Anatomy of a Screenplay

by Dan J. Decker

With clear logic and accessible language, Anatomy of a Screenplay goes beyond the rigid-rule and subjecive approaches to screenwriting to show a flexible and accurate way of understanding a screenplay. Dan Decker's revolutionary theories of Character Structure, Drive Structure and Convergence are presented to the public for the first time in this book.

Genres: Writing

201 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

Reviews

[sandeep gupta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Apparently Dan Decker can be found and this book is not a State Secret.

It disappeared from a library catalog before it disappeared from shelves and the last person who read it was definitely intent on it not being read again.

Fortunately I had read the book in 2003–'04, and it is pretty unforgettable. Mysteriously, until this week I could not find this book referenced or available online either — I did look more than once.

It is near impossible to learn writing from just one book, even if you learn by writing your own, and among the many essentials this one is a must read.

It is one of the best on storytelling, explaining the elements of story in a way that you can use to interpret or connect to everything else you read about writing, including the meaning of some popular qualitative arguments.

In a sense it bridges the gap between principles and how to implement them.

This is the first review I am writing for an author I haven't known anything of in any way except for the book, and I did look for him online several times since '04, to say thanks.

Turns out, I finally find out he is on LinkedIn. I decided to say thanks here without imposing a connection LinkedIn needs.

Writing a Screenplay or a multi-act story in any medium? Must Read.

[Cathleen Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of great information. That is applicable to novel writing, as well. Their proofer was rubbish, though, and the irony of the tip to make sure you get an outside proofer while the book was littered with errors was strong. I liked learning about different drives and having “the rack” as a tool to use in the future. Great way to make sure all the important elements are there and moving forward.

[Deborah T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably the best book on screen writing ever. It makes the point the plot comes from character. The plot is not a separate element in the story. A must read for any anyone interested in screenwriting, who likes to watch movies or writing in general.

[Eclectic Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I attended a workshop presented by Lou Anders, an editor at Pyr Books. Mr. Anders recommended this book, and while it took me a while to locate a copy (the book's out of print) I am glad that I did.

I do not desire to write screenplays. However, as with so many other books on screenwriting, this one helped me on my path to be a novelist. Whereas I recommend Save the Cat for plotting, I recommend Anatomy of a Screenplay for characterization. Combined, both books make you realize that good writing doesn't 'just happen'. It takes time, planning, and a great deal of hard work.

I highly recommend this book, but do suggest you also obtain a copy of Save the Cat.