What’s Happened to Film Endings?
Several notable films like UP IN THE AIR and NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN have "just ended." Robert McKee explains why the endings of both films are satisfying and original, though unconventional. Quotes of the Week "I love unhappy...
MAD MAX: FURY ROAD (2015)
A review of George Miller’s film, Mad Max: Fury Road (2015), by Bass Wakil, co-author with Robert McKee on their upcoming book on the Action genre, ACTION: The Art of Excitement.
Is It Possible to Bring Storytelling Into Marketing?
Is it possible to bring storytelling into marketing or would it be too complex? Robert McKee explains the difference between traditional marketing and marketing using story. Quotes of the Week "Storytelling is the most powerful way...
SPY (2015)
Robert McKee gives a short review of the film SPY (2015), starring Melissa McCarthy.
Irreversible Change and the Principle of Exhaustion in Long-Form Series
How does the need to create absolute, irreversible change in the protagonist's life work for TV series and serial characters? Robert McKee explains. Quotes of the Week "Character development is what I value most as a reader of...
WILD TALES (2014)
Robert McKee offers a short review of director Damián Szifrón’s film WILD TALES (2014).
What Is the Difference Between a Surprise Ending and a Plot Twist?
Robert McKee explains why a surprise ending is less satisfying, and how a great turning point can provide insight. Quotes of the Week "It's really irritating when you open a book, and 10 pages into it you know that the hero you met...
What Do Actors Need From Writers?
Robert McKee, formerly an actor himself, explains how to write complex characters with clear intentions so the actor can thrive in their performance. Quote of the Week "Nobody is a villain in their own story. We're all the heroes of...
How Can Character-as-Destiny Be the Same Thing as Free Will?
Robert McKee explains how the difference between free will and destiny depends on your vantage point. Quotes of the Week "Be sure not to discuss your hero's state of mind. Make it clear from his actions." - Anton Chekov