McKeeStory

Robert McKee’s official website.

Part of Robert McKee’s

2026 SUMMER PROGRAM

FULL PROGRAM DETAILS

Dialogue

3-Part Webinar Series

 

Online: From July 14 – 16, 2026
On Demand: Until September 30, 2026

Lectures: 1:00PM – 2:30PM (ET)
Live Q&As: 2:30PM – 3:00PM (ET)

$197.00

 Student, Union, Group, and Repeater discounts may apply. Learn more.

Dialogue is not conversation. We often think of dialogue as merely talk between characters, but all talk responds to a need, engages a purpose, and performs an action. To say something is to do something. Therefore, beneath every line of character talk, the writer must create a desire, intent, and action. That action then becomes the verbal tactic we call dialogue.

In this 3-part series, Robert McKee teaches the true definition and multiple purposes of dialogue, cueing from character to character, the differences between effective and weak dialogue, and how to find and fix flaws.

Clips from the 2021 Dialogue Series Q&A Sessions.

MCKEE Dialogue

What You’ll Learn

HOW IT WORKS

WHAT ATTENDEES SAY

BUNDLE & SAVE

MCKEE Dialogue

What You’ll Learn

PART 1

JULY 14 / 1PM – 3PM (ET)

Definition and Form

In Part 1 of the series, McKee breaks down the true definition of dialogue, how it may differ depending on your chosen medium, and the different ways dialogue can be used within your story.

Topics covered include...
  • Dramatized vs. Narratized
    What’s the difference between words spoken inside and outside of a scene?
  • Dialogue on Page, Stage, and Screen
    How your chosen medium affects the spoken word.
  • Narration
    First, Second, Third Person? Whose voice tells the story?

PART 2

JULY 15 / 1PM – 3PM (ET)

Functions and Technique

In Part 2 of the series, McKee explores the double dimension of dialogue – the outer aspect of what is said versus the inner truth of what is thought and felt.

Topics covered include...
  • The Three Functions of Dialogue
    Why is your character speaking?
  • Text
    The quantities and qualities of dialogue.
  • Subtext
    What are your characters not saying?

PART 3

JULY 16 / 1PM – 3PM (ET)

Flaws and Fixes

In Part 3 of the series, McKee delivers a masterclass on the most common flaws found in poorly written dialogue, offering strategies to fix its language, content and design. 

Topics covered include...
  • Incredibility
    How do you make the audience believe every word?
  • Excuses vs. Motivation
    What might be driving your characters
  • Melodrama
    How excessiveness impacts story.

    How it Works

    ONLINE LESSONS

    Learn at Home or On the Go.

    This webinar series consists of three 90-minute writing lectures on the art of dialogue. These pre-recorded lessons will be delivered online via Zoom starting at 1:00 PM Eastern Time, and run from Tuesday, July 14, through Thursday, July 16, 2026.

    Students like the online format because...

    “I feel like I am part of a brilliant international writing community just by logging in to Zoom in the evenings from my small living room in the middle of Sweden.”

    Elin Olofsson

    LIVE Q&A Sessions

    McKee Answers Your Questions.

    Every webinar concludes with a 30-minute live Q&Asession during which Robert answers your questions on the topics covered during the lecture, or on any aspect of the writing craft. Participants can submit questions live via Zoom during the lecture and Q&A period, or in advance by email.

    Students like the Q&A periods because...

    “I didn’t realize in the beginning how much the questions would help me learn, but it turns out they are just as important as the lectures. I think that is in large part to the careful attention Robert gives to each one.”

    Billie Tomlinson

    On Demand Access

    Flexible Learning to Suit Your Schedule.

    If you can’t join us at the scheduled times, you can catch up at your convenience. Recordings are made available within 24 hours of the conclusion of each webinar, and can be viewed as many times as you like within the access period. Access extends until: September 30, 2026.

    Students like recording access because...

    “It’s really great to have the chance to watch these webinars at my own convenience and not having to take time off work to attend. I hope he continues to do them, I’ll continue to take them. Can’t wait for the next class.”

    Marcos Meconi

    What Attendees Are Saying

    “There are too many reasons why Robert is undisputedly the Master of Storytelling, and all of those reasons are self-evident in every one of his lessons. I am a McKee disciple – there is no greater writing apprenticeship possible.”

    Natasha Phillips

    “I believe that I now have the tools to not only effectively create my own stories but to intelligently evaluate those of others. Besides, McKee is a hoot!”

    Marlene Simon

    “Out of all the writing classes I’ve attended, every professor and self-proclaimed ‘master’ I’ve learned from pales in comparison to Mr. McKee. He is by far my favorite teacher I’ve ever had. I’m very grateful for his teachings and all the hard work that goes into his compelling lectures.”

    Matt Isner

    “I joined the spring webinar series and it was groundbreaking for me in every way. What a privilege – I literally felt like I was sitting by the desk of a master, just taking it all in!”

    Jane Olander

    “A big thank you for the wonderful, inspirational teachings from Robert! I‘m so glad to be part of this, and taking so many new thoughts and ideas from it for my own writing!”

    Friederike Giley

    “I had several ‘light bulb moments’ as I took notes, and was able to incorporate his ideas into my work-in-progress immediately. This webinar was well worth the time and money.”

    Erin Brescia

    “In the past, I’ve always considered attending an in-person seminar but life always seemed to get in the way. This format is so much more conducive to repeat viewings, studying and note taking. I hope he will continue to offer his deep knowledge and experience in this format. Thank you!!!”

    Ed Han

    “I am thoroughly enjoying these sessions and have learned so much beyond my collegiate studies. Robert has inspired, encouraged, and empowered me with his wonderful teaching.”

    Becky Bulebush

    “I am really enjoying the seminars and am so glad that I signed up. These webinars are inspiring me to make more effort to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard!) and pursue my ambitions. I must say that I have attended several different writing courses over the years, but none as inspiring as Robert’s.”

    Sharon Grey

    “Thank you for offering this online option. I am finding fascinating insights and it’s inspiring me to sort issues within my own existing work. I knew something wasn’t right, but now I know what it is and how to fix it.”

    Rebecca O'Reilly

    “My grasp of craft is immeasurably stronger by virtue of having attended Mr. McKee’s seminars and read (and reread) his books. I strongly recommend him. He’s one of the best speakers I’ve ever encountered, and his palpable delight at all aspects of storytelling is always infectious.”

    Barry Eisler

    “The amount of information blew me away.  Wish I had taken Robert’s classes much earlier in my writing process… This was an incredible experience and I’ll definitely approach my screenplays with an entirely different approach.”

    Cheryl Willis

    “This was more than I bargained for. New understanding, insight & inspiration with practical, USEABLE tools, excellent!”

    Carol Roscoe

    “Robert McKee is truly a master, not only of the art of story, but the art of teaching it as well. One of the most rewarding and informative weekends of my life, and worth every penny.”

    Robert Robertson

    “The passion and depth at which Mr. McKee dove into this material gave me a sense of infinite possibilities and growth potential. I’m really excited to use all of his principles and tools to analyze other screenplays, which I think will really allow me to grow as a writer and storyteller.”

    John Jurko

    “McKee’s teachings are invaluable.  I just want to express my appreciation and gratitude to you.  For your devotion to the significance, scope and magnitude of ‘storytelling’ and the writing process.”

    Barbara Seyda

    “For years I’ve heard about this seminar and thought the accounts about it were exaggerated. I can reassure you they are not. Robert is both hypnotic and mesmerizing… So happy I attended. An experience I will savor for the rest of my life.”

    Lilly Chen

    “I cannot tell you how fabulous these seminars are. Robert McKee explains things so simply. It’s a succession of lightbulb moments.”

    Varda Tully

    BUNDLE & SAVE

    2026 SUMMER PROGRAM

    To support your commitment to the craft, we’re offering bundle deals on the Summer Program.
    Save when you enroll in multiple webinars.

    DETAILS

    2 Webinars = Save $20

    3 Webinars = Save $45

    4 Webinars = Save $75

    Discounts are applied automatically when courses are added to the cart.

    Character

    July 7 - July 9

    Dialogue

    July 14 - July 16

    Imagery

    July 21 - July 23

    Television

    July 28 - July 30

    Bundle two or more courses to save.