Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting

by McKee, Robert

• ISBN13: 9780060391683
• ISBN10: 0060391685
• eBook ISBN(s): 9780062039828
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 1997-11-25
• Publisher: HarperCollins Publications
• More Book Details

About This Book

Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting

ISBN: 9780060391683

"Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting" is a seminal textbook in the field of screenwriting, written by renowned author and educator Robert McKee. This comprehensive guide has been a cornerstone for aspiring and professional screenwriters alike since its publication in 1997.

Who Uses It?

Primarily, this book is used by students and professionals in the film and television industry. It is also a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the fundamental principles of storytelling, including writers, directors, producers, and educators. The book's detailed exploration of style, structure, and substance makes it an essential tool for anyone looking to craft compelling narratives.

History and Editions

The first edition of "Story" was published in 1997 by ReganBooks, a division of HarperCollins Publishers. This edition has stood the test of time, remaining a go-to resource for many years. The book's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless principles and practical advice on screenwriting.

Author and Other Works

Robert McKee is an award-winning film and television writer, as well as a Fulbright Scholar. He teaches his renowned "Story Structure" class annually to sold-out audiences in major film capitals around the world. In addition to "Story," McKee has written other influential works on screenwriting, including "Dialogue: The Art of Verbal Action for Page, Stage, and Screen."

Key Features

• Comprehensive Coverage: The book provides a detailed exploration of the principles of screenwriting, covering style, structure, and substance.
• Practical Advice: McKee offers practical insights and techniques that are applicable to both beginners and experienced writers.
• Timeless Principles: Despite being published over two decades ago, the book's principles remain relevant and essential for any aspiring screenwriter.

Detailed Information

ISBNs and Formats

Hardcover: ISBN-13: 9780060391683

eTextbook: ISBN-13: 9780062039828 (The ebook for "Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting" is available right here on eCampus.com!)

eTextbook: ISBN-13: 9780062039828 (The ebook for "Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting" is available right here on eCampus.com!)

Rental Options: Available through eCampus.com with various rental durations

Publication Details

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Publication Date: November 25, 1997

Number of Pages: 480

Language: English

Other Editions and Formats

While there may not be multiple editions of this specific book, it is often referenced alongside other works by Robert McKee that explore similar themes in screenwriting.

Rental Options

Rental options are available through eCampus.com for all formats of this book, ensuring that students and professionals can access the material they need without the long-term commitment of purchasing.

Author Biography

Robert McKee teaches his Story Structure class regularly to sold-out auditoriums in Los Angeles, New York, London, and other European cities. A Ph.D. in cinema arts and a former Fulbright scholar, his credits include numerous television and feature films. In addition to writing and lecturing, McKee serves as a consultant to major film production companies such as Tri-Star and Golden Harvest Films and in 1991 was awarded the H.U.W. Weldon BAFTA Award (the British equivalent of the Emmy) for Best Arts Program for J'Accuse: Citizen Kane. He lives in Los Angeles and London.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments	ix	(2)
Notes on the Text	xi
PART 1: THE WRITER AND THE ART OF STORY	3	(28)
Introduction	3	(8)
1. The Story Problem	11	(20)
PART 2: THE ELEMENTS OF STORY	31	(104)
2. The Structure Spectrum	31	(36)
3. Structure and Setting	67	(12)
4. Structure and Genre	79	(21)
5. Structure and Character	100	(10)
6. Structure and Meaning	110	(25)
PART 3: THE PRINCIPLES OF STORY DESIGN	135	(182)
7. The Substance of Story	135	(46)
8. The Inciting Incident	181	(27)
9. Act Design	208	(25)
10. Scene Design	233	(19)
11. Scene Analysis	252	(36)
12. Composition	288	(15)
13. Crisis, Climax, Resolution	303	(14)
PART 4: THE WRITER AT WORK	317	(104)
14. The Principle of Antagonism	317	(17)
15. Exposition	334	(12)
16. Problems and Solutions	346	(28)
17. Character	374	(14)
18. The Text	388	(22)
19. A Writer's Method	410	(11)
Fade Out	418	(3)
Suggested Readings	421	(2)
Filmography	423	(34)
Index	457