Blog Assignment #8

A class in Script Analysis teaches you more than just how to analyze a script. It teaches a writer the essential elements of creating a good script, the director in guiding an actor, and the actor in delivering a strong performance through the process of script analysis.

Through analysis, an amateur screenwriter can learn the basic format of a script and the necessary elements of creating a good film. For example, I learned through the McKee breakdown that each scene has a value at stake that may or may not change depending on the desires and actions of the characters. In addition, the survey of beats within a scene can reveal turning points. This is very important in order to maintain the audience's interest and avoid long, boring exposition.

A director and an actor can understand a character better by analyzing subtext in mysterious lines. In understanding a character, the actor can deliver a great performance and the director can guide the actor if he or she is not skilled enough to do it alone.

As a writer, I intend to focus on screenwriting in the future. This class has allowed me to read a variety of scripts and find my own voice and style. I now understand the elements necessary in creating a good script like the modes of presentation. After taking this class, I will probably not view movies differently, but the process in which I make them will change. Before, I was only focused on conveying the story and the message through very explicit means. However, through Script Analysis, I recognized that subtext plays a major role in keeping the script short and interesting. It makes the experience worthwile for the audience.

Of all the classes that I have taken, I would not trade this one for anything. I have learned so much and I hope to utilize this knowledge in the future.

-Fernando Rosas

Discussion Questions:
1. Are you planning on using any of the class texts in the future? McKee? Weston? Sternberg?

2. Are you going to read anymore texts like McKee, Weston, and Sternberg or do you think the class has prepared and taught you enough to start writing good screenplays tomorrow?