The Meaninglessness of Deus Ex Machina
Robert McKee teaches how deus ex machina robs stories of meaning, and how a skilled writer can use coincidence to enrich a telling.
Tips for Comedy Writers
Robert McKee explains the comedic principle of ‘blind obsessions.’
Character Dimensions in Love Stories
Robert McKee teaches the subgenres of the Love Story and the importance of relative character complexity.
Rewriting Stories That Don’t Work
Robert McKee gives an important writing drill, explaining in depth how and why rewriting others’ stories can improve your own work.
Should Action Stories Start with a Bang?
Robert McKee details the problem of balancing necessary exposition with derring-do, using the examples of RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK and PREDATOR.
What is the Best Way to End a Horror Story?
Robert McKee discusses the importance of a satisfying ending, regardless of whether the value charge is positive or negative.
How to Use Story in Business Presentations
People are tired of coercion and seduction, but hungry for story. Robert McKee teaches how to weave story into a presentation in the workplace.
How Do You Make Character Motivation Credible?
Robert McKee discusses character in relation to story structure, and explains how to make motivations organic.
Should Art Be Shocking?
Robert McKee explains how true works of art can disturb the balance of our lives, revealing hidden depths of emotion and experience.
Tips for Analyzing Stories
Robert McKee discusses the questions you should ask when analyzing films and TV shows.
Which Love Story Conventions Apply to the ‘Buddy Salvation’ Sub-Genre?
McKee discusses the conventions of the Love Story and its similarities and differences with the Buddy Salvation story.
Are there Any Good Exercises for Character Creation?
Robert McKee shares some valuable techniques for creating compelling characters.