Video Analysis: The Last Jedi and the Character Arc of Luke Skywalker

Since the book I’m currently working on is all about character arc, I felt inclined to weigh in on the current discord over Luke Skywalker’s character arc in The Last Jedi. Whether you loved the movie or hated it, in this video I explain how it’s the conclusion of Luke’s arc from the Original Trilogy based on what we learned in the Prequels. Enjoy!

To learn more about Six Act story structure, purchase your copy of “Actions and Goals: The Story Structure Secret” today!

Actions and Goals Book Cover

Story Structure Analysis: The Shawshank Redemption (Movie)

The Shawshank Redemption. Movie Poster. Plot summary and story structure.Format: Movie

Released: 1994

Written and Directed By: Frank Darabont

Run Time: 138 Minutes

Character: Andy Dufresne

I know I said in my last post that I’m working on a video breakdown for Back to the Future. That’s still the case, but I  recently received some feedback from someone under the erroneous impression that the Six Act paradigm is only applicable to action films. So, I wanted to demonstrate how the Six Actions are more subtly implemented in dramas (which is why they may not be as easy to recognize at first glance) by breaking down everyone’s favorite, least-action-packed prison escape film, The Shawshank Redemption.

Continue reading

Story Structure Analysis: Back to the Future (Movie)

Back to the Future Plot Summary and Story Structure. Official Movie PosterFormat: Movie

Released: 1985

Screenplay By: Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale

Directed By: Robert Zemeckis

Run Time: 111 Minutes

Character: Marty “Hello” McFly

I took advantage of being snowed in over the weekend and watched the entire Back to the Future trilogy in a single sitting. If there’s any movie franchise worthy of such a treatment this is it. All three movies are insanely interconnected and, as I only just realized as an adult, chronicle about 15 consecutive days in the life of Marty McFly (though only two full days pass over the whole series in 1985). I’ll be posting a video breakdown for YouTube for my next update.  Stay tuned, storytellers.

Continue reading

Film Structure Video: Avatar

New video breakdown for a surprisingly old movie still waiting on its preplanned sequel to be released. Seriously, since Avatar was released Disney bought Marvel and Lucasfilm, and put out three Star Wars movies. What are you doing with all that fancy 3D gear, James?

To learn more about Six Act story structure, purchase your copy of “Actions and Goals: The Story Structure Secret” today!

Actions and Goals Book Cover

 

Story Structure Video Analysis: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

New video breakdown for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. I hope to get back on a more regular posting schedule, but the work on the follow-up to Actions and Goals continues.  In the interim, enjoy the show! Be sure to hit that like button or drop your thoughts in the comments here or on YouTube.

To learn more about Six Act story structure, purchase your copy of “Actions and Goals: The Story Structure Secret” today!

Actions and Goals Book Cover