COLUMNS
the emotional pattern of plot
Plot is more than an outline of events; it's the ordering of emotions to make the events resonate with the audience.
the art of plotting
Story structure and plotting are two sides to the same coin, and are two distinct steps in the process of writing a terrific screenplay.
the essence of character
Great movies depend on great characters, but what's the key to creating ones? Character isn't a laundry list of qualities and traits; it's shown in actions, emotional reactions, and choices characters make under pressure.
preparations & consequences
Stories are stronger when characters are moved by the events; credible emotional reactions allow the audience to connect more deeply with the work. But if a writer gets carried away with emotion, he's apt to sacrifice plot momentum. Here are some ways to keep the train of events on track and moving, and still get to the emotional stations.
ensemble films: the gang's all here
Dating back to D.W. Griffth and the silent era, the ensemble film is a staple of Hollywood as well as indie fare. Though many filmmakers attempt these interwoven stories, more fail than succeed. Understanding a few clear points can help a writer create the dramatic unity that can hold the multiple plot lines together.
the principles of drama
It's a lesson worth learning early: there's more to successful drama than just a string of vaguely related sequences.