Robert McKee

Definition

Robert McKee is a renowned screenwriting instructor and author, best known for his book 'Story,' which outlines key principles of storytelling and screenplay structure. His teachings emphasize the importance of theme, character arcs, and the transformative journey of characters, all crucial elements that contribute to creating compelling narratives in film and television.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Robert McKee's 'Story' highlights that a strong theme serves as the foundation for meaningful storytelling, guiding the choices characters make throughout the plot.
2. He emphasizes that character arcs should reflect internal transformations, where characters evolve in response to their experiences, ultimately leading to a more engaging story.
3. McKee advocates for studying completed films alongside scripts to understand how themes, characters, and narrative structures translate from page to screen.
4. His work encourages writers to participate in peer review and workshopping, emphasizing collaboration to refine ideas and enhance storytelling techniques.
5. McKee's teachings have influenced countless screenwriters, helping them craft stories that resonate emotionally with audiences while adhering to established storytelling principles.

Review Questions

• How does Robert McKee define the role of theme in storytelling?
  • Robert McKee defines theme as the central idea or message that underpins a story. He argues that a strong theme helps to unify various elements of a narrative, guiding both plot development and character decisions. By understanding the theme, writers can create more cohesive stories that resonate deeply with audiences, allowing for layered meanings and emotional connections throughout the film.
• In what ways does McKee suggest character arcs should contribute to the overall narrative?
  • McKee suggests that character arcs are essential for creating a compelling narrative because they illustrate the transformation characters undergo throughout the story. He argues that these arcs should align with the theme and highlight internal conflicts that drive character development. As characters face challenges and evolve in response to their circumstances, they become more relatable to audiences, making the overall story more engaging.
• Evaluate how Robert McKee's approach to peer review and workshopping enhances the writing process for screenwriters.
  • Robert McKee's approach to peer review and workshopping emphasizes the value of collaboration among writers to refine their scripts. By engaging with peers, writers can receive constructive feedback that helps identify strengths and weaknesses in their narratives. This process not only fosters creativity but also encourages accountability among writers to adhere to storytelling principles. Ultimately, McKee believes that collective insights lead to richer narratives, making films more impactful and engaging for viewers.

Related terms

Story Structure: The framework that organizes the events in a narrative, often consisting of a beginning, middle, and end, which guides the development of plot and character.

Character Development: The process by which a character is given depth and complexity through experiences, choices, and transformations over the course of a narrative.

Conflict: The struggle between opposing forces in a story, which drives the narrative forward and is essential for character growth and thematic development.