Community
Executive Summary
Logline: A cynical lawyer forced to attend community college to regain his license forms a study group with a quirky cast of characters who unexpectedly become his community. See other logline suggestoins
Pass/Consider/Recommend/Highly Recommend
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Promo
Note: This is for fun only. There will be many wrong things in the mock poster. It doesn't mean the AI misunderstood your story.
USP: The Unique Selling Proposition (USP) of this script is its ability to combine humor, satire, and witty dialogue to comment on stereotypes and expectations within a community college setting. The script introduces a diverse group of characters and explores their conflicts, personal struggles, and growth. It tackles sensitive topics with a lighthearted tone, making it compelling and relatable to its target audience. The innovative storytelling techniques, such as the use of a study group as a plot device, add to the script's uniqueness and make it stand out from others in its genre. Overall, this script offers a fresh and entertaining perspective on college life and the complexities of human relationships.
Overview
Genres: Comedy, Drama
Setting: Contemporary, Greendale Community College
Overview: The screenplay shows strong potential with well-developed characters, witty dialogue, and themes of personal growth. However, there are opportunities to deepen emotional complexity, enhance visual imagery, and strengthen the central conflict.
Themes: Identity and Self-Discovery, Friendship and Community, Honesty and Integrity, Acceptance and Forgiveness, Personal Growth and Transformation
Conflict and Stakes: The primary conflicts in this story include Jeff's struggle to find purpose and redemption, the tensions and dynamics within the study group, and the challenges of navigating college life. The stakes involve Jeff's personal growth, the success of the study group, and the pursuit of their individual goals and dreams.
Overall Mood: Comedic and lighthearted with moments of emotional depth
Mood/Tone at Key Scenes:
- Scene 1: The opening scene with Dean Pelton's failed speech sets a comedic and chaotic tone.
- Scene 15: The scene where Jeff confesses his true motives for forming the study group has a more introspective and vulnerable tone.
Standout Features:
- Ensemble Cast: The show features a diverse and talented ensemble cast, each bringing their unique comedic and dramatic skills to the table.
- Meta-Humor : The show often breaks the fourth wall and parodies various genres and tropes, appealing to viewers who appreciate self-aware and clever storytelling.
- Community College Setting : The setting of a community college provides a unique backdrop for the story, allowing for exploration of themes such as second chances, personal growth, and the value of education.
Comparable Scripts:
Market Analysis
Budget Estimate:$10-15 million
Target Audience Demographics: Young adults aged 18-34, fans of comedy and ensemble casts
Marketability: The show has a dedicated fan base and has gained a cult following over the years. It has the potential to attract a wide audience and generate buzz through its unique blend of comedy, drama, and meta-humor.
The show has a diverse cast and explores compelling themes such as friendship, personal growth, and the value of education. It has the potential to resonate with a wide range of viewers and generate positive word-of-mouth.
The show has received critical acclaim for its clever writing, memorable characters, and meta-commentary on pop culture and television tropes. It has the potential to attract viewers who appreciate smart and self-aware storytelling.
Profit Potential: Moderate to high, as the show has a dedicated fan base and potential for syndication and streaming deals. It also has the potential to attract award nominations and generate revenue through merchandise and licensing.
Scene Level Percentiles
Writer's Voice
Summary:The writer's voice is characterized by wit, humor, and sarcasm. They excel at crafting witty and sarcastic dialogue that reveals the personalities of the characters. The narrative description is concise and focuses on character actions and reactions. The writer's voice adds humor and creates a lighthearted atmosphere throughout the screenplay.
Best representation: Scene 4 - Tension and Conflicts Emerge in the Study Group. This scene could serve as the encapsulation of the writer's unique voice in the screenplay because it showcases the writer's ability to create humorous and absurd situations, as well as explore philosophical ideas through witty dialogue. The characters' actions and interactions reflect the writer's distinct style and voice.
Memorable Lines:
- Jeff: You just stopped being a study group. You have now become something unstoppable. I hereby pronounce you a community. (Scene 7)
- Abed: I'm only half Arabic, actually, my Dad is Palestinian, I mean, he's a U.S. Citizen and he's not a threat to national security or anything, a lot of people want to know that after they meet him, because he has an angry energy, but not like angry at America, just angry at my Mom for leaving him, although she did leave because he was angry, and he was angry because she was American. My name's Abed, by the way. (Scene 1)
- Britta: Yeah, just don't hit on me, okay? (Scene 2)
- DUNCAN: Come on, you're never going to stop taking the easy way out. I'll be helping you for four years. You want to get a degree while taking naps? I want leather seats with built-in ball warmers. Offer expires in ten seconds. (Scene 6)
- Annie: Being younger doesn't make me inferior, if anything, your age indicates you've made bad life decisions. (Scene 5)
Writing Style:
The writing style of the screenplay is characterized by witty and sarcastic dialogue, humor, and a focus on character dynamics and relationships. There is also a tendency to blend humor with emotional depth in character interactions.
Style Similarities:
- Dan Harmon
- Tina Fey
Story Shape
Screenplay Rating:
Consider
Executive Summary
The 'Community' screenplay presents a promising premise with strong character introductions, witty dialogue, and a compelling character arc for the lead. However, the script would benefit from a more defined central conflict, improved pacing, and further development of certain characters and plotlines.
Strengths
- Strong introduction of the main characters, each with distinct personalities and motivations. high ( Scene 1 Scene general )
- The dialogue is witty, engaging, and often hilarious, effectively balancing humor with character development. high
- Jeff's character arc, from a cynical manipulator to someone seeking connection and help, is compelling and believable. high ( Scene 3 Scene 7 )
- The screenplay effectively uses conflict and resolution within the study group to highlight the themes of community and personal growth. medium ( Scene 5 Scene 7 )
- The unique setting of a community college offers a fresh perspective and relatable scenarios for a diverse audience. medium
Areas of Improvement
- The pacing can be uneven, with some scenes feeling rushed while others drag, particularly in the middle of the screenplay. high
- The subplot involving Professor Duncan feels somewhat forced and detracts from the main narrative of the study group. medium ( Scene 2 Scene 6 )
- Some characters, like Shirley and Annie, could benefit from further exploration and development beyond their initial conflicts. medium
- The Old Black Woman character's role as a 'cosmic mentor' feels stereotypical and could be reimagined with more depth. low ( Scene 9 )
MissingElements
- The screenplay lacks a clear overarching plot or central conflict that drives the narrative beyond the formation of the study group. high
- Exploration of the characters' lives outside of the study group and the community college setting is minimal. medium
- The ending, while heartwarming, feels somewhat abrupt and could benefit from a more conclusive resolution or a hint at the group's future. medium
Screenplay Insights:
Characters: 8.25, The screenplay demonstrates a strong foundation in character development, featuring complex and relatable characters that undergo significant growth throughout the story. However, there are a few areas where further refinement could enhance the audience's connection to the characters and deepen the emotional resonance of their journeys. See More
Premise: 7.5, The screenplay establishes a clear and intriguing premise that introduces a group of students and their journey at Greendale Community College. While the initial scenes effectively set up the characters and their interactions, there are opportunities to enhance the originality and depth of the premise. Exploring the characters' motivations and the unique aspects of the college setting could strengthen the screenplay's overall appeal. See More
Structure: 8.25, This screenplay exhibits a strong foundation for a compelling and entertaining story. The narrative structure effectively sets up the characters and their motivations, and the plot unfolds with a good balance of tension and release. However, there are a few areas where the structure and plot could be refined to enhance the overall storytelling dynamics. See More
Theme: 8.5, The screenplay effectively explores themes of community, acceptance, and personal growth, delivering a heartfelt and engaging story that resonates with audiences. While some aspects of the message could be refined for greater clarity and impact, the screenplay's overall thematic depth is commendable. See More
Visual Impact: 6.25, This screenplay showcases a solid narrative containing various characters, each with their own arcs. The story is filled with moments of tension, conflict, humor, and personal growth. While the screenplay has potential, the visual imagery lacks depth and creativity, resulting in a missed opportunity to enhance the storytelling. By incorporating more vivid descriptions and innovative visual elements, the screenplay can elevate its visual storytelling and captivate the audience on a deeper level. See More
Emotional Impact: 7.25, The screenplay has strong potential for emotional depth, with well-developed characters and engaging plotlines. However, it could benefit from further exploration of emotional complexity and the utilization of conflict to drive emotional development. See More
Conflict: 8.25, The screenplay effectively presents conflict and raises stakes through well-defined character dynamics and motivations. The study group's formation, stakes, and escalating challenges captivate the audience, driving the narrative forward. However, certain scenes could benefit from more emotionally compelling conflicts and well-developed resolutions. See More
Originality: 8.0, This screenplay exhibits a commendable level of creativity in its character development, particularly with Jeff and Abed. Their unique personalities and perspectives drive the narrative forward in an engaging manner. See More
Premise: 7.5, The screenplay establishes a clear and intriguing premise that introduces a group of students and their journey at Greendale Community College. While the initial scenes effectively set up the characters and their interactions, there are opportunities to enhance the originality and depth of the premise. Exploring the characters' motivations and the unique aspects of the college setting could strengthen the screenplay's overall appeal. See More
Structure: 8.25, This screenplay exhibits a strong foundation for a compelling and entertaining story. The narrative structure effectively sets up the characters and their motivations, and the plot unfolds with a good balance of tension and release. However, there are a few areas where the structure and plot could be refined to enhance the overall storytelling dynamics. See More
Theme: 8.5, The screenplay effectively explores themes of community, acceptance, and personal growth, delivering a heartfelt and engaging story that resonates with audiences. While some aspects of the message could be refined for greater clarity and impact, the screenplay's overall thematic depth is commendable. See More
Visual Impact: 6.25, This screenplay showcases a solid narrative containing various characters, each with their own arcs. The story is filled with moments of tension, conflict, humor, and personal growth. While the screenplay has potential, the visual imagery lacks depth and creativity, resulting in a missed opportunity to enhance the storytelling. By incorporating more vivid descriptions and innovative visual elements, the screenplay can elevate its visual storytelling and captivate the audience on a deeper level. See More
Emotional Impact: 7.25, The screenplay has strong potential for emotional depth, with well-developed characters and engaging plotlines. However, it could benefit from further exploration of emotional complexity and the utilization of conflict to drive emotional development. See More
Conflict: 8.25, The screenplay effectively presents conflict and raises stakes through well-defined character dynamics and motivations. The study group's formation, stakes, and escalating challenges captivate the audience, driving the narrative forward. However, certain scenes could benefit from more emotionally compelling conflicts and well-developed resolutions. See More
Originality: 8.0, This screenplay exhibits a commendable level of creativity in its character development, particularly with Jeff and Abed. Their unique personalities and perspectives drive the narrative forward in an engaging manner. See More
Screenplay Story Analysis
Note: This is the overall critique. For scene by scene critique click here
Summaries
- Dean Pelton attempts to give an inspirational speech to the students at Greendale Community College, but struggles with technical difficulties and a lack of preparedness. Meanwhile, various characters including Annie, Troy, Britta, Shirley, and Pierce react to his words. Jeff and Abed have a brief conversation about a girl from their Spanish class. The scene takes place in the courtyard of Greendale Community College during the day. There are no significant conflicts in this scene. The tone of this scene is comedic and lighthearted. Dean Pelton attempts to give an inspirational speech, but struggles with technical difficulties and a lack of preparedness. Jeff and Abed have a brief conversation about a girl from their Spanish class. The scene ends with Jeff and Abed's conversation about the girl from their Spanish class.
- In this scene, Britta and Jeff meet in the cafeteria and have a playful conversation. Jeff invites Britta to his Spanish study group. Later, they meet with Duncan, Jeff's former client and current psychology professor. Jeff asks Duncan for help in obtaining his college degree, and Duncan agrees to help him cheat in exchange for Jeff's past legal assistance. The scene ends with Jeff leaving Duncan's office and making plans to meet in the library at six for his fake study group.
- Jeff and Britta meet in the library study room to form a Spanish study group. Britta shares her past as an anarchist and values honesty. Abed joins the group and receives a mysterious text message. Professor Duncan interrupts Jeff to discuss psychology. The scene ends with Jeff leaving to speak with Professor Duncan.
- Jeff and Duncan discuss moral relativism while watching a track tryout. Coach Bartel interrupts them and asks if they play football. Jeff then joins the study group in the library, where Britta and four new students are waiting. Jeff and Britta make plans to have dinner together. Jeff encounters the old black woman from the cafeteria and apologizes for his previous behavior.
- Jeff settles into his role as the leader of the study group and introduces himself and the other members. Annie feels excluded and confronts the group, particularly Shirley. Pierce makes inappropriate comments towards Shirley, leading to a conflict. Troy and Annie exchange insults. Abed interrupts with a random confession. Professor Duncan calls Jeff. The scene ends with Jeff receiving a phone call from Professor Duncan and leaving the room, leaving the conflicts unresolved.
- Jeff meets Duncan in a parking lot to get the answers to his tests. Duncan withholds the answers until Jeff agrees to give him his Lexus. Jeff eventually agrees and takes Duncan's Prius instead. Jeff then meets Britta at the library and they decide to help a group of people in pain before going to dinner.
- Jeff enters the study room and gives a motivational speech to the group, telling them they are all better than they think they are. He reveals he has the answers to the upcoming test, but the group decides to study instead. Jeff admits he only formed the study group to get close to Britta.
- Jeff confronts Duncan in his office after finding old magazines in Duncan's packet. Duncan tries to convince Jeff to embrace Greendale, but Jeff remains skeptical and demands his keys back. The scene ends with Jeff demanding his keys back from Duncan.
- Jeff, feeling defeated, encounters the Old Black Woman on a bench and confesses his struggles. She sarcastically brushes him off. Pierce joins Jeff and talks about his marriages. Troy seeks Jeff's advice on his jacket. Shirley and Annie emerge from the library, followed by Britta. Jeff apologizes and admits he needs help. Britta offers to study with the group, and they all head back into the library together.
Characters in the screenplay, and their arcs:
| Character | Arc | Critique | Suggestions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annie | Annie's character arc begins with her tightly wound and driven personality, causing her to strive for perfection and seek validation. Throughout the course of the film, she learns to embrace her own insecurities and value her own worth beyond external validation. Through personal growth and self-discovery, Annie becomes more confident and assertive, while still maintaining her intelligent and organized nature. | The character arc is solid and reflects the theme of personal growth and self-discovery. However, more attention could be given to Annie's motivations and backstory to create a stronger emotional connection with the audience. | Consider adding more scenes that delve into Annie's personal life and experiences, which can help flesh out her character and create a stronger emotional connection with the audience. Additionally, focus on creating more nuanced interactions with other characters to showcase her growth and development. |
| Troy | Troy starts his journey as a naive and easily influenced jock with a strong focus on athletics. As he goes through his freshman year in college, he discovers his own identity and learns to assert himself more. He faces challenges and setbacks, particularly with his relationships with others, but ultimately comes out stronger and more self-assured. By the end of the film, Troy has realized that there is more to college and life than just being a jock, and he is ready to embrace all the opportunities that await him. | The character arc for Troy is well-crafted and allows for significant growth and development throughout the story. However, it may be helpful to flesh out some specific obstacles or challenges that Troy faces on his journey of self-discovery. Additionally, while the description of Troy's speaking style is helpful, it would be beneficial to see more concrete examples of his dialogue throughout the screenplay. | To improve the character arc for Troy, consider introducing more concrete challenges or obstacles that he must overcome in order to fully realize his potential. This could be in the form of difficult relationships with peers, setbacks in his academic or personal life, or obstacles related to his athletic abilities. Additionally, as Troy's character grows and changes throughout the story, it would be helpful to show this evolution more explicitly in his dialogue and actions. |
| Britta | Britta's arc in the screenplay follows her transformation from a rebellious and skeptical student to a passionate activist who is willing to fight for social justice. At first, she is resistant to Jeff's attempts to form the study group, but eventually grows to embrace their community and support their causes. Through her experiences with the group, Britta learns to let go of her sarcasm and confrontational attitude and embrace vulnerability and sincerity in her activism. She becomes a moral center for the group and is willing to make personal sacrifices for the greater good. | While Britta's character is well-developed throughout the screenplay, her arc could benefit from greater specificity in terms of her personal motivations and growth. It would also be helpful to see more of her backstory and personal life outside of the study group to add depth and texture to her character. | One way to improve Britta's arc would be to give her more scenes where she interacts with characters outside of the study group and explores her personal motivations for her activism and values. Additionally, it could be helpful to provide more specific moments of growth and transformation for Britta, such as a particular action or decision that leads her to embrace vulnerability and sincerity in her activism. |
| Shirley | Shirley's character arc begins as a closed-up ex-housewife who is wary of opening up to others. However, as she becomes more involved in her community college, she starts to come out of her shell, becoming a maternal figure who helps the students and staff on a daily basis. In the end, Shirley overcomes her shyness and learns to embrace her assertiveness and protectiveness, no longer letting others get in her way. | While Shirley's character arc is well-developed, it lacks any real complexity. The audience is left wanting to learn more about her past and how it has informed her present. Additionally, the arc is somewhat predictable, with Shirley's character development following a standard trajectory. Finally, her speaking style could be more carefully fleshed out, showing her growth and complexity. | To improve Shirley's character arc, the screenwriter should consider incorporating more backstory and nuance into her character. Additionally, the arc could be made more unpredictable and complex, giving the audience an unexpected twist. Finally, by focusing more closely on Shirley's speaking style and how it changes throughout the feature, the character could be fleshed out more and become even more compelling. |
| Pierce | Throughout the film, Pierce grapples with his past and tries to redeem himself. He undergoes significant growth as he overcomes his prejudices and ultimately apologizes for his offensive behavior. After being rejected by a group of young people, he realizes the harm his words cause and actively works to change. Although he experiences setbacks, Pierce remains determined to make amends and become a better person. | The character arc for Pierce is well-thought-out and provides a satisfying conclusion. However, to make the arc feel more organic and earned, Pierce could benefit from more nuanced and complex character development earlier in the story. While his moments of vulnerability are impactful, they could be more frequent to provide a more realistic depiction of a person with his flawed personality. | To improve the character arc, consider adding scenes with Pierce that show him struggling with his internal biases, which would lend more weight to his eventual redemption. Additionally, add more moments where Pierce displays genuine care for others to humanize his character further. Finally, consider making Pierce's moments of vulnerability more frequent and prominent to better round out his character. |
| Jeff | Jeff's character arc in the screenplay involves his journey from a self-centered and morally conflicted student to a more empathetic and compassionate friend and leader. Through his experiences and interactions with the group, Jeff learns to let go of his ego and embrace vulnerability, empathy, and trust. He also learns the importance of community and the satisfaction of being part of a team. Jeff's arc also involves his struggle with his past mistakes and desire for redemption, which ultimately leads to his growth and a greater sense of purpose in his life. | While Jeff's character arc is well-crafted and engaging, it could benefit from more nuanced and subtle character development. Some of Jeff's growth moments feel contrived or forced, and his transformation could be more gradual and organic. Additionally, more attention could be given to his relationships with other characters, particularly Britta, to give more depth and emotional resonance to his arc. | To improve Jeff's character arc, the screenplay could explore more of Jeff's internal conflicts and insecurities, allowing the audience to connect more deeply with his journey. More attention could be given to the interactions between Jeff and other characters to showcase his growth and development. Additionally, his character arc could benefit from more subtle and nuanced moments of choice and decision-making, highlighting his growth and transformation in a more organic way. Overall, Jeff's arc could be improved by focusing more on his emotional journey and less on external plot points. |
| Abed | At the beginning of the feature, Abed is a socially awkward yet observant character who sees the world through the lens of pop culture. Throughout the film, he goes through a transformation as he struggles to connect with others and form meaningful relationships. He begins to realize that there is more to life than just pop culture and starts to embrace his emotions and vulnerability. By the end of the film, Abed has grown as a character and has formed meaningful relationships with the other characters. | While Abed's character arc is well-done, it can be seen as somewhat predictable. The transformation from socially awkward to emotionally open is a common trope in coming-of-age stories. Additionally, while his character is interesting, it may be difficult for some audiences to relate to him. Furthermore, the use of meta-comments and pop culture references may become tiresome for some viewers. | To improve Abed's character arc, it may be beneficial to add a twist or unexpected conflict that forces him to confront his beliefs and values. Additionally, while pop culture references are a key aspect of Abed's character, they should be used sparingly to prevent them from becoming repetitive. Finally, to make Abed more relatable, it may be helpful to give him more relatable struggles and motivations. |
| Duncan | Throughout the feature, Duncan's character arc involves him using his manipulative tactics to get what he wants, but ultimately realizing the importance of merit and hard work. He initially tries to benefit from Jeff's desperation and lack of ethics, but as Jeff learns and grows throughout the film, Duncan also begins to realize the importance of honesty and integrity. By the end of the feature, Duncan has learned to value the students at Greendale for who they are and not just for what they can do for him. | The character arc is well-conceived and fits with the overall theme of the feature. However, Duncan's transformation may feel a bit rushed or unconvincing to some viewers. Additionally, it may be helpful to have more scenes that focus on Duncan's internal struggles and thoughts to help the audience understand his motivations and reasoning. | To improve the character arc, consider adding more scenes that show Duncan's internal struggles and thought processes. This can help the audience better understand his motivations and why he makes certain decisions. Additionally, consider making his transformation more gradual and nuanced, rather than sudden and unrealistic. Finally, ensure that his actions throughout the feature are consistent with his character and motivations, so that the transformation feels natural and believable. |
| Theme | Theme Details | Themee Explanation | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Identity and Self-Discovery | Throughout the screenplay, the characters, particularly Jeff, go through a process of self-discovery and exploration of their identities. Jeff initially forms the study group for selfish reasons but eventually realizes the value of genuine connections and personal growth. | The theme of identity and self-discovery is important in this screenplay as it drives the character development and arcs of the main characters. It explores the idea of finding oneself and embracing personal growth. | ||||||||||||
| Friendship and Community | The study group serves as a central element in the screenplay, highlighting the importance of friendship and community. The characters come together, support each other, and form a bond that helps them navigate their personal challenges. | Friendship and community play a significant role in this screenplay as the characters rely on each other for support, guidance, and companionship. It explores the idea of finding a sense of belonging and the power of human connection. | ||||||||||||
| Honesty and Integrity | The theme of honesty and integrity is explored through various conflicts and character interactions. Jeff's journey involves confronting his own dishonesty and learning the value of honesty, while other characters also grapple with their own moral choices. | Honesty and integrity are important themes in this screenplay as they highlight the moral dilemmas faced by the characters and the importance of being true to oneself and others. It explores the idea of personal ethics and the consequences of dishonesty. | ||||||||||||
Strengthening Honesty and Integrity:
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| Acceptance and Forgiveness | The characters in the screenplay experience conflicts and tensions, but ultimately learn the importance of acceptance and forgiveness. Jeff apologizes for his behavior, the group accepts Annie into the study group, and they all come together despite their differences. | Acceptance and forgiveness are recurring themes in this screenplay as the characters learn to let go of grudges, accept each other's flaws, and move forward together. It explores the idea of embracing forgiveness and finding common ground despite differences. | ||||||||||||
Strengthening Acceptance and Forgiveness:
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| Personal Growth and Transformation | The characters in the screenplay undergo personal growth and transformation as they navigate their challenges and learn from their experiences. Jeff, in particular, goes through a significant transformation from a selfish and dishonest person to someone who values genuine connections and personal growth. | Personal growth and transformation are central themes in this screenplay as the characters evolve and learn from their experiences. It explores the idea of self-improvement, learning from mistakes, and embracing change. | ||||||||||||
Screenwriting Resources on Themes
Articles
| Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Studio Binder | Movie Themes: Examples of Common Themes for Screenwriters |
| Coverfly | Improving your Screenplay's theme |
| John August | Writing from Theme |
YouTube Videos
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Story, Plot, Genre, Theme - Screenwriting Basics | Screenwriting basics - beginner video |
| What is theme | Discussion on ways to layer theme into a screenplay. |
| Thematic Mistakes You're Making in Your Script | Common Theme mistakes and Philosophical Conflicts |
| Goals and Philosophical Conflict | |
|---|---|
| internal Goals | The protagonist's internal goals evolve throughout the script, reflecting their desire for validation, companionship, approval, intellectual validation, a harmonious study environment, taking the easy way out, acceptance from peers, asserting independence, seeking help and admitting need for assistance. |
| External Goals | The protagonist's external goals evolve throughout the script, reflecting their navigation of challenges and stereotypes of community college, helping Britta with her Spanish studies, starting a conversation with the study group, gathering answers from Duncan, attending to an emergency call, negotiating with Duncan, disbanding the study group, retrieving his keys, and studying with the group. |
| Philosophical Conflict | The overarching philosophical conflict in the screenplay revolves around the protagonist's beliefs about moral relativism, the value of community college, and the importance of higher education. This conflict intertwines with the protagonist's journey as they challenge and assert their own beliefs, confront their cynicism, and seek validation and support. |
Character Development Contribution: The protagonist's evolving internal and external goals contribute to their character development by challenging their beliefs, fears, and desires. Through their journey, they learn to overcome stereotypes, seek validation and support, confront their cynicism, and assert their own understanding of right and wrong.
Narrative Structure Contribution: The evolving internal and external goals provide a framework for the narrative structure of the screenplay, driving the protagonist's actions and interactions with other characters. The conflicts and challenges they face propel the story forward and create tension and resolution.
Thematic Depth Contribution: The goals and conflicts in the screenplay contribute to the thematic depth by exploring themes of identity, validation, the value of education, the importance of community, and the power of personal growth and change. The protagonist's journey reflects the universal human desire for acceptance, growth, and finding one's place in the world.
Screenwriting Resources on Goals and Philosophical Conflict
Articles
| Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Creative Screenwriting | How Important Is A Character’s Goal? |
| Studio Binder | What is Conflict in a Story? A Quick Reminder of the Purpose of Conflict |
YouTube Videos
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| How I Build a Story's Philosophical Conflict | How do you build philosophical conflict into your story? Where do you start? And how do you develop it into your characters and their external actions. Today I’m going to break this all down and make it fully clear in this episode. |
| Endings: The Good, the Bad, and the Insanely Great | By Michael Arndt: I put this lecture together in 2006, when I started work at Pixar on Toy Story 3. It looks at how to write an "insanely great" ending, using Star Wars, The Graduate, and Little Miss Sunshine as examples. 90 minutes |
| Tips for Writing Effective Character Goals | By Jessica Brody (Save the Cat!): Writing character goals is one of the most important jobs of any novelist. But are your character's goals...mushy? |
What's going on here? - Scenes are rated on many critreia. The goal isn't to try to maximize every number; \
It's to make you aware of what's happening in your scenes. You might have very good reasons to have character development but not advance the story, or have a scene without conflict. Obviously if your dialogue is really bad, you should probably look into that.
| Story Content | Character Development | Scene Elements | Audience Engagement | Technical Aspects | |||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Click for Full Analysis | Tone | Overall | Concept | Plot | Originality | Characters | Character Changes | Internal Goal | External Goal | Conflict | Opposition | High stakes | Story forward | Twist | Emotional Impact | Dialogue | Engagement | Pacing | Formatting | Structure | |
| 1 - Dean Pelton's Inspirational Speech | Humorous, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 4 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 3 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
| 2 - Jeff enlists Duncan's help to cheat | Humorous, Sarcastic, Conversational | 8 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | |
| 3 - Forming a Spanish Study Group | Light-hearted, Sarcastic, Playful | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 4 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
| 4 - Morality, Football, and Apologies | Humorous, Sarcastic, Confrontational | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
| 5 - Tension and Conflicts Emerge in the Study Group | Humorous, Sarcastic, Confrontational | 8 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 4 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
| 6 - A Deal in the Parking Lot | Humorous, Serious | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
| 7 - Jeff's Motivational Speech | Humorous, Reflective | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 7 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
| 8 - Confrontation in Duncan's Office | Sarcastic, Confrontational, Defiant | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | |
| 9 - A Defeated Jeff Finds Hope in Study Group | Sarcastic, Depressed, Confused, Resigned, Curious, Taken aback, Offering | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
Summary of Scene Level Analysis
Here are some things that came out of the scene level analysis.
This is a summary of the strengths, weaknesses, and suggestions found in each scene. Some things might appear in both strengths and weaknesses based on the variety of your scenes.
For summary of each criteria click in the top row on the criteria.
Scene Strengths
- Humorous dialogue
- Distinct/engaging character introductions
- Sharp and witty dialogue
- Establishment of conflicts and dynamics
- Exploration of ethical dilemma
Scene Weaknesses
- Low emotional impact
- Minimal character change
- Lack of emotional depth
- Limited exploration of themes
- Low conflict level
Suggestions
- Consider developing characters further to enhance emotional impact
- Explore themes more deeply to add depth to the story
- Increase conflict level and stakes to better engage the audience
- Work on creating more significant character arcs and growth
- Challenge yourself to push the emotional impact and depth in your writing
World Building
- Physical environment: The world depicted in the screenplay is primarily set in a community college campus. The physical characteristics of the different scenes include a courtyard with a small stage, a boombox, and a microphone; a cafeteria and a professor's office; a library study room; an athletic field at dusk; a parking lot at night; and a study room. These settings help establish the different locations and create a sense of familiarity for the audience.
- Culture: The cultural elements in the screenplay are depicted through the diverse group of students and their interactions. There are also references to Spanish language classes and conversations about moral relativism and values. These cultural elements add depth to the characters and their backgrounds, as well as create opportunities for humor and conflict.
- Society: The societal structure in the screenplay is implied through the mention of community college stereotypes, interactions between students and professors, and the dynamics within study groups. The screenplay portrays a college community with its own social hierarchies and dynamics. This societal structure shapes the characters' experiences and interactions, as well as contributes to the narrative by creating conflicts and tensions.
- Technology: There are no significant technological aspects present in most of the scenes. The only technological aspect mentioned is the use of cell phones in the library study room scene. The lack of significant technology in the world depicted in the screenplay adds to the overall atmosphere and setting, emphasizing the focus on interpersonal relationships and character development.
- Characters influence: The unique physical environment, culture, society, and technology in the screenplay shape the characters' experiences and actions. The physical environment provides the backdrop for their interactions and activities. The cultural elements influence their beliefs, values, and behaviors. The societal structure affects their social dynamics and relationships. The lack of significant technology allows for more direct and personal interactions. These world elements contribute to the development of the characters and their individual story arcs.
- Narrative contribution: The world elements in the screenplay contribute to the narrative by establishing the setting and context in which the characters' stories unfold. The physical environment, culture, society, and technology create a sense of place and atmosphere, as well as provide opportunities for conflicts, tensions, and humor. These world elements also help drive the plot forward and shape the characters' motivations and actions.
- Thematic depth contribution: The world elements in the screenplay contribute to the thematic depth by exploring themes of identity, belonging, personal growth, and the pursuit of education. The physical environment, culture, society, and technology reflect the characters' journeys and struggles, as well as highlight the importance of human connection and understanding. These world elements add layers of meaning and depth to the screenplay, elevating it beyond a simple comedy and exploring deeper themes and ideas.
| Voice Analysis | |
|---|---|
| Summary: | The writer's voice is characterized by wit, humor, and sarcasm. They excel at crafting witty and sarcastic dialogue that reveals the personalities of the characters. The narrative description is concise and focuses on character actions and reactions. The writer's voice adds humor and creates a lighthearted atmosphere throughout the screenplay. |
| Voice Contribution | The writer's voice contributes to the overall mood of the screenplay by adding humor and creating a light-hearted tone. It also enhances the themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and the importance of community. The witty and sarcastic dialogue adds depth to the characters and their relationships, while the concise narrative description sets the tone for each scene. |
| Best Representation Scene | 4 - Morality, Football, and Apologies |
| Best Scene Explanation | This scene could serve as the encapsulation of the writer's unique voice in the screenplay because it showcases the writer's ability to create humorous and absurd situations, as well as explore philosophical ideas through witty dialogue. The characters' actions and interactions reflect the writer's distinct style and voice. |
Top Correlations and patterns found in the scenes:
| Pattern | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Humor and Conflict | There is a strong correlation between scenes with humorous and sarcastic dialogue and high levels of conflict. This suggests that the characters use humor as a defense mechanism to deal with tense situations. |
| Character Changes and Emotional Impact | Scenes with high levels of character changes also tend to have high emotional impact. This suggests that the characters' personal growth and development is closely tied to the emotional resonance of the scene. |
| Tone and Overall Grade | There is a strong correlation between the tone of a scene and its overall grade. Scenes with a humorous or light-hearted tone tend to have higher grades, while scenes with a more serious or confrontational tone tend to have lower grades. |
| Dialogue and Concept | Scenes with high levels of dialogue tend to have a stronger concept. This suggests that dialogue is an important tool for conveying the central idea or theme of the screenplay. |
| High Stakes and Emotional Impact | Scenes with high stakes tend to have high emotional impact. This suggests that the audience is more invested in the outcome of a scene when the stakes are high. |
| Conflict and Plot | Scenes with high levels of conflict tend to have a stronger plot. This suggests that conflict is an important driver of the narrative and helps to move the story forward. |
| Character Changes and Dialogue | Scenes with high levels of character changes tend to have more dialogue. This suggests that dialogue is an important tool for conveying the internal struggles and growth of the characters. |
| Emotional Impact and Move Story Forward | Scenes with high emotional impact tend to move the story forward more effectively. This suggests that emotional resonance is an important factor in keeping the audience engaged and invested in the narrative. |
| Tone and Character Changes | Scenes with a more serious or reflective tone tend to have higher levels of character changes. This suggests that introspection and self-reflection are important catalysts for personal growth and development. |
Writer's Craft Overall Analysis
The writer demonstrates a strong ability to create engaging and humorous scenes with well-crafted dialogue and character interactions. The scenes effectively introduce the characters, establish their dynamics, and set up potential conflicts and challenges for the protagonist. The writing style balances humor and emotion, creating relatable and engaging characters. The writer's unique voice and style contribute to the effectiveness and engagement of the scenes.
Key Improvement Areas
Character Development
The writer effectively introduces the characters and establishes their dynamics, but there is room for further development to make them more complex and multidimensional.
Conflict and Tension
While the scenes set up potential conflicts and challenges for the protagonist, there is an opportunity to further explore and heighten the conflicts to create more tension and suspense.
Structure
The scenes demonstrate a strong writing style, but there is room for improvement in structuring the overall screenplay to enhance the pacing and flow of the story.
Suggestions
| Type | Suggestion | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Book | Save the Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You'll Ever Need by Blake Snyder | This book provides valuable insights and techniques for developing compelling characters, structuring a screenplay, and enhancing the overall craft of screenwriting. |
| Video | Screenwriting Masterclass with Aaron Sorkin | This video provides valuable lessons and insights from a renowned screenwriter, which can help the writer improve their craft, particularly in creating engaging dialogue and structuring scenes. |
| Exercise | Write a scene with conflicting internal and external goals for the protagonist.Practice In SceneProv | This exercise will help the writer further develop their skills in creating complex and engaging scenes by exploring the protagonist's internal struggles and external conflicts. |
| Exercise | Write a scene with a different genre.Practice In SceneProv | Exploring different genres can help expand the writer's skills and creativity, allowing them to experiment with different storytelling techniques and conventions. |
| Exercise | Write a scene with conflicting philosophical beliefs between characters.Practice In SceneProv | This exercise can help the writer explore and develop philosophical conflicts in their writing, adding depth and complexity to their scenes. |
Additional Notes:
The writer shows great potential in creating engaging and relatable characters, balancing humor and emotion, and crafting witty dialogue. With further development in character complexity, conflict and tension, and overall structure, the writer has the potential to create a compelling and well-rounded screenplay.
Here are different Tropes found in the screenplay
| Trope | Trope Details | Trope Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Inspirational Speech Gone Wrong | Dean Pelton attempts to give an inspirational speech to the students at Greendale Community College, but struggles with technical difficulties and a lack of preparedness. | This trope involves a character attempting to deliver an inspiring speech or message, but it goes awry due to various obstacles or their own incompetence. An example of this trope can be seen in the movie 'Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy' when Ron Burgundy tries to give an impromptu speech but ends up saying nonsensical and offensive things. |
| Cheating in Exchange for Favors | Jeff asks Duncan for help in obtaining his college degree, and Duncan agrees to help him cheat in exchange for Jeff's past legal assistance. | This trope involves a character making a deal with someone to cheat or gain an unfair advantage in exchange for a favor or service. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'Breaking Bad' when Walter White agrees to cook meth for Jesse Pinkman in exchange for his knowledge of the drug trade. |
| Forming a Study Group | Jeff and Britta meet in the library study room to form a Spanish study group. | This trope involves characters coming together to form a study group for a specific subject or purpose. It is often used as a way to bring characters together and create opportunities for conflict and camaraderie. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'Community' itself, where the main characters form a study group at Greendale Community College. |
| Tension and Conflict within a Study Group | Annie expresses her frustration about not being invited to the study group, leading to tension between her and Shirley. Jeff tries to address the tension and also brings up Pierce's inappropriate advances towards Shirley. The conflict escalates when Troy and Annie exchange insults about their pasts. Abed interrupts with a random confession about ruining his DVDs. | This trope involves tension and conflict arising within a study group, often due to personal differences, misunderstandings, or past grievances. It is a common trope in ensemble casts and can lead to character development and resolution. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'The Big Bang Theory' when the main characters' study group faces conflicts and disagreements. |
| Motivational Speech with Hidden Agenda | Jeff gives a motivational speech to the study group, telling them they are all better than they think they are. He reveals he has the answers to the upcoming test, but the group decides to study instead. Jeff admits he only formed the study group to get close to Britta. | This trope involves a character giving a motivational speech or pep talk to others, but it is revealed that they have a hidden agenda or ulterior motive. It often leads to a moment of realization or betrayal. An example of this trope can be seen in the movie 'Mean Girls' when Regina George gives a speech about female empowerment, but it is later revealed that she was manipulating the other girls for her own benefit. |
| Character Redemption through Apology | Jeff encounters the old black woman from the cafeteria and apologizes for his previous behavior. | This trope involves a character seeking redemption or forgiveness by apologizing for their past actions or behavior. It is often used as a way to show character growth and development. An example of this trope can be seen in the movie 'A Christmas Carol' when Ebenezer Scrooge apologizes to those he has wronged and changes his ways. |
| Unexpected Confession | Abed interrupts the tension within the study group with a random confession about ruining his DVDs. | This trope involves a character unexpectedly revealing a personal secret or confession, often breaking the tension or changing the dynamic of a scene. It can be used for comedic effect or to deepen a character's backstory. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'Friends' when Chandler unexpectedly confesses his fear of commitment to his friends. |
| Deal with a Shady Character | Jeff meets Duncan in a parking lot to receive answers to his tests. Duncan withholds the answers until Jeff agrees to give him his Lexus. Jeff eventually agrees and takes Duncan's Prius instead. | This trope involves a character making a deal or negotiation with a shady or morally ambiguous character. It often leads to a compromising situation or conflict. An example of this trope can be seen in the movie 'Ocean's Eleven' when Danny Ocean makes deals with various criminals to pull off a heist. |
| Character Growth through Self-Reflection | Jeff confesses to the Old Black Woman that he doesn't know how to do it, and she sarcastically tells him that she has to go polish the moon and hang the clouds out to dry. Jeff apologizes and admits that he needs help. | This trope involves a character experiencing personal growth and self-reflection, often through a conversation or interaction with a wise or insightful character. It can lead to a change in behavior or perspective. An example of this trope can be seen in the movie 'The Karate Kid' when Mr. Miyagi helps Daniel realize the importance of discipline and inner strength. |
| Reconciliation and Unity | Jeff apologizes and admits that he needs help. Britta offers to study with the group, and they all head back into the library together. | This trope involves characters reconciling their differences and coming together as a unified group. It often signifies the resolution of conflicts and the strengthening of relationships. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'Friends' when the main characters reconcile after a falling out and continue to support each other. |
Memorable lines in the script:
| Scene Number | Line |
|---|---|
| 7 | Jeff: You just stopped being a study group. You have now become something unstoppable. I hereby pronounce you a community. |
| 1 | Abed: I'm only half Arabic, actually, my Dad is Palestinian, I mean, he's a U.S. Citizen and he's not a threat to national security or anything, a lot of people want to know that after they meet him, because he has an angry energy, but not like angry at America, just angry at my Mom for leaving him, although she did leave because he was angry, and he was angry because she was American. My name's Abed, by the way. |
| 2 | Britta: Yeah, just don't hit on me, okay? |
| 6 | DUNCAN: Come on, you're never going to stop taking the easy way out. I'll be helping you for four years. You want to get a degree while taking naps? I want leather seats with built-in ball warmers. Offer expires in ten seconds. |
| 5 | Annie: Being younger doesn't make me inferior, if anything, your age indicates you've made bad life decisions. |
Some Loglines to consider:
| A cynical lawyer forced to attend community college to regain his license forms a study group with a quirky cast of characters who unexpectedly become his community. |
| When a group of misfit students from different backgrounds come together to study Spanish, they discover the true meaning of community and learn to embrace their individual strengths. |
| In the face of academic challenges and personal struggles, a study group at Greendale Community College becomes an unlikely source of support and friendship for its members. |
| A former lawyer's attempt to cheat his way through community college backfires when he forms an unexpected bond with his study group, forcing him to confront his own cynicism and need for connection. |
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Explanation: The 'Community' screenplay presents a promising premise with strong character introductions, witty dialogue, and a compelling character arc for the lead. However, the script would benefit from a more defined central conflict, improved pacing, and further development of certain characters and plotlines.