Knives Out
Executive Summary
Pass/Consider/Recommend/Highly Recommend
This changed recently. Ratings are subjective. So you get two engines' ratings to compare.
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Promo
Note: This is for fun only. There will be many wrong things in the mock poster. It doesn't mean the AI misunderstood your story.
USP: This modern murder mystery with a unique voice that blends sharp dialogue, dark humor, and intricate plot twists offers a fresh take on the genre. Through its exploration of complex family dynamics, moral dilemmas, and unexpected revelations, this screenplay captivates the audience, keeping them engaged and guessing until the very end.
Overview
Genres: Mystery, Drama, Thriller, Comedy, Crime
Setting: Contemporary, Thrombey estate and various other locations in Boston
Overview: The screenplay for "Knives Out" exhibits strong potential, with a captivating premise, well-developed characters, and an engaging narrative. The overall score of 8.41 reflects its strengths in character development, dialogue, and unpredictability. However, opportunities exist to further enhance the emotional depth, pacing, and thematic exploration.
Themes: Family Dynamics, Immigration and Identity, Truth and Deception, Wealth and Privilege
Conflict and Stakes: The primary conflicts revolve around Marta's innocence in Harlan's death, the family's inheritance, and the truth behind the mysterious events at the Thrombey estate. The stakes include Marta's freedom, the family's fortune, and the reputation of the Thrombey family.
Overall Mood: Suspenseful and mysterious
Mood/Tone at Key Scenes:
- Scene 1: Somber and mysterious tone as the housemaid discovers Harlan Thrombey's body
Standout Features:
- Ensemble Cast: Featuring a talented ensemble cast of established and rising stars
- Twists and Turns : Intriguing plot twists and unexpected revelations keep the audience engaged
- Social Commentary : Explores relevant social themes such as class divide and immigration issues
Comparable Scripts:
Market Analysis
Budget Estimate:$30-40 million
Target Audience Demographics: Adults aged 25-54, fans of mystery thrillers, drama, and ensemble casts
Marketability: Strong ensemble cast, gripping storyline, and blend of mystery and drama make it highly marketable
Unique characters and unexpected plot twists make it appealing to a diverse audience
Relevant social themes, strong performances, and critical acclaim potential contribute to its marketability
Profit Potential: High, due to its wide appeal, potential for awards recognition, and strong word-of-mouth potential
Scene Level Percentiles
Conceptual writing with strong conflict and story progression, but character development and formatting require improvement.
Emotions Elicited Percentiles
Robert McKee: "The audience doesn’t go to the movies to see plot; they go to feel emotion, to be moved."
This is a rough estimate of how the average intensity of emotions elicited in this script compare to all scripts in the Vault (all genres).
Higher isn't necessarily better. This is FYI.
This is a rough estimate of how the average intensity of emotions elicited in this script compare to all scripts in the Vault (all genres).
Higher isn't necessarily better. This is FYI.
Screenplay Analysis
Key Strengths
Note: The ratings are the averages of all the scenes.
- High conflict level (84.55%) indicates compelling tension and drama.
- Strong story forward momentum (89.82%) suggests a captivating and engaging narrative.
- Lower character ratings (23.57%) suggest characters may need more development and depth.
- Formatting score (49.44%) could be improved to enhance readability and presentation.
The writer potentially leans towards conceptual writing, with higher percentiles in concept, plot, and structure.
Balancing Elements- Consider strengthening character development to balance the high conflict level.
- Explore ways to improve formatting without compromising narrative flow.
Conceptual
Overall AssessmentThe screenplay shows potential for a compelling narrative with strong conflict and forward momentum, but could benefit from enhanced character development and formatting.
How this was done: Each criteria is ranked in comparison to scripts in our Vault
(such as The Matrix, Breaking Bad, etc.) This allows you to see where you stand compared to other
produced scripts for each criteria.
How scenes compare to the Scripts in our Library
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Percentile | Before | After |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Script Visual Impact | 9.25 | 98 | The whale: 9.00 | Knives Out: 9.25 |
| Scene Engagement | 9.02 | 94 | Jack Reacher: 9.00 | the dark knight rises: 9.02 |
| Script Characters | 8.75 | 87 | The Pianist: 8.50 | the dark knight rises: 8.75 |
| Overall Script | 8.41 | 87 | Gladiator: 8.40 | Knives Out: 8.41 |
| Scene Story Forward | 8.6 | 86 | Narcos Pilot: 8.5 | the 5th element: 8.6 |
| Scene Unpredictability | 7.91 | 86 | the dark knight rises: 7.90 | Knives Out: 7.91 |
| Scene Conflict Level | 8.5 | 85 | Sherlock Holmes: 8.4 | Rambo: 8.5 |
| Script Premise | 8.75 | 85 | Hot Fuzz: 8.50 | Erin Brokovich: 8.75 |
| Scene Internal Goal | 8.18 | 78 | a few good men: 8.17 | Knives Out: 8.18 |
| Script Originality | 8.75 | 77 | Inside Out: 8.50 | Casablanca: 8.75 |
| Script Conflict | 8.25 | 77 | KILLING ZOE: 8.00 | the dark knight rises: 8.25 |
| Scene Dialogue | 8.0 | 73 | The Addams Family: 7.9 | fight Club: 8.0 |
| Scene Plot | 8.2 | 71 | The Pianist: 8.1 | Casablanca: 8.2 |
| Scene High Stakes | 8.2 | 70 | Wild Wild West: 8.1 | Titanic: 8.2 |
| Script Structure | 8.22 | 67 | Gran Torino: 8.21 | Knives Out: 8.22 |
| Script Structure | 8.25 | 65 | Gladiator: 8.00 | Titanic: 8.25 |
| Scene Character Changes | 7.1 | 65 | Cruel Intentions: 7.0 | Knives Out: 7.1 |
| Scene Concept | 8.2 | 65 | Ted: 8.1 | face/off: 8.2 |
| Scene Overall | 8.4 | 62 | Zootopia: 8.3 | Knives Out: 8.4 |
| Scene External Goal | 7.34 | 58 | scream : 7.33 | Knives Out: 7.34 |
| Scene Originality | 8.78 | 56 | Fleabag: 8.77 | Casablanca: 8.78 |
| Scene Formatting | 8.20 | 56 | American Beauty: 8.19 | Knives Out: 8.20 |
| Scene Emotional Impact | 7.7 | 50 | Jack Reacher: 7.6 | severance (TV): 7.7 |
| Script Theme | 8.25 | 48 | Stranger Things: 8.00 | the dark knight rises: 8.25 |
| Script Emotional Impact | 7.75 | 45 | Inception: 7.50 | Erin Brokovich: 7.75 |
| Scene Pacing | 8.27 | 45 | glass Onion Knives Out : 8.26 | Knives Out: 8.27 |
| Scene Characters | 8.0 | 23 | Narcos Pilot: 7.9 | Knives Out: 8.0 |
Writer's Voice
Summary:The writer's voice is characterized by sharp dialogue, dark humor, and intricate plot twists. It adds depth and complexity to the story, enhancing the mood and themes of the screenplay.
Best representation: Scene 7 - Confrontation in the Library. This scene effectively encapsulates the writer's unique voice through its blend of sharp dialogue, underlying tensions, and complex character dynamics.
Memorable Lines:
- Blanc: When good people get desperate, the knives come out. (Scene 26)
- Marta: I'm all just pure adrenaline now it's like I swallowed bees. (Scene 34)
- Fran: you... did this... won't... get away.. with this (Scene 36)
- Fran: you... did this... (Scene 43)
- Benoit Blanc: I want you to remember something very important: you won not by playing the game Harlan's way, but yours. (Scene 45)
Writing Style:
The overall writing style of the screenplay is characterized by dark and suspenseful narratives, intricate plots, and complex character dynamics. The dialogue is often sharp and witty, driving the plot forward and revealing the characters' motivations and conflicts. The scenes analyzed suggest that the screenplay draws inspiration from various writing styles, including those of Agatha Christie, Gillian Flynn, Rian Johnson, and Noah Baumbach.
Style Similarities:
- Gillian Flynn
- Christopher Nolan
- Aaron Sorkin
- Rian Johnson
Story Shape
Emotions Elicited
Engine: Gemini
Screenplay Rating:
Highly Recommend
Executive Summary
Knives Out is a highly engaging and well-crafted murder mystery with a unique premise, a diverse cast of characters, and witty dialogue. The screenplay masterfully constructs a complex plot with numerous twists and turns, keeping the audience guessing until the very end. While the motivations of some characters could be explored in greater depth, the overall narrative strength and pacing are excellent, making this screenplay a highly recommendable read.
Strengths
- The screenplay masterfully constructs a complex and engaging mystery with numerous twists and turns, keeping the audience guessing until the very end. high
- The initial scene effectively sets the stage for the mystery, introducing the intriguing setting and the central event of Harlan's death. The subsequent flashbacks further deepen the mystery and reveal the complexities of Harlan's relationships with his family. high ( Scene 1 Scene 13 Scene 14 )
- The screenplay boasts a diverse and well-developed cast of characters, each with their own unique motivations and flaws. high
- The dialogue is sharp, witty, and often humorous, adding to the entertainment value of the screenplay. medium
- The pacing of the screenplay is excellent, balancing moments of suspense with character development and humor, keeping the audience engaged throughout. medium
Areas of Improvement
- The motivations of some characters, particularly the Thrombey family members, could be explored in greater depth to provide a more nuanced understanding of their actions. medium
MissingElements
NotablePoints
- The screenplay cleverly subverts typical mystery tropes, creating a unique and unexpected narrative. high
- The theme of wealth and privilege is subtly woven into the narrative, adding depth and social commentary to the story. medium
- The unexpected alliance between Marta and Ransom adds an interesting dynamic to the story and further complicates the mystery. medium ( Scene 27 Scene 30 )
Engine: Claude
Screenplay Rating:
Recommend
Executive Summary
The screenplay for 'Knives Out' is a well-crafted, engaging, and thematically rich murder mystery that keeps the audience guessing and entertains throughout. The strong narrative structure, exceptional character development, and sharp dialogue make it a highly recommended work. While a few minor pacing issues and a slightly understated protagonist's arc could be improved, the screenplay's overall strengths, innovative storytelling, and exploration of complex themes make it a compelling and distinctive piece that would appeal to a wide audience.
Strengths
- The screenplay has a strong narrative structure that keeps the audience engaged throughout the story. The plot twists and reveals are well-paced and effectively executed. high
- The characterization is exceptional, with each character being well-developed and having a distinct personality and motivations. The relationships between the characters are complex and nuanced. high
- The dialogue is sharp, witty, and natural, capturing the unique voices of the characters. It serves to further the plot and deepen the characters' relationships. high
- The screenplay masterfully blends elements of mystery, suspense, and dark humor, creating a compelling and entertaining viewing experience. high
- The screenplay explores complex themes of inheritance, family dynamics, and moral ambiguity in a nuanced and thought-provoking manner. high
Areas of Improvement
- While the overall pacing is strong, there are a few instances where the narrative slows down or drags, which could be tightened to maintain the momentum. medium
MissingElements
- The screenplay could benefit from a more explicit exploration of the protagonist's (Marta's) internal journey and character arc, as her transformation and growth are somewhat understated. medium
NotablePoints
- The screenplay's innovative use of unreliable narration and shifting perspectives is a highlight, keeping the audience guessing and engaged throughout the story. high
- The screenplay's thematic exploration of inheritance, privilege, and moral responsibility is nuanced and thought-provoking, adding depth to the narrative. high
- The screenplay's stylistic elements, such as the use of symbolism (e.g., the GO board, Harlan's baseball) and visual storytelling, are effective in conveying the story's themes and character arcs. high
Engine: GPT4
Screenplay Rating:
Highly Recommend
Executive Summary
The screenplay 'Knives Out' presents a compelling murder mystery with a richly woven plot full of twists and character depth. It balances humor, suspense, and drama effectively, making it a standout script that should attract audiences who enjoy clever storytelling and complex characters.
Strengths
- The screenplay features a complex and engaging plot with multiple twists that maintain suspense and intrigue throughout. high
- Character development, especially of Marta and Ransom, is well-executed, showing depth and evolution in their personalities and motives. high ( Scene 38 Scene 44 )
- The dialogue is sharp and witty, contributing to character development and the overall tone of the screenplay. medium ( Scene 44 )
- The use of settings and props (like the fake knife and the toxicology report) are cleverly integrated into the plot, enhancing the storytelling. medium ( Scene 45 )
- The screenplay maintains a good pace, balancing slower, more introspective sections with fast-paced, dramatic moments. medium
Areas of Improvement
- Some scenes may benefit from slight trimming to enhance pacing and maintain tension without over-explaining scenarios. medium
- The motivations behind some secondary characters' actions could be clarified to enhance the plot's believability. low
MissingElements
- A deeper exploration of the emotional impact of Harlan's death on the family could add depth to the characters' reactions and decisions. medium
NotablePoints
- The screenplay effectively uses humor and irony, particularly through Blanc's character, which adds a unique flavor to the murder mystery genre. high
- The twist where Marta is revealed to have unknowingly corrected her medication mistake adds a brilliant layer of irony and suspense. high ( Scene 44 )
Screenplay Insights:
Characters: 8.75, The screenplay exhibits notable strengths in character development, creating a cast of well-rounded and engaging individuals. However, there are opportunities to further refine the emotional depth and progression of certain characters to enhance their relatability and impact on the audience. See More
Premise: 8.75, The screenplay for "Knives Out" boasts a captivating and clear premise, skillfully blending elements of classic whodunit mysteries with contemporary social commentary. The setup effectively intrigues the audience with its intricate family dynamics, suspicious characters, and the enigmatic presence of Benoit Blanc. However, the initial focus on Marta's vulnerability could be further enhanced by highlighting her unique skills and connection to Harlan, providing a stronger hook for her central role in unraveling the mystery. See More
Structure: 8.25, The screenplay demonstrates a solid narrative foundation with an intriguing murder mystery and a diverse cast of characters. However, its pacing could be tightened, and certain plot points benefit from further development. Overall, the screenplay holds promise but may require some fine-tuning to enhance its storytelling effectiveness. See More
Theme: 8.25, The screenplay effectively explores themes of family dynamics, morality, and the clash between tradition and modernity. The themes are interwoven into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth and resonance to the story. While the exploration of some themes could be further refined, the screenplay successfully conveys its messages and engages the audience on multiple levels. See More
Visual Impact: 9.25, This screenplay features detailed and creative visual descriptions that successfully immerse readers in the film's world, enhance the emotional tone, and support the narrative effectively. However, there are opportunities to further elevate the visual storytelling by exploring lighting techniques and integrating more symbolism. See More
Emotional Impact: 7.75, The screenplay showcases strong emotional depth by eliciting empathy for its nuanced characters and their struggles. It effectively employs emotional variety and consistency, immersing the audience in a range of feelings. However, opportunities exist to further enhance emotional resonance by deepening character connections and exploring transformative emotional arcs. See More
Conflict: 8.25, The screenplay effectively employs conflict and stakes to generate tension and engage the audience. The central conflict, revolving around the circumstances of Harlan Thrombey's death and the subsequent investigation, is well-defined and compelling. The stakes are significant, encompassing not only the fate of Marta Cabrera but also the dynamics and secrets within the Thrombey family. However, the narrative could benefit from further escalation of stakes, particularly in the second and third acts, to maintain a consistently high level of audience engagement. See More
Originality: 8.75, The screenplay showcases originality and creative approaches through its exploration of the nuances of family relationships and the complexities of human nature. The writer effectively utilizes a non-linear narrative structure, compelling characters, and the subversion of genre expectations, resulting in a fresh and engaging cinematic experience. See More
Premise: 8.75, The screenplay for "Knives Out" boasts a captivating and clear premise, skillfully blending elements of classic whodunit mysteries with contemporary social commentary. The setup effectively intrigues the audience with its intricate family dynamics, suspicious characters, and the enigmatic presence of Benoit Blanc. However, the initial focus on Marta's vulnerability could be further enhanced by highlighting her unique skills and connection to Harlan, providing a stronger hook for her central role in unraveling the mystery. See More
Structure: 8.25, The screenplay demonstrates a solid narrative foundation with an intriguing murder mystery and a diverse cast of characters. However, its pacing could be tightened, and certain plot points benefit from further development. Overall, the screenplay holds promise but may require some fine-tuning to enhance its storytelling effectiveness. See More
Theme: 8.25, The screenplay effectively explores themes of family dynamics, morality, and the clash between tradition and modernity. The themes are interwoven into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth and resonance to the story. While the exploration of some themes could be further refined, the screenplay successfully conveys its messages and engages the audience on multiple levels. See More
Visual Impact: 9.25, This screenplay features detailed and creative visual descriptions that successfully immerse readers in the film's world, enhance the emotional tone, and support the narrative effectively. However, there are opportunities to further elevate the visual storytelling by exploring lighting techniques and integrating more symbolism. See More
Emotional Impact: 7.75, The screenplay showcases strong emotional depth by eliciting empathy for its nuanced characters and their struggles. It effectively employs emotional variety and consistency, immersing the audience in a range of feelings. However, opportunities exist to further enhance emotional resonance by deepening character connections and exploring transformative emotional arcs. See More
Conflict: 8.25, The screenplay effectively employs conflict and stakes to generate tension and engage the audience. The central conflict, revolving around the circumstances of Harlan Thrombey's death and the subsequent investigation, is well-defined and compelling. The stakes are significant, encompassing not only the fate of Marta Cabrera but also the dynamics and secrets within the Thrombey family. However, the narrative could benefit from further escalation of stakes, particularly in the second and third acts, to maintain a consistently high level of audience engagement. See More
Originality: 8.75, The screenplay showcases originality and creative approaches through its exploration of the nuances of family relationships and the complexities of human nature. The writer effectively utilizes a non-linear narrative structure, compelling characters, and the subversion of genre expectations, resulting in a fresh and engaging cinematic experience. See More
Screenplay Story Analysis
Note: This is the overall critique. For scene by scene critique click here
Summaries
- In the wake of wealthy mystery novelist Harlan Thrombey's murder, housemaid Fran stumbles upon his lifeless body. As the investigation commences a week later, immigrant caretaker Marta Cabrera learns of his demise and heads to the Thrombey estate. Marta's grief over her friend's recent suicide adds to her distress as she becomes a suspect in Thrombey's murder, prompting concerns from her family.
- Nurse Marta and her friend Meg arrive at the Thrombey estate to find the funeral has already taken place. Marta is upset and Mrs. Thrombey apologizes for the exclusion. Marta meets with police detectives to give her statement about the events leading up to the patriarch's death.
- The Thrombey family is gathered for a party at their home. Guests mingle and enjoy each other's company. Lieutenant Elliott interviews family members, including Linda, Richard, Walt, and Greatnana, about Harlan and their relationships with him. The scene ends with Walt being interviewed about his involvement in the family business.
- Amidst the celebration, Donna is startled by Richard's clumsy accident. Walt, oblivious, introduces his pensive son, Jacob. Family members share mixed views on Harlan. Joni dances and praises his philosophy. Meg reveals his financial support. Linda's frustration with Meg's absence lingers.
- Lieutenant Elliott introduces renowned private investigator Benoit Blanc to the Thrombey family during their questioning about Harlan's death. Blanc reveals his presence is at the request of an anonymous client and assures he will serve as a passive observer. Despite initial skepticism, the family agrees to his participation. Blanc begins by inquiring about Marta, Harlan's nurse, described by the family as a valued member of their household.
- In the library, Blanc questions Linda and Richard about Walt. Richard belittles Walt's career, while Linda dismisses his intelligence. A flashback reveals Walt arguing with Harlan at the party, resulting in his dismissal from the publishing house.
- Walt deceives Blanc about his conversation with Harlan, divulging information about Ransom's argument with him. Blanc interrogates Richard about a potential altercation with Harlan, prompting a flashback revealing Harlan's confrontation with Richard over an affair.
- In the library, Richard reveals Harlan's decision to put his mother in a nursing home, causing tension with Linda. Joni arrives and explains a tuition payment mix-up. Blanc questions her, triggering a flashback where Harlan accuses Joni of embezzling tuition payments. Joni dismisses it as a wiring issue, and Blanc ends the interview for a break. The scene ends with Joni leaving the library rattled and Richard searching Harlan's desk.
- Lieutenant Elliott expresses disappointment in the investigation's lack of progress while Blanc examines a baseball. Marta, Harlan's nurse, overhears their conversation and is startled when Blanc appears beside her. He invites her to join them and questions her about her relationship with Harlan. She reveals her care for him and her inability to lie. Blanc confronts her with knowledge of Richard's affair, shocking her.
- Marta denies her affair with Richard, followed by vomiting. Blanc proposes that Richard's father-in-law confronted him about the affair, threatening to reveal it to Marta. Elliott expresses doubt about the motive's strength. Blanc introduces Joni, a lifestyle guru supported by Harlan, and suggests Harlan's plans to terminate her stipend. The scene concludes with Marta attempting to re-enter the house.
- In this scene, Detective Blanc questions Marta, Elliott, and Wagner about Joni's financial situation and Walter's potential involvement. Blanc reveals that he was hired anonymously to investigate Harlan's death and asks for everyone's whereabouts at the time of death. Elliott provides details about the family's whereabouts, while Wagner expresses skepticism about Joni's motive. Blanc confronts Elliott and Wagner about the weak alibis and motives presented by the family members and suggests that someone deliberately withheld information about Harlan's intentions to fire Walter.
- During the night of Harlan Thrombey's murder, Linda hears creaking noises that disturb her sleep. She initially dismisses them but later believes they indicate someone's presence in the house. Harlan is seen coming down the stairs twice, once at midnight and again at 12:15 AM, which is after the estimated time of death. Meg arrives home around 12:30 AM and retires to bed. Marta is observed leaving the house at midnight, and Joni visits Harlan in his office before departing. The scene raises questions about the events surrounding Harlan's death and the involvement of the individuals present.
- Marta leads Harlan up the creaky stairs to his bedroom, but he ignores her and continues to his office. Marta grabs a med kit and follows him, exasperated.
- Marta reluctantly plays a game of GO with Harlan to earn the right to give him his medicine. As they play, Marta realizes she has given him the wrong dosage and must help him frame her for his murder to protect her mother.
- In a flashback, Marta follows Harlan's elaborate instructions to create an alibi for his murder, successfully deceiving Walt and Jacob.
- Marta climbs to Harlan's bedroom, hides her disguise, but encounters Greatnana's watchful gaze. Harlan instructs Marta to tell a specific story to the police, which she does. Despite the stress, Marta endures the questioning and vomits afterward. A flashback reveals Fran's suspicions about Harlan's death.
- Marta faces questions from Richard about her immigration status. Meanwhile, Harlan and Ransom clash over escalating tensions. Marta finds solace in a secret smoke session with Meg.
- Walt and Meg offer financial support to Marta, while Detective Blanc investigates Harlan's death and seeks Marta's assistance.
- Marta witnesses Harlan Thrombey's suicide and keeps it a secret. She retrieves the security tape from the night of his death, which shows Harlan instructing her to avoid the security cameras.
- As Lieutenant Elliott, Trooper Wagner, Blanc, and Marta search the Thrombey estate woods, Marta's footprints from the night before are discovered. Blanc notices her attempts to cover her tracks, causing tension and suspicion. Marta hides a broken trellis under bushes, while Blanc and Greatnana exchange an intense stare. The scene builds suspense and mystery surrounding Marta's actions and Blanc's growing belief in her involvement in Harlan's death.
- In the study, Blanc questions Marta about her medical bag and the overturned GO board. As he ponders, barking dogs outside announce the arrival of Hugh Drysdale (Ransom), who limps into the house uninvited.
- In a tense family gathering, uninvited Ransom arrives, causing chaos when he reveals Jacob overheard Harlan and Ransom discussing the will while hiding in the bathroom. Walt and Richard confront Jacob, while Linda and Joni try to calm the situation. Alan Stevens, the family attorney, then arrives to prepare for the will reading, leaving the family in anticipation.
- Amidst the escalating argument sparked by Harlan's decision to remove Ransom from his will, detective Blanc and Marta uncover a curious clue—a broken trellis piece and a boarded window. While the family clash intensifies, Blanc and Marta quietly embark on their investigation, leaving the unresolved conflict simmering.
- Blanc and Marta uncover evidence of a break-in on the third floor landing, suggesting foul play in Harlan Thrombey's death.
- Upon reading Harlan Thrombey's will, the Thrombey family is shocked to discover that Marta Cabrera has inherited everything. Outrage ensues, leading to an altercation between Linda Thrombey and Marta Cabrera. Detective Blanc intervenes to calm the situation and escorts Marta out of the room.
- Marta flees the Thrombey estate with Ransom, leaving behind a shattered family. Linda discovers her father's notes, while Joni faces Blanc's accusations of financial deception, leaving her fate uncertain.
- In a shadowy restaurant booth, Ransom grills Marta, suspecting her of foul play in his grandfather's death. Pressure mounts as he accuses her of lying and scrutinizes her reactions. Marta's resolve shatters, and she pleads with Ransom not to expose her. Ransom, torn between suspicion and empathy, offers comfort and urges her to reveal the truth.
- The family grapples with the implications of Harlan's revised will, with Alan clarifying legal aspects. Joni questions the validity, while Blanc suggests foul play, leading to suspicion and conflict among the family members. Meg remains emotionally invested in the inheritance.
- Initially dismissive, Ransom recognizes Marta's cunning and agrees to aid her secret-keeping. Meanwhile, Marta comforts Meg, promising financial support amidst Meg's mother's struggles and her own academic concerns. As the scene concludes, Marta resolutely faces the challenge ahead.
- Marta is awakened by news of a suspicious man and belongings at her apartment. Amidst a flurry of missed calls, she discovers a shocking news report about herself and the deceased Harlan Thrombey. Reporters swarm outside, while Donna Thrombey encounters a shadowy figure and faces uncomfortable questions from Detective Blanc. Marta's family grapples with legal documents and advises her to flee.
- Marta and Walt discuss the inheritance and potential legal issues. Walt warns Marta of her mother's illegal status being revealed if she accepts it. Marta refuses, prompting threats from Walt but remaining defiant. She discovers an envelope with a medical document and a handwritten message revealing someone knows her secret. Blanc warns Marta to be cautious, suggesting an impending danger.
- Benoit Blanc offers condolences to Greatnana, reflecting on age and grief. Ransom receives a call from Marta about a medical bag tag with a blood analysis header showing Harlan's morphine overdose, leading to speculation about blackmail.
- Blanc rushes to the medical examiner's office after receiving news of a call from Lieutenant Elliott. Before leaving, Greatnana whispers something mysterious to Blanc. Upon arriving at the office, Blanc finds it destroyed in an explosion. The blood work report that could prove Marta's guilt is pending. Marta and Ransom discuss the potential connection between the explosion and a blackmail email Marta received. The scene ends with Marta fleeing in her car, evading pursuit from Blanc and the police.
- Marta and Lieutenant Elliott engage in a car chase with Ransom Drysdale, a possible murder suspect. Marta skillfully evades the police while Blanc learns of Ransom's presence on the night of the party. After Ransom's arrest, Marta realizes the mistaken identification but feigns obedience to Blanc.
- Blanc's interrogation continues, probing Richard's potential ulterior motives. Marta becomes increasingly tense and requests a stop at Columbus Road. She enters a hair salon before disappearing into a vacant building through the back door, leaving Blanc with suspicions as to her involvement.
- Marta, entering an empty retail space, finds Fran, the housekeeper, seemingly lifeless in a chair. Discovering an empty envelope in Fran's hand, Marta is met with cryptic whispers about a hidden copy and the accusation of responsibility before Fran's final breaths. Struggling with hesitation, Marta decides to call 911 and perform CPR, as an ambulance arrives outside.
- Marta confesses her fateful mistake to Blanc, who reveals Ransom's cooperation with the police. Suspecting Fran's blackmail, Marta urges Blanc to support her in revealing the truth to the Thrombey family. Together, they gather the family at the Thrombey estate, where Marta's suspicion leads to the discovery of the toxicology report hidden within a clock.
- In the living room, the family, officers, and Marta gather. Marta refuses to renounce the inheritance. Blanc reveals Harlan's death as a suicide, leaving the family in shock. Linda spots her father's baseball, hinting at further mysteries.
- In the library, Blanc accuses Ransom of knowing about the crime and hiring him for a specific reason. Ransom confesses to knowing everything Harlan told him, leading to further revelations in the case.
- Ransom confronts Harlan about the will, discovering Harlan's fortune is left to Marta. Despite Harlan's insistence of sanity, Ransom threatens him. Returning later, he switches Harlan's medications, taking the antidote, and leaves undetected.
- Marta discovers that Harlan's death was a suicide due to her accidental medication switch. Blanc suspects Ransom's involvement but faces a lack of evidence, leaving the case unresolved.
- Benoit Blanc exposes Ransom Drysdale's involvement in Harlan Thrombey's murder. Ransom had retrieved incriminating vials from Harlan's medical bag, and Marta Cabrera blackmailed him with a copy of the toxicology report. Ransom attempted to destroy the report by setting fire to the medical examiner's office. Blanc confronts Ransom, who confesses to the crime.
- Ransom tears the blackmail note, emails Marta a rendezvous, and frames Marta for Fran's murder. However, Marta realizes Fran meant Hugh, calls 911, and saves Fran, foiling Ransom's plan.
- Ransom is enraged to learn that Fran is alive and confronts Marta, accusing her of trying to steal the family home. Marta stands her ground, and Ransom confesses to murdering Fran before revealing the knife is a fake. He is arrested by Trooper Wagner, leaving Marta on the ground holding the fake knife.
- Officer Blanc questions Marta about her possible involvement in Harlan's murder. The discovery of a bloodstain on her shoe implicates her. Blanc advises Marta to follow her instincts and consider assisting the Thrombey family, who have gathered outside the house in uncertainty. Marta stands in the doorway, observing them, contemplating her decision.
CharacterInconsistencies
-
Character Greatnana
Description Greatnana's mental state and level of awareness seem to fluctuate throughout the script. In some scenes, she appears senile and disoriented, while in others, she is surprisingly perceptive and observant, as evidenced by her recognizing Ransom and whispering crucial information to Blanc.
( Scene 7 Scene 9 Scene 17 Scene 32 ) -
Character Ransom
Description Ransom's motivations and actions seem to shift abruptly. Initially, he appears genuinely affected by Harlan's decision to cut him out of the will, but then he quickly transitions to a manipulative and cunning demeanor, plotting with Marta and ultimately resorting to violence.
( Scene 22 Scene 27 Scene 29 )
StoryInconsistencies
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Description The ease with which Marta retrieves the security tape from the guard house seems unrealistic, given the importance of such evidence in a criminal investigation.
( Scene 20 ) -
Description The lack of thorough investigation in Harlan's study, particularly regarding the medical bag and potential evidence, seems inconsistent with standard police procedure, especially considering the presence of Benoit Blanc.
( Scene 21 )
PlotHoles
DialogueAuthenticity
-
Description The overly dramatic and expository dialogue between Marta's mother and sister feels forced and unnatural, serving primarily to convey information about Marta's emotional state and the family's background.
( Scene 3 ) -
Description Ransom's frequent use of vulgar language and insults towards his family, even in moments of supposed sincerity or vulnerability, seems excessive and detracts from the authenticity of his character's emotional journey.
( Scene 22 Scene 27 )
Characters in the screenplay, and their arcs:
| Character | Arc | Critique | Suggestions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marta | Marta's character arc follows her journey from a conflicted and vulnerable protagonist to a courageous and determined individual who confronts the truth despite the personal cost. She starts off grappling with guilt, fear, and uncertainty, but as the story progresses, she gains strength, resilience, and a deeper sense of justice. Marta ultimately finds the courage to stand up for herself and her family, showcasing her growth and moral integrity. | The character arc for Marta is well-developed, showcasing her evolution from a vulnerable caregiver to a strong and determined individual. However, there could be more emphasis on her internal struggles and emotional growth throughout the screenplay to further highlight her transformation. Additionally, providing more insight into Marta's background and motivations could enhance the audience's connection to her character. | To improve Marta's character arc, consider incorporating more scenes that delve into her past experiences, values, and relationships to provide a deeper understanding of her motivations. Showcasing her internal conflicts and emotional journey more prominently can help the audience empathize with her struggles and root for her transformation. Additionally, exploring her interactions with other characters and how they influence her decisions can add complexity and depth to her arc. |
| Linda | Linda's character arc in the screenplay begins with her resentment towards her brother and her determination to prove herself in the family business. As the story progresses, she becomes more protective and confrontational, especially when it comes to defending her family's legacy and uncovering the truth behind her father's death. Ultimately, Linda learns to let go of her anger and suspicion, finding closure and understanding in the midst of family chaos. | The character arc for Linda is well-developed, showcasing her growth from a resentful and confrontational individual to someone who seeks understanding and closure. However, there could be more depth added to her emotional journey, perhaps by exploring her vulnerabilities and inner conflicts in more detail. | To improve Linda's character arc, consider delving deeper into her emotional struggles and vulnerabilities, allowing the audience to connect with her on a more personal level. Show moments of introspection and self-discovery that lead to her eventual growth and acceptance. Additionally, consider adding more complexity to her relationships with other family members, highlighting the nuances of her protective nature and the challenges she faces in maintaining harmony within the family. |
| Richard | Richard's character arc follows his journey from a loyal and supportive family member to a conflicted and deceptive individual entangled in affairs and hidden motives. As the story progresses, his secrets are revealed, leading to confrontations with Blanc and Elliott. Ultimately, Richard's manipulative nature is exposed, causing a rift within the family and forcing him to confront the consequences of his actions. | The character arc for Richard is well-developed, showcasing his complexity and inner turmoil. However, the transition from a loyal family member to a deceptive individual could be further explored to provide a deeper understanding of his motivations and conflicts. Additionally, more emphasis on the emotional impact of his actions on the family members could enhance the audience's connection to Richard's character. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating flashback scenes or inner monologues to delve into Richard's past and the events that led to his deceptive behavior. This will add depth to his character and provide insight into his motivations. Furthermore, exploring the repercussions of his actions on the family dynamics and relationships can create a more compelling narrative arc for Richard. |
| Walt | Walt's character arc in the screenplay involves a journey of self-discovery and growth as he navigates the complexities of family dynamics and wealth. Initially, Walt is portrayed as insecure and resentful, struggling to assert himself and find his place within the family hierarchy. However, as the story progresses, Walt begins to confront his inner demons and strive for independence, ultimately finding the courage to stand up for what he believes is right and make his own mark on the family legacy. | The character arc for Walt is well-developed and provides a compelling narrative of personal growth and transformation. However, there could be more emphasis on Walt's internal struggles and the resolution of his conflicts with other family members. Additionally, the screenplay could benefit from more nuanced exploration of Walt's relationships with other characters, adding depth to his journey of self-discovery. | To improve the character arc for Walt, consider incorporating more scenes that delve into his inner turmoil and the root of his insecurities. Show more interactions with other family members that highlight the complexities of his relationships and the impact of his decisions on the family dynamic. Additionally, explore opportunities for Walt to confront his fears and take decisive action, showcasing his growth and development throughout the story. |
| Joni | Joni starts off as a seemingly carefree and financially dependent member of the Thrombey family, but as the story unfolds, her true nature is revealed. She becomes more deceptive and desperate, resorting to unethical means to maintain her lifestyle. However, as the inheritance discussion progresses, Joni's resourcefulness and research-oriented approach come to light, adding depth to her character and challenging the family's assumptions. | The character arc for Joni is well-developed and adds complexity to her character. However, there could be more consistency in her behavior throughout the screenplay. At times, her actions seem to contradict her initial portrayal as a caring and protective mother. Additionally, more insight into Joni's backstory and motivations could further enhance her character development. | To improve Joni's character arc, consider delving deeper into her past experiences and how they have shaped her deceptive and desperate behavior. This could provide a more nuanced understanding of her actions and add layers to her character. Additionally, ensure that Joni's actions and decisions align with her established personality traits to maintain consistency throughout the screenplay. |
| Meg | Meg's character arc follows her journey of self-discovery and reconciliation with her family's expectations. Initially torn between loyalty and independence, Meg learns to embrace her individuality while still valuing her family's support. She navigates through conflicts and tensions, ultimately finding a balance between honoring her grandfather's wishes and staying true to herself. | The character arc for Meg is well-developed, but it could benefit from more specific and impactful moments of growth and realization. The transitions between her loyalty to family and her independence could be more clearly defined to enhance the emotional impact of her journey. | To improve the character arc for Meg, consider adding key scenes that highlight her internal struggles and growth. Show more moments where she actively challenges her family's expectations and asserts her individuality. Additionally, focus on building stronger relationships with other characters to further shape Meg's development and showcase her emotional depth. |
| Lieutenant Elliott | Lieutenant Elliott starts off as a pragmatic and skeptical investigator, focused on solving the case efficiently. However, as the investigation progresses, he becomes more open to unconventional methods and begins to work collaboratively with Benoit Blanc. Through this partnership, he gains a deeper understanding of the case and ultimately helps uncover the truth behind the mysterious death. | The character arc for Lieutenant Elliott is well-developed, showing a progression from skepticism to collaboration. However, it could benefit from more internal conflict or personal growth to make his character more dynamic and engaging for the audience. | To improve the character arc for Lieutenant Elliott, consider adding a personal stake or backstory that motivates his initial skepticism and eventual collaboration with Benoit Blanc. This could add depth to his character and make his journey more compelling for the audience to follow. |
| Benoit Blanc | Benoit Blanc starts off as a renowned private investigator with a reputation for solving complex cases. As he delves deeper into the current investigation, he begins to question his own methods and beliefs, leading him to confront his own biases and assumptions. Through his interactions with the other characters, Blanc learns to trust his instincts and embrace a more intuitive approach to solving the mystery. By the end of the screenplay, Blanc undergoes a transformation, becoming more open-minded and empathetic towards others. | The character arc for Benoit Blanc is well-developed, but it could benefit from more internal conflict and emotional depth. While Blanc's journey towards self-discovery is compelling, it would be more impactful if his personal struggles were more clearly defined and explored throughout the screenplay. | To improve the character arc for Benoit Blanc, consider incorporating more moments of vulnerability and self-doubt into his interactions with the other characters. Show how his investigation challenges his beliefs and forces him to confront his own flaws. Additionally, explore his backstory and motivations in more depth to provide a deeper understanding of his character development. |
| Blanc | Benoit Blanc starts as a charismatic and enigmatic private investigator, known for his keen observation skills and unorthodox approach to solving mysteries. Throughout the screenplay, he evolves into a determined and relentless detective, unraveling the mysteries surrounding Harlan's death with precision and insight. Blanc's character arc culminates in him becoming a voice of reason and justice, guiding the characters towards resolution and delivering justice. | The character arc for Benoit Blanc is well-developed, showcasing his evolution from a charismatic investigator to a determined detective. However, there could be more depth added to his emotional journey and personal growth throughout the screenplay. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating moments of vulnerability or internal conflict for Benoit Blanc. This could add complexity to his character and make his journey more compelling for the audience. Additionally, exploring his backstory or motivations further could provide insight into what drives him to uncover the truth and deliver justice. |
| Harlan | Harlan starts off as a seemingly caring and regretful character, but as the story progresses, his true manipulative and cunning nature is revealed as he orchestrates a plan to frame his own murder. This leads to a climax where his deception is exposed, and he ultimately faces the consequences of his actions, bringing closure to his character arc. | The character arc for Harlan is well-developed and provides a satisfying resolution to his story. However, the transition from his caring and regretful side to his manipulative and cunning nature could be more subtly foreshadowed throughout the screenplay to create a more seamless progression. Additionally, more exploration of Harlan's internal struggles and motivations behind his actions could add depth to his character arc. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating subtle hints of Harlan's manipulative nature earlier in the screenplay, such as through his interactions with other characters or his internal monologues. This will make the revelation of his true intentions more impactful and believable. Additionally, delving deeper into Harlan's past traumas or regrets that drive his actions can add complexity to his character and make his arc more compelling. |
| Ransom | Ransom starts off as a rebellious troublemaker within the family, constantly challenging authority and causing chaos. However, as the story progresses, he begins to show moments of vulnerability and unexpected loyalty, particularly towards Marta. This shift in his character leads to a climactic moment where he must choose between protecting his inheritance or doing the right thing. | The character arc for Ransom is well-developed, showcasing his complexity and internal conflicts. However, the transition from manipulative antagonist to conflicted ally could be more gradual and nuanced. Additionally, more insight into Ransom's backstory and motivations could further enhance his character development. | To improve the character arc, consider adding flashback scenes or dialogue that provide context for Ransom's behavior and motivations. This will help the audience understand his actions and empathize with his internal struggles. Additionally, explore more opportunities for Ransom to show moments of redemption and growth throughout the screenplay, leading to a more satisfying resolution for his character. |
| Theme | Theme Details | Themee Explanation | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Family Dynamics | The film explores the complex relationships within the Thrombey family, marked by rivalry, jealousy, and secrets, unraveling the tensions and conflicts that drive the characters' actions. | Family Dynamics serves as a foundational theme, shaping the motivations and interactions of the characters as they grapple with the aftermath of Harlan's death. | ||||||||||||
Strengthening Family Dynamics:
| ||||||||||||||
| Immigration and Identity | The film delves into the struggles and challenges faced by Marta, an undocumented immigrant, as she navigates the complex social dynamics of the Thrombey family while trying to protect her own identity. | Immigration and Identity play a significant role in shaping Marta's character and her experiences, highlighting the intersection of societal prejudices and personal aspirations. | ||||||||||||
| Truth and Deception | The narrative hinges on the manipulation of truth and the blurring of reality, as characters deceive each other, conceal their motives, and construct elaborate falsehoods to protect their interests. | Truth and Deception serve as driving forces, propelling the plot forward and challenging the audience's perception of events and the characters' true intentions. | ||||||||||||
| Wealth and Privilege | The film examines the corrupting influence of wealth and privilege, highlighting the moral dilemmas it creates and the ways in which it can distort relationships and cloud judgment. | Wealth and Privilege are explored as both a catalyst for the characters' desires and a source of their downfalls, exposing the darker underbelly of the Thrombey family's lavish lifestyle. | ||||||||||||
Screenwriting Resources on Themes
Articles
| Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Studio Binder | Movie Themes: Examples of Common Themes for Screenwriters |
| Coverfly | Improving your Screenplay's theme |
| John August | Writing from Theme |
YouTube Videos
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Story, Plot, Genre, Theme - Screenwriting Basics | Screenwriting basics - beginner video |
| What is theme | Discussion on ways to layer theme into a screenplay. |
| Thematic Mistakes You're Making in Your Script | Common Theme mistakes and Philosophical Conflicts |
| Goals and Philosophical Conflict | |
|---|---|
| internal Goals | The protagonist's internal goal is to navigate the complex family dynamics and navigate the truth behind Harlan's death |
| External Goals | The protagonist's external goal is to maintain composure and protect herself from suspicion while dealing with the investigation |
| Philosophical Conflict | The overarching philosophical conflict revolves around the themes of truth, loyalty, and justice as the protagonist grapples with deception, family loyalty, and personal integrity |
Character Development Contribution: The goals and conflict contribute to the character's development by challenging their beliefs, values, and moral compass, leading to growth and self-discovery
Narrative Structure Contribution: The goals and conflict drive the narrative structure by creating tension, suspense, and intrigue as the protagonist navigates the complex web of family secrets and deception
Thematic Depth Contribution: The goals and conflict contribute to the thematic depth of the screenplay by exploring themes of loyalty, truth, morality, and justice, adding layers of complexity and depth to the story
Screenwriting Resources on Goals and Philosophical Conflict
Articles
| Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Creative Screenwriting | How Important Is A Character’s Goal? |
| Studio Binder | What is Conflict in a Story? A Quick Reminder of the Purpose of Conflict |
YouTube Videos
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| How I Build a Story's Philosophical Conflict | How do you build philosophical conflict into your story? Where do you start? And how do you develop it into your characters and their external actions. Today I’m going to break this all down and make it fully clear in this episode. |
| Endings: The Good, the Bad, and the Insanely Great | By Michael Arndt: I put this lecture together in 2006, when I started work at Pixar on Toy Story 3. It looks at how to write an "insanely great" ending, using Star Wars, The Graduate, and Little Miss Sunshine as examples. 90 minutes |
| Tips for Writing Effective Character Goals | By Jessica Brody (Save the Cat!): Writing character goals is one of the most important jobs of any novelist. But are your character's goals...mushy? |
What's going on here? - Scenes are rated on many critreia. The goal isn't to try to maximize every number; \
It's to make you aware of what's happening in your scenes. You might have very good reasons to have character development but not advance the story, or have a scene without conflict. Obviously if your dialogue is really bad, you should probably look into that.
| Story Content | Character Development | Scene Elements | Audience Engagement | Technical Aspects | |||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Click for Full Analysis | Tone | Overall | Concept | Plot | Originality | Characters | Internal Goal | External Goal | Conflict | Story forward | Twist | Emotional Impact | Dialogue | Engagement | Pacing | Formatting | Structure | ||||
| 1 - The Discovery | Suspenseful, Emotional, Dark | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | |
| 2 - The Aftermath | Dry, Sarcastic, Emotional, Humorous | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 3 - Family Gathering at the Thrombey Home | Serious, Reflective, Informative | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 4 - Family Gathering at Harlan's Birthday | Sarcastic, Satirical, Informative | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 5 - The Arrival of Benoit Blanc | Suspenseful, Sarcastic, Inquisitive, Informative | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
| 6 - Walt's Dismissal | Tense, Confrontational, Revealing | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 7 - Secrets and Confrontations | Tense, Dramatic, Confrontational | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 8 - Confrontation in the Library | Tense, Suspenseful, Dramatic | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 9 - Curiosity and Hesitation | Intriguing, Suspenseful, Intense, Emotional | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 10 - Marta's Confession and Joni's Involvement | Suspenseful, Intense, Dramatic | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 11 - The Interrogation | Suspenseful, Intriguing, Intense, Dramatic | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7.5 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 8.5 | 8 | 8 | |
| 12 - The Mysterious Night | Suspenseful, Intriguing, Tense | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 13 - Upstairs to the Office | Tense, Suspenseful, Emotional | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
| 14 - A Game of GO | Tense, Suspenseful, Dramatic, Intense | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 15 - Marta's Alibi | Suspenseful, Intriguing, Tense, Mysterious | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 16 - Marta's Nocturnal Encounter | Suspenseful, Intense, Emotional | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
| 17 - Tense Interrogations and Smoke-Filled Moments | Tense, Suspenseful, Dramatic, Intense | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 18 - Offering Help and Suspicious Inquiries | Intriguing, Suspenseful, Intense | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 19 - The Secret | Suspenseful, Intense, Emotional, Intriguing | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | |
| 20 - Footprints in the Woods | Suspenseful, Intriguing, Mysterious, Tense | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 21 - The Study Interrupted | Suspenseful, Intriguing, Tense | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 22 - Explosive Family Gathering | Tense, Sarcastic, Confrontational | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 23 - Heated Family Argument | Tense, Confrontational, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 24 - Hidden Window Discovery | Tense, Suspenseful, Intriguing | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
| 25 - Reading of Harlan Thrombey's Will | Tense, Confrontational, Emotional | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 26 - Escape and Revelations | Tense, Suspenseful, Emotional | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 27 - Ransom Confronts Marta | Tense, Emotional, Suspenseful | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 28 - Family Discord over Will Revisions | Tense, Emotional, Confrontational | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.5 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8.5 | 8 | 8 | |
| 29 - Ransom's Confession and Marta's Determination | Tense, Suspenseful, Emotional, Intense | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 30 - Marta's Morning Mayhem | Tense, Suspenseful, Emotional | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 31 - Inheritance Concerns and Mysterious Threats | Tense, Suspenseful, Emotional, Serious | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 32 - Consolation and Confusion | Tense, Suspenseful, Introspective, Conversational | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 33 - Explosion at the Medical Examiner's Office | Tense, Suspenseful, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
| 34 - Marta's Evasive Maneuvers | Tense, Suspenseful, Dramatic, Anxious | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
| 35 - Marta's Secret Visit | Tense, Suspenseful, Intriguing, Mysterious | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7.5 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 36 - Confrontation and Discovery | Tense, Suspenseful, Emotional, Mysterious | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 37 - Marta's Confession and Confrontation | Tense, Resigned, Emotional, Sarcastic | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 38 - Unveiling the Truth | Tense, Emotional, Confrontational, Revealing | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
| 39 - Confrontation in the Library | Intriguing, Suspenseful, Intense, Revealing | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 40 - Ransom's Revenge | Suspenseful, Intense, Emotional, Confrontational | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 41 - Revealing the Truth | Suspenseful, Intense, Revealing, Confrontational | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 42 - Unraveling Ransom's Guilt | Suspenseful, Intense, Intriguing, Dramatic | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
| 43 - Ransom's Failed Attempt to Frame Marta | Suspenseful, Intense, Emotional, Revealing | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
| 44 - The Confrontation | Suspenseful, Intense, Dramatic, Tense, Shocking | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
| 45 - The Aftermath: Marta's Dilemma | Tense, Emotional, Reflective | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 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
- Engaging plot
- Revealing character dynamics
- Tension-building
- Intriguing plot twists
Scene Weaknesses
- Limited emotional impact
- Some elements may be confusing for viewers
- Lack of significant character development
- Some dialogue may be overly expository
- Slightly predictable outcome
Suggestions
- Focus on deeper emotional impact in key scenes
- Ensure clarity in plot and character interactions
- Develop secondary characters for more well-rounded story
- Find ways to integrate exposition more seamlessly into dialogue
- Consider adding more unexpected plot twists to keep audience engaged
World Building
- Physical environment: The physical environment in the screenplay consists of various locations, including a New England manor house with gothic and mysterious surroundings, a modern living room, a library, a hospital waiting room, and a police station. Each location creates a distinct atmosphere and contributes to the narrative's progression.
- Culture: The cultural elements depicted in the screenplay include a wealthy family with complex dynamics, societal events like parties, and exploration of themes such as inheritance, betrayal, and deceit. These cultural aspects provide insights into the characters' motivations and conflicts.
- Society: The societal structure in the screenplay reflects hierarchical power dynamics within the wealthy Thrombey family. The family's privileged lifestyle and interactions with law enforcement officers highlight their status and influence in society.
- Technology: The technological aspects in the screenplay are minimal, with the presence of modern elements like laptops, iPads, and cell phones. These elements support communication and investigation but do not play a significant role in shaping the overall narrative.
- Characters influence: The world elements, including the physical environment, cultural norms, societal structures, and technological devices, influence the characters' experiences and actions. For instance, the isolated atmosphere of the manor house creates a sense of mystery and tension, contributing to the characters' psychological states and decision-making. The societal hierarchy shapes the family members' interactions and conflicts, while the presence of law enforcement adds an element of authority and investigation. The cultural emphasis on inheritance and family secrets influences the characters' motives and actions.
- Narrative contribution: The world elements contribute to the narrative by providing a backdrop for the events to unfold. The gothic manor house sets the stage for a murder mystery, and the family's wealth and status make them both suspects and potential targets. The societal expectations and family dynamics introduce conflict and tension, driving the narrative forward. The technological aspects, though minimal, support communication and information exchange, aiding in the investigation and revelation of secrets.
- Thematic depth contribution: The world elements contribute to the thematic depth of the screenplay by exploring issues such as wealth and privilege, family relationships, and the complexities of truth and deception. The opulent surroundings and lavish lifestyle of the Thrombey family highlight the themes of wealth and privilege, questioning their impact on morality and relationships. The intricate family dynamics reveal the complexities of human connections, including love, betrayal, and secrets. The exploration of truth and deception through the murder mystery and the characters' conflicting narratives adds depth to the screenplay's thematic layers.
| Voice Analysis | |
|---|---|
| Summary: | The writer's voice is characterized by sharp dialogue, dark humor, and intricate plot twists. It adds depth and complexity to the story, enhancing the mood and themes of the screenplay. |
| Voice Contribution | The writer's voice contributes to the script by creating a sense of mystery and suspense, keeping the audience engaged and guessing until the very end. |
| Best Representation Scene | 7 - Secrets and Confrontations |
| Best Scene Explanation | This scene effectively encapsulates the writer's unique voice through its blend of sharp dialogue, underlying tensions, and complex character dynamics. |
Writer's Craft Overall Analysis
Overall, the screenplay exhibits a strong command of scene writing, with effective use of tension, character development, and plot progression. The writer's unique voice and style shine throughout, creating engaging and compelling narratives. However, there is room for improvement in certain areas, such as pacing, structure, and dialogue.
Key Improvement Areas
Pacing and Structure
Several scenes could benefit from tighter pacing and more efficient use of dialogue, allowing the story to move forward more smoothly and maintain audience engagement.
Character Development
While the characters are generally well-defined, some scenes lack the depth and nuance necessary to fully captivate the audience and drive emotional investment.
Dialogue
The dialogue is often strong and engaging but could be further polished to enhance its natural flow, sharpness, and subtextual impact.
Suggestions
| Type | Suggestion | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Screenplay | Study screenplays by renowned screenwriters such as Aaron Sorkin, Quentin Tarantino, and Gillian Flynn to observe their techniques in crafting compelling dialogue, developing complex characters, and structuring effective narratives. | These screenwriters are known for their mastery of the craft, and their work can provide valuable insights for improving dialogue, character development, and storytelling. |
| Book | Read books on screenwriting fundamentals such as 'Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting' by Syd Field or 'Save the Cat!' by Blake Snyder. | These books offer a comprehensive understanding of screenplay structure, character development, and storytelling techniques, providing a solid foundation for refining craft. |
| Exercise | Practice writing dialogue-heavy scenes with conflicting motivations and emotional stakes. Focus on creating natural-sounding dialogue that reveals character depth, drives the plot, and heightens tension.Practice In SceneProv | Regularly practicing dialogue writing can significantly enhance the writer's ability to craft engaging and impactful conversations that drive the narrative forward. |
| Video | Watch videos of interviews or behind-the-scenes footage with experienced screenwriters and directors to gain insights into their creative processes and storytelling techniques. | Learning from the experiences and approaches of industry professionals can provide valuable guidance and inspiration for improving one's own writing craft. |
| Course | Consider enrolling in a screenwriting course or workshop focused on character development and dialogue. Structured learning environments offer feedback, guidance, and opportunities to practice and refine skills. | Dedicated study through courses or workshops can provide focused training and support in areas where the writer seeks improvement, accelerating their growth as a screenwriter. |
Additional Notes:
The writer's unique voice and ability to craft engaging narratives are evident throughout the screenplay. With continued development in the identified areas, the writer can further refine their storytelling techniques and create even more impactful and memorable screenplays.
Here are different Tropes found in the screenplay
| Trope | Trope Details | Trope Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Murder Mystery | The discovery of a murdered body leads to an investigation to uncover the truth behind the crime. | The murder mystery trope is a common theme in movies and TV shows where a character's death sets off a chain of events that lead to the revelation of the killer. An example of this trope is the movie 'Knives Out,' where the murder of Harlan Thrombey leads to a complex investigation to uncover the truth behind his death. |
| Family Drama | The interactions and conflicts within a family are central to the plot. | The family drama trope focuses on the dynamics and relationships within a family, often leading to tension, conflict, and emotional moments. An example of this trope is the TV show 'Succession,' which revolves around the power struggles and betrayals within a wealthy family. |
| Whodunit | The story revolves around solving a mystery to uncover the identity of the culprit. | The whodunit trope is characterized by a central mystery that drives the plot, with characters working to uncover the identity of the perpetrator. An example of this trope is the movie 'Clue,' where a group of characters must solve a murder mystery to reveal the killer. |
| Inheritance Dispute | The distribution of a deceased character's wealth leads to conflicts and tensions among family members. | The inheritance dispute trope involves characters vying for control over a deceased character's assets, leading to power struggles, betrayals, and revelations. An example of this trope is the TV show 'Succession,' where the Roy family battles for control over their father's media empire. |
| Blackmail | One character uses incriminating information to manipulate or control another character. | The blackmail trope involves a character leveraging sensitive information to coerce another character into taking a specific action. An example of this trope is the movie 'Body Heat,' where one character blackmails another to carry out a murder. |
| Frame-Up | A character is falsely accused of a crime they did not commit. | The frame-up trope involves one character setting up another to take the fall for a crime they did not commit, leading to a wrongful accusation and subsequent investigation. An example of this trope is the movie 'The Fugitive,' where Dr. Richard Kimble is framed for his wife's murder. |
| Suicide | A character takes their own life, leading to emotional repercussions for those left behind. | The suicide trope involves a character ending their own life, often leaving loved ones grappling with grief, guilt, and unanswered questions. An example of this trope is the TV show '13 Reasons Why,' where the suicide of a high school student sets off a series of events. |
| Betrayal | A character deceives or acts against another character's trust. | The betrayal trope involves one character breaking the trust of another, leading to emotional turmoil, conflict, and consequences. An example of this trope is the movie 'The Departed,' where characters betray each other in a web of deception and double-crossing. |
| Red Herring | A misleading clue or character that distracts from the true solution to the mystery. | The red herring trope involves introducing false leads or clues that mislead characters and the audience, diverting attention from the actual solution to the mystery. An example of this trope is the TV show 'Sherlock,' where the detective often encounters red herrings in his investigations. |
| Character Arc | A character undergoes growth, change, or development throughout the story. | The character arc trope involves a character experiencing transformation, learning, or self-discovery as they navigate the events of the story. An example of this trope is the movie 'The Shawshank Redemption,' where Andy Dufresne undergoes a profound character arc while in prison. |
Memorable lines in the script:
| Scene Number | Line |
|---|---|
| 26 | Blanc: When good people get desperate, the knives come out. |
| 34 | Marta: I'm all just pure adrenaline now it's like I swallowed bees. |
| 36 | Fran: you... did this... won't... get away.. with this |
| 43 | Fran: you... did this... |
| 45 | Benoit Blanc: I want you to remember something very important: you won not by playing the game Harlan's way, but yours. |
Some Loglines to consider:
| A wealthy patriarch's death sparks a hunt for a motive in a murder mystery filled with financial dependence, inheritance quarrels, and infidelity. |
| Amidst accusations and tension, a private investigator investigates a break-in at the scene of a wealthy patriarch's murder and uncovers a shocking truth. |
| A nurse unwittingly becomes the main suspect in a murder case after accidentally injecting her patient with a lethal dose of morphine. |
| A family feud over inheritance is reignited when a wealthy patriarch dies in mysterious circumstances, leading a private investigator on a wild goose chase for the truth. |
| A young nurse inherits the estate of a wealthy patriarch and soon becomes the prime suspect in his murder, leading to a thrilling game of cat and mouse to identify the killer before it's too late. |
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Engine: Gemini
Highly Recommend
Explanation: Knives Out is a highly engaging and well-crafted murder mystery with a unique premise, a diverse cast of characters, and witty dialogue. The screenplay masterfully constructs a complex plot with numerous twists and turns, keeping the audience guessing until the very end. While the motivations of some characters could be explored in greater depth, the overall narrative strength and pacing are excellent, making this screenplay a highly recommendable read.
Engine: GPT4
Highly Recommend
Explanation: The screenplay 'Knives Out' presents a compelling murder mystery with a richly woven plot full of twists and character depth. It balances humor, suspense, and drama effectively, making it a standout script that should attract audiences who enjoy clever storytelling and complex characters.