A character’s subconscious desires illuminate fascinating internal conflicts. Using CARNAL KNOWLEDGE as an example, Robert McKee explains the nature of subconscious desire and how it differs from plot to actor Scott William Winters. Quotes of the Week...
Why do some films work despite using Deus Ex Machina? Robert McKee explains the importance of meaning and keeping the crisis/climax in the hands of the protagonist. Quotes of the Week “Myths and fairy stories both answer the eternal questions: What is the...
Inner change in a character is difficult to portray. How can a writer best relay this to impact an audience? UP IN THE AIR has a wonderful education plot. Robert McKee uses George Clooney’s character to explain how this tricky genre is done right. Quotes...
What’s the “trigger” that turns an extra-personal conflict into a personal conflict? Robert McKee provides an example of when a line is crossed from a social to a personal relationship. Quotes of the Week “Stories are the only...
Robert McKee discusses how directing can be an extension of writing. Quotes of the Week “The one thing that you have that nobody else has is you. Your voice, your mind, your story, your vision. So write and draw and build and play and dance and live as...
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 endings,...
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 fiction. If an author...
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 on page one or...
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 our own...