Narrative First: where story is always king

Is the process involved in the analysis of a Dramatica storyform truly objective, or is everyone fooling themselves? Jim answers these questions as well as giving an update on our app, Subtext. (Note: This episode was recorded April 11, 2018--at that time, Subtext was called the "Narrative First Atomizer") In addition, we dive into what it feels like when a storyform just clicks into place--when you know you've found the unique set of thematic Storypoints that create the message of the narrative. You can read the entire transcription of this episode here. Story Development Services from Narrative First. Stop rewriting and finally finish that story with our expert advice. Show Notes & Links Objectivity, At the Wrong Level - Discuss Dramatica online discussion covering the objective analysis involved in discovering the unique storyform of a narrative Pretty Woman the complete Storyform, as found in Subtext The Throughlines of Pretty Woman a visual representation of this film's Four Throughlines Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace.

A deep-dive into the two narrative structures driving the classic action/adventure Raiders of the Lost Ark. While many consider Raiders to be evidence of a "5-Act" or "6-Act" structure, the truth is the presence of two completely different 4-Act structures. Using the Dramatica theory of story, we take a look at these two individual arguments and explain how Kasdan masterfully wove them together to appear as a single "story." In addition, we discuss updates to our Subtext service (referred to as the "Atomizer" in the podcast), and examine the thematic structure of the Tonya Harding biopic, I, Tonya. You can read the entire transcription of this episode here. Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Raiders of the Lost Ark - The Ark Storyform Raiders of the Lost Ark - Raiders Storyform I, Tonya Storyform Objectivity, But At the Wrong Level a post referred to in the podcast regarding Genre in Dramatica Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace.

An in-depth look at the narrative thematics driving these two classic films. For this, our special 64th episode, we explore the storyforms found in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Using the Dramatica theory of story as a basis for our analysis, we find two separate narratives in Empire: one that focuses on psychology as a basis for conflict, and another that takes the expected physics approach. For Jedi, we find an usual set of narrative thematics that explains why this film stands out from the previous two in terms of shape and feel. You can read the entire transcription of this episode here. Show Notes & Links The Empire Strikes Back - Enemies and Allies Storyform The Empire Strikes Back - Romance Storyform Return of the Jedi Storyform Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace.

In this episode, we take a look at the key story events that shift a narrative from one contextual Act to the next. In addition, we discuss what the Dramatica theory of story identifies in a story--namely, the subtext of narrative conflict. If you previously thought subtext was something that could never truly be defined--prepare to learn the truth. Using examples from both The Florida Project and Call Me By Your Name, we offer a first look insight into the reason for re-branding our service with the more appropriate name: Subtext. You can read the entire transcription of this episode here. Register for Subtext Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Uncovering the Major Plot Points of a Functioning Story an in-depth article explored in this episode The Difference Between Neo and Luke Skywalker why the Hero's Journey explanation is insufficient to truly describe what is going on in these films The Florida Project complete analysis on Subtext Call Me By Your Name complete analysis on Subtext Rethinking an Analysis of The Florida Project complete article explaining the message behind the beauty Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace.

If you want to make meaning out of the meaningless, if you want to ensure that you don't write a pointless story, a Dramatica® storyform ensures that what you have to say promises purpose and a reason for the audience to listen. With that in mind, we take a look at the differences between The Disaster Artist and Darkest Hour. Guess which one contains a solid narrative? In addition, we explain why The Accountant seems so jam-packed with story and answer questions about the separation between the Influence Character perspective and the Relationship Story perspective. You can read the entire transcription of this episode here. Register for Subtext Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links The Accountant storyform *Podcast of The Accountant Dramatica Users Group analysis Coco storyform The Shape of Water storyform Narrative analysis of Darkest Hour The Disaster Artist storyform Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace.

This episode explores the connection between a high score on Rotten Tomatoes, nominations and recognition for great writing, and a complete Dramatica storyform. More than correlation, a solid storyform guarantees favorable critical response. In addition, I relate my experience of being to predict the specific structural items of Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri while watching the film for the first time. Again, another instance of a film recognized for its great writing with a solid and appreciable Dramatica storyform. You can read the entire transcription of this episode here. Register for the Narrative First Atomizer here Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Dunkirk an analysis and the message behind unintentional propaganda Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri storyform Coco storyform The Shape of Water storyform The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel in-depth Dramatica analysis Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri in-depth Dramatica analysis The Shape of Water in-depth Dramatica analysis of this year's Best Picture Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace.

A look at how you can dramatically improve the quality of your storytelling by thinking of the central relationship as a character. I follow-up with listener email regarding the difference between Wisdom & Enlightenment within the Dramatica theory of story. And I cover the usage of Time and Space in setting the context for a full and complete narrative. You can read the entire transcription of this episode here. Register for the Narrative First Atomizer here Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Black Swan analysis & storyform her analysis & storyform Jane Eyre analysis & storyform An analysis & storyform for the entire Harry Potter series An analysis & storyform for the entire first season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Wrangling the Scope of an Entire Narrative a look at the difference between Time and Space within a narrative Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace.

In this episode, I cover the importance of connecting the Main Character's problem with the Overall Story problem & a method for constructing the Narrative Argument of your story. The former explains the difference between an OK story and an amazing story; all the great narratives of the past take this approach of pitting subjective vs. objec tive. The latter is helpful in determining the narrative drive of a story and keeping you on track with your story's purpose. You can read the entire transcription of this episode here. Register for the Narrative First Atomizer here Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Seth Godin's new podcast Akimbo inspiring new podcast from the guy who tends to inspire Problems of Character Reflected in Story read how to find resonance between the Main Character and the Overall Story throughlines Enough Said storyform Mother storyform Lady Bird storyform The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel storyform Dramatica Makes Things Harder it really does Building a Narrative Argument read how to construct one of your own using key storypoints from a Dramatica storyform Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace.

In this episode, we catch up on all things Narrative First from the past three months and kickstart our year of plenty. This includes everything from updates to the Narrative First Atomizer, new Dramatica analyses, the site redesign, building an animated television series, developing a complete story from scratch, and the biggest update to the podcast... ...transcriptions! You can read the entire transcription of this episode here. Register for the Narrative First Atomizer here Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Dramatica Theory Book free & online and available to you right now! Narrative First Analyses literally hundreds & hundreds of story structure analyses from a Dramatica point-of-view Dr. Strangelove analysis satire with no story Boardwalk Empire: Season One storyform the first ever Dramatica analysis of an entire season of television Columbus storyform beautifully sublime film with a solid story as its foundation Narrative Arguments a sneak peek at this new revolutionary feature found within the Narrative First Atomizer Storyform Connections a look at a quick & fun way to find stories with similar structures The Florida Project an engaging film that almost tells a complete story Professor Marston and the Wonder Women an engaging film that tells a complete story with confidence The Throughlines of Professor Marston and the Wonder Women a visualization of this film's narrative structure Not Your Usual Approach to Developing Stories in-depth article on using the Atomizer to quickly find the structure of your story Dramatica: The Journey Towards a Better Understanding of Story a look into the importance of keeping things accurate Unravelling the Story Structure of Tangled: The Series discover the narrative thematics that propel this show Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace.

In this, the final--and most epic--episode of Season 2, I finish off the initial development of my story and introduce the various features of the new Narrative First Atomizer. But first I kick things off with an analysis of Thor:Ragnarök--NOTE: in the episode I inaccurately assess the Story Outcome as Success. Clearly the efforts to reach the Overall Story Goal--Saving Asgard from Ragnarök--fail. Switching this Story Dynamic also changes the Relationship Story Throughline Problem and Solution. The Atomizer link below presents an accurate and updated account of the storyform. Listener mail paves the way for an extended discussion about the Crucial Elements, particularly in regards to a Steadfast Main Character. I finish off my first pass of The Red Lake by briefly outlining the Main Character, Influence Character, and Relationship Story Throughlines. And finally, I cover all the features of the Narrative First Atomizer--a brand new service that sheds light on the elements of story structure. Register for the Narrative First Atomizer here See you next year! Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Thor: Ragnarök analysis in the Atomizer an up-close and detailed look at the story structure of this film The Throughlines of Thor: Ragnarök a visual representation of the story's major thematic elements Hunt for the Wilderpeople analysis in the Atomizer as promised, the updated storyform for this film The Throughlines of Hunt for the Wilderpeople as found in the original Throughline Thursdays feature The Crucial Element archives everything you ever wanted to know about this important ingredient of story The Red Lake a live link to the outline for this story developed during this and the previous podcast Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace. You can hear this episode's opening theme here: World Opening

If it sounds like this episode was recorded before Thanksgiving, that’s because it was. Facilitating the initial release of the Narrative First Atomizer consumed most of my waking days and nights these past two months—but the show must go on. If nothing else, I️ can’t let The Red Lake go unspoken. Follow along as I️ craft a fully realized narrative framework in less than 20 minutes. Seriously. What started out as a completely random narrative based on the story structure of Aliens and Blade Runner: 2049 became an interesting clash between dwarves and halflings high in the mountains above a dark and crimson red lake. In addition, I️ answer listener email regarding the difference between Doing and Obtaining and its application towards The Dark Knight. And I️ cover unusual storyforms. Show Notes & Links Grammar.ly a must-have SaaS for writers everywhere The Narrative First Atomizer also a must-have SaaS for writers everywhere iA Writer the only way to write on iOS. The most recent update delivers a gorgeous new font (they only let you choose between two) How Grammarly Quietly Grew Its Way to 6.9 Million Daily Users in 9 Years Quip the very best way to collaborate on the Internet Breaking Away in the Atomizer get to know this great film at a molecular level A Bronx Tale in the Atomizer see for yourself how C’s Issue of Enlightenment collides with Sonny’s issue of Thought The Quip document of The Red Lake the foundation for the story invented during this episode

A great story employs its own unique approach to narrative structure. The Plot Sequence Report found in Dramatica grants writers an insight into their story's foundation. Some contend that every story is the same--that the same set of story beats or mythical elements show up every time. The truth is the structure of every story is based on the Author's intent: what he or she is trying to communicate to their Audience. The Dramatica theory of story, and the Plot Sequence found within, help writers assess the elements needed--and in what order--to effectively and deliberately broadcast what they feel deep inside. This podcast illuminates an approach towards using this report and elements of Dramatica to quickly develop your story's structure. Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Victor Laszlo as Protagonist: Done Deal Pro Forums the "conversation" begins on page 5 Additional Examples of Characteristics post on Discuss Dramatica forums suggesting new ways of interpreting objective character elements Dramatica analysis of Ingrid Goes West Dramatica for Screenwriters Armando's book on using the Plot Sequence Report The Plot Sequence Report an archive of articles covering this magical insight into your story's unique structure Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace

While some maintain that all stories carry the same structure (they don't), these two films actually do share the same exact storyform. After answering questions about the difference between the Past and Memory and the right way to think of Signposts, this episode dives into a Dramatica analysis of DeNiro's A Bronx Tale. Unique in its structure, the storyform explains its appeal to female audiences. Both Aliens and Blade Runner: 2049 share the same exact storyform--a rare, but possible scenario, wherein Authors seek to explore a similar approach to resolving problems. Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Differentiating the Past from Memory - Discuss Dramatica forum post on difference between external and internal concerns Character Dimensions: McKee vs. Dramatica McKee's blended view of tertiary characters carries some inaccuracy A Bronx Tale - Dramatica analysis The Throughlines of Aliens visual representation of narrative dynamics in this classic film The Throughlines of Blade Runner: 2049 visual representation of narrative dynamics in this latest sci-fi epic The Same Story: Aliens and Blade Runner: 2049 in-depth article comparing the narrative structure of both films Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace

A guy stuck in a well, The Sixth Sense, and Blade Runner:2049 top the list for this week's in-depth story structure podcast. Everything from inequities and perspectives to Throughlines and context, this episode explains the best way to find the most accurate storyform for any narrative. Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Discuss Dramatica Forum The Domains of A Guy Stuck in a Well The Domains of The Sixth Sense The Throughlines of Blade Runner: 2049 The Analysis of Blade Runner: 2049 The Power of Implied Story Points to Frame a Narrative Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace

In this episode, I wrap up the Dramatica Users Group analysis of Jon Favreau's Jungle Book and then relate some helpful tips when it comes to weaving subplots into your narrative. In addition, I dive into #storytelling and talk a bit about "narrative fidelity". Lastly, the David Fincher thriller se7en receives the Dramatica analysis treatment. Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links The Dramatica Users Group analysis of The Jungle Book contains both an audio podcast and videocast of the class The Terminator discussion referred to in the podcast is not yet available online. Stay tuned. The Dramatica Users Group YouTube channel several years of videocasts covering the Dramatica theory of story Dramatica Podcasts exactly what it sounds like The Narrative is Not Real and Stories: The Means by Which We Navigate the World two blog posts on #storytelling Meaningful Endings video compilations of different endings First look at my analysis of se7en includes a look at the whiteboard from the presentation The Throughlines of se7en](https://narrativefirst.com/throughlines/se7en) visual analysis of the structure of the film My complete analysis of se7en complete with a downloadable storyform for use with Dramatica Story Expert The Jerry McGuire storyforms - the Sports Story and the Romance Story and as good storyforms The As Good As It Gets storyforms - the Romance Story and the Neighbors Story Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace

Roll back to the original terminology in order to gain more objectivity in your analysis and writing. That's the best way I know how to supercharge your understanding of Dramatica. In this episode, I cover my push for Dramatica 1.0 and answer emails about the Universe and The Prestige. If you're struggling to grok the theory, start here. Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Children of Time amazing book and winner of the 2016 Arthur C. Clarke award Atypical fantastic narrative series on Netflix the impact of autism on the family unit The Fugitive: Applying Jim's Lesson Universally blog post by Dramatica aficionado Mike Lucas The Throughlines of The Prestige quick visual analysis of the film's major throughline perspectives How to Use Dramatica the Right Way: Part One first in a two-part series on leveling up your understanding of this complex and sophisticated theory of story Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace

Why do established story gurus find it necessary to prevent progress? The base instinct for survival sometimes overrides rational thought--in this case, it leads one guru to bully theorists through name-calling. In addition, I discuss the push towards professional storyform analysis and, of course, discuss the importance of teaching the next generation of storytellers. Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Robert McKee and Syd Field Hate Dramatica the original blog post about computer nerds Narrative First Professional Narrative Analysis quality, accurate storyforms The One I Love thematic analysis of this fun sci-fi thriller Throughline Thursdays my weekly feature explaining the basics of Dramatica story structure Stand By Me storyform on the main Dramatica site You and I Are Both Alike video montage of a key relationship between the Main and Influence Characters of a story The LEGO Batman Movie Makes Fun of You and I with this send-up of the previous link Training the Next Generation of Storytellers text message between my daughter and I about the Protagonist and Antagonist of How to Train Your Dragon The Ultimate Collection of Protagonists who Act as Influence Characters doesn't always have to be the Main Character Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace

In this episode, we take a look at Quantum Theory and how it helps to explain how an Author projects a story into existence. You'll want to put on your thinking caps for this one as we transform the endless speculation and infinite possibilities of storytelling into a singular instance based on the Author's measured and deliberate observation. Finishing a story requires an Author to write with purpose. Deliberate Storytelling is a practice whereby the Author creates with intent and purpose. Collaborate with a story expert today and start down the path towards finally writing and finishing your story. Show Notes & Links Dramatica analysis of The Imitation Game Jon Gentry's insightful and comprehensive analysis of this moving film Meaningful Endings a collection of videos explaining the four different kinds of endings for a complete narrative Deliberate Storytelling an opportunity to work with me to help write and finish your story My analysis of Paterson and a look at writing a story from a holistic point-of-view The Throughlines of Paterson visual representation of the different perspectives of conflict found in this film Your Story is Schrödinger's Cat this week's article on Quantum Theory, the Uncertainty Principle, and the Observer's Paradox--all understandings to help you move past writer's block Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace

The return of Throughline Thursdays, an unexpected analysis of The Prestige, and an explanation of the difference between a problematic Situation and problematic Activities. Dramatica's terminology stumps even the most talented writers. The understanding of the difference between a situation and a Situation is paramount in breaking through preconceptions of narrative structure. In this episode, I cover a common problem encountered by many new to the theory—why the Overall Story Throughline of The Fugitive falls under Situation, rather than Activity. In addition, I reintroduce Throughline Thursdays with a visual representation of the conflict presented in Get Out. The Dramatica Mentorship Program - my premier service designed to give you the tools and techniques for applying Dramatica's powerful concepts to your stories. Show Notes & Links Dramatica Analyses over 300 analyses of films, television shows, novels, and plays Throughline Thursdays introductory articles on defining the Domains of a complete story The Throughlines of Get Out Melanie Anne Phillips on Taking Your Story to Dinner My analysis of The Prestige Character Arc Videos Storyforming videos exclusive content for premium members of Narrative First The Dramatica Users Group analysis of Ixcanul The Fugitive: When a Situation Isn't a Situation a common error made by many writers new to Dramatica Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace

This week I discuss a method for Authors to connect the Characters in the story with the mechanics of Plot by crossing over through the family of Thematic Issues congruent with their story's meaning. In addition, I discuss at length my analysis of Get Out and how the film played with structure in an attempt to address Audience reception issues. The Dramatica Mentorship Program - my premier service designed to give you the tools and techniques for applying Dramatica's powerful concepts to your stories. Show Notes & Links Ryan Holiday's Perennial Seller: The Art of Making and Marketing Work That Lasts a fantastic read for creatives intent on creating something lasting Subscribe to the Narrative First Newsletter and receive weekly updates from the world of story structure & story analysis Orson Welles on the Importance of the Storyform My analysis of Get Out Become a Narrative First Member and enjoy access to premium content Melanie on How to Structure Your Story's Signposts Stories are Like Birthday Cake an explanation of why some are more tastier than others Finding the Plot of Your Story Through Theme Character, Plot, and Theme connect seamlessly within the structure of a great narrative Narrative First theme by Alex Hull. Hear more on his Soundcloud, Operation Solace