Director Alexander Payne’s adaptation of Rex Pickett’s novel Sideways hit big with both audiences and critics in 2004, but a feature film adaptation of Pickett’s sequel Vertical has not been quick to materialize. The latest issue of Jeff Goldsmith’s bi-monthly magazine Backstory includes an in-depth interview with Pickett about Vertical and its lack of development, but Goldsmith has also published Pickett’s Vertical screenplay in the magazine in its entirety for readers to enjoy. It’s a neat read for fans of Payne’s film or Pickett’s novel, and it’s one of many cool features to be found in Backstory. Hit the jump for more.

The magazine is currently only available on the iPad, but its digital interface makes browsing a breeze. You can currently download the first issue for free, which includes a great interview about Cabin in the Woods with Joss Whedon and Drew Goddard, as well as four published scripts including Donnie Darko director Richard Kelly’s Bessie.

The focus of Backstory is “The Art and Business of Storytelling,” so it includes a wide variety of features from writers, directors, actors, producers, comedians, artists, and comic-book writers. Issue 02 just went live this past Wednesday, but I highly recommend checking out the first issue for free. Whether you’re a burgeoning filmmaker, avid cinema fan, or just someone who loves movies, I think you’ll find at least a few things to love in Backstory. Head over to the iTunes store to take a look.