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Are You A Reader Of Screenplays Or A Watcher Of Movies?

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Some respected screenwriting gurus claim that you should read and study as many screenplays as possible. It doesn’t matter if the film was a success or a flop: you learn either way. I agree. But more importantly, you should watch and analyze the movies. For years, I blindly followed this dogma, as it seemed to … Read more

Video: Robert McKee On Formulaic Writing

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When McKee speaks, many listen because he likes to be blunt. Here he seems to go against the likes of Michael Hauge, who place certain turning points at certain pages or percentages of the script. But the Queen Bee Guru gets it wrong, too…

At some point during this video, McKee says

“Raiders of the Lost Ark” was in seven acts.
It could be seven, eight, nine acts structures,
in “Speed,” if you counted the major reversals
in a chase film like “Speed” it’s probably nine.”

Thereby he ignores the difference between a sequence and an act. This is not helpful. As a matter of fact, the more I hear McKee, the more I wonder whether he actually has much practical advice to offer for screenwriters.

What do you think?

With thanks to Louise Lee Mei and Niels Abercrombie.

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Two Journeys of Change

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A day in Michael Hauge’s romcom seminar inspired me to republish this brief article I wrote about a year and a half ago. Hauge claims the Inner and Outer Journey run in parallel. I think he’s right, with one small caveat. A gorgeous Sunday morning in a Manly cafe with a view on the ocean. … Read more

The Untouchables – The Mid Point(s)

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A movie’s Mid Point usually fulfills a number of functions. In the Hero’s Outer Journey, an event occurs that makes the Hero change the approach to pursuing the goal. On the inner level, the Hero shows a first commitment to change. Some people speak of the Point of No Return. Because every strong plot point … Read more

Structure: The Incredibles

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A structural overview of The Incredibles (Brad Bird 2004) “Animation is not a genre but an art form” says writer-director Brad Bird on the commentary track. This is one of the most enjoyable superhero action adventures I know. It is also the #1 movie I will never forgive myself for not seeing in the theaters … Read more