If characters are what they do, a great way to learn how to write action that reveals character is to…
A ticking clock element, or any deadline in your story, is guaranteed to boost suspense and momentum—or so you’d think….
Elisa, the protagonist of The Shape of Water, may be mute, but how the film treats her speaks volumes about…
Humor is a peculiar tool for a writer. Laughter can add layers to a character and woo an audience, but…
By Valerie Kalfrin Watching Clerks spurred Mad Men creator Matthew Weiner to stay in show business. Jeff Kinney, author of…
Writer/director James Mangold adores the taciturn Western hero, an archetype that he’s woven into some of his best-known work. Whether…
Screenwriting is a dream that entices many of us—but all too often, it seems as if the City of Stars…
Stories are all about patterns, said UCLA screenwriting instructor Tim Albaugh. He’s noticed a few. Take the films American Beauty,…
More of the same, yet different. That’s the hurdle facing screenwriters with sequels. Bring back enough of what audiences liked—the…
There are no secrets to crafting a good story, though it sure feels that way at times. Venerable screenwriting instructor…
