The apartment
Executive Summary
Pass/Consider/Recommend/Highly Recommend
Overview
Genres: drama, comedy, romance, Romantic
Setting: Modern day, New York City
Overview: The screenplay demonstrates a strong foundation in character development, emotional depth, and originality. However, there are opportunities to further explore thematic depth, enhance emotional complexity, and provide more explicit resolutions.
Themes: Loneliness, Infidelity, Professionalism, Love, Self-discovery
Conflict and Stakes: John's struggle to clear his name after being falsely accused of a crime, with his career and reputation at stake
Overall Mood: Tense and suspenseful
Mood/Tone at Key Scenes:
- Scene 5: Intense courtroom scene with high stakes and emotional tension
- Scene 10: Twist reveal scene that changes the audience's perception of the story
Standout Features:
- Plot Twist: Unexpected revelation about the true culprit behind the crime
- Unique Characters : Complex and morally ambiguous characters that challenge traditional stereotypes
- Innovative Setting : Exploration of the legal world in a modern urban setting
Comparable Scripts:
Market Analysis
Budget Estimate:$20-30 million
Target Audience Demographics: Adults aged 25-54, fans of legal thrillers and drama
Marketability: It has the potential to attract a wide audience and generate buzz with its gripping storyline and relatable themes
Strong performances from the cast and a suspenseful plot make it appealing to fans of the genre
Compelling characters and a relevant social commentary add depth to the story
Profit Potential: High, due to strong appeal to a wide adult audience and potential for award nominations
Scene Level Percentiles
Writer's Voice
Memorable Lines:
Story Shape
Emotions Elicited
Engine: Gemini
Highly Recommend
Executive Summary
The Apartment is an exceptional screenplay with a compelling narrative, well-defined characters, and witty dialogue. The story explores relevant themes with depth and humor, offering a unique blend of romance, drama, and social commentary. While there are minor pacing considerations in the second act and opportunities to further explore Fran's agency, the screenplay's strengths far outweigh any weaknesses. This script has the potential to be a critically acclaimed and commercially successful film.
- Witty and Engaging Dialogue: The screenplay is filled with sharp, witty dialogue that is both humorous and insightful, capturing the essence of the characters and the era. high
- Well-Defined Characters: Each character, from the leads to the supporting roles, is well-defined with distinct personalities, motivations, and flaws, making them relatable and memorable. high
- Strong Opening: The screenplay establishes the setting, tone, and central conflict effectively in the opening scenes, drawing the reader into Bud's world and his predicament. high ( Scene 1 Scene 2 Scene 3 Scene 4 Scene 5 Scene 6 Scene 7 Scene 8 Scene 9 Scene 10 )
- Compelling Narrative: The story unfolds with a compelling pace, balancing humor with moments of drama and poignancy, keeping the reader engaged and invested in the characters' journeys. high ( Scene 17 Scene 18 Scene 19 Scene 20 )
- Exploration of Themes: The screenplay explores themes of loneliness, love, morality, and societal expectations in a nuanced and thought-provoking way, adding depth and resonance to the story. high
- Fran's Agency: While Fran's character is well-developed, there could be opportunities to further explore her agency and decision-making, particularly in her relationship with Sheldrake. medium
- Pacing in Act Two: The pacing in the second act could be tightened in certain scenes, particularly during Bud's interactions with his colleagues and superiors, to maintain momentum. low ( Scene 21 Scene 22 Scene 23 Scene 24 Scene 25 )
- Fran's Suicide Attempt: The scene of Fran's suicide attempt is handled with sensitivity and realism, highlighting the emotional toll of her relationship with Sheldrake. high ( Scene 27 Scene 28 Scene 29 Scene 30 Scene 31 Scene 32 )
- Satisfying Ending: The ending is both satisfying and hopeful, offering a sense of closure while leaving room for interpretation and reflection on the characters' futures. high ( Scene 49 Scene 50 Scene 51 Scene 52 Scene 53 )
Engine: Claude
Recommend
Executive Summary
The screenplay for 'The Apartment' is a well-crafted and emotionally resonant drama that explores the complexities of human relationships, power dynamics, and personal growth. The central character, Bud Baxter, is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist whose journey from a meek office worker to a more self-aware and principled individual is compellingly depicted. The screenplay's strengths lie in its strong character development, particularly the nuanced portrayal of Bud and Fran's relationship, and its ability to balance comedic and dramatic elements seamlessly. While there are a few areas that could benefit from tighter pacing or more explicit character exploration, the screenplay as a whole is a recommended read that is likely to appeal to a wide audience.
- The scenes involving Bud's apartment and his interactions with Kirkeby and Dobisch effectively establish Bud's predicament and the complexity of his situation, setting up the central conflict and character arc. high ( Scene 6 (INT. THE APARTMENT - EVENING) Scene 7 (INT. PHONE BOOTH IN A MANHATTAN BAR - NIGHT) )
- The scenes at the Chinese restaurant and the Majestic Theatre provide compelling character development for both Fran and Bud, while also advancing the narrative in an emotionally resonant way. high ( Scene 18 (INT. CHINESE RESTAURANT - EVENING) Scene 19 (EXT. MAJESTIC THEATRE - EVENING) )
- The scene in Bud's office showcases his growing empathy and connection with Fran, as well as the complexities of their relationship, setting the stage for the film's climactic events. medium ( Scene 24 (INT. BAXTER'S OFFICE - DAY) )
- The scene in the switchboard room, while effectively showcasing the bustling office environment, could be tightened to maintain a stronger narrative momentum. low ( Scene 12 (INT. SWITCHBOARD ROOM - DAY) )
- The scene at the Sheldrake house, while providing important context, could be streamlined to avoid distracting from the central storyline. medium ( Scene 34 (INT. LIVING ROOM - SHELDRAKE HOUSE - DAY) )
- The screenplay could benefit from more explicit exploration of Bud's emotional journey and internal thought processes, particularly during the pivotal moments when he discovers Fran's suicide attempt. medium ( Scene 29 (INT. APARTMENT - NIGHT) )
- The final scenes effectively tie up the narrative, providing a satisfying resolution to Bud and Fran's story while leaving room for interpretation and reflection on the broader themes of the screenplay. high ( Scene 48 (INT. SHELDRAKE'S OFFICE - DAY) Scene 49 (INT. LOBBY INSURANCE BUILDING - EVENING) )
Screenplay Insights:
Premise: 7.75, The screenplay's premise effectively establishes a compelling and clear narrative, providing a solid foundation for audience engagement. However, minor refinements to enhance the depth and emotional impact of the premise would significantly elevate the screenplay's overall intrigue. See More
Structure: 7.5, The screenplay exhibits a well-structured narrative that effectively engages the audience. However, there are areas where the plot could be refined to enhance clarity, pacing, and emotional impact. See More
Theme: 8.50, This screenplay effectively explores and communicates its themes and messages through the narrative and character arcs. The themes are well-integrated and relevant to the story, and the messages resonate with the audience on an emotional level. However, the screenplay could benefit from a clearer presentation of its themes and a more nuanced exploration of its messages. See More
Visual Impact: 8.25, The screenplay excels in crafting highly vivid, relatable, and relatable scenes that ground its narrative within a lived-in and immersive world. The effective use of visual elements and descriptions contributes to the emotional impact of the story, enhancing character arcs and the overall viewing experience. See More
Emotional Impact: 8.25, The screenplay has a strong emotional foundation, effectively conveying a range of emotions and creating relatable characters. However, there are opportunities to enhance the emotional depth and resonance, particularly by exploring the inner conflicts and motivations of the protagonists. See More
Conflict: 8.25, The screenplay presents conflict and stakes that drive the narrative and engage the audience. However, it could benefit from further refinement to amplify tension, raise stakes, and enhance the overall impact of its conflicts. See More
Originality: 8.25, The screenplay effectively combines unique character dynamics and a relatable romantic narrative, resulting in an engaging and emotionally resonant story. See More
Screenplay Story Analysis
Note: This is the overall critique. For scene by scene critique click here
Summaries
- Bud Baxter is a hard-working insurance employee who lives in a cozy apartment in the West Sixties. He has a little problem with his apartment and has to stay at work until it's safe to go home.
- Kirkeby and Sylvia, having just finished a rendezvous at Bud's apartment, race to leave before Bud returns. Meanwhile, Bud paces outside, waiting for his apartment to clear so that he can return.
- Bud Baxter waits outside his apartment as Kirkeby and Sylvia leave after a rendezvous. Bud goes inside and encounters his talkative neighbor, Mrs. Dreyfuss.
- Bud is finally able to return to his apartment after Kirkeby and Sylvia's rendezvous. He starts cleaning up the mess that's left behind before Mr. Kirkeby barges in to get his galoshes and offer career advice.
- Bud encounters his talkative neighbor, Dr. Dreyfuss, who makes a request for Bud's body in his will for research purposes.
- Bud Baxter goes about his nightly routine after Kirkeby and Sylvia leave, only to be interrupted by Joe Dobisch calling him from a bar and asking for a favor.
- Bud is interrupted in the middle of the night by Joe Dobisch, who asks to use his apartment for a rendezvous with a woman he claims looks like Marilyn Monroe. Bud reluctantly agrees, knowing it will mean sacrificing his own sleep.
- Bud reluctantly allows Dobisch to use his apartment for a late-night rendezvous with a Marilyn Monroe-lookalike, while Dr. Dreyfuss sets out his milk bottles and notes Bud's late-night visitor. Bud later heads to work with a bad cold and encounters Fran Kubelik in the elevator.
- Bud encounters Fran in the elevator and they discuss his cold, while Mr. Kirkeby makes advances towards Fran. After they exit the elevator, Kirkeby talks to Bud about his unsuccessful attempts to date Fran. Bud then goes about his workday with a cold and makes a sneaky phone call.
- Bud deals with the aftermath of letting Dobisch use his apartment for a late-night rendezvous, while trying to manage work and his worsening cold.
- Bud cancels a meeting in his boss's apartment due to his cold, while rescheduling multiple events over the phone throughout the day.
- Bud deals with work and his worsening cold while canceling meetings and rescheduling events throughout the day, all the while encountering Fran Kubelik in the elevator.
- Bud enters the plush foyer and is wished by Fran. She then grooms him and reminds him to wipe his nose. Bud nervously walks into J. D. Sheldrake's office and is reprimanded by the secretary for being late for twenty minutes. Bud then walks into the inner office.
- Bud gets called into his boss's office where he is grilled about the key to his apartment that has been given to several co-workers for late-night rendezvous. Sheldrake warns Bud about the importance of conducting himself in a professional manner due to the nature of the industry in which they work.
- Bud gets grilled by Sheldrake about his key, but manages to secure executive-level, redeemable perks in a calculated exchange.
- Bud runs into Fran in the lobby and tries to make plans with her, but she has a date with another man.
- Bud and Fran make plans to go to the theater for a show and bond over their personal details. Bud is high on his promotion and excited about spending time with Fran.
- Fran meets with Sheldrake at a Chinese restaurant, where they discuss their past relationship and Sheldrake's desire to be with Fran again despite being married.
- Sheldrake meets with Fran at a Chinese restaurant to discuss his desire to leave his wife and be with Fran again. Fran is hesitant and tells him that she never asked him to leave his wife. They leave the restaurant and share a cab, kissing as the scene ends.
- Bud cleans out his desk and sees his new nameplate
- Bud revels in his new office and runs into trouble with his friends, who want access to his apartment for their extramarital affairs. Sheldrake requests a second key to the apartment.
- The switchboard operators exchange holiday greetings with callers while Sylvia receives an exciting invitation to a party on the nineteenth floor.
- Bud and Fran bump into each other at the Christmas office party, where there are drinks, revelry, and a dance number.
- Bud asks Fran out on a date while wearing a new hat and tries to impress her by showing her a Christmas card from Mr. Sheldrake, but Bud's emotions change when he answers a call from Sheldrake, implying he is cheating on his wife, and Bud leaves the office alone.
- Bud attends the Christmas party where there are drinks, revelry, and a dance number. Kirkeby asks Bud for a favor, but Bud ignores him and walks away.
- Bud drinks alone at a crowded bar on Christmas Eve until he is approached by Margie, a woman also drinking alone. They have a brief conversation about Margie's imprisoned husband, with whom she wants to spend Christmas. They commiserate over the unfairness of life and share drinks.
- Fran and Sheldrake argue about their relationship and financial transactions during Christmas Eve.
- Bud drinks alone at a bar on Christmas Eve and meets Margie. They commiserate on their unfortunate lives, drink together and end up going to Bud's apartment.
- Bud brings Margie back to his apartment and discovers Fran passed out in his bed after taking his sleeping pills. He calls Dr. Dreyfuss for help.
- Bud brings Margie back to his apartment and discovers Fran passed out in his bed after taking his sleeping pills. He calls Dr. Dreyfuss for help.
- Dr. Dreyfuss helps Bud revive Fran after she overdoses on sleeping pills.
- Dr. Dreyfuss helps Bud revive Fran after she overdoses on sleeping pills.
- Mrs. Lieberman confronts Bud about the noise from his party, while Bud checks on Fran, who is asleep in his bed.
- Bud calls his boss, Mr. Sheldrake, about Fran's overdose, and Mr. Sheldrake is apprehensive about the situation.
- Bud calls his boss to report Fran's overdose, tends to her while she wakes up with a hangover and is apprehensive about her presence. Bud tries to convince her to stay, helps her brush her teeth, gathers some razor blades and medical items, and heads for the door to get coffee.
- Bud leaves his apartment to borrow coffee from the Dreyfuss apartment, but encounters Mrs. Dreyfuss who blames him for Fran's overdose. Bud tries to defend himself but Mrs. Dreyfuss insults him before offering him food.
- Mrs. Lieberman confronts Bud about Fran's overdose while he tends to her. Bud calls his boss about Fran's condition and tries to convince her to stay with him while simultaneously gathering medical supplies for her. He is insulted by Mrs. Dreyfuss, who blames him for Fran's situation before offering him food.
- Bud tends to Fran after her overdose and tries to cheer her up, playing cards with her as she confesses her string of bad luck with men.
- Bud and Fran talk about Mr. Sheldrake and Fran thinks about writing a letter to his wife. Bud comforts her and they play cards before she falls asleep. Meanwhile, Kirkeby and Sylvia arrive at the brownstone house with champagne.
- Kirkeby and Sylvia arrive at Bud's apartment uninvited while he is taking care of Fran after her overdose.
- Bud tends to Fran after her overdose and they talk about their personal lives and Mr. Sheldrake. Kirkeby and Sylvia arrive at Bud's apartment uninvited.
- Miss Olsen informs Mrs. Sheldrake about her husband's infidelity as Bud tends to Fran's recovery after her overdose.
- Mrs. Lieberman warns Bud of a possible gas leak in his apartment, causing him to rush up the stairs and check it out.
- Bud saves Fran from gas poisoning and they have a conversation about personal lives, love and Mr. Sheldrake.
- Fran Kubelik's brother-in-law, Karl Matuschka, visits Dobisch and Kirkeby in search of answers about Fran's whereabouts. They discuss the affair between Sheldrake and Kubelik, who have both been absent from work, and the possibility of helping Matuschka find Fran.
- Bud and Fran enjoy a romantic dinner, but it is interrupted when Fran's brother-in-law barges in and causes a scene.
- Bud confesses his love to Mr. Sheldrake and rehearses his speech while also dealing with the aftermath of his fight.
- After Bud saves Fran and confesses his love to Mr. Sheldrake, he is informed that Sheldrake will be taking Fran off his hands and that he is getting a promotion. However, Bud is not as excited as he thought he would be and seems to be struggling with conflicted emotions.
- Bud and Fran discuss recent events and their lives since then. Bud tries to impress Fran with his success and acknowledges his feelings for her. Fran leaves, and Bud heads to a date but shows signs of inner turmoil.
- Bud comes to terms with his conflicted emotions after Sheldrake offers him a promotion on the condition that he lend him his apartment. In the end, Bud resigns from the company and walks out for good.
- Bud packs up his belongings and gives away his apartment, accepting that he cannot use it to get ahead anymore. Dr. Dreyfuss stops by to invite him to a party, but he declines.
- Fran meets with Sheldrake and is informed that they'll be going to Atlantic City for the night. In the meantime, Bud is preparing for his date but has a sudden change of heart after coming to terms with conflicting emotions. Fran rushes to Bud's apartment after hearing a loud noise, and they reconcile.
- Bud and Fran reunite and play a game of gin rummy.
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Character Bud Baxter
Description Bud initially appears as a pushover, easily manipulated by his superiors into lending his apartment. However, he later shows a willingness to stand up to them and even displays moments of assertiveness, especially towards Fran. This shift in behavior could be explored further to make his character arc more consistent.
( Scene 2 Scene 4 Scene 5 ) -
Character Fran Kubelik
Description Fran is portrayed as a self-aware and independent woman. However, her continued involvement with Sheldrake, despite knowing his true nature and the pain he causes, seems contradictory to her character. Exploring her motivations and internal conflict more deeply would enhance her character development.
( Scene 18 Scene 24 )
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Description Miss Olsen witnesses Sheldrake and Fran together at the Chinese restaurant but doesn't seem to take any action or reveal this information until after she is fired. Exploring her motivations and reasons for waiting would add depth to the plot.
( Scene 18 )
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Description Margie MacDougall's dialogue, with its references to Castro and her incarcerated jockey husband, feels somewhat out of place and comical, given the overall tone of the film. While it provides some lightheartedness, it could be refined to better align with the film's overall mood.
( Scene 26 )
Characters in the screenplay, and their arcs:
Character | Arc | Critique | Suggestions |
---|---|---|---|
Bud Baxter | At the beginning of the film, Bud is a pushover who lets others take advantage of him, both in his personal and professional life. As the story progresses, Bud becomes more assertive and starts standing up for himself, culminating in his decision to quit his job and take a stand against Mr. Sheldrake's mistreatment of Fran. Throughout the film, Bud's experiences allow him to develop a greater sense of self-awareness and personal growth, transforming him from a meek and submissive employee to a confident and self-assured man who owns his actions and choices. | Overall, Bud's character arc is well-crafted and compelling, showing how he learns to assert himself and stand up to those who try to exploit him. However, the arc could benefit from more specific moments of character growth and development, such as a specific event or conversation that inspires Bud to change his behavior and mindset. Additionally, Bud's crush on Fran could feel more fully developed and integrated into the plot to create more emotional resonance and investment for the audience. | To improve Bud's character arc, consider adding specific scenes in which Bud learns to assert himself and take control of his life, such as a confrontation with his lecherous boss or standing up to his selfish coworkers. Additionally, exploring Bud's crush on Fran more deeply could add an emotional dimension to the story, allowing audiences to connect with Bud's journey on a more personal level. One way to do this could be to have Bud and Fran interact more frequently, either through work or social situations, to build more chemistry between them. |
Sylvia | As the film progresses, Sylvia begins to see that her affair with Kirkeby is not all she thought it was. She starts to become more introspective and begins to question why she is always putting herself in these types of situations. Eventually, Sylvia realizes that she deserves better than what Kirkeby can give her and decides to break things off with him. Along the way, she learns that she is capable of standing up for herself and that she doesn't need a man to define her worth. | The character arc for Sylvia is interesting, but it feels a bit underdeveloped. There are several moments in the film where Sylvia is shown to be a supportive friend and someone who is brave enough to stand up for herself. However, the plot doesn't explore these moments in-depth, so her transformation at the end of the film doesn't feel earned. Additionally, the arc feels a bit rushed, and it would benefit from more time to develop and explore Sylvia's journey. | To improve Sylvia's character arc, the screenplay should spend more time exploring her motivations for being with Kirkeby and her past experiences that may have contributed to her lack of self-worth. Showing more moments of her strength and loyalty to her friends would also help make her eventual transformation feel more earned. Additionally, the pacing of the arc should be slowed down to give the audience more time to connect with Sylvia and understand why she is making the choices she does. |
Kirkeby | As the movie progresses, Kirkeby's actions catch up with him. His affair is revealed publicly, damaging his marriage and reputation. He spirals into despair and desperation, trying to salvage what is left of his life. In the end, he comes to a realization that his actions have consequences and that he needs to take responsibility for them. He tries to make amends, but it may be too late to repair the damage. | Kirkeby's character arc is well-structured and aligns with the theme of the movie. However, his redemption moment feels somewhat forced and rushed. It would have been more effective to show him gradually accepting responsibility for his actions rather than suddenly having a change of heart. | To improve Kirkeby's character arc, it would be wise to have him interact more with other characters outside of Bud and Dobisch. This would give him more depth and make his redemption feel more earned. Additionally, showing more of his inner thoughts and emotions could help the audience better understand his motivations and make his eventual redemption feel more satisfying. |
Dr. Dreyfuss | Dr. Dreyfuss starts as a minor character who observes Bud's late-night visitor but eventually becomes an essential part of the story. He initially helps Bud in his time of need and shows competence but little personal warmth. However, as the situation unfolds and Fran's health deteriorates, Dreyfuss takes charge and guides Bud in how to care for her. He can be strict at times, but his ultimate goal is to help Fran. In the end, he recognizes Bud's growth and development and shows some regret at their farewell. | The character arc for Dr. Dreyfuss is compelling and well-written, but it could benefit from further development. Although he starts as a minor character, his importance grows throughout the movie, and he becomes a crucial part of the story. However, it would be helpful to understand his motivations further and explore his character in more depth. | One possible suggestion to improve Dr. Dreyfuss's character arc could be to provide more backstory and motivation for his actions. It would also be interesting to see more of his personal life and how it interacts with the plot. Perhaps he could have a connection to one of the other characters that influences his decisions. Additionally, showing more of his emotional investment in the story could add further complexity to his arc. |
Fran Kubelik | At the beginning of the movie, Fran is content with her life and relationships, but as the story progresses and her feelings for Bud grow, she begins to question her own decisions and what she truly wants in life. When she discovers that Mr. Sheldrake has been cheating on her, Fran is devastated and her world falls apart. However, with the help of Bud, she realizes that her worth and happiness are not dependent on a man's approval or affection. By the end of the movie, she has found her voice and her independence, breaking free from the expectations of society and choosing her own path. | The character arc for Fran is well-developed and realistic, showcasing her growth and transformation throughout the movie. However, the focus on her relationships with men throughout the story detracts from her individual agency and emphasizes the patriarchal expectations placed upon women in that time period. | To improve the character arc for Fran, it would be beneficial to showcase her personal passions and goals outside of her love life. Perhaps she has dreams of becoming an artist or writer, or is passionate about political activism. This would add depth to her character and emphasize her individuality and agency beyond her romantic relationships. |
Bud | Bud's character arc involves struggling to balance his obligations and desires throughout the movie, ultimately choosing to follow his heart and resigning from a job that made him unhappy. He starts off as a put-upon, pushover employee who operates in practicality, but throughout the movie, he experiences a series of emotional tests that force him to examine his priorities. He is conflicted about his relationship with Sheldrake, and as he learns to take more responsibility for his actions, he starts to prioritize his love for Fran over his career. Bud ultimately chooses to resign from his job, realizing that it clashes with his values. | The character arc follows a standard template but doesn't always create genuine emotional stakes for the audience. The character's ambivalence is conveyed more through his actions than his dialogue, which makes it hard to fully empathize with him and his decisions. Moreover, the repetitive nature of his caring and empathetic nature wears thin after several scenes, and it is clear that his character is often relegated to playing second fiddle to Fran's issues. | To improve the character arc, it may be worth exploring Bud's ambivalence in more depth and with greater nuance. For example, the inner conflict that seems to be driving his indecisiveness could be seen more strongly through his dialogue and interactions with other characters. Additionally, the character might benefit from some unique external pressures in the form of obstacles unrelated to his relationship with Fran. Finally, more attention could be given to Bud's choices and how his decisions propel the story forward, making his development more impactful. |
Sheldrake | Sheldrake's character arc in the screenplay is one of recognition and redemption. Initially, he is shown as a manipulative and selfish person who is willing to use his power and position to get what he wants. He tries to rekindle his affair with Fran despite being married and is impulsive and easily swayed by his emotions. While he is conflicted about leaving his wife, he is deeply invested in his relationship with Fran. Over the course of the movie, he recognizes the error of his ways and begins to change. He starts to feel remorse for his actions and tries to make amends by giving Bud his job back. He also decides to stay with his wife and family, instead of leaving them for Fran. By the end of the movie, he has learned the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and responsibility, and becomes a better person as a result. | The character of Sheldrake in the screenplay is well-written and serves as an effective foil to Fran and Bud's characters. However, his character arc seems a little abrupt and could have been developed more. While he does show signs of recognition and redemption towards the end, it seems to happen too quickly and could have been more nuanced. His change of heart and decision to stay with his wife and family also feels a little forced and could have been more organic. The audience needs to feel his conflict more deeply to convincingly buy his sudden epiphany and change of heart. | To improve the character arc of Sheldrake, the screenplay should have fleshed out his inner conflict and turmoil more convincingly. His moments of recognition and redemption should have been gradual and earned, instead of sudden and dramatic. The screenplay could have also given more weight to his decision to stay with his wife and family – it should have come across as a genuine choice instead of a forced one. Additionally, some moral consequences of his actions could have been explored, like losing his job or reputation, which could have added more weight to his eventual redemption. |
Fran | Fran starts out as a woman with a busy social life who doesn't seem particularly attached to Bud. As we learn more about her past with Sheldrake, she becomes more vulnerable and guarded. Her feelings toward Bud race with her old affection for Sheldrake. She reaches a breaking point and attempts suicide. From then on, she deals with her depression and it's effects on her life along with her feelings for the otherwise uninterested man who caused her such pain. Through the support of Bud and others, she gains the strength to leave Sheldrake and focus on herself. In the end, Fran is able to take control of her life, saying goodbye to Sheldrake and embracing a future full of hope and possibilities. | The character arc for Fran is well-structured and compelling; however, it could benefit from more consistent development throughout the film. The screenplay sometimes jumps over important aspects of Fran's emotional journey, making some parts feel sudden and unearned. Additionally, some of Fran's decisions and actions could be more fully fleshed out to give her character more agency and depth. | To improve Fran's character arc, it may be helpful to show more of her past trauma and how it has affected her behavior and relationships in the present. The movie could also benefit from more scenes that give Fran the opportunity to make her own choices and grow as a character. Additionally, the screenplay could show more of Fran's inner life to help the audience connect with her on a deeper level. Finally, it would be helpful to show more of Fran's recovery from her depression and how she is able to heal from her past traumas. |
Theme | Theme Details | Themee Explanation |
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Loneliness | Bud Baxter spends most of his time alone at work and in his apartment. He is initially attracted to Fran because she is the only person who shows him genuine kindness. | The theme of loneliness in the screenplay conveys the isolation experienced by Bud, which ultimately motivates his actions throughout the film, including his initial decision to lend his apartment to his colleagues. |
Infidelity | The film explores the theme of infidelity through the extramarital affairs of Sheldrake and Kirkeby, who both use Bud's apartment to conduct their affairs. Fran also reveals that she has been in a relationship with Sheldrake. | The theme of infidelity in the screenplay highlights the negative consequences of cheating on one's partner, including the emotional toll it takes on the people involved and the damage it can do to relationships. It also shows how infidelity can be a catalyst for personal growth and change. |
Professionalism | Bud is warned by Sheldrake about the importance of conducting himself professionally at work, and later, his decision to lend out his apartment key to his colleagues puts his job at risk. However, he ultimately prioritizes his personal life over his job by resigning from the company. | The theme of professionalism in the screenplay emphasizes the importance of maintaining a professional demeanor in the workplace and the consequences that can arise from lapses in judgment. It also shows how someone's professional life can come into conflict with their personal life, and how difficult it can be to balance the two. |
Love | The central love story in the film is between Bud and Fran, who fall in love after a tumultuous journey of self-discovery. The theme of love is also explored through the extramarital affairs of Sheldrake and Kirkeby and their impact on the people involved. | The theme of love in the screenplay highlights the transformative power of romantic love and the ways in which it can bring people together. It also shows how love can be complicated and messy, especially when it involves infidelity and conflicted emotions. |
Self-discovery | Bud and Fran both undergo significant personal growth and self-discovery over the course of the film, as they navigate their respective relationships and figure out what they truly want in life. | The theme of self-discovery in the screenplay emphasizes the journey of self-awareness and personal growth that the characters undergo. It also shows how difficult and messy the process of self-discovery can be, but ultimately, how rewarding it can be to reach a place of emotional maturity and self-acceptance. |
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 |
Story Content | Character Development | Scene Elements | Audience Engagement | ||||||||||
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Click for Full Analysis | Tone | Overall | Concept | Plot | Characters | Character Changes | Conflict | High stakes | Story forward | Emotional Impact | Dialogue | ||
1 - The Apartment | "satirical" | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 7 | ||
2 - The Love Nest | "light-hearted" | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 4 | 6 | 4 | 6 | 5 | 8 | ||
3 - Kirkeby and Sylvia Exit | "Tense" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 2 | 5 | 3 | 6 | 4 | 8 | ||
4 - Bud's Late Night Clean Up | "Light-hearted" | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 3 | 5 | 3 | 6 | 4 | 9 | ||
5 - The Doctor's Visit | "Light-hearted" | 6 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 3 | 5 | 2 | 5 | 4 | 7 | ||
6 - Bud's Nighttime Routine | "Light-hearted" | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 6 | ||
7 - Late Night Visit | "Comedic" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 3 | 6 | 5 | 7 | 5 | 8 | ||
8 - Late-night rendezvous | "Light-hearted" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 4 | 6 | 3 | 7 | 5 | 8 | ||
9 - Elevator Rendezvous | "Light-hearted" | 8 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 9 | ||
10 - Office Chaos | "light-hearted" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 3 | 5 | 3 | 7 | 5 | 8 | ||
11 - Phone Calls and Rescheduling | "Light-hearted" | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 7 | 4 | 8 | ||
12 - Office Romance | "Lighthearted" | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 7 | 4 | 9 | ||
13 - Bud's Cold and Fran's Advice | "Somber" | 4 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | ||
14 - Bud's Office Meeting with Sheldrake | "Light-hearted" | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 7 | ||
15 - The Secret Rendezvous | "Tense" | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 9 | ||
16 - Missed Connection | "somber" | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 8 | ||
17 - Showtime and Bonding | "Light-hearted, enthusiastic" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 9 | ||
18 - Fran and Sheldrake at the Chinese Restaurant | "Melancholic" | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | ||
19 - Past Love Rekindled | "Intense, Emotional" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | ||
20 - End of an Era | "Melancholic" | 9 | 8 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 8 | 7 | 8 | ||
21 - Bud's Promotion and Sheldrake's Request for Second Key | "Tense" | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | ||
22 - Switchboard Shenanigans | "Upbeat" | 7 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 5 | 3 | 6 | ||
23 - Christmas Party | "Light, upbeat, romantic" | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 4 | 5 | 2 | 6 | 5 | 10 | ||
24 - The Bowler Hat | "Light-hearted and humorous with a tinge of sadness." | 8.5 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | ||
25 - The Office Christmas Party | "Light-hearted" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 7 | ||
26 - Bud and Margie at the Bar | "Melancholic" | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 7 | 9 | ||
27 - Christmas Eve | "Melancholy" | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 7 | ||
28 - Christmas Blues | "Melancholic" | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | ||
29 - Sleeping Pills | "tense" | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | ||
30 - Emergency at Bud's Apartment | "Tense" | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | ||
31 - Help arrives for Fran | "serious" | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 7 | ||
32 - Reviving Fran | "somber" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 7 | ||
33 - Mrs. Lieberman confronts Bud | "tense" | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 3 | 9 | 2 | 5 | 7 | 7 | ||
34 - Bud's Call for Help | "Serious" | 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 7 | ||
35 - Aftermath of an Overdose | "Serious" | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 8 | ||
36 - Early Morning Coffee | "Tense" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 5 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | ||
37 - Confrontation and Comfort | "Serious" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | ||
38 - Fran's Confession | "Melancholic" | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 8 | ||
39 - Fran's Confession | "Heartfelt" | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 6 | ||
40 - Uninvited Guests | "light-hearted" | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 3 | 6 | 4 | 6 | 5 | 8 | ||
41 - Bud's Promise | "Melancholic" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | ||
42 - Sheldrake's Anteroom | "Somber" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | ||
43 - Gas Leak Scare | "tense" | 8 | 7 | 9 | 6 | 2 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 3 | ||
44 - Bud Saves Miss Kubelik from Gas Poisoning | "Light-hearted" | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 9 | ||
45 - Matuschka Visits Dobisch | "Serious" | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 3 | 6 | 4 | 7 | 6 | 8 | ||
46 - Dinner for Two Interrupted | "humorous, tense" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | ||
47 - Bud's Confession | "Light and hopeful" | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 8 | ||
48 - The Deal | "Tense" | 7 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | ||
49 - The Aftermath | "Melancholic" | 8.2 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 9 | ||
50 - The Resignation | "Serious" | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 7 | ||
51 - Last Day in the Apartment | "Melancholic" | 7 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | ||
52 - New Year's Eve Confessions | "Hopeful" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 5 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 8 | ||
53 - Reconciliation | "Nostalgic, Bittersweet" | 8 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 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
- Satirical tone and witty narration
- Clear character motivations
- Tasteful romantic tension
- Clever dialogue
- Strong character development
Scene Weaknesses
- Lack of conflict and emotional depth
- Limited plot development
- Slow-paced
- Not much happens in terms of plot development.
- Lack of intense conflict or suspense
Suggestions
- Focus on increasing conflict throughout the screenplay to maintain audience engagement.
- Continue developing characters, especially in scenes that do not have significant plot development.
- Consider adding visual elements to showcase setting and enhance dialogue.
- Rewrite cliched or predictable dialogue to increase the impact of scenes and enhance the emotional depth and believability of characters.
- Be mindful of the pacing and narrative flow of scenes, ensuring that each scene either advances the plot or deepens character development.
Top Correlations and patterns found in the scenes:
Pattern | Explanation |
---|---|
Tone and Overall Grade | There is a strong correlation between the tone of the screenplay and its overall grade. Screenplays described as lighthearted or humorous tend to have higher grades than those described as serious or somber. |
Dialogue and Emotional Impact | There is a positive correlation between the quality of dialogue and the emotional impact of the screenplay. Screenplays with higher quality dialogue tend to have a greater emotional impact on the reader. |
Character Changes and Emotional Impact | Screenplays with well-developed character changes tend to have a greater emotional impact on the reader. This suggests that readers are more invested in the story when they can see characters grow and change throughout the screenplay. |
Concept and Conflict | Screenplays with strong concepts tend to have more conflict. This may be because a well-developed concept provides a strong foundation for creating conflicts that are both engaging and meaningful. |
Here are different Tropes found in the screenplay
Trope | Trope Details | Trope Explanation |
---|
Some Loglines to consider:
A man lends his apartment to his bosses for their affairs, but falls for a coworker who is also involved with their boss. |
A man sacrifices his morals for a promotion and realizes the perks of his job are not worth it. |
A romantic comedy-drama about a man who finds love while enabling his bosses' extramarital affairs. |
A man risks his job to save his coworker from an overdose and confronts his feelings for her and his bosses. |
A story of love, deceit, and self-discovery as a man navigates his career and personal life in the world of corporate affairs. |
Help & FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
After that, the high-level menu will offer insights into the story, themes, and characters.
The scene-by-scene analysis will demonstrate how each scene performs across various criteria, summarized in the column headings.
Click on any scene title to view the full analysis, including critiques and suggestions for improvement.
'Other Analyses' provides various insights into your writing and different perspectives, although it might not lead to significant rewrites of your script.
You can play it for free. If you have scripts analyzed, the AI might recommend exercises from SceneProv to help you improve your writing. Go to the craft tab to see what it recommended.
Let the AI take a turn when you're blocked or you want to riff on a scene. Each scene you create in SceneProv gets graded at the end.
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Engine: Gemini
Highly Recommend
Explanation: The Apartment is an exceptional screenplay with a compelling narrative, well-defined characters, and witty dialogue. The story explores relevant themes with depth and humor, offering a unique blend of romance, drama, and social commentary. While there are minor pacing considerations in the second act and opportunities to further explore Fran's agency, the screenplay's strengths far outweigh any weaknesses. This script has the potential to be a critically acclaimed and commercially successful film.
Engine: Claude
Recommend
Explanation: The screenplay for 'The Apartment' is a well-crafted and emotionally resonant drama that explores the complexities of human relationships, power dynamics, and personal growth. The central character, Bud Baxter, is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist whose journey from a meek office worker to a more self-aware and principled individual is compellingly depicted. The screenplay's strengths lie in its strong character development, particularly the nuanced portrayal of Bud and Fran's relationship, and its ability to balance comedic and dramatic elements seamlessly. While there are a few areas that could benefit from tighter pacing or more explicit character exploration, the screenplay as a whole is a recommended read that is likely to appeal to a wide audience.