Thank you for explaining again the difference in movie and book scenes. Just this week, I had a chance to analyze a movie (like you suggested back in Nov.) and had some difficulties. One was b/c of this very difference. Understanding this should make things a bit easier.

Another was simply in identifying the purpose/mission of the scene, and I assume that will get better the more I do this. But your providing more examples will help me ten times more, so I really appreciate that you’re planning on doing more of these analyses this year.

My final problem of constantly getting sucked into the story – well, that’s my problem to deal with. (I have yet to watch a movie or show and successfully watch for all 4 points! I simply get sucked in and…)

@Gwen: I use the ‘delta’ for “change” too! Great shortcut. Viva nerds!

Thanks for this site, Larry.

I had to laugh at your “The Movie vs. Book Delta”. My husband’s an engineer, and even though I have business degrees, I worked as a Mfg Engineer. I still use the triangle symbol as shorthand for “change” (change in) when I’m taking notes. Yeah, nerd.

You’re lucky Mr. Brooks, i wish my wife could edit my work. She gives great critiques, generally crushing the things i like in a constructive way, but just isn’t the proofreading type…

I’ve analyzed several other movies since you suggested it here. It’s been an incredible exercise in better understanding both story structure and character arc. Thanks!

And Larry, I’ve gotta say, you’re doing a tremendous job. I really love StoryFix.

Thanks.