In a recent profile by The New Yorker, renowned writer-director Scott Frank opened up about his successful career as a Hollywood script doctor and the staggering $300,000 weekly fee he charges for his services. Despite being a credited screenwriter on numerous acclaimed films and the Emmy-winning writer and director of Netflix's "The Queen's Gambit," Frank has made a significant impact behind the scenes by shaping and refining scripts for over 60 films.

A script doctor is a screenwriter hired to enhance or reshape existing scripts, whether it's polishing a messy third act or strengthening character development through impactful dialogue. Often uncredited, Frank's talent and expertise have earned him official credits alongside original writers, such as his extensive work on Steven Spielberg's "Minority Report" alongside Jon Cohen.

According to The New Yorker, character development comprises about 90% of the script doctor requests received by Frank. In works like "Saving Private Ryan," he helped flesh out the soldiers, giving them deeper connections to their loved ones back home. In "The Ring," he developed the bond between protagonist Naomi Watts and her son. For "Gravity," Frank was tasked with giving Sandra Bullock's astronaut character a life beyond space. And in "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," he created the father character played by John Lithgow, whose journey forms a poignant connection with a chimpanzee named Caesar.

However, not all of Frank's endeavors to salvage scripts have come to fruition. His attempt to rewrite the screenplay for Luca Guadagnino's "Scarface" remake was dropped, leaving the project in limbo. Nevertheless, his reputation as a script doctor is impeccable, with "The Hunger Games" producer Nina Jacobson describing his contributions to "Catching Fire" as laying down new train tracks while conducting a moving train.

Jacobson spoke highly of Frank's ability to immerse himself in the creative process, referring to him as a chameleon who can diagnose precisely what a script needs, collaborate effectively with directors, and deliver outstanding results. Executives and producers often turn to Frank first when faced with script challenges.

Looking ahead, Frank is set to showcase his talents in the upcoming six-episode television series "Monsieur Spade," premiering on AMC next month. Co-created with Tom Fantana, the show stars Clive Owen and features Frank's work as a co-writer and director for all six episodes. Additionally, Frank is teaming up with Netflix once again for the development of "Department Q," a series based on author Jussi Adler-Olsen's gripping crime novels.

To delve further into Scott Frank's illustrious career and insights, make sure to check out the complete profile in The New Yorker. With an unmatched skill for refining scripts and a $300,000 weekly fee, Frank's contribution to the world of cinema continues to make waves behind the scenes.