Screenwriting Unchained

More about the book

Screenwriting legend William Goldman famously stated that "Nobody Knows Anything" and "Structure is Everything," capturing the film industry's dual truths. In this innovative guide, Emmanuel Oberg explores the script development process through the lens of the Story-Type Method(R), which categorizes stories into three main types: plot-led, character-led, and theme-led. Oberg explains how each type influences screenplay structure and offers a unified set of tools for developing any story. He also addresses hybrids and exceptions—unique narratives that defy classification yet succeed by adhering to core principles in unconventional ways. This book is designed for screenwriters of all experience levels, as well as directors, producers, development executives, and storytellers eager to engage a broad audience without sacrificing creativity. It challenges conventional notions of screenplay structure, including the traditional three acts and various beat systems. Through case studies of films like Gravity, Silver Linings Playbook, and Birdman, Oberg promises to revolutionize how you write, read, pitch, and assess screenplays. With over two decades in the industry, Oberg has collaborated with major studios and created a renowned workshop based on his method, sharing his expertise with filmmakers worldwide.