Narcos
Executive Summary
Pass/Consider/Recommend/Highly Recommend
Promo
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USP: This gripping crime drama series offers a unique perspective on the war on drugs, delving into the high-stakes world of narco-trafficking, corruption, and the personal sacrifices of those involved. Through a gritty narrative style, intense visual descriptions, and authentic character interactions, the series explores the moral complexities of the drug trade, highlighting the consequences of both criminal actions and the fight against them. The distinctive voice of the writer immerses readers in the dangerous and often brutal world of drug trafficking, offering a fresh and compelling take on this timeless theme.
Overview
Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller, Historical
Setting: 1989-1993, Colombia, Miami, Peru
Overview: The screenplay boasts a strong overall score of 8.1, reflecting its compelling characters, engaging plot, and effective exploration of complex themes. The strengths lie in character development, dialogue, and unpredictability, while areas for improvement include pacing, character changes, and emotional depth.
Themes: Good vs. Evil, The Power of Corruption, The Importance of Determination, The Devastating Consequences of Violence, The Impact of Childhood Trauma, The Search for Redemption, The Complexity of Family
Conflict and Stakes: The main conflict in the story is between the DEA and the Colombian drug cartels. The DEA is trying to stop the flow of cocaine into the United States, while the drug cartels are trying to protect their profits. The stakes are high, as the drug trade is a multi-billion dollar industry and the cartels are willing to use violence to protect their interests.
Comparable Scripts:
Market Analysis
Budget Estimate:$50-70 million
Target Audience Demographics: Adults aged 18-54 who are interested in crime dramas, thrillers, and stories about the drug trade.
Marketability: The screenplay has a strong premise, a talented cast, and a timely subject matter. It is also a well-written and suspenseful thriller that is sure to keep audiences engaged.
The screenplay has a strong premise, great characters...
The screenplay has a great plot, intense action sequences...
Profit Potential: High, due to strong appeal to a wide adult audience and potential for award nominations.
Scene Level Percentiles
Screenplay Analysis
- The screenplay excels in its concept rating, placing in the top 7% of analyzed screenplays. This indicates a strong foundation and a potentially compelling story premise.
- The screenplay demonstrates a high level of unpredictability, ranking in the top 6% of analyzed screenplays. This suggests that the story takes unexpected turns and keeps the audience engaged.
- The screenplay has a strong emotional impact, ranking in the top 32% of analyzed screenplay. This indicates that the story effectively evokes emotions and resonates with the audience.
- The screenplay's plot rating is in the lower third, indicating weaker plot development. Focus on crafting a more engaging and well-structured plot.
- Character development and dialogue could be strengthened. Consider exploring character motivations and relationships in more depth to create more memorable and relatable characters.
- The screenplay's originality score, while above average, could be further enhanced. Strive to introduce unique and fresh elements to set your story apart.
The percentile patterns suggest a balance between intuitive and conceptual writing styles. High rankings in concept and emotional impact indicate conceptual strengths, while average rankings in dialogue and character development suggest some intuitive elements as well.
Balancing Elements- Consider increasing the focus on plot development while maintaining the strong emotional impact and unpredictability.
- Explore ways to enhance character development and dialogue without sacrificing the screenplay's strengths in concept and emotional impact.
integrated
Overall AssessmentThe screenplay shows promise with its strong concept, emotional impact, and unpredictability. By addressing areas for improvement in plot, character development, and originality, the writer can further refine the screenplay and harness its full potential.
How scenes compare to the Scripts in our Library
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Percentile | Before | After |
---|---|---|---|---|
Scene Unpredictability | 7.93 | 88 | Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog: 7.92 | Terminator 2: 7.93 |
Scene Concept | 8.4 | 88 | The Greatest Showman: 8.3 | fight Club: 8.4 |
Script Premise | 8.75 | 86 | Hot Fuzz: 8.50 | Erin Brokovich: 8.75 |
Scene Story Forward | 8.6 | 86 | Gladiator: 8.5 | the 5th element: 8.6 |
Script Visual Impact | 8.50 | 82 | Swingers: 8.25 | a few good men: 8.50 |
Scene Pacing | 8.50 | 78 | Gladiator: 8.49 | Rambo: 8.50 |
Scene Engagement | 9.00 | 76 | Almost Famous: 8.98 | fight Club: 9.00 |
Scene High Stakes | 8.3 | 75 | 12 Monkeys: 8.2 | Vice: 8.3 |
Scene External Goal | 7.54 | 74 | Mr Robot: 7.53 | Narcos: 7.54 |
Scene Originality | 8.86 | 70 | Her: 8.85 | Blade Runner: 8.86 |
Scene Conflict Level | 8.1 | 69 | Gran Torino: 8.0 | fight Club: 8.1 |
Script Structure | 8.25 | 67 | Gladiator: 8.00 | Titanic: 8.25 |
Script Originality | 8.50 | 64 | Swingers: 8.25 | face/off: 8.50 |
Scene Overall | 8.4 | 61 | Zootopia: 8.3 | Knives Out: 8.4 |
Overall Script | 8.10 | 55 | Dr. Jekyll and Mr Hyde : 8.06 | the pursuit of happyness: 8.10 |
Script Structure | 8.14 | 53 | Memento: 8.13 | the pursuit of happyness: 8.14 |
Scene Formatting | 8.18 | 52 | The Pianist: 8.17 | Inglorious Basterds: 8.18 |
Script Characters | 8.25 | 45 | The Hudsucker Proxy: 8.00 | Erin Brokovich: 8.25 |
Scene Plot | 7.8 | 42 | The Greatest Showman: 7.7 | Erin Brokovich: 7.8 |
Scene Characters | 8.1 | 33 | Memento: 8.0 | the pursuit of happyness: 8.1 |
Scene Dialogue | 7.5 | 33 | Witness: 7.4 | Titanic: 7.5 |
Scene Character Changes | 6.4 | 30 | 2001: 6.3 | the 5th element: 6.4 |
Script Conflict | 7.50 | 30 | Zootopia: 7.25 | Casablanca: 7.50 |
Script Emotional Impact | 7.50 | 28 | Midsommar: 7.25 | the pursuit of happyness: 7.50 |
Scene Internal Goal | 8.00 | 27 | KILLING ZOE: 7.98 | fight Club: 8.00 |
Scene Emotional Impact | 7.2 | 24 | House of cards pilot: 7.1 | the 5th element: 7.2 |
Script Theme | 7.50 | 11 | 2001: 7.25 | the pursuit of happyness: 7.50 |
Writer's Voice
Summary:The writer's voice is characterized by its gritty, fast-paced dialogue, and intense visual descriptions. The narrative is driven by the author's unique perspective on the drug war, exploring its high stakes, moral complexities, and the personal sacrifices of those involved in the fight against it.
Best representation: Scene 1 - Takedown at La Dispensaria. Scene 1 effectively showcases the author's unique voice through its blend of action, dialogue, and gritty atmosphere. The fast-paced narrative and vivid descriptions create a sense of urgency and danger, establishing the high stakes and moral complexities of the drug trade.
Memorable Lines:
- Pablo Escobar: Gentlemen, let me tell you who I am. I am Pablo Fucking Escobar. My eyes are everywhere. You can't do a goddamn thing in Antioquia without me knowing about it. I'm going to be President of Colombia one day. (Scene 5)
- Connie: The baby died in my hands. (Scene 11)
- Nancy Reagan: So to my young friends out there, life can be great. But not when you can't see it. So open your eyes to life, to see it in the vivid colors that God gave us as a precious gift to His children. Say yes to your life. And when it comes to drugs and alcohol, just say no. (Scene 13)
- Pablo: We'll take five. (Scene 8)
- Murphy: Now we owned him. And he didn't even know it. (Scene 1)
Writing Style:
The screenplay exhibits a blend of gritty realism, moral ambiguity, and complex character dynamics. It explores societal issues and the darker side of human nature through nuanced storytelling and character-driven narratives. The writing is often intense and suspenseful, with a focus on high-stakes situations and compelling dialogue.
Style Similarities:
- David Simon
- Vince Gilligan
Story Shape
Emotions Elicited
Recommend
Executive Summary
Narcos is a compelling, gritty exploration of the global drug trade, focusing on the rise of Pablo Escobar and the DEA's efforts to combat drug trafficking. With strong character development, particularly of Escobar, and a narrative that skillfully blends action with historical detail, the screenplay offers a deep dive into the complexities of the drug war. While it could benefit from tighter pacing and more developed secondary characters, its strengths in storytelling and character arcs make it a standout script.
- The screenplay effectively captures the gritty and complex nature of the drug trade, providing a deep dive into the lives of both the traffickers and law enforcement. high
- Strong opening and closing scenes that bookend the narrative compellingly, setting the tone and wrapping up with a strong climax. high ( Scene 1 Scene 14 )
- Excellent character development, particularly with Pablo Escobar, showing his transformation and increasing ruthlessness. high ( Scene 12 )
- The screenplay uses action effectively to drive the plot forward, particularly in scenes involving shootouts and tense exchanges. medium ( Scene 11 )
- Dialogue is sharp and authentic, enhancing the realism of the screenplay and deepening character development. medium
- Some scenes could benefit from tighter pacing to maintain momentum and keep the audience engaged throughout. medium
- Certain secondary characters lack depth and could be more fully developed to enhance their impact on the story. medium ( Scene 5 Scene 6 )
- The narrative could include more distinct and varied settings to enhance visual interest and give a broader scope of the drug trade's impact. low
- Some technical descriptions of drug manufacturing and smuggling operations are overly complex and could be simplified for clarity. low ( Scene 8 Scene 9 )
- The emotional impact on victims of the drug trade could be further explored to deepen the narrative's emotional resonance. medium
- The screenplay could benefit from a stronger female presence, adding more depth to the roles of women in this male-dominated story. medium
- There is a lack of exploration of the socio-political context of Colombia which could provide a richer backdrop for the story. medium
- The impact of the drug trade on local communities is underrepresented and could add another layer of complexity to the story. medium
- The screenplay does an excellent job of weaving historical facts with narrative fiction, creating a compelling story that feels both educational and entertaining. high
- The use of archival footage and real events gives the screenplay a documentary feel that adds to its authenticity. high ( Scene 2 Scene 3 )
Screenplay Insights:
Premise: 8.75, The screenplay's premise is compelling and clear, establishing a captivating drug war narrative with morally complex characters. The conflict between the DEA and the Colombian cartels, particularly Pablo Escobar, sets the stage for an engaging story. However, the premise could benefit from further exploration of the internal struggles and motivations of the characters, particularly Murphy and Escobar, to deepen audience engagement and thematic resonance. See More
Structure: 8.25, The screenplay "Narcos: Season 1" exhibits a strong structure and plot development, providing a clear and engaging narrative. The pacing is well-balanced, creating tension and release, and the plot's progression aligns effectively with the intended themes and character arcs. However, there are a few areas where refinements could enhance the screenplay's storytelling dynamics. See More
Theme: 7.5, The screenplay effectively explores themes of corruption, the impact of violence, and the moral dilemmas faced by those involved in the drug war. However, the themes could be further refined to deepen their emotional impact and resonance with the audience. See More
Visual Impact: 8.5, The screenplay presents a vivid and gritty portrayal of the narco-trafficking world, utilizing strong visuals and immersive descriptions to transport readers into the dangerous and thrilling atmosphere of the story. It effectively captures the power struggles, violence, and moral dilemmas that characterize this realm, offering a compelling visual narrative that complements the screenplay's themes and characters. See More
Emotional Impact: 7.5, The screenplay effectively utilizes a range of storytelling techniques to elicit emotional responses, but it could benefit from further development of emotional arcs and character motivations to enhance its overall impact on the audience. See More
Conflict: 7.5, The screenplay effectively presents conflict and stakes in the fast-paced, high-stakes world of the Colombian drug trade. It captures the tension between the relentless DEA agents and the ruthless drug cartels, highlighting the personal and moral challenges faced by all involved. However, it could benefit from further development of stakes and motivations, as well as a more satisfying resolution. Nevertheless, the screenplay lays a foundation for a compelling narrative with its strong characters, complex themes, and exploration of the war on drugs. See More
Originality: 8.5, The screenplay demonstrates originality in its portrayal of the drug trade and the complexities of the characters involved. The narrative provides unique perspectives on morality, duty, and the consequences of violent actions, setting it apart from other crime dramas. See More
Screenplay Story Analysis
Note: This is the overall critique. For scene by scene critique click here
Summaries
- In 1989 Colombia, DEA agents use satellite technology to track a wealthy drug lord named Poison. They triangulate his location and learn that he is planning to meet someone at a restaurant called La Dispensaria at midnight. The agents decide to give the information to another agent instead of Javier Peña.
- DEA agent Steve Murphy informs the Colombian police about Poison's whereabouts, leading to a shootout at La Dispensaria. Poison and several of his men are killed, and Murphy documents the aftermath.
- In a DEA office, an agent faces the ethical dilemma of a bystander's death during an operation. Through historical footage, the scene explores the complexities of good and evil, blurring the lines between right and wrong.
- In this scene, a rat in a laboratory maze self-administers cocaine while a professor and student observe. The student eventually snorts cocaine. The scene transitions to a border checkpoint in Peru/Colombia and a horse riding ring in Medellín, introducing characters involved in smuggling. The conflict arises from the addictive properties of cocaine and the potential conflicts related to smuggling. The tone is intense and suspenseful, highlighting the dangerous world of drug smuggling.
- Pablo Escobar and his associates arrive at a luxury finca in Medellín, mowing down guests with machine guns. Escobar establishes himself as the new leader of the drug cartel, showcasing his ruthlessness and intelligence. He meets with police officers at a checkpoint, bribing them to allow his contraband to pass through. Escobar demonstrates his power by knowing personal details of the officers and offering bribes, ultimately successfully transporting his contraband.
- In Medellín, Pablo and Gustavo meet Cockroach, who proposes a lucrative cocaine deal involving smuggling from Peru and selling in Colombia and Miami. Meanwhile, in a flashback to Miami in 1979, DEA agents Murphy and Kevin Samms arrest surfers with marijuana, foreshadowing the future drug trade.
- DEA colleagues prank Murphy by sending him after a woman who's not interested. Murphy, determined to prove them wrong, gets her phone number, only to find out later that it's real.
- Pablo, Gustavo, and Cockroach visit a jungle processing lab in Peru to observe the making of cocaine paste. They decide to smuggle 5 kilos of cocaine across the border in Renault cars. They also learn about turning the cocaine base into crystals. Pablo's mother shows him a jacket with secret compartments for smuggling. The Lion agrees to wear the jacket to pass through customs at El Dorado International Airport.
- Lion and Lehder discuss cocaine smuggling methods at the airport. They involve pregnant women, a pilot, and a steward to hide cocaine in various items like fish, olive oil cans, and coffee, establishing the initial Narco route from Colombia to America.
- Cockroach trains workers in a jungle lab, Pablo arrives with hookers and offers to improve living conditions, and at a party Pablo negotiates a deal with Gacha and Jorge Ochoa regarding smuggling cocaine to Miami.
- Murphy and Kevin engage in a deadly shootout with armed Colombians, resulting in the death of a teenage suspect. Amidst the chaos, news reaches Murphy of a pregnant woman's fatal cocaine overdose, leaving her baby as the sole survivor of the tragedy.
- Gustavo warns Cockroach about Pablo's wrath, while Pablo suspects betrayal within his ranks. Cockroach's double-dealing is revealed, as he sold Pablo out while running a cocaine operation in Miami. Pablo negotiates with the police, seeking information on a lost drug shipment. Tensions rise as Pablo becomes aware of the betrayal within his organization.
- Assassins on motorcycles, one being La Quica, kill Zapata and Kevin in a parking lot. DEA agent Murphy confronts La Quica and arrests him after he surrenders. Despite Murphy's testimony, La Quica posts bail and flees to Colombia. Murphy reflects on the violence and corruption prevalent during Miami's drug war, highlighting the involvement of the US government in its suppression.
- Murphy contemplates his father's war experience and likens his own fight against the Colombian cocaine trade to a personal war. After a brutal attack on DAS agents, Murphy and Connie embark on a mission to Bogota. Meanwhile, Pablo Escobar, upon learning of Poison's death, raises the bounty on Carillo's head.
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Character Cockroach
Description Cockroach's character arc exhibits inconsistencies. Initially portrayed as cunning and opportunistic, his decision to betray Pablo appears abrupt and driven by plot necessity rather than organic character development. His motivations for feeling entitled to a larger share lack sufficient groundwork, making his betrayal less believable.
( Scene 8 Scene 10 Scene 12 ) -
Character DAS Agents
Description The DAS agents initially present as incorruptible and resistant to Pablo's bribes. However, their sudden susceptibility to his offers in later sequences seems convenient for the plot rather than a natural progression of their characters.
( Scene 5 Scene 12 )
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Description The timeline surrounding the Lion's smuggling operation is unclear. The sequence suggests multiple flights occurred before Pablo established dedicated cocaine labs, but the narrative later implies the labs were already in operation during this period.
( Scene 9 )
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Description The explanation for the intercepted cocaine shipment lacks clarity. While Cockroach's betrayal is revealed, the specifics of how the DAS agents knew the contents and location of the shipment are not adequately addressed.
( Scene 12 )
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Description The casual and informal language used by the surveillance operators, particularly the line 'This fuckwad just told us where he's going,' seems out of place given the professional and high-stakes nature of their work.
( Scene 1 (INT. BEECHCRAFT - NIGHT) )
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Element Scene: Confrontation with authorities
( Scene 5 Scene 12 )
Suggestion The two scenes where Pablo confronts authorities at checkpoints share similar structures and dialogue. While they effectively establish his power and influence, consolidating them into one impactful scene could streamline the narrative.
Characters in the screenplay, and their arcs:
Character | Arc | Critique | Suggestions |
---|---|---|---|
Murphy | Murphy starts off as a seasoned operative with a cynical attitude, but as he navigates through the drug war, he is forced to confront his moral dilemmas and the consequences of his actions. This leads to a transformation where he begins to question his duty and the moral ambiguity of the drug trade, ultimately finding a balance between his sense of duty and his compassion for others. | The character arc for Murphy is well-developed, showcasing his internal struggles and growth throughout the screenplay. However, there could be more specific moments or events that trigger his transformation, providing a clearer progression of his character development. | To improve the character arc, consider adding specific scenes or interactions that challenge Murphy's beliefs and values, forcing him to confront his moral dilemmas head-on. This could include moments where he is faced with difficult decisions that test his sense of duty and morality, ultimately leading to a more impactful and satisfying character arc. |
Pablo Escobar | Pablo Escobar starts off as a ruthless and ambitious drug lord, driven by power and control. As the story progresses, he faces challenges that force him to question his methods and alliances. He begins to realize the consequences of his actions and the impact they have on those around him. This leads to a moment of self-reflection where he must decide whether to continue down his destructive path or seek redemption and change his ways. | The character arc for Pablo Escobar is well-developed, but it could benefit from more internal conflict and emotional depth. By delving deeper into his motivations and inner struggles, the audience can better understand his transformation and growth throughout the story. | To improve the character arc for Pablo Escobar, consider adding scenes that explore his past traumas and how they have shaped his ruthless behavior. Show moments of vulnerability and conflict within him as he grapples with the consequences of his actions. This will make his eventual redemption or downfall more impactful and believable. |
Gustavo | Gustavo starts off as a loyal and supportive partner to Pablo Escobar, always finding solutions to challenges and providing valuable insight into the logistics of their drug operation. As the story progresses, Gustavo's loyalty and dedication are put to the test as he is faced with moral dilemmas and conflicting loyalties. Ultimately, Gustavo must decide between his allegiance to Pablo and his own moral compass, leading to a dramatic turning point in his character arc. | The character arc for Gustavo is compelling and provides an opportunity for internal conflict and growth. However, it could benefit from more specific details about the moral dilemmas and conflicting loyalties that Gustavo faces, as well as a clearer resolution to his internal struggle. | To improve the character arc for Gustavo, consider adding specific scenes or moments that highlight the moral dilemmas he faces, such as a situation where he must choose between following Pablo's orders and doing what he believes is right. Additionally, provide a clearer resolution to Gustavo's internal struggle, showing how he ultimately reconciles his loyalty to Pablo with his own moral compass. |
Theme | Theme Details | Themee Explanation | ||||||||||||
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Good vs. Evil | It explores the complexities of morality, demonstrating that good people can make bad decisions, and vice versa. | The screenplay examines the actions of both the DEA agents and the drug cartels, highlighting that ethical considerations are not always clear-cut. | ||||||||||||
Strengthening Good vs. Evil:
| ||||||||||||||
The Power of Corruption | It shows how corruption can permeate society, affecting everyone from politicians and police officers to ordinary citizens. | The screenplay portrays how the drug trade corrupts individuals and institutions, blurring the lines between right and wrong. | ||||||||||||
The Importance of Determination | It demonstrates the power of determination and resilience in the face of adversity. | The DEA agents' relentless pursuit of the cartels, despite setbacks and danger, showcases the importance of perseverance. | ||||||||||||
The Devastating Consequences of Violence | It depicts the brutal violence of the drug trade, showcasing its devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities. | The screenplay graphically portrays the violence inflicted by the cartels, highlighting the human cost of drug trafficking. | ||||||||||||
The Impact of Childhood Trauma | It delves into the childhood experiences of Pablo Escobar and others, examining how trauma can shape one's actions. | The screenplay explores the formative years of key characters, showing how their past traumas influence their present decisions. | ||||||||||||
The Search for Redemption | It shows the characters' struggles to atone for their past mistakes, seeking redemption and a chance to make things right. | The screenplay depicts the characters' attempts to overcome their past actions, highlighting the human capacity for growth and redemption. | ||||||||||||
The Complexity of Family | It examines the complex dynamics of family relationships, exploring love, loyalty, and betrayal. | The screenplay portrays the challenges and bonds within families, showing how family ties can both support and hinder individuals. |
Screenwriting Resources on Themes
Articles
Site | Description |
---|---|
Studio Binder | Movie Themes: Examples of Common Themes for Screenwriters |
Coverfly | Improving your Screenplay's theme |
John August | Writing from Theme |
YouTube Videos
Title | Description |
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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 take down drug traffickers and seek justice for innocent victims. Their external goal is to track and capture criminals involved in the drug trade. |
External Goals | The protagonist's external goal is to coordinate with law enforcement and carry out covert operations to capture criminals. |
Philosophical Conflict | The protagonist's journey involves the moral ambiguity of surveillance and espionage in the fight against drug trafficking. |
Character Development Contribution: The internal and external goals challenge the protagonist's beliefs and values, leading to growth and reflection. The philosophical conflicts push the protagonist to question their moral compass and make difficult decisions.
Narrative Structure Contribution: The goals and conflicts drive the plot forward, creating tension and conflict that propel the story. They also provide a framework for character development and thematic exploration.
Thematic Depth Contribution: The goals and conflicts deepen the exploration of justice, morality, and power dynamics in the world of drug trafficking. They raise questions about the grey areas between right and wrong, highlighting the complexities of the criminal underworld.
Screenwriting Resources on Goals and Philosophical Conflict
Articles
Site | Description |
---|---|
Creative Screenwriting | How Important Is A Character’s Goal? |
Studio Binder | What is Conflict in a Story? A Quick Reminder of the Purpose of Conflict |
YouTube Videos
Title | Description |
---|---|
How I Build a Story's Philosophical Conflict | How do you build philosophical conflict into your story? Where do you start? And how do you develop it into your characters and their external actions. Today I’m going to break this all down and make it fully clear in this episode. |
Endings: The Good, the Bad, and the Insanely Great | By Michael Arndt: I put this lecture together in 2006, when I started work at Pixar on Toy Story 3. It looks at how to write an "insanely great" ending, using Star Wars, The Graduate, and Little Miss Sunshine as examples. 90 minutes |
Tips for Writing Effective Character Goals | By Jessica Brody (Save the Cat!): Writing character goals is one of the most important jobs of any novelist. But are your character's goals...mushy? |
Story Content | Character Development | Scene Elements | Audience Engagement | Technical Aspects | |||||||||||||||||
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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 - Tracking Poison: The DEA vs. The Cartels | Urgent, Complex, Fast-paced, Hard-hitting, Epic | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
2 - Takedown at La Dispensaria | Suspenseful, Intense, Dramatic, Action-packed | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
3 - The Morality of War | Serious, Reflective, Informative | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
4 - The Dark World of Drug Smuggling | Dark, Intense, Informative | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
5 - The Rise of Pablo Escobar | Intense, Suspenseful, Confrontational, Menacing | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
6 - Cocaine Business Proposal and DEA Arrest | Dark, Intense, Suspenseful | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
7 - The Prank | Humorous, Light-hearted, Sarcastic | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 8 | 7.5 | 3 | 8 | 2 | 5 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
8 - Cocaine Smuggling Operation | Dark, Intense, Suspenseful, Mysterious | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
9 - Cocaine Smuggling at Miami International Airport | Dark, Intense, Suspenseful | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
10 - Jungle Negotiations | Intense, Suspenseful, Dark, Businesslike | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
11 - Violent Night in Miami | Dark, Intense, Emotional | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
12 - Betrayal and Negotiation at Hacienda Napoles | Intense, Suspenseful, Confrontational, Serious | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7.5 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 8 | |
13 - The Assassination of Zapata and Kevin | Intense, Suspenseful, Dark, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
14 - The Battle Begins | Intense, Dark, Suspenseful | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.5 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 8.5 | 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
- Intense atmosphere
- Strong character dynamics
- High-stakes conflict
- Engaging dialogue
- Compelling conflict
Scene Weaknesses
- Limited emotional depth
- Lack of character development
- Focus on exposition over dialogue
- Some clichéd dialogue in certain moments
- Limited focus on character development
Suggestions
- Explore the emotional depths of the characters more thoroughly
- Develop and flesh out the characters more fully
- Maintain a balance between exposition and dialogue
- Avoid using clichéd dialogue
- Ensure a strong focus on character development throughout the screenplay
- Physical environment: The world of the screenplay is set in Colombia during the rise of narco-trafficking. The physical environment is diverse, with lush jungles, snow-capped volcanoes, and alpine lakes. The urban settings are chaotic and dangerous, with a heavy presence of law enforcement and drug-related violence.
- Culture: The culture of the screenplay is heavily influenced by the drug trade. The wealthy landowners and politicians are involved in the cocaine business, while the peasants and the poor suffer the consequences of violence and corruption. The screenplay also depicts the Colombian-American cultural divide, as the DEA agents struggle to understand the complex social and political dynamics of Colombia.
- Society: The societal structure of the screenplay is based on a hierarchy of power and corruption. The drug cartels are at the top, with the government and law enforcement often in their pockets. The people at the bottom of the hierarchy are the poor, who are often caught in the crossfire of the drug war.
- Technology: The screenplay depicts a world where technology is used both to fight and facilitate the drug trade. The DEA uses surveillance technology to track the drug cartels, while the cartels use advanced weapons and communications systems to stay ahead of law enforcement.
- Characters influence: The world of the screenplay shapes the characters' experiences and actions in a number of ways. The physical environment is often hostile and dangerous, forcing the characters to make difficult choices in order to survive. The culture of violence and corruption makes it difficult for the characters to trust each other, and the societal hierarchy makes it difficult for them to achieve justice.
- Narrative contribution: The world of the screenplay contributes to the narrative by providing a setting for the action and by shaping the characters' motivations and actions. The physical environment is a constant source of danger, and the culture of violence and corruption makes it difficult for the characters to achieve their goals. The societal hierarchy also plays a role in the narrative, as the characters must navigate a complex web of power and corruption in order to achieve their goals.
- Thematic depth contribution: The world of the screenplay contributes to the thematic depth by exploring the themes of violence, corruption, and redemption. The violence of the drug trade is a constant presence in the screenplay, and the characters are often forced to make difficult choices in order to survive. The corruption of the government and law enforcement is also a major theme, as the characters must navigate a complex web of power and corruption in order to achieve their goals. The screenplay also explores the theme of redemption, as the characters struggle to find meaning in a world that is often violent and corrupt.
Voice Analysis | |
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Summary: | The writer's voice is characterized by its gritty, fast-paced dialogue, and intense visual descriptions. The narrative is driven by the author's unique perspective on the drug war, exploring its high stakes, moral complexities, and the personal sacrifices of those involved in the fight against it. |
Voice Contribution | The writer's voice contributes to the script by creating a sense of urgency and tension, immersing the reader in the dangerous and often brutal world of drug trafficking. The use of vivid imagery and visceral language enhances the emotional impact of the story, allowing the reader to experience the physical and psychological toll of the drug war. |
Best Representation Scene | 1 - Tracking Poison: The DEA vs. The Cartels |
Best Scene Explanation | Scene 1 effectively showcases the author's unique voice through its blend of action, dialogue, and gritty atmosphere. The fast-paced narrative and vivid descriptions create a sense of urgency and danger, establishing the high stakes and moral complexities of the drug trade. |
Top Correlations and patterns found in the scenes:
Pattern | Explanation |
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High Scores in Concept and Plot | |
Dialogue and Emotional Impact Relationship | |
Low Humor and High Stakes | |
Complex Tone and Character Changes | |
Dark and Intense Style |
Writer's Craft Overall Analysis
The analyzed screenplay showcases a strong foundation in storytelling techniques, character development, and dialogue. The writer effectively combines action, drama, and suspense to create engaging scenes that keep the audience invested in the narrative. However, there are areas where the writer can refine their craft to enhance the overall impact and depth of their writing.
Key Improvement Areas
Suggestions
Type | Suggestion | Rationale |
---|---|---|
Book | Read 'The Anatomy of Story' by John Truby for in-depth insights into character development, plot structure, and storytelling techniques. | This book provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the essential elements of storytelling and can help the writer refine their character arcs and motivations. |
Video | Watch interviews and masterclasses with experienced screenwriters to learn their perspectives on dialogue writing. | Listening to professionals discuss their craft can offer valuable insights into creating authentic and engaging dialogue that drives the narrative forward. |
Exercise | Practice writing dialogue-heavy scenes with a focus on creating distinct character voices and natural speech patterns.Practice In SceneProv | Regularly practicing dialogue writing can help the writer improve their ability to craft believable and memorable characters. |
Exercise | Analyze the pacing of successful screenplays by breaking them down into individual scenes and studying how the scenes transition and contribute to the overall flow.Practice In SceneProv | This exercise will enhance the writer's understanding of effective pacing and enable them to apply these techniques to their own work. |
Course | Consider enrolling in a screenwriting course or workshop to receive personalized feedback and guidance from experienced industry professionals. | Structured learning opportunities can provide the writer with targeted support and mentorship, accelerating their growth and improving their craft. |
Here are different Tropes found in the screenplay
Trope | Trope Details | Trope Explanation |
---|---|---|
Voiceover Introduction | The screenplay opens with a voiceover by DEA Agent Steve Murphy providing background information on the setting and characters. | Voiceover introductions are a common trope used in screenplays to quickly provide exposition and set the scene for the audience. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'Dexter,' where the main character provides voiceover narration to give insight into his thoughts and motivations. |
Shootout at a Drug Lord's Party | A shootout occurs at a drug lord's party, resulting in the deaths of several individuals, including the drug lord himself. | Shootouts at drug lord parties are a common trope in crime dramas and action films to establish the dangerous and violent world of drug trafficking. An example of this trope can be seen in the movie 'Scarface,' where a similar shootout takes place at a drug lord's mansion. |
Corrupt Police Officers | Pablo Escobar bribes police officers to allow his contraband trucks to pass through a checkpoint. | Corrupt police officers working for drug lords is a common trope in crime dramas to show the extent of criminal influence and corruption in law enforcement. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'The Wire,' where various police officers are shown to be on the payroll of drug dealers. |
Flashback to Younger Characters | A flashback to young DEA agents Murphy and Kevin chasing after and arresting two surfers with a backpack full of marijuana. | Flashbacks to younger versions of characters are a common trope used to provide backstory and context for the main narrative. An example of this trope can be seen in the movie 'Goodfellas,' where the main character's past as a young gangster is shown through flashbacks. |
Betrayal by Underling | Cockroach betrays Pablo Escobar by selling him out to the authorities and running his own cocaine operation in Miami. | Betrayal by a trusted underling is a common trope in crime dramas to create tension and conflict within criminal organizations. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'Breaking Bad,' where the main character's partner betrays him and starts his own drug empire. |
Assassination Attempt | Two assassins open fire on DEA agents Zapata and Kevin, resulting in their deaths. | Assassination attempts on law enforcement officers are a common trope in crime dramas to raise the stakes and show the dangers faced by those fighting against criminal organizations. An example of this trope can be seen in the movie 'The Departed,' where an undercover cop is targeted for assassination by the mob. |
Drug Smuggling Operation | Characters are involved in smuggling cocaine across borders using various methods, including hiding it in fish, olive oil cans, and coffee packages. | Drug smuggling operations are a common trope in crime dramas to show the intricate and risky nature of the illegal drug trade. An example of this trope can be seen in the movie 'Traffic,' where different aspects of drug smuggling are explored through multiple storylines. |
Ruthless Drug Lord | Pablo Escobar is introduced as a ruthless drug lord known for his intelligence, connections, and willingness to use violence. | Ruthless drug lords are a common trope in crime dramas to create a formidable antagonist for law enforcement and other characters. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'Narcos,' which also depicts the rise and fall of Pablo Escobar. |
Montage Sequence | A montage of historical footage and voiceover narration is used to explore the idea that good and bad are relative concepts. | Montage sequences are a common trope in screenplays to condense information and convey complex ideas or emotions through visual and auditory elements. An example of this trope can be seen in the movie 'The Godfather Part II,' where a montage is used to show the parallel rise of two characters in different time periods. |
Cocaine Addiction Theme | Scenes depict characters using and smuggling cocaine, highlighting the theme of addiction and its consequences. | Themes of drug addiction and its impact on individuals and society are common tropes in crime dramas to explore the human cost of the drug trade. An example of this trope can be seen in the TV show 'The Sopranos,' where the main character struggles with addiction and its effects on his family. |
Memorable lines in the script:
Scene Number | Line |
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5 | Pablo Escobar: Gentlemen, let me tell you who I am. I am Pablo Fucking Escobar. My eyes are everywhere. You can't do a goddamn thing in Antioquia without me knowing about it. I'm going to be President of Colombia one day. |
11 | Connie: The baby died in my hands. |
13 | Nancy Reagan: So to my young friends out there, life can be great. But not when you can't see it. So open your eyes to life, to see it in the vivid colors that God gave us as a precious gift to His children. Say yes to your life. And when it comes to drugs and alcohol, just say no. |
8 | Pablo: We'll take five. |
1 | Murphy: Now we owned him. And he didn't even know it. |
Some Loglines to consider:
A gritty narrative exploring the rise of Pablo Escobar as the kingpin of the Medellín cartel and the DEA's relentless pursuit to bring him down. |
An intense portrayal of the global drug trade, highlighting the complex dynamics between drug lords, law enforcement, and the victims caught in between. |
From the jungles of Colombia to the streets of Miami, follow the explosive story of the drug war that shook the world. |
Witness the transformation of a small-time smuggler into one of the world's most notorious criminals and the international effort to stop his empire. |
Explore the moral ambiguities of the war on drugs through the intertwined lives of traffickers, cops, and innocents. |
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Recommend
Explanation: Narcos is a compelling, gritty exploration of the global drug trade, focusing on the rise of Pablo Escobar and the DEA's efforts to combat drug trafficking. With strong character development, particularly of Escobar, and a narrative that skillfully blends action with historical detail, the screenplay offers a deep dive into the complexities of the drug war. While it could benefit from tighter pacing and more developed secondary characters, its strengths in storytelling and character arcs make it a standout script.