Q&A: Structuring Short Films and Email Stories
Q: I’ve read your article on the 5 Key Turning Points of All Successful Stories, and watched your lecture on 6-stage plot structure that’s part of The Hero’s Two Journeys.
INTRODUCING YOUR HEROES: Julie & Julia
Arguably the most important portion of your story is the opening. This is where you must seduce your readers and audiences as you draw them…
Q&A: Coming of Age Stories
Q: What are the elements needed in a coming of age story? What kind of transformation are we looking for in the hero/main character?
Q&A: Naming Your Characters
Q: When I first introduce a character into a story, must I always give his or her last name? Is the first name enough? Must I name the character at all?
Q&A: Writing Remakes and Sequels
Q: What do you think about remaking old movies from the 60’s and 70’s and giving them a contemporary setting?
Q&A: Mixing Historical Fact & Fiction
Q: I’m writing a medieval love story full of intrigue, and the people I’m writing about actually did exist in the 15th century. But the story I am writing about those real people is a product of my fantasy.
MISDEMEANOR: Addressing Characters by Name
In real world conversations, we almost never declare whom it is we’re talking to. So unless a character in your story is searching for someone, shouting at someone…
Q&A: Old Movies and Books as Antecedents
Q: In Selling Your Story In 60 Seconds, you repeatedly stress the value of including antecedents — previously successful movies or novels that give agents…
Q&A: KEEPING IT SIMPLE
Q: Having recently completed the first draft of my screenplay, I find the 2nd act is a real drag. The movie is about a person told from three distinct memories.
Q&A: Quality vs Commerciality
Q: A couple months have gone by since I completed my two screenplays. I have queried multiple agencies through the proper channels and have not gotten any success.