russia has launched a full-scale war in Ukraine. Donate to support Ukraine and protect the world’s peace.

Story

summary ofStoryBook by Robert McKee

17 min
00:00
/
00:00
Get full summary

You’ll learn

  • What defines a masterful story
  • About the interplay of structure and style
  • How characters drive the plot
  • Whether conflict shapes the narrative

first KEY POINT

Story is not only an idea and an experience — it is painstaking work and mastery of the word

People cannot exist without stories. When we find a story, we hope it will be good, emotional, and unforgettable. But what's a good story?First of all, it is the ability to handle rules and principles. The insecure author follows the rules, the poorly educated one breaks them, and only an absolute master brings the form to perfection. Secondly, a good screenwriter avoids clichés but respects archetypes.Also, a skilled author knows that the text is not about speed writing and volume but scrupulousness and brevity. They also know how to understand the viewer and interact with their emotions. The ever-astute audience is more intelligent than many films, so it determines the process of creating the script. This summary will help you understand how to evoke a grateful and positive reaction from viewers.

A story is not only the content that you want to share but also the shape you give it.

In our reality, the world of stories is chaotic. Films, novels, and TV shows that are massively produced tirelessly inspire people, help them deal with their problems, and make them laugh and think. However, film distributors are often motivated by money. Therefore, there are many trivial stories, and only a tiny number of scripts are truly flawless. Novice screenwriters often overestimate their experience and believe that their life and background are enough for an independent story. But not every story is worth telling. Your task is to find the ones that are.After reading the summary, you will recall and improve the principles for creating high-quality stories and scripts that will excite and delight viewers and remain in demand for many years. You will learn how to develop and embody timeless ideas. We admire Stanley Kubrick, Quentin Tarantino, and Spike Lee because they create exciting stories and their styles are recognizable and unique. Of course, there is an exception to each rule, and you can experiment with shapes and plots. But before you tackle handling writing perfectly, learn the basic rules of good storytelling.

second KEY POINT

The script is a puzzle: without the slightest detail, its structure collapses

Scriptwriter Robert McKee believes there are two kinds of bad scripts. The first is “personal story” — a detailed description of a fragment of life; in other words, a simple everyday story without morality. The second type is a scenario that guarantees commercial success, replete with explosions, chases, and coincidences that have nothing to do with real life.

book cover

Continue reading with Headway app

Continue reading

Full summary is waiting for you in the app

first KEY POINT

Setting and genre: where does the story begin

second KEY POINT

Character and characterization: how to develop a convincing protagonist

third KEY POINT

Emotions and conflicts are the heart of the story

fourth KEY POINT

How to make the audience interested from the very beginning

fifth KEY POINT

Crisis, climax, and other components that viewers fall in love with

sixth KEY POINT

The protagonist and the antagonist: what are their strengths and importance

seventh KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Robert McKee, a screenwriting lecturer, has educated and inspired countless writers, including over 65 Academy Award winners.

Join 55+ million learners worldwide

172K 5 reviews on App Store and Google Play

Get started

Frequently asked questions

What is Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting about?

Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee explores the art of storytelling and screenwriting. It delves into essential elements such as narrative structure, character development, and thematic depth, making it an invaluable resource for writers and film enthusiasts alike.

Who is the author of Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting?

The author of Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting is Robert McKee. Renowned for his expertise in storytelling and scriptwriting, McKee's insights have influenced countless writers and filmmakers.

Is Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting worth reading?

Yes, Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting is considered a must-read for those interested in writing and the mechanics of storytelling. McKee's practical advice and in-depth analysis provide valuable perspectives that can enhance both novice and seasoned writers.

How many pages is Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting and when was it published?

Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting is approximately 400 pages long and was first published in 1997. Its enduring popularity showcases its significant impact on the field of screenwriting.

What are the key takeaways from Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting?

Key takeaways from Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting include understanding the importance of structure in storytelling, character arcs, and how to effectively engage an audience. McKee emphasizes that aspiring writers should focus on mastering these elements to create impactful narratives.