Blog 5. Scene Analysis with McKee and Weston.

McKee's scene analysis structure on its own is very structured and effective (not that Westons isn't). The strong point of McKee's scene analysis method is that it identifies the exchange in behavior through the beats. Mckee says that these series of beats have their own arc, and that there is a turning point within the scene. He also adds that if the opening value is synonymous with the closing value, then the scene is usually flat. The constant exchange is what sets McKee's method apart from Westons.

Weston's scene analysis structure seems to really delve into the minds of the characters. It is a constant asking of questions by the reader of the scene. The questions the reader asks, coupled with the realities within the story, will help identify motives for choices and ideas. Like McKee, Weston pays serious attention to the nature of beats in the scene. However, Weston goes further, breaking the types of beats into categories. I feel that Weston approaches a scene with much more scrutiny, paying special attention to the underlying desires and emotions of each individual in the scene.

A fusion of the two scene analysis methods works well. McKee's back-and-forth structure brings attention to the change in behavior, and lets the person analyzing show the arc of values. Weston's attention to desires and emotions adds more depth to a scene analysis. For Sex, Lies, and Videotape, using McKee to identify a character who drives the scene, it is safe to assume that Graham drives the scene. Using Weston's method, you then ask his motivations, his urges, and free-associate them to your own. Identify the beats. Take into account the realities within the scene. This helps you understand the underlying message of the scene. All of this while making personal connections with the imagery of the scene.

The results create an in-depth analysis of the scene and provide ways to find the underlying subtext and message the scene conveys to the audience.

Krystian Lorenzana

Questions.

1. Did you think McKee's avoidance of the readers' own personal connections as bad?

2. Were you able to identify subtext before learning of McKee's and Weston's scene analysis methods?