Post Series · 3 min
Logline: Definitions
Let's start by saying what it isn't. It is not a tagline. It is not really a one-paragraph synopsis either. (and it's definitely not a slug…
The Journal
Vol. 17 · 1,240 entries
25 August 2026
Quote of the day
Take what’s useful, argue with the rest.
Vol. 17
Post Series · 2 min
Logline: Introduction
McKee's STORY gave me the illusion the logline is one of the last things you ever write. Why? Because during development, things can change. Of course…
Post Series · 2 min
Plot Point: Introduction
The essence of 'plot point' is the essence of drama, yet I find it hard to define. There will always be unresolved elements in its definition,…
News · 1 min
Mid-Point: One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest
The two-disk release of ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO's nest features a great commentary by director Milos Forman and producers Michael Douglas and Saul Zaentz. Forman…
Stuff · 2 min
Michael Mann and Lev Kuleshov
Michael Mann's commentary on the Restored Director's Cut of MANHUNTER focuses primarily on the parallel psychology of the serial murderer and the cop. But let's skip…
Stuff · 2 min
Act One: No Inciting Incident
BRUBAKER strays from the traditional structure because of its offbeat First Act. It lacks an Inciting Incident, nor does it have any significant protagonist characterisation. We…
Stuff · 2 min
The Three-Act Character
In her PLOT CONSTRUCTION WORKSHOP, Linda Aronson discusses THE INSIDER as an example of a flawed script. The film not only put Russell Crowe on the…
Story & Structure · 2 min
POV: Omniscient Point of View
In an Australian government document relating to script development I found the term 'omnipotent POV'. In a specialised screenwriting magazine I read "omnipresent POV"(*). Both are plain…
Post Series · 3 min
POV as Controller of Tone
A toddler looks at a man pulling funny faces, moving his limbs in crazy spasms. He falls on the ground, he hits his head. The toddler…
Post Series · 2 min
Shifting POV
Often when filmmakers use the term 'omniscient point of view', I believe what they really mean is: 'shifting point of view'. Most of the film will…
Post Series · 2 min
POV: McKee’s View
"The more time spent with a character, the more opportunity to witness his choices. The result is more empathy and emotional involvement between audience and character."…
News · 3 min
Bring on the Hero
About ten years ago I was first introduced to the Hero's Journey. Since then I have found myself regularly relying on it when explaining story structure.…
Uncategorized · 6 min
Bringing Up Baby
I was surprised to read the following quote from respected Australian screenwriter Keith Thompson: "an overt focus on structure may be to the detriment of the…
News · 4 min
Writing in Sin
After seeing CANDY tonight, I'm baffled that so-called established filmmakers can get it so wrong. And let me tell you, it is not THAT hard. First:…
News · 6 min
Anyone Can Cook
Earlier this year, a friend of mine bought an expensive High Definition Video camera. He had saved up for it for a long time. In stead…