Lessons | McKee Seminars

Does the Audience Need to Know a Character’s Motivation?

Robert McKee teaches the nature of motivation, discussing how much of it writer’s might share with the audience, and how master storytellers employ this key principle.

Can One Scene Turn Multiple Plots?

Robert McKee delivers a mini-lesson on how writers can maximize the purpose of a scene by using it to progress the plots of multiple characters.

Writing Exposition for Television Pilots

Robert McKee teaches the best way to approach the use of exposition when writing a multi-character television pilot.

What To Do If Your Writing Veers Away From Your Inspiration

McKee teaches the importance of listening to your subconscious when writing, and how for talented writers the real story is already written; their job is to get out of its way.

At What Stage Should You Rewrite?

From outline to treatment, from first to final draft, Robert McKee describes the various ways in which screenwriters are rewriting at every stage.

Writing with Passion

Robert McKee explains how the pursuit of technical perfection can be an invaluable impulse for writers working on projects for which they have no personal passion.

Arousing Concern for Your Protagonist

Robert McKee teaches the importance of avoiding cheap devices when seeking to arouse empathy for your protagonist.

Truth and Idealism in Story

Robert McKee reaffirms the difference between fact and truth in storytelling, and teaches how even the most idealistic core meanings can still be true.

Finding Your Voice

Robert McKee teaches the folly of trying to artificially create a style, and how writers can discover their unique way of telling a story.

Creativity vs. Innovation

Robert McKee discusses the creative struggle, how it differs between individuals and groups, and what strategies a writer can employ to create truly innovative work.