Writing Excuses 6.18: The Hollywood Formula, with Lou Anders
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Oct 2, 2011 Lou Anders, a Hugo Award-winning author and editor, joins the discussion at Dragon*Con. The conversation dives into the 'Hollywood Formula' and its significance in writing for both screen and print. They explore how this framework can enhance emotional engagement without stifling creativity. The roles of protagonists and antagonists are examined, with insights into crafting dynamic characters. Notably, they analyze classics like 'Casablanca' and 'The Dark Knight,' revealing how they subvert expectations while mastering narrative structure.
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Formula As Rules For Emotional Payoff
- Hollywood 'formula' means rules that squeeze maximum emotional value from each scene.
- Lou Anders says learning those rules helps shape stories to get intended audience reactions.
Use Three Core Characters
- Build stories around three core characters: protagonist, antagonist, and relationship character.
- Define clear wants for the protagonist and make the antagonist oppose those wants directly.
Make The Protagonist's Goal Concrete
- Give the protagonist a concrete, achievable goal rather than abstract desires.
- Make that goal specific enough to create clear obstacles and choices.
