Lessons | McKee Seminars

Adaptation vs. “Movie Based On”

Robert McKee discusses the fine line between an adaptation and writing a story inspired by another work, with reference to SIDEWAYS.

Robert McKee teaches how deus ex machina robs stories of meaning, and how a skilled writer can use coincidence to enrich a telling.

Robert McKee explains the comedic principle of ‘blind obsessions.’

Robert McKee teaches the subgenres of the Love Story and the importance of relative character complexity.

Robert McKee outlines how far in advance a writer might plan their long-form story arc.

Robert McKee gives an important writing drill, explaining in depth how and why rewriting others’ stories can improve your own work.

Robert McKee details the problem of balancing necessary exposition with derring-do, using the examples of RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK and PREDATOR.

Robert McKee explains the benefits of combining genres as a tool to aid your construction of an original script.

Robert McKee discusses the importance of a satisfying ending, regardless of whether the value charge is positive or negative.

People are tired of coercion and seduction, but hungry for story. Robert McKee teaches how to weave story into a presentation in the workplace.

Robert McKee discusses character in relation to story structure, and explains how to make motivations organic.

Robert McKee explains how true works of art can disturb the balance of our lives, revealing hidden depths of emotion and experience.