10 Screenwriting Lessons from the ‘Fargo’ TV Show

Easily one of my favorite TV shows over the last decade has been Noah Hawley’s adaptation of Fargo. It’s an exciting exploration of the Coen brothers’ tone and themes, while also paying homage to their other films.

In this post, we’ll dive into the key screenwriting lessons that can be gleaned from all seasons of Fargo, offering insights that can elevate your scriptwriting game, whether you’re a budding writer or a seasoned pro.

Let’s dive in.

Have You Seen the Fargo TV Series?

The Fargo TV series is inspired by the Coen brothers’ 1996 film of the same name. It is a critically acclaimed anthology crime series that first aired in 2014. Created by Noah Hawley, the show is known for its unique blend of dark comedy, crime, and drama, set against the backdrop of the upper Midwest in the United States.

Each season of Fargo stands alone with its own story, characters, and setting, although there are thematic and stylistic connections between them. This structure allows the series to explore a variety of narratives while maintaining a cohesive feel. The settings, often characterized by snowy landscapes and small-town environments, play a crucial role in establishing the tone of the series.

The show is notable for its complex characters, often a mix of quirky, morally ambiguous, and sometimes malevolent individuals, all richly developed and multifaceted. The series has been praised for its writing, which includes sharp, witty dialogue and intricate plotlines that weave together various characters and their stories.

There’s a plethora of screenwriting lessons we can learn from the seasons.

10 Screenwriting Lessons from the ‘Fargo’ TV Show

1. Embrace Unique Storytelling: Each season of tells a distinct story with new characters and settings, showcasing how reinventing narrative elements can keep a series fresh and engaging.
2. Create Memorable Characters: The characters are often quirky, flawed, and complex, making them memorable. Developing characters with depth and idiosyncrasies can significantly enhance a story.
3. Blend Genres Effectively: Fargo is a masterclass in blending genres, mixing elements of crime, drama, and dark comedy. This mix creates a unique tone and allows for versatile storytelling.
4. Utilize Symbolism and Themes: The show often employs symbolism and explores themes like morality, chance, and the nature of evil. Integrating deeper themes can add layers to your TV script.
5. Craft Sharp Dialogue: The dialogue in Fargo is often witty, sharp, and laden with subtext. Good dialogue can reveal character and advance the plot simultaneously.
6. Build Tension and Surprise: Fargo excels in building tension and delivering surprising plot twists, which keeps the audience engaged and invested.
7. Use Setting as a Character: The setting, particularly the snowy landscapes of Minnesota and North Dakota, plays a crucial role in the show, almost acting as a character itself. A well-established setting can enhance the atmosphere and tone of the story.
8. Explore Moral Ambiguity: The series often delves into moral ambiguity, challenging viewers’ perceptions of right and wrong. Stories that explore ethical dilemmas can be more intriguing and thought-provoking.
9. Balance Multiple Storylines: Fargo often weaves together multiple storylines, showing how to balance different narratives in a cohesive way.
10. Pay Attention to Visual Storytelling: The show’s visual style, including its cinematography and use of color, contributes significantly to storytelling. Visual elements can be powerful tools in screenwriting.

Each season of Fargo offers a masterclass in different aspects of screenwriting, making it a valuable resource for writers seeking to hone their craft.

By embracing these lessons, writers can enrich their own stories, ensuring that their scripts not only entertain but also resonate with audiences. So, take these insights, infuse them into your writing endeavors, and keep creating stories that captivate and inspire.

Remember, in the world of screenwriting, as in Fargo, the possibilities are as vast and intriguing as the frozen landscapes it so beautifully portrays.

Now, go get back to writing.