Scriptnotes Podcast 717 - The Screenwriting Life: The Craft Lessons That Matter Most
14 snips
Dec 23, 2025 
In a spirited crossover, Meg LeFauve, screenwriter of Inside Out, and Lorien McKenna, former Pixar story manager, delve into the nuances of storytelling. They discuss the pitfalls of rigid structures and how true themes arise from character depth. The conversation turns to navigating creative rejection and redefining success. They also explore the significance of emotional connections on the page, emphasizing the importance of what characters want versus what they truly need. Get ready for a masterclass in screenwriting wisdom!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
'Pee Break' Breakthroughs
- Craig described prepping The Last of Us season three and struggling with 'middle' script challenges.
- He often gets breakthroughs in the shower or bathroom when he can think away from civilization.
Relief After Turning In A Script
- John celebrated turning in a rewrite and described the relief of getting a script off his desk.
- He used the free time to prepare a speech and enjoy promotion for the Scriptnotes book.
Fix The Character Hook First
- When feedback says audiences don't connect emotionally, revisit how you first introduce the characters.
- Anchor their first scenes with hooks that invite empathy and curiosity so the relationship can land.