The Screenwriting Formula

The Screenwriting Formula: Why it works and How to Use It
by Rob Tobin
ISBN 978-158294-462-0
$14.99, 240p, 50 b&w illus.
Available May 2007

  • Discusses seven critical elements of any movies script and how to practically apply them.

  • Helps writers structure scripts so that they are more accessible, natural and appealing.

It’s a common misconception that formula films are bad. Bad films aren’t formulaic—and that’s the problem. In this guide, beginning scriptwriters will learn how to structure their screenplay by using seven critical elements (The Formula) so that every other element falls into place perfectly, creating a salable, high-concept movie. Screenwriter, novelist and lecturer Rob Tobin takes the mystery out of writing and analyzing scripts, and makes formulaic a good word again by presenting the keys to a successful and salable script.

About the Author
Rob Tobin is a screenwriter, script consultant, novelist, lecturer, former development executive, former VP of the country’s leading private screenwriting school, and frequent guest speaker at major film festivals and writing conferences.

Table of Contents
Preface
Introduction

PART ONE: THE SEVEN ELEMENTS
CHAPTER 1: The Hero
CHAPTER 2: The Flaw
CHAPTER 3: Enabling Circumstances
CHAPTER 4: The Opponent
CHAPTER 5: The Hero’s Ally
CHAPTER 6: The Life-Changing Event
CHAPTER 7: Jeopardy

PART TWO: THE STRUCTURE
CHAPTER 8: Backstory
CHAPTER 9: Act One
CHAPTER 10: Act Two
CHAPTER 11: Act Three
CHAPTER 12: The Story Elements
CHAPTER 13: The Log Line
CHAPTER 14: The Outline

PART THREE: HIGH CONCEPT VS. LOW CONCEPT
CHAPTER 15: Why High-Concept Stories Sell
CHAPTER 16: A Titanic Undertaking

Appendix: Adapting Novels to the Screen