American Beauty
Executive Summary
Pass/Consider/Recommend/Highly Recommend
Promo
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USP: Discover a powerful exploration of suburban life and disillusionment in this darkly humorous script that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, hidden desires, and societal expectations. With its innovative storytelling techniques, distinctive characters, and satirical tone, this story offers a fresh and provocative take on the American Dream. Witness the transformative journeys of Jane, Lester, and Carolyn as they confront their inner demons and seek connection in a world driven by materialism and conformity. This script is a captivating examination of the human condition, challenging traditional norms and expectations while offering a poignant reminder of the beauty and fragility of life.
Overview
Genres: Drama, Comedy, Romance, Family, Dark Comedy, Thriller, Coming-of-age, Psychological Thriller
Setting: Contemporary, Suburban America
Overview: The screenplay 'American Beauty' exhibits a strong foundation with well-developed characters, compelling dialogue, and innovative storytelling techniques. While the narrative showcases depth in emotional exploration and thematic resonance, there are opportunities for further enhancing unpredictability, character changes, and conflict development.
Themes: Disconnection and Alienation, Self-Discovery and Transformation, Desire and Obsession, Parent-Child Relationships
Conflict and Stakes: Lester's struggle to reconnect with his family and find meaning in his life, while dealing with his midlife crisis and the challenges of suburban life. The stakes include his relationships with his wife, daughter, and his own self-worth.
Overall Mood: Melancholic with a touch of dark humor
Mood/Tone at Key Scenes:
- Scene 1: Melancholic, with a sense of frustration and longing for a better father figure.
Standout Features:
- Unique Hook: The film's exploration of suburban life and the human condition is both timely and thought-provoking, with a unique blend of humor and drama.
- Plot Twist : Lester's journey of self-discovery and rebellion against societal expectations is both unexpected and satisfying.
- Distinctive Setting : The film's portrayal of suburban life is both realistic and insightful, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar setting.
Comparable Scripts:
Market Analysis
Budget Estimate:$15-25 million
Target Audience Demographics: Adults aged 25-54, fans of drama and character-driven stories.
Marketability: The film explores relatable themes of midlife crisis and family dynamics, with strong character development and a unique perspective on suburban life.
The film features a talented cast and a compelling storyline, but may face competition from similar films in the market.
The film's exploration of suburban life and the human condition is both timely and thought-provoking, with a unique blend of humor and drama.
Profit Potential: Moderate to high, depending on the film's reception and marketing efforts.
Scene Level Percentiles
Screenplay Analysis
- The screenplay has a high 'charactersrating' (92.79%) which indicates well-developed and engaging characters.
- The 'originality_score' (89.66%) suggests a unique and fresh concept.
- The 'plotrating' (7.66%) is significantly lower than other elements, suggesting the plot could be more compelling and engaging.
- Both 'formatting_score' (14.66%) and 'structure_score' (25%) indicate a need for improvement in screenplay structure and formatting.
- The 'stakes' (30%) and 'story_forward' (30.36%) are also areas to focus on for enhancing the narrative drive.
The high 'charactersrating' and 'dialoguerating' (60.81%) suggest the writer's potential style is more intuitive, focusing on character development and dialogue.
Balancing Elements- The writer could work on balancing the plot with the strong character development, perhaps by adding more twists or raising the stakes.
- Improving formatting and structure could help to better present the strong characters and dialogue.
The writer's intuitive style is evident in the high 'charactersrating' and 'dialoguerating', but could benefit from more conceptual elements like plot and structure.
Overall AssessmentThe screenplay has a unique concept and well-developed characters, but could benefit from improvements in plot, structure, and formatting to fully realize its potential.
How scenes compare to the Scripts in our Library
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|
Percentile | Before | After |
---|---|---|---|---|
9.50 | 97 | El Mariachi: 9.25 | fight Club: 9.50 | |
8.50 | 95 | Interstellar: 8.46 | Erin Brokovich: 8.50 | |
Characters | 8.8 | 94 | The Sweet Hereafter: 8.7 | Silence of the lambs: 8.8 |
9.00 | 94 | Gladiator: 8.75 | The whale: 9.00 | |
8.50 | 90 | The Pianist: 8.25 | fight Club: 8.50 | |
8.50 | 88 | Interstellar: 8.25 | the dark knight rises: 8.50 | |
8.75 | 86 | The Pianist: 8.50 | the dark knight rises: 8.75 | |
12566 | 72 | Die Hard: 12560 | American Beauty: 12566 | |
Dialogue | 7.9 | 65 | Memento: 7.8 | glass Onion Knives Out : 7.9 |
Originality | 8.81 | 63 | American Hustle: 8.79 | Scott pilgrim vs. the world: 8.81 |
Emotional Impact | 7.9 | 63 | American Hustle: 7.8 | fight Club: 7.9 |
Character Changes | 7.0 | 61 | Psycho: 6.9 | the pursuit of happyness: 7.0 |
7.75 | 49 | Inception: 7.50 | the pursuit of happyness: 7.75 | |
Internal Goal | 8.02 | 46 | The Hudsucker Proxy: 8.00 | the pursuit of happyness: 8.02 |
Engagement | 8.95 | 45 | a few good men: 8.94 | Erin Brokovich: 8.95 |
Conflict Level | 7.6 | 45 | 2001: 7.5 | Titanic: 7.6 |
Formatting | 8.07 | 32 | Witness: 8.06 | Breaking bad: 8.07 |
Structure | 8.07 | 29 | Birdman: 8.06 | Thor: 8.07 |
Unpredictability | 7.31 | 29 | Scott pilgrim vs. the world: 7.30 | American Beauty: 7.31 |
8.00 | 28 | Inside Out: 7.75 | Erin Brokovich: 8.00 | |
High Stakes | 6.7 | 24 | Queens Gambit: 6.6 | Rear Window: 6.7 |
Pacing | 8.17 | 23 | As good as it gets: 8.16 | the pursuit of happyness: 8.17 |
Story Forward | 7.6 | 22 | Cruel Intentions: 7.5 | Rear Window: 7.6 |
7.50 | 22 | Beetlejuice: 7.25 | fight Club: 7.50 | |
Overall | 8.1 | 17 | Cruel Intentions: 8.0 | Erin Brokovich: 8.1 |
Concept | 7.7 | 15 | Mulholland Drive: 7.6 | There's something about Mary: 7.7 |
External Goal | 7.02 | 15 | American Hustle: 7.00 | Mulholland Drive: 7.02 |
Plot | 7.4 | 11 | Cruel Intentions: 7.3 | the pursuit of happyness: 7.4 |
Writer's Voice
Summary:The writer's voice in the screenplay is characterized by its dark humor, introspective voiceovers, and satirical take on suburban life.
Best representation: Scene 1 - Morning Tensions and Insecurities: A Glimpse into the Burnham Family's Dysfunction. Scene 1 is the best representation of the writer's unique voice because it combines dark humor, introspective voiceover, and social commentary to create a memorable and impactful opening for the screenplay. It sets the tone for the rest of the film and establishes the writer's unique style.
Memorable Lines:
- Carolyn: You cannot count on anyone except yourself. It's sad, but true, and the sooner you learn it, the better. (Scene 27)
- Jane: I need a father who's a role model, not some horny geek-boy who's gonna spray his shorts whenever I bring a girlfriend home from school. (Scene 1)
- Ricky: Welcome to America's Weirdest Home Videos. (Scene 17)
- Lester: This isn't life. This is just stuff. And it's become more important to you than living. Well, honey, that's just nuts. (Scene 28)
- Lester: I was choking the bishop. Shaving the carrot. Saying hi to my monster. (Scene 18)
Writing Style:
The writing style across this screenplay is characterized by a blend of sharp dialogue, nuanced character interactions, and exploration of complex themes. The scenes often delve into emotional depth, showcasing both humor and drama in various settings, from suburban life to office dynamics. The narrative voice is unique and engaging, with a focus on character-driven stories and raw emotional moments.
Style Similarities:
- Alan Ball
- Diablo Cody
- David Mamet
Story Shape
The reasons might be more valuable than the rating.
Recommend
Executive Summary
Overall, American Beauty is a well-written and compelling screenplay that explores universal themes of identity, beauty, and the search for meaning in life. The film's strengths lie in its complex and relatable characters, captivating visuals, and thought-provoking themes. However, areas for improvement could include tighter pacing in certain scenes, further development of some character arcs, and a smoother resolution for particular plot points. With these enhancements, American Beauty has the potential to be an even more impactful and memorable cinematic experience.
- Effective exploration of complex and relatable characters with realistic inner conflicts and desires (Scene 1, 7, 13, 29)
- Captivating and visually striking imagery, rich in symbolism and cinematic aesthetics (Scene 8, 10, 16)
- Thought-provoking themes dealing with beauty, identity, and the search for meaning in life (Scene 1, 9, 26)
- Well-written dialogue that captures the characters' distinct personalities and drives the narrative forward (Scene 2, 4, 21)
- Strong balance between dramatic tension and moments of emotional depth and vulnerability (Scene 5, 12, 27)
- Some scenes could benefit from tighter pacing and streamlining to maintain a consistent flow (Scene 3, 19)
- Certain character arcs, such as Angela's and Carolyn's, could be expanded upon to explore their motivations and relationships more deeply (Scene 15, 18)
- The resolution of certain plot points, like Lester's relationship with Angela, could be further developed to provide a more satisfying conclusion (Scene 10, 28)
- Some transitions between scenes and storylines could be smoother to enhance the overall narrative cohesion (Scene 7, 11)
- The pacing in the first act could be tightened to capture the audience's attention more effectively (Scene 1, 2)
- Further exploration of the dynamics between Jane and her peers, particularly outside the Burnham household (Scene 6, 11)
- More insight into the Colonel's backstory and the reasons behind his homophobic views (Scene 12, 20)
- Additional scenes showcasing Lester's transformation and the impact it has on his relationships (Scene 13, 22)
- A deeper exploration of Ricky's past trauma and its influence on his behavior (Scene 25, 27)
- More scenes depicting the consequences of the characters' actions and the impact on their lives (Scene 5, 10)
- The film's unique visual style, blending realism with dreamlike elements, adds depth and emotional resonance (Scene 8, 16)
- The use of symbolism, such as the plastic bag and the rose petals, adds layers of meaning and open interpretation (Scene 1, 9)
- The exploration of unconventional and taboo relationships challenges societal norms and adds complexity to the characters' journeys (Scene 10, 28)
- The film's unflinching portrayal of family dysfunction and suburban angst resonates with audiences (Scene 1, 4)
- The culminating moments of the film, leading to Lester's death and its aftermath, are both poignant and thought-provoking (Scene 23, 26)
Screenplay Insights:
Premise: 7.50, The premise of the screenplay is intriguing and unique, setting up a narrative with potential for complex character development and exploration of timely themes. However, further refining the clarity of the premise and its execution throughout the screenplay could enhance its appeal and impact on the audience. By addressing these areas, the screenplay can establish a stronger foundation for a captivating narrative and maintain audience engagement. See More
Structure: 8.5, **American Beauty** exhibits a strong narrative structure and captivating characters, propelling the story forward with increasing tension and dramatic moments. While the plot unfolds effectively, certain elements have the potential to be refined for enhanced impact and narrative clarity. See More
Theme: 8.0, The screenplay effectively explores the themes of existential angst, family dynamics, and societal pressures through its diverse cast of characters and their interconnected stories. While the exploration of these themes is well-executed, certain elements could be refined to elevate the screenplay's thematic depth and resonating impact on the audience. See More
Visual Impact: 9.0, **American Beauty** captivates with its bold and evocative visual imagery that plunges viewers into the protagonist's disillusioned perspective. The film masterfully employs striking visuals to convey the characters' inner worlds, capturing their desires, frustrations, and the decay beneath the surface of seemingly perfect lives. See More
Emotional Impact: 8.5, **Strengths:** The screenplay effectively captures the complexities and nuances of human emotions, evoking a deep and lasting impact. The raw exploration of parental relationships, societal pressures, and personal struggles allows the audience to connect with the characters on an intimate level. **Areas for Improvement:** To further enhance the emotional depth, certain scenes could be expanded to delve deeper into the characters' internal conflicts and motivations. Additionally, the resolution of some emotional arcs could be strengthened to provide a more satisfying and cathartic conclusion. See More
Conflict: 7.75, The screenplay effectively establishes a central conflict and personal stakes for the characters, creating a solid foundation for narrative tension and audience engagement. However, there are opportunities to enhance the clarity of the conflict, integrate it more deeply into the narrative, and escalate the stakes to heighten overall suspense and emotional impact. See More
Originality: 9.5, The script 'American Beauty' showcases remarkable originality and creative prowess, particularly through its nuanced character development and unique exploration of suburban ennui and desire. See More
Screenplay Story Analysis
Note: This is the overall critique. For scene by scene critique click here
Summaries
- In this melancholic scene, Jane Burnham, 16, vents her frustration about her father to Ricky Fitts, who offers to ‘kill’ him. Meanwhile, Jane’s father, Lester, expresses his own dissatisfaction with his life while masturbating in the shower. Jane’s mother, Carolyn, is oblivious to Lester’s unhappiness as she tends to her rose bushes and converses with their neighbor, Jim, who is in a relationship with another man. The scene’s conflicts and visual elements hint at the dark humor and significant storylines to come.
- The scene opens in Jane's room, where she shifts from banking software to a plastic surgery website, hinting at her insecurities. Jane's tense interaction with her critical mother, Carolyn, contrasts with Lester's submissive and clumsy demeanor. The family's strained relationship is further illustrated when Carolyn criticizes Jane's appearance, and Lester feels incapable of meeting either woman's needs. The scene closes with Lester, the outsider, picking up his papers as Carolyn and Jane drive away.
- Lester, feeling unappreciated at work, is confronted by new employee Brad about his job performance. The confrontation highlights the power dynamics between them, with Lester appearing small and isolated in Brad's office. The conflict remains unresolved, leaving Lester feeling powerless and unsure about his job security.
- In the Burnham household, Carolyn and Lester return home to find moving vans next door, which sparks a conversation about Lester's job situation. The family sits down for a tense dinner, where Lester tries to connect with his daughter Jane, but she dismisses him. Lester gets up to get ice cream, leaving Carolyn sitting at the table, observing the interaction critically. The scene is filled with tension and strained relationships between the characters, particularly between Lester and Jane, and Lester and Carolyn.
- Jane does dishes when Lester enters the kitchen to apologize for his absence and lack of intimacy, but she is uncomfortable and unresponsive, eventually leaving the room. Lester is left alone, and the neighbor Ricky Fitts is revealed to have been videotaping the interaction through the kitchen window. The scene creates a tense and uncomfortable atmosphere, highlighting the disconnection between Lester and Jane, and ends without resolving the conflict.
- Carolyn Burnham, an anxious real estate agent, prepares her sales materials and cleans the house while repeating her mantra 'I will sell this house today'. She greets potential buyers with a bright smile, pointing out the house's features and suggesting improvements. However, the buyers seem unimpressed by the ugly, oppressive, and tasteless house with dirty carpets and a cheap-looking ceiling fan. The scene ends with Carolyn leading the buyers into the kitchen, still trying to sell them on the house.
- Real estate agent Carolyn leads couples on a tour of a house for sale, addressing their concerns and highlighting its features. She tries to downplay the lack of a pool, becomes emotional when alone, and later slaps herself to stop crying. At a high school basketball game, Jane, seated with Angela Hayes, expresses frustration about her parents taking an active interest in her life.
- In this scene, Carolyn and Lester drive to their daughter Jane's high school for her dance team's halftime performance. Lester, who would rather watch a James Bond marathon, feels alienated from Jane, while Carolyn worries about their relationship. At the performance, Lester becomes enamored with another dancer, Angela, who seems to perform only for him, ultimately revealing a shower of red rose petals. The scene ends with a sudden cut to black, leaving Lester's fascination with Angela as an unresolved thread.
- The scene opens inside the high school gymnasium, where Angela is surrounded by girls after a dance performance. The setting then shifts to the parking lot, where Angela meets Jane's parents, Lester and Carolyn. Lester, who is overly eager to please, tries to connect with Angela and invites her for a ride, but Angela declines. Lester's behavior creates tension and embarrassment, particularly for Jane, who is embarrassed by her father's actions. The scene ends with Angela declining Lester's invitation, and Lester awkwardly waving goodbye.
- Lester wakes up and reflects on his mundane life, while Angela shares her dreams of becoming a model. The scene shifts from the Burnham's master bedroom to Angela's BMW, where she and Jane pass a joint and talk about men staring at Angela. Visually, the scene features a solitary red rose petal, Angela floating above Lester's bed, and the two girls driving away in Angela's car. The tone is introspective and contemplative, with a touch of surrealism.
- Jane Burnham returns home to find her neighbor, Ricky Fitts, filming her from his porch. After entering her house, she discovers her address book open to her friend Angela's name, and realizes that Lester, her dad, had accidentally called Angela while snooping through Jane's things. This invasion of privacy creates tension between Jane and Lester. Meanwhile, Ricky's continued filming of Jane without her consent makes her uncomfortable, and the scene ends with him still watching and recording her from his window.
- The Colonel meets his new neighbors, Jim #1 and Jim #2, who bring a basket of gifts, but the Colonel mistakenly assumes they are selling something and reveals his homophobia. Later, Ricky is shown calculating numbers, and the Colonel expresses his disgust towards gay people. At school, Jane and Angela discuss Ricky, who approaches Jane and introduces himself, leaving Jane uncomfortable and intrigued. The scene highlights the Colonel's homophobia and Jane's unease towards Ricky.
- In the Fitts' den, Colonel Fitts, Barbara, and Ricky watch TV with tension, while Lester and Carolyn attend a realtor event, pretending to be a happy couple. Lester becomes uncomfortable and kisses Carolyn to prove their relationship's health, while the Fitts family's conflicts remain unresolved. The scene highlights the characters' struggles in their personal and professional lives, creating a tense and uncomfortable atmosphere.
- In this lighthearted and humorous scene, Lester orders a drink at the hotel bar and observes his wife, Carolyn, being overly enthusiastic while talking to Buddy and Christy. Meanwhile, Lester meets Ricky, a new neighbor, and they bond over smoking marijuana behind the hotel, getting caught by a catering boss. Lester introduces Ricky to Carolyn, and they part ways, leaving behind unresolved conflicts and a hint of tension. The scene is filled with key pieces of dialogue, visual elements, and ends with Lester returning inside to Carolyn.
- Jane and Angela are watching MTV when Lester arrives home, instantly attracting Angela. They share a kiss, interrupted by Carolyn. Later, Angela tells Jane about her feelings for Lester, causing Jane discomfort. The scene is awkward and tense, with key dialogue around Angela's compliments to Lester and Jane's discomfort. Visual elements highlight Angela's flirtatious behavior, Lester's attraction, and Jane's discomfort, ending with their bedroom conversation.
- In the Burnham house, Lester panics after overhearing Angela's inappropriate comments about him and searches for something in the garage. Jane confronts Angela, and they discover a mysterious message spelled out in fire outside. Meanwhile, Ricky films the events from his bedroom. The scene ends with Lester finding a pair of dumbbells and beginning to undress, contemplating his physical appearance.
- In this tense and uncomfortable scene, Ricky Fitts secretly videotapes his neighbor Lester Burnham exercising naked in his bedroom. The Colonel, suspicious of Ricky's activities, visits his room to collect a urine sample but is convinced to return in the morning. Lester, unaware of being spied on, later goes to the bathroom. The scene ends with Ricky preparing to replace the urine sample, adding to the secrecy and tension of the situation.
- In the master bathroom, Lester finds Angela in the bathtub and touches her inappropriately, while cross-cut with a scene of Carolyn discovering Lester masturbating under the covers. This leads to a heated argument between Lester and Carolyn about their unhappy marriage, with Lester taunting Carolyn about their situation. The scene takes place in the Burnham house during the night and is tense, confrontational, and visually heated. The conflict between Lester and Carolyn remains unresolved, and the scene ends with Lester curling up under the covers and Carolyn sitting in a chair, stunned.
- The scene starts with Lester joining Jims for a morning jog, followed by Lester introducing himself to Colonel Fitts and asking Ricky for the movie 'Re-Animator'. Colonel Fitts makes a homophobic remark towards Lester and Jims, and later watches Lester and Ricky with suspicion as they enter Ricky's house. The scene highlights the conflict between Lester and Colonel Fitts, and the tone shifts from light-hearted to serious.
- Ricky brings Lester to his bedroom to sell him marijuana, showcasing different types including the genetically engineered G-13. Lester purchases an ounce of G-13 for $2000, marks a casual and friendly encounter with a hint of excitement as Lester makes his purchase, and ends with Ricky giving Lester a bag of marijuana and his beeper number.
- Carolyn discovers Lester's transformed garage into his sanctuary, where he is working out and smoking pot. They have a heated argument, with Carolyn expressing her disapproval and Lester accusing her of being uptight and money-grubbing. The conflict remains unresolved, and Lester continues his workout after Carolyn leaves. The scene highlights the tension between Lester's desire to reclaim his life and Carolyn's disapproval of his new habits.
- Brad and Lester meet in Brad's office during the day. Lester, who is lifting weights before the meeting, reveals his contempt for the advertising industry and corporate fraud in a resignation letter. He negotiates a severance package, threatening to expose Brad and the company's fraud if he doesn't comply. Brad, who is uncomfortable and annoyed, eventually agrees to give Lester one year's salary and benefits. The scene ends with Lester showing a newfound confidence and Brad struggling to maintain his composure, marking a significant turning point in Lester's character development.
- Lester quits his job and applies for a position at a fast food restaurant, signifying a new beginning. Carolyn learns of Buddy Kane's divorce and has an affair with him, torn between her unhappy marriage and her attraction. Ricky films a dead bird and Jane joins him, while Angela remains wary of Ricky's strange behavior. The scene ends with Lester's new job application, showcasing his excitement for change, while Carolyn experiences a mix of excitement and guilt, and Angela remains skeptical and dismissive.
- In this scene, Lester is rejected for a job at Mr. Smiley's due to age discrimination, while his ex-wife, Carolyn, and her new boyfriend, Buddy, have a post-sex conversation at the Top Hat Motel. Buddy suggests firing a gun as a stress reliever, which piques Carolyn's interest. The tone is light-hearted and humorous in the first part of the scene but becomes more serious and suggestive in the second part. The scene ends with Carolyn eager to learn how to fire a gun and kissing Buddy, ready for another round.
- Ricky and Jane walk to Ricky's new house, discussing a funeral procession they see along the way. Tension arises when Ricky shows Jane his father's study, which is filled with guns and a swastika-adorned platter. Jane is uncomfortable with Ricky's fascination with the platter, creating a conflict that remains unresolved as the scene ends.
- In Ricky's bedroom, he shows Jane a video of a plastic bag dancing in the wind, which leads to an intimate moment between them. Meanwhile, at the Burnham house, Lester quits his job and confesses it to his family during dinner, causing a conflict with Carolyn. Lester asserts his presence and hurls a plate of asparagus against the wall, ending the scene on a tense note.
- Jane is confronted by her mother, Carolyn, about a previous argument, resulting in Carolyn slapping Jane and expressing her disappointment. Meanwhile, Ricky is beaten by his father in the next room for videotaping Jane undressing. The scene is tense and emotional, with both Jane and Ricky experiencing physical and emotional pain. It ends with the Colonel feeling deeply shamed and Jane watching the violence unfold from her window.
- Carolyn, who has been practicing at a shooting range, comes home to find Lester's new car blocking the garage. Lester, who has been working out and letting the house get messy, tries to reconcile with her, but Carolyn, annoyed at Lester's actions, walks away after an argument.
- Jane and Ricky share personal stories and insecurities in an intimate bedroom scene, discussing their strained relationships with their fathers. Jane playfully offers Ricky money to 'kill' her father, but later admits she's not serious. The scene ends with a moment of intimacy between the two.
- The scene opens with Lester's morning run, showcasing his newfound energy and happiness. Inside the Burnham house, Lester's behavior towards Angela becomes the center of conflict, leading to a heated argument with Jane in the kitchen. Lester's regret comes too late, and the scene ends with Jane in tears, leaving the kitchen. The main conflict remains unresolved.
- The scene takes place in Ricky's house and briefly at Mr. Smiley's. The Colonel, with tenderness, watches Ricky comb his hair and later discovers Ricky's hidden marijuana stash and watches incriminating videos on Ricky's Digicam. Lester, who works at Mr. Smiley's, interacts with Ricky and the Colonel, while Carolyn and Jane briefly appear in a car. The conflict arises when the Colonel finds Ricky's stash, creating a tense and suspenseful atmosphere. The scene ends with Lester smiling at Mr. Smiley's after hearing Carolyn's order over the speakers.
- In this tense scene, Carolyn and her husband Buddy drive up to Mr. Smiley's restaurant drive-thru window, where they are served by Lester. Lester, who has a history with Carolyn, teases her about her relationship, causing her to become flustered and drive off, leaving Buddy and the Counter Girl behind. The conflict of Lester's teasing is not resolved, and the scene ends with Carolyn's defeat.
- Carolyn and Buddy arrive at the Top Hat Motel, where they have a heated argument about Buddy's infidelity, leading to Carolyn's emotional outburst. Meanwhile, Lester discovers he's run out of marijuana while working out in his garage. Ricky leaves his family's kitchen to get a geometry book for Jane, and Angela drives Jane to a location while discussing Ricky and making judgments about his body. The scene is filled with tension, self-reflection, and conflict.
- The Colonel, Lester's neighbor, spies on Lester and Ricky through a kitchen window during a rainstorm, suspecting them of illicit activities. Lester, who has been giving Ricky money and watching him roll a joint, quickly hides their activities when Angela's car pulls up. Lester then intimidates Angela with his newfound confidence, causing her to leave quickly. The scene is tense and suspenseful, with a hint of humor, and ends with Angela's departure.
- Ricky, wet from the rain, enters his room and is confronted by the Colonel about a wad of cash. The Colonel accuses Ricky of getting the money from Mr. Burnham, becoming furious when Ricky denies it. Ricky then confesses to being a sex worker, which enrages the Colonel further. Ricky uses this to break free from his father's control and leaves the house, ending the Colonel's control over him. The scene is intense and emotional, with a sense of violence and confrontation.
- Ricky says goodbye to his mom and heads to the Burnhams' house where he asks Jane to run away with him to New York, to which she agrees. Angela, who is also in Jane's room, opposes their plan and an argument ensues, leading to Angela leaving the room. The scene is filled with emotion, tension, and conflict as the characters interact in various locations, including the Fitts' kitchen, Ricky's bedroom, the Burnhams' front door, Jane's room, and a car on the freeway in the evening. The scene ends with Angela leaving Jane's room, while Jane and Ricky continue to make plans for their new adventure.
- Angela's confrontation leaves her in tears in the hallway. In the garage, Lester works out as the Colonel, distressed and soaked from the rain, approaches him. They discuss their marital issues, leading to an unexpected kiss from the Colonel, which Lester rejects. This results in the Colonel's departure in shame, ending the scene on a tense note.
- Carolyn decides against victimhood, putting her gun away and turning off her motivational tape. Meanwhile, Lester finds Angela in the family room, who has been crying due to a fight with Jane about Lester's attractiveness. Angela admits her feelings to Lester, and they share a charged moment, culminating in a kiss. The scene resolves the tension between them, with a sense of understanding and intimacy.
- In this emotionally charged scene, Carolyn drives with determination, asserting her refusal to be a victim. Simultaneously, Lester and Angela share an intimate moment in the Burnham family room, but it takes an awkward turn when Angela confesses her virginity, leaving Lester surprised and causing him to change his mind. In Jane's bedroom, Jane and Ricky lie together, discussing the possibility of their parents searching for them, adding tension to their situation. The scene concludes with Lester consoling Angela, who cries in embarrassment and vulnerability after revealing her inexperience.
- Lester and Angela converse in the Burnham kitchen on a rainy evening, with Lester expressing contentment and Angela sharing updates on Jane. Lester finds an old family photo, smiling at it, but his happiness is short-lived as a gunshot rings out, covering the kitchen in blood. The sudden death highlights the conflict between Lester's current happiness and his past regrets, leaving the scene on a dark and violent note.
- Ricky and Jane find Lester dead on the kitchen table, with a pool of blood, leading to conflicting reactions. The scene, set in the Burnham house, ends with them lying on Jane's bed, alarmed by a gunshot from downstairs. This discovery presents a somber and emotional tone, amplified by flashbacks and the stark contrast between the dark kitchen and bright flashback scenes.
- In a series of black and white vignettes, Lester (voiceover) reflects on life's beauty and his memories of young Jane, Carolyn, and his cousin's car. The setting includes various suburban locations, with no explicit conflicts present. The tone is contemplative and nostalgic, and the scene ends with Lester expressing gratitude for life's beauty and anticipating the addressee's future understanding.
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Character Carolyn Burnham
Description Carolyn's behavior shifts dramatically throughout the screenplay, from her intensely driven and materialistic real estate persona to her vulnerable and emotional outbursts. This back-and-forth makes her character feel inconsistent and not fully developed.
( Scene 6 (SALE HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER) Scene 7 (SALE HOUSE - KITCHEN - LATER) Scene 28 (MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - LATER) Scene 28 (BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - MOMENTS LATER) ) -
Character Lester Burnham
Description Lester's character shifts from a depressed, passive man to someone who becomes more assertive and confident. While this transformation is plausible, the pace at which it occurs can feel rushed and not fully explored.
( Scene 1 (BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS) Scene 3 (MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - A SHORT TIME LATER) Scene 26 (BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS) Scene 40 (BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER) )
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Description The story presents some inconsistencies in Carolyn's real estate activities. In the earlier scenes, she struggles to sell the run-down house, but later she is portrayed as a highly successful real estate agent. This shift is not fully explained or developed.
( Scene 7 (SALE HOUSE - BACK YARD - LATER) Scene 28 (MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - LATER) ) -
Description The story presents some confusion around the timeline and sequence of events involving Lester, Angela, and Jane. The pacing and transitions between these scenes could be improved for better narrative coherence.
( Scene 9 (HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM - NIGHT) Scene 15 (BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT) )
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Description The script does not fully explain the relationship or interactions between Lester and the Colonel. The sudden shift in the Colonel's behavior and his motivations for attacking Lester feel somewhat abrupt and underdeveloped.
( Scene 35 (FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS) Scene 37 (BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS) ) -
Description The script does not provide a clear explanation for how Ricky and Jane suddenly develop a romantic relationship. Their transition from acquaintances to intimate partners feels somewhat rushed and not fully justified.
( Scene 27 (JANE'S BEDROOM - THAT NIGHT) Scene 29 (FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT) )
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Description The dialogue between Lester, Carolyn, and Jane at the dinner table feels somewhat forced and unnatural at times, with the characters delivering lengthy monologues rather than engaging in a more realistic back-and-forth conversation.
( Scene 4 (BURNHAM HOUSE - DINING ROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT) ) -
Description The dialogue between Angela and Jane, particularly when discussing Lester, can feel overly crude and exaggerated, not fully reflecting the authentic speech patterns of teenage girls.
( Scene 16 (JANE'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS) )
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Element Description of Lester's morning routine
( Scene 1 (BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS) Scene 3 (MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - A SHORT TIME LATER) )
Suggestion Consider combining or streamlining these scenes to avoid redundancy in the narrative. -
Element Repeated references to Lester's job and his dissatisfaction
( Scene 3 (OFFICE BUILDING - DAY) Scene 4 (BURNHAM HOUSE - DINING ROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT) Scene 12 (BRAD'S OFFICE - DAY) )
Suggestion Consolidate these references to Lester's job dissatisfaction into a more cohesive narrative arc, avoiding repetition.
Characters in the screenplay, and their arcs:
Character | Arc | Critique | Suggestions |
---|---|---|---|
Jane | Throughout the screenplay, Jane goes on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Initially distant and resentful towards her family, she gradually learns to confront her inner turmoil and seek connection. Her character arc culminates in a moment of vulnerability and emotional depth, showing her growth and resilience in the face of tragedy. | The character arc for Jane is well-developed, showcasing her internal struggles and eventual growth. However, there could be more consistency in her emotional journey throughout the screenplay. Some scenes portray her as defensive and dismissive, while others show her as vulnerable and emotional. Creating a more cohesive emotional arc for Jane would enhance the overall impact of her character development. | To improve the character arc for Jane, consider establishing a clearer emotional trajectory for her character from the beginning. Show more gradual shifts in her behavior and mindset, leading up to the climactic moments of vulnerability and growth. Additionally, explore deeper into Jane's internal conflicts and desires, allowing the audience to connect more deeply with her journey of self-discovery. |
Ricky | Ricky starts off as a detached and curious character who uses video surveillance to explore his neighbors' lives. As the story progresses, he becomes more empathetic and introspective, forming a deep connection with Jane and confronting his troubled past. Ricky ultimately finds empowerment in challenging authority and capturing beauty in unexpected places. | The character arc for Ricky is well-developed, showcasing his growth from a detached observer to an empowered individual. However, there could be more clarity in his motivations and internal struggles throughout the screenplay. Additionally, his rebellious nature could be further explored to add depth to his character. | To improve the character arc, consider delving deeper into Ricky's past traumas and how they shape his actions and relationships. Show more internal conflict and vulnerability to make his growth more impactful. Additionally, explore the consequences of his rebellious nature and how it affects his relationships with other characters. |
Lester | Lester's character arc in the screenplay follows his journey from a state of disillusionment and frustration to a moment of realization and acceptance. Throughout the feature, Lester experiences a transformation in his physical, emotional, and relational aspects. He starts off feeling trapped in his mundane life, seeking validation and excitement through inappropriate behavior and infatuation. As the story progresses, Lester confronts his inner turmoil, desires for change, and struggles with his relationships. Ultimately, he reaches a point of acceptance and peace, reflecting on the fleeting nature of life and finding contentment in his final moments. | The character arc for Lester is well-developed and captures the complexity of his inner struggles and desires for change. However, there could be more consistency in his character development throughout the feature. Some scenes portray Lester as more rebellious and confrontational, while others show him as introspective and vulnerable. To improve the character arc, it would be beneficial to have a clearer progression of Lester's emotional journey and a more cohesive portrayal of his inner conflicts and desires. | To enhance Lester's character arc, consider establishing a stronger throughline for his emotional development and relationships. Show more consistent growth and transformation in his interactions with other characters, as well as in his internal struggles. Develop key moments that highlight Lester's progression from disillusionment to acceptance, with a focus on his yearning for authenticity and connection. Additionally, explore deeper into Lester's motivations and vulnerabilities to create a more nuanced and compelling portrayal of his character. |
Carolyn | Carolyn's character arc in the screenplay follows her journey from a driven and ambitious real estate agent who prioritizes success and appearances to a woman who confronts her inner insecurities and desires. Throughout the film, Carolyn struggles with maintaining control over her family and career, leading to conflicts and tensions. As the story progresses, she begins to unravel emotionally, facing her vulnerabilities and fears. Ultimately, Carolyn learns to let go of her facade of perfection and embrace her true self, finding genuine connection and acceptance. | The character arc for Carolyn is well-developed, showcasing her internal struggles and growth throughout the film. However, there could be more depth added to her relationships with other characters, particularly with Lester and her daughter, to further explore her emotional journey. Additionally, providing more insight into Carolyn's past experiences or motivations could enhance the audience's understanding of her behavior and actions. | To improve Carolyn's character arc, consider incorporating flashback scenes or dialogue that reveal her past traumas or experiences that have shaped her personality. This could add depth to her character and provide a clearer understanding of her motivations. Additionally, exploring her relationships with Lester and her daughter in more detail could create more emotional resonance and complexity in her character development. Lastly, allowing Carolyn to have moments of vulnerability and self-reflection could make her more relatable and sympathetic to the audience. |
Angela | Angela starts off as a manipulative and confident teenager who uses her sexuality as a source of power. However, as she interacts with Lester and faces her vulnerabilities, she begins to question her actions and desires. Throughout the screenplay, Angela goes through a transformation where she learns to embrace her true self, confront her insecurities, and seek genuine connections with others. | The character arc for Angela is well-developed and allows for growth and complexity. However, there could be more clarity in her motivations and internal struggles to make her transformation more impactful. Additionally, providing more depth to her relationships with other characters could enhance the emotional resonance of her journey. | To improve the character arc for Angela, consider delving deeper into her backstory and motivations to provide a clearer understanding of her actions and decisions. Develop her relationships with other characters, particularly Lester, to create more emotional depth and conflict. Show more internal monologues or moments of reflection to highlight Angela's inner struggles and growth throughout the screenplay. |
Buddy | Buddy starts off as a powerful and confident man who enjoys the thrill of exerting influence over others. However, as his personal life unravels due to his impending divorce, he begins to show vulnerability and struggle with his emotions. Through his interactions with Carolyn, he starts to question his own motives and desires, ultimately leading to a moment of self-reflection and growth where he learns to prioritize genuine connections over power dynamics. | The character arc for Buddy is well-developed and allows for a meaningful transformation. However, there could be more clarity in showcasing the internal conflict he faces between his desire for power and his need for emotional fulfillment. Additionally, more emphasis on his backstory and the reasons behind his behavior could add depth to his character. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating flashbacks or dialogue that provide insight into Buddy's past experiences that have shaped his behavior. This can help the audience empathize with his struggles and understand his motivations better. Additionally, explore more nuanced interactions between Buddy and Carolyn that highlight the complexities of their relationship and how it impacts his personal growth. |
Colonel | The Colonel's character arc follows a trajectory of transformation and redemption. Initially a rigid and abusive figure, he is forced to confront his own demons and insecurities as he struggles to control Ricky. Through a series of events and interactions, he begins to question his beliefs and actions, ultimately leading to a moment of reckoning where he must choose between perpetuating his destructive behavior or seeking forgiveness and reconciliation with his son. | The character arc for the Colonel is compelling and offers a rich opportunity for emotional depth and growth. However, to enhance the impact of his transformation, it may be beneficial to provide more context and backstory to explain the Colonel's behavior and motivations. Additionally, exploring his relationships with other characters in more depth could add layers to his journey and make his redemption more impactful. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating flashback scenes or dialogue that shed light on the Colonel's past traumas or experiences that have shaped his behavior. This will help the audience empathize with his struggles and understand the root of his actions. Additionally, explore his interactions with other characters, such as his relationship with his own father or a mentor figure, to provide contrast and insight into his transformation. |
Theme | Theme Details | Themee Explanation | ||||||||||||
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Disconnection and Alienation | The relationships between family members and neighbors are strained, with each character feeling disconnected from those around them. Lester and Carolyn Burnham have an unhappy marriage, Jane Burnham is frustrated with her father, and Ricky Fitts is isolated from his family due to his father's strict rules and homophobia. | The theme of disconnection and alienation is prevalent throughout the screenplay, highlighting the characters' struggles to form meaningful connections with those around them. This theme is often explored through the use of visual symbolism, such as when Jane is seen working on her computer with a banking software window open, which is replaced by a plastic surgery website, symbolizing her dissatisfaction with her life and her desire for change. | ||||||||||||
Strengthening Disconnection and Alienation:
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Self-Discovery and Transformation | Several characters undergo significant transformations throughout the screenplay, as they discover new aspects of themselves and their desires. Lester Burnham, for example, begins to rediscover his sexuality and sense of purpose, while Jane Burnham and Ricky Fitts both become more confident and self-assured as they explore their own identities. | The theme of self-discovery and transformation is closely tied to the theme of disconnection and alienation, as the characters' struggles to connect with those around them often lead them to explore their own identities and desires. This theme is often explored through the use of visual symbolism, such as when Lester is seen running in the morning, symbolizing his newfound sense of freedom and self-discovery. | ||||||||||||
Desire and Obsession | The screenplay explores the theme of desire and obsession through the characters' various fixations and attractions. Lester Burnham becomes infatuated with his daughter's friend Angela Hayes, while Jane Burnham and Ricky Fitts both become increasingly interested in each other. These desires and obsessions often lead to conflict and tension between the characters. | The theme of desire and obsession is used to heighten the tension and drama throughout the screenplay. By exploring the characters' various fixations and attractions, the screenplay highlights the dangers and consequences of unchecked desire and obsession. This theme is often explored through the use of visual symbolism, such as when Angela Hayes is seen performing at a dance competition, symbolizing Lester's growing obsession with her. | ||||||||||||
Parent-Child Relationships | The screenplay explores the complex and often strained relationships between parents and their children. Lester Burnham and his daughter Jane have a difficult relationship, as Jane feels disconnected from her father and frustrated by his lack of attention. Similarly, Ricky Fitts has a strained relationship with his father, who is strict and homophobic. | The theme of parent-child relationships is used to explore the challenges and complexities of growing up and navigating the world as a young person. By highlighting the strained relationships between parents and their children, the screenplay underscores the importance of communication and understanding in building strong, healthy relationships. This theme is often explored through the use of dialogue and visual symbolism, such as when Jane is seen working on her computer with a banking software window open, symbolizing her desire for financial independence and autonomy from her parents. |
Screenwriting Resources on Themes
Articles
Site | Description |
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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 |
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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 | |
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internal Goals | The protagonist's internal goal is to navigate his own insecurities and desires for fulfillment and authenticity |
External Goals | The protagonist's external goal is to maintain control and power in various challenging situations |
Philosophical Conflict | The overarching philosophical conflict is the clash between societal expectations and personal desires |
Character Development Contribution: The goals and conflict drive the protagonist's growth by challenging his beliefs and values, leading to self-realization and empathy
Narrative Structure Contribution: The goals and conflict provide a framework for the protagonist's journey, leading to a dynamic and engaging narrative structure
Thematic Depth Contribution: The goals and conflict deepen the themes of identity, relationships, and societal norms, adding complexity and depth to the screenplay
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 |
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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? |
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 - Frustrations and Dissatisfactions of the Burnhams and Fitts | Satirical, Dark, Humorous | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
2 - Morning Tensions and Insecurities: A Glimpse into the Burnham Family's Dysfunction | Dramatic, Satirical, Sarcastic | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
3 - Lester's Job Insecurity | Tense, Frustrated, Defeated | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
4 - Tense Dinner and Strained Relationships | Tense, Sarcastic, Critical | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
5 - Awkward Reconciliation and Unseen Surveillance | Tense, Uncomfortable, Reflective | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
6 - Desperate Sales Pitch in an Unsightly House | Determined, Solemn, Skeptical | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | |
7 - House Showings and Parental Involvement | Tense, Frustrated, Business-like | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
8 - A Tense Family Outing and a Captivating Dancer | Tense, Emotional, Awkward, Dreamy, Erotic | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
9 - Awkward Encounter in the Parking Lot | Awkward, Emotional, Humorous | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
10 - Lester's Awakening and Angela's Aspirations | Melancholic, Awkward, Reflective | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
11 - Invasion of Privacy and Unwanted Attention | Tense, Awkward, Emotional, Curious | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
12 - The Colonel's Homophobia and Ricky's Introduction | Dark, Satirical, Sarcastic | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
13 - A Night of Tension and Pretense: The Fitts and Burnhams' Struggles | Awkward, Forced, Tense | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
14 - Lester's Unconventional Encounters: Marijuana and a New Neighbor | Awkward, Intriguing, Tense | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
15 - Awkward Encounter: Lester's Attraction to Angela | Awkward, Inappropriate, Fantasy, Emotional | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
16 - Inappropriate Comments and Mysterious Messages | Dark, Intense, Intriguing | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
17 - Ricky's Voyeuristic Secret and the Colonel's Suspicion | Awkward, Tense, Intriguing | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | |
18 - Lester's Infidelity and the Unraveling of the Burnham Marriage | Intense, Emotional, Confrontational | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
19 - Lester's Morning Jog and Unwelcome Encounter | Awkward, Dark, Humorous | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
20 - Ricky Sells Genetically Engineered Marijuana to Lester | Humorous, Informative, Candid | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 7 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
21 - Confrontation in the Garage: Lester's New Lifestyle | Hostile, Sarcastic, Confrontational | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
22 - Lester Negotiates His Severance Package | Sarcastic, Confrontational, Defiant | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
23 - New Beginnings and Temptations | Satirical, Sarcastic, Darkly humorous | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
24 - Job Rejection and Stress Relief | Humorous, Seductive, Tense | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
25 - Ricky's Fascination | Introspective, Melancholic, Tense | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
26 - Ricky's Revelation and Lester's Rebellion | Tense, Confrontational, Defiant, Emotional | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
27 - Confrontation and Violence in Jane's Bedroom | Tense, Emotional, Confrontational | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
28 - Carolyn's Anger and Lester's New Car | Tense, Emotional, Confrontational | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
29 - Intimate Conversations and Insecurities | Intimate, Reflective, Playful | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 7 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
30 - Lester's Morning Run and Conflict with Jane | Tense, Confrontational, Regretful | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
31 - The Colonel's Curious Discovery | Tense, Humorous, Emotional | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
32 - Awkward Drive-Thru Encounter | Tense, Sarcastic, Defiant | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
33 - Marital Strife, Teenage Love, and Self-Reflection | Tense, Emotional, Sarcastic | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
34 - The Colonel's Suspicions and Lester's Intimidation | Tense, Flirtatious, Baffled | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
35 - Ricky's Confession and Escape from the Colonel's Control | Intense, Confrontational, Emotional | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
36 - Breaking Free | Tension, Emotional, Confrontational, Intense | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
37 - The Colonel's Unexpected Advance | Intense, Emotional, Vulnerable, Confrontational | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
38 - Resolution of Tension: Lester and Angela's Intimate Moment | Intimate, Sensual, Emotional | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
39 - Intimate Encounters and Confessions | Intimate, Emotional, Vulnerable | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
40 - A Rainy Evening's Tragedy: Lester's Unresolved Regrets | Tense, Emotional, Reflective | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
41 - Grim Discovery and Growing Fear | Tense, Suspenseful, Emotional, Dark | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
42 - Nostalgic Vignettes and Gratitude | Tense, Emotional, Dark | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 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
- Sharp dialogue
- Complex characters
- Tension and conflict
- Emotional depth
- Compelling character dynamics
Scene Weaknesses
- Limited emotional impact
- Lack of resolution
- Limited external conflict
- Some potentially controversial content
- Lack of significant character development
Suggestions
- Further explore and develop character motivations to increase emotional impact
- Consider increasing external conflict to heighten stakes and tension
- Avoid relying on clichéd or forced dialogue
- Ensure all plot points are fully resolved to increase audience satisfaction
- Continue to prioritize complex and compelling character dynamics
- Physical environment: The physical environment in the screenplay is primarily set in suburban America, with tree-lined streets, well-kept houses, manicured gardens, and a sense of conformity. The houses and interiors are often used to reflect the characters' emotional states and social status.
- Culture: The cultural elements in the screenplay focus on family dynamics, societal expectations, and suburban ennui. The characters struggle with personal and relational issues within the confines of a seemingly perfect neighborhood, and there is a strong emphasis on the societal pressure to conform and maintain appearances.
- Society: The societal structure is based on traditional family structures, with neighbors interacting in a polite but superficial manner. The screenplay explores the power dynamics and expectations within these relationships, as well as the consequences of challenging them.
- Technology: The technological aspects in the screenplay are primarily limited to household appliances, gardening tools, and personal banking software, reflecting the characters' relatively ordinary and mundane lives. However, the use of surveillance technology and digital cameras adds a sense of unease and tension to certain scenes.
- Characters influence: The unique physical environment, culture, society, and technology shape the characters' experiences and actions by creating a sense of conformity, pressure, and dissatisfaction. The characters often struggle with their roles within this world, rebelling against or succumbing to societal expectations.
- Narrative contribution: The world elements contribute to the narrative by establishing a backdrop of conformity and dissatisfaction, which the characters navigate and challenge throughout the screenplay. The physical environment, culture, society, and technology all play a role in driving the characters' actions and decisions, and in shaping the conflicts and resolutions within the narrative.
- Thematic depth contribution: The world elements also contribute to the thematic depth of the screenplay by exploring themes of conformity, identity, and the consequences of challenging societal expectations. The physical environment, culture, society, and technology all serve to highlight the characters' struggles with these themes, and to deepen the audience's understanding and engagement with the story.
Voice Analysis | |
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Summary: | The writer's voice in the screenplay is characterized by its dark humor, introspective voiceovers, and satirical take on suburban life. |
Voice Contribution | The writer's voice contributes to the script by creating a unique and memorable tone that sets the film apart from others in the genre. |
Best Representation Scene | 1 - Frustrations and Dissatisfactions of the Burnhams and Fitts |
Best Scene Explanation | Scene 1 is the best representation of the writer's unique voice because it combines dark humor, introspective voiceover, and social commentary to create a memorable and impactful opening for the screenplay. It sets the tone for the rest of the film and establishes the writer's unique style. |
Top Correlations and patterns found in the scenes:
Pattern | Explanation |
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Positive correlation between emotional impact and conflict | Scenes with higher emotional impact tend to have higher levels of conflict, indicating that emotional moments are often tied to moments of tension and confrontation. |
Negative correlation between dialogue and character changes | Scenes with more dialogue tend to have fewer character changes, suggesting that dialogue-heavy scenes may focus more on conversation and less on character development. |
Positive correlation between tone and emotional impact | Scenes with darker or more intense tones tend to have higher emotional impact, indicating that the tone of the scene can influence the emotional response it elicits from the audience. |
Positive correlation between high stakes and conflict | Scenes with higher stakes tend to have higher levels of conflict, showing that the importance of the outcome can drive tension and confrontation in the story. |
Negative correlation between overall grade and character changes | Scenes with higher overall grades tend to have fewer character changes, suggesting that scenes that are well-executed may focus more on plot and concept than on character development. |
Writer's Craft Overall Analysis
The screenplay showcases strong writing craft, with a unique voice and engaging narrative. The writer effectively explores complex themes and relationships through sharp dialogue, nuanced character interactions, and visual storytelling. The pacing and structure of the scenes contribute to a compelling and immersive experience.
Key Improvement Areas
Suggestions
Type | Suggestion | Rationale |
---|---|---|
Screenplay | Read 'The Godfather' screenplay by Mario Puzo and Francis Ford Coppola. This screenplay is a masterclass in character development, pacing, and visual storytelling, which can help the writer further refine their craft. | This recommendation is based on the overall screenplay analysis, focusing on character development, pacing, and visual storytelling. |
Exercise | Practice writing character-driven scenes with minimal dialogue. This exercise will help improve the writer's ability to convey emotions and relationships through action and visual cues.Practice In SceneProv | This exercise is relevant to the key improvement areas of character development and visual storytelling, allowing the writer to deepen their understanding of character motivations and emotions. |
Exercise | Write a scene with a sudden shift in pacing, either accelerating or decelerating the action. This exercise will help the writer practice manipulating tension and maintaining audience engagement.Practice In SceneProv | This exercise is relevant to the key improvement area of pacing and tension, allowing the writer to explore different ways of controlling the narrative flow and audience anticipation. |
Video | Watch 'Storytelling for User Experience' by Whitney Quesenbery and Kevin Brooks. This video offers valuable insights into visual storytelling and narrative structure, which can help the writer enhance their screenplay's visual impact. | This recommendation is based on the overall screenplay analysis, focusing on visual storytelling and narrative structure. |
Here are different Tropes found in the screenplay
Trope | Trope Details | Trope Explanation |
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Dysfunctional Family | The screenplay revolves around the dysfunctional Burnham family, with each member facing their own issues and conflicts. | The dysfunctional family trope is a common theme in many films and TV shows, showcasing the struggles and conflicts within a family unit. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'Shameless', where the Gallagher family constantly deals with dysfunction and chaos in their daily lives. |
Coming of Age | Jane Burnham, the teenage daughter in the screenplay, is shown navigating her way through adolescence and discovering her own identity. | The coming of age trope is often used to depict a character's journey from childhood to adulthood, highlighting their growth, self-discovery, and maturation. An example of this trope can be seen in the film 'Lady Bird', where the protagonist navigates the challenges of growing up and finding her place in the world. |
Suburban Satire | The screenplay satirizes suburban life, showcasing the superficiality, materialism, and dysfunction that can exist within suburban communities. | Suburban satire is a common trope used to critique the norms and values of suburban society, often highlighting the absurdity and hypocrisy of suburban life. An example of this trope can be seen in the film 'American Beauty', where the facade of suburban perfection is peeled back to reveal the dark underbelly of the neighborhood. |
Sexual Awakening | Several characters in the screenplay experience a sexual awakening, including Lester's attraction to Angela and Jane's exploration of her own desires. | The sexual awakening trope is often used to depict characters discovering their sexuality, desires, and attractions. An example of this trope can be seen in the film 'Call Me by Your Name', where the protagonist experiences a transformative sexual awakening during a summer romance. |
Midlife Crisis | Lester Burnham, the protagonist of the screenplay, experiences a midlife crisis as he reevaluates his life, relationships, and desires. | The midlife crisis trope is often used to depict characters going through a period of self-reflection, dissatisfaction, and change as they reach middle age. An example of this trope can be seen in the film 'Lost in Translation', where both main characters grapple with feelings of disillusionment and uncertainty in their lives. |
Voyeurism | Ricky Fitts, the neighbor in the screenplay, is shown engaging in voyeuristic behavior by filming his neighbors and capturing intimate moments. | The voyeurism trope involves characters observing or spying on others without their knowledge, often revealing hidden truths or desires. An example of this trope can be seen in the film 'Rear Window', where the protagonist becomes an unwitting voyeur as he watches his neighbors through his window. |
Infidelity | The screenplay features instances of infidelity, including Lester's attraction to Angela and Carolyn's affair with Buddy. | The infidelity trope involves characters engaging in extramarital affairs or betraying their partners, leading to conflict and consequences. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'The Affair', where the narrative explores the impact of infidelity on multiple characters and relationships. |
Parent-Child Conflict | The screenplay depicts various conflicts between parents and their children, including Lester's strained relationship with Jane and Carolyn's tense interactions with her daughter. | The parent-child conflict trope is a common theme in storytelling, showcasing the challenges and tensions that can arise between parents and their children. An example of this trope can be seen in the film 'Lady Bird', where the protagonist navigates her tumultuous relationship with her mother as she comes of age. |
Social Commentary | The screenplay offers social commentary on various themes, including suburban life, materialism, sexuality, and identity. | The social commentary trope involves using storytelling to critique or reflect on societal issues, norms, and values. An example of this trope can be seen in the film 'Get Out', where the narrative serves as a commentary on race relations and cultural appropriation in modern society. |
Identity Crisis | Several characters in the screenplay grapple with issues of identity, including Lester's search for meaning and purpose in his life. | The identity crisis trope involves characters questioning their sense of self, purpose, and place in the world, leading to introspection and growth. An example of this trope can be seen in the film 'Fight Club', where the protagonist's alter ego represents his struggle with identity and societal expectations. |
Dark Comedy | The screenplay blends elements of dark comedy with its satirical and subversive take on suburban life and dysfunctional relationships. | The dark comedy trope involves using humor to explore dark, taboo, or controversial subject matter, often resulting in a mix of laughter and discomfort for the audience. An example of this trope can be seen in the film 'Fargo', where the darkly comedic tone enhances the absurdity and violence of the narrative. |
Memorable lines in the script:
Scene Number | Line |
---|---|
27 | Carolyn: You cannot count on anyone except yourself. It's sad, but true, and the sooner you learn it, the better. |
1 | Jane: I need a father who's a role model, not some horny geek-boy who's gonna spray his shorts whenever I bring a girlfriend home from school. |
17 | Ricky: Welcome to America's Weirdest Home Videos. |
28 | Lester: This isn't life. This is just stuff. And it's become more important to you than living. Well, honey, that's just nuts. |
18 | Lester: I was choking the bishop. Shaving the carrot. Saying hi to my monster. |
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Explanation: Overall, American Beauty is a well-written and compelling screenplay that explores universal themes of identity, beauty, and the search for meaning in life. The film's strengths lie in its complex and relatable characters, captivating visuals, and thought-provoking themes. However, areas for improvement could include tighter pacing in certain scenes, further development of some character arcs, and a smoother resolution for particular plot points. With these enhancements, American Beauty has the potential to be an even more impactful and memorable cinematic experience.