That’s because, at its core, every screenplay is “about” something and has a theme and sensibility that drives it. This “about” is deeper than the surface story. It’s the ultimate message of the movie-its essential theme and sensibility. The more aware the screenwriter is of what that essential theme and sensibility is, the more that writer is in control of the screenplay and the more that writer can manipulate the characters and events to get a specifi c reaction from audiences. In this case, manipulation is a good thing. All screenwriters want audiences in the palms of their hands and work mightily at their craft to achieve that result. Screenwriters who write social issue screenplays are particularly interested in captivating audiences and stirring up their passion by inspiring them to get involved in the issue at hand.