Robert McKee

Definition

Robert McKee is a renowned screenwriting instructor and author, best known for his influential book 'Story,' which delves into the principles of storytelling, character development, and dialogue. His teachings emphasize the importance of creating compelling characters and authentic dialogue to drive a narrative forward, making him a pivotal figure in the study of screenwriting and narrative structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. McKee's book 'Story' has become a staple resource for screenwriters and creative writers, offering insights into the mechanics of storytelling.
2. He advocates for understanding the audience's emotional engagement with characters and how that influences the effectiveness of dialogue.
3. McKee emphasizes that every character should have clear goals and motivations, which are essential for driving conflict in the story.
4. His seminars are highly sought after by writers in Hollywood and beyond, as they provide practical techniques for crafting memorable narratives.
5. McKee also discusses the importance of structure in storytelling, arguing that while creativity is vital, a solid framework helps to elevate the story.

Review Questions

• How does Robert McKee's approach to character development enhance the storytelling process?
  • Robert McKee's approach to character development focuses on creating characters with clear goals, motivations, and conflicts. This enhances the storytelling process by ensuring that characters are not only relatable but also drive the plot forward through their decisions and interactions. By understanding what characters want and what obstacles they face, writers can create more dynamic narratives that resonate with audiences on an emotional level.
• In what ways does McKee’s perspective on dialogue differ from traditional writing methods?
  • McKee’s perspective on dialogue emphasizes authenticity and subtext rather than merely moving the plot forward or delivering exposition. He believes dialogue should reveal character traits, motivations, and emotions while reflecting real-life communication dynamics. This differs from traditional methods that might prioritize plot mechanics over character-driven interactions, leading to richer and more engaging conversations in screenplays.
• Evaluate how Robert McKee's teachings on story structure can be applied to create a compelling narrative arc in film.
  • Robert McKee's teachings on story structure provide a roadmap for developing a compelling narrative arc by breaking down key elements such as setup, confrontation, and resolution. By applying his principles, writers can ensure that their stories maintain tension and emotional stakes through well-defined turning points. Evaluating character motivations against these structural guidelines allows for a cohesive narrative that not only captivates audiences but also delivers satisfying payoffs at crucial moments in the story.

Related terms

Story Structure: The organization of a narrative into a coherent and engaging sequence, often involving elements like exposition, rising action, climax, and resolution.

Character Arc: The transformation or journey that a character undergoes throughout a story, reflecting their growth, change, or realizations as the narrative progresses.

Dialogue Techniques: Methods used by writers to craft effective conversations between characters, focusing on authenticity, subtext, and revealing character traits.