Category Archives: Screenwriting

Story structure – from the three acts to the Dan Harmon Story Circle

I think all screenwriters are familiar with the three-act structure, because it has been an integral part of storytelling ever since the ancient Greece. It is a tried-and-true method of organizing a story. Also, it is just as useful to beginning writers as to masters. Its effectiveness and popularity have a major drawback, however. It can lead to works that are predictable to readers and viewers – being exposed to three-act stories since childhood, we become adept at anticipating story points and twists. Continue reading Story structure – from the three acts to the Dan Harmon Story Circle

Should filmmakers always strive for excellence?

This might seem like a strange question – should you, the filmmaker, always strive for excellence? Certainly, with so much competition out there, today more than ever you need to do something very special to get noticed. Having said that, I think that perfectionism and striving for excellence actually hinders the careers of most filmmakers. Let me explain. Continue reading Should filmmakers always strive for excellence?

Screenwriting Tips – Based on Brain Science

Today I wanted to share more screenwriting tips, since this is probably the most challenging aspect of filmmaking. I recently wrote a post on the same subject that included tips from Francis Ford Coppola. Today I wanted to take a different approach to screenwriting – a scientific one.

I am currently finishing up a great course “Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects” by Dr. Barbara Oakley and Dr. Terrence Sejnowski. This is a MOOC offered by the University of California, San Diego via Coursera. Continue reading Screenwriting Tips – Based on Brain Science