Zombieland

Structure:
Entertainment:

A perfect example of “form over formula”, this film does a terrific job of dressing up the classic Main Character with control issues story by applying fresh wit and satire (and a little bit of blood). Be on the lookout for the traditional “You and I” moment wherein Main Character Columbus discovers that he and Impact Character Tallahassee are much more alike than he had previously thought. One complaint, it seems to drag a bit in the middle as the Overall Story thread (Getting to Pacific Playland) is put on hold. Thankfully, it’s character development they spend the time on instead, but the film runs short as it is (87 minutes). Perhaps weaving in some Zombie killing throughout that development would have kept the story focused and allowed the audience to enjoy more of what they showed up for in the first place. Regardless, this infraction is minor and overshadowed by the sheer fun of the whole piece. Must see for fans of story.

Available on Blu-Ray here | Available on DVD here

Character Motivation Defined

Archetypal Characters are a wonderful starting point when first starting out in structuring a meaningful screenplay or story. Great authors, however, break free of these standards and create complex characters that more closely resemble the people in our lives.

How Main Characters Approach Problems

Every book on screenwriting eventually issues the command that Main Characters must always take action. But is this always the case? Main Characters face their own personal struggles, but it is how they approach those problems that helps to define them. Action is not always the way.

Narrative Drive and Weak Protagonists

When a story feels like it is slowing down or somehow gets lost in the middle of the 2nd act, chances are there is an issue with a weak or undefined Protagonist. Understanding what the Goal of the story is can go a long way towards establishing this essential character and therefore insure that an audience remains riveted to their seats.