by Tim Long (@ScreenplayStory) Every story begins at your Initial Stimulus – that spark of an idea that captured your imagination. The thing that got you excited and revved up. That initial flash of creativity you just knew would make for a great movie idea. Initial Stimulus is also something much deeper, though. Simply put,... Continue Reading →
10 Ways to Develop Story Around a Truly Great Character
by John Bucher (@johnkbucher) Some of the greatest films ever made have been character studies. Sure, there is a well-structured story sitting just below the surface that allows us to develop the character in meaningful and interesting ways. However, the purpose and driving force behind the story is to explore what it means to live inside... Continue Reading →
Where Do Plots Come From?
by Fin Wheeler Last month I read Stephen King’s memoir On Writing. As the title suggests, it’s him waxing lyrical about his lean, early years as a writer. He provides extended answers to questions he’s heard a million times from fans and would-be writers over the years. He also extrapolates on topics he always wanted... Continue Reading →
Get a Job! 6 Ways to Develop Plot Through Your Character’s Job
by John Bucher (@johnkbucher) In the United States, people often feel defined by what they do for a living. In the world of story, a character’s occupation can have similar importance. If your character is of working age, audiences expect to learn how they make their living. This may or may not be a significant element... Continue Reading →
Quote of the Day: Leigh Brackett
Plot is people. Human emotions and desires founded on the realities of life, working at cross purposes, getting hotter and fiercer as they strike against each other until finally there’s an explosion—that’s Plot.
Quote of the Day: Leigh Brackett
Plot is people. Human emotions and desires founded on the realities of life, working at cross purposes, getting hotter and fiercer as they strike against each other until finally there’s an explosion—that’s Plot.
Quote of the Day: Jim Thompson
There is only one plot—things are not what they seem.
Quote of the Day: Ray Bradbury
Remember: Plot is no more than footprints left in the snow after your characters have run by on their way to incredible destinations.
Quote of the Day: E.M. Forster
The King died and then the Queen died. That is a story. The King died and then the Queen died of grief. That is a plot.
Quote of the Day: Ivy Compton-Burnett
As regards plot I find real life no help at all. Real life seems to have no plots. And as I think a plot desirable and almost necessary, I have this extra grudge against life.