| name | scene-analysis |
| description | Scene-by-scene analysis techniques for screenplays.
Covers scene anatomy, beat breakdown, pacing evaluation, and the core
question "what changes?" to identify unnecessary or weak scenes.
Use when: analyzing scene effectiveness, evaluating scene pacing,
identifying scene problems, or breaking down scene beats.
|
Scene Analysis
Scene Essentials
Every scene needs:
- Goal - What does the protagonist want?
- Conflict - What's preventing them?
- Outcome - Win, lose, or complication?
Scene Types
Confrontation Scene
Two or more characters in direct conflict.
- Clear opposing goals
- Rising tension
- Resolution or escalation
Discovery Scene
Character learns important information.
- Setup mystery/question
- Investigation or revelation
- Reaction and implications
Action Sequence
Physical conflict or chase.
- Clear geography
- Escalating stakes
- Cause and effect
Montage
Series of shots showing passage of time.
- Unified theme
- Clear progression
- Music/voiceover optional
Flashback
Scene from the past.
- Clear trigger
- Relevant information
- Smooth transition back
Scene Structure
Entry Point
- Enter late, leave early
- Start with action/conflict
- Establish location quickly
Development
- Escalate conflict
- Reveal character through action
- Advance plot and theme
Exit Point
- End on change
- Hook to next scene
- Don't overstay welcome
Scene Grading
Rate each scene (1-5) on:
| Criteria | Question |
|---|
| Purpose | Does it advance plot or reveal character? |
| Conflict | Is there tension? |
| Change | Does something shift by the end? |
| Uniqueness | Could this scene happen elsewhere? |
| Economy | Is it as lean as possible? |
Red Flags
- Scene exists only for exposition
- No conflict or tension
- Characters unchanged by end
- Dialogue carries all the weight
- Scene could be cut without impact
Scene Questions
Before writing, answer:
- What does the protagonist want in this scene?
- What's stopping them?
- What do they learn/lose/gain?
- How does this change the story?
- What's the emotional temperature?
