), Big Fish (2003), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005), Corpse Bride (2005), Frankenweenie (2012), and Disney’s live-action Aladdin (2019). He also authored the Arlo Finch fantasy novel series and co-hosts the acclaimed Scriptnotes podcast with Craig Mazin.

John August (born August 4, 1970) is an American screenwriter, director, producer, and novelist best known for films such as Go (1999), Big Fish (2003), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005), Corpse Bride (2005), Frankenweenie (2012), and Disney’s live-action Aladdin (2019). He also authored the Arlo Finch fantasy novel series and co-hosts the acclaimed Scriptnotes podcast with Craig Mazin.

Born in Boulder, Colorado, August studied journalism and film at Drake University before earning an MFA from the USC School of Cinematic Arts. Beyond screenwriting, he develops software for writers through his company Quote-Unquote Apps. A member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, August has been honored with the WGAw’s Valentine Davies Award and nominations for BAFTA and Grammy Awards. Today, he is recognized for his creative storytelling across both film and literature.
Born in Boulder, Colorado, August studied journalism and film at Drake University before earning an MFA from the USC School of Cinematic Arts. Beyond screenwriting, he develops software for writers through his company Quote-Unquote Apps. A member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, August has been honored with the WGAw’s Valentine Davies Award and nominations for BAFTA and Grammy Awards. Today, he is recognized for his creative storytelling across both film and literature.

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Personal details

Alternative names John August
Born August 04, 1970 · Boulder, Colorado, United States
Spouses
Mike
Other works
Screenwriter , Director, Producer

FAQ

He is best known for writing Big Fish (2003), Charlie’s Angels (2000), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005), and Aladdin (2019).

Yes, he wrote and directed The Nines (2007), starring Ryan Reynolds.

Scriptnotes is a weekly podcast hosted by John August and Craig Mazin, focusing on screenwriting and the film industry.

He won the WGAw’s Valentine Davies Award in 2016 and has been nominated for a BAFTA and Grammy Award.

Did you know

Trivia

Initially studied journalism before shifting to screenwriting.
Runs a popular blog offering insights on the screenwriting industry.

Quotes

Screenwriting is about rewriting until it feels inevitable.”
“The best stories are the ones that feel personal, even when they’re fantastical.”

Trademarks

Collaboration with Tim Burton on multiple films.
Adaptations of fantastical or literary works.

Salaries

$3 Million Per Movie

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