Narrative First: where story is always king
66 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 5 years ago - ★★★★★ - 11 ratingsUpdates & analysis of all things story. From screenplays to novels to deep theoretical story structure, this podcast is aimed at providing the secrets to great storytelling.
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Episodes
When It All Finally Clicks Into Place
December 24, 2018 00:08 - 37 minutes - 34.8 MBIs 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 o...
Raiders of the Lost Ark and Multiple Storyforms
August 03, 2018 00:39 - 39 minutes - 36.6 MBA 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 (...
The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi
July 05, 2018 17:59 - 46 minutes - 42.7 MBAn 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...
Demystifying the Plot Points of a Complete Story
May 25, 2018 19:33 - 36 minutes - 33.1 MBIn 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 ou...
Making Meaning Out of the Meaningless
April 26, 2018 18:57 - 28 minutes - 25.9 MBIf 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 separatio...
The 2018 Academy Awards
March 28, 2018 15:10 - 28 minutes - 26.2 MBThis 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 wi...
The Relationship Story Throughline Is Not An Argument
March 07, 2018 15:50 - 38 minutes - 34.9 MBA 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 Storytelli...
Connecting the Main Character to the Overall Story
February 28, 2018 16:27 - 18 minutes - 17.4 MBIn 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 th...
2018: The Year of Abundance
February 20, 2018 16:52 - 1 hour - 59.6 MBIn 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 ...
The Narrative First Atomizer
December 20, 2017 18:18 - 1 hour - 88.4 MBIn 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 ...
Story Structure Senioritis
December 05, 2017 15:30 - 49 minutes - 45.6 MBIf 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 ...
How to Outline Your Story Using the Plot Sequence Report
November 17, 2017 20:36 - 46 minutes - 42.8 MBA 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 withi...
The Same Story: Aliens and Blade Runner: 2049
November 03, 2017 16:03 - 53 minutes - 48.6 MBWhile 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 poss...
The Power of Implied Story Points
October 25, 2017 14:30 - 46 minutes - 42.8 MBA 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 sto...
Handling Subplots with the Dramatica Storyform
October 18, 2017 14:30 - 56 minutes - 51.7 MBIn 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 do...
The Right Way to Use Dramatica
October 10, 2017 14:30 - 57 minutes - 52.5 MBRoll 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...
Robert McKee and Syd Field Hate Dramatica
October 04, 2017 14:30 - 51 minutes - 47 MBWhy 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...
Your Story is Schrödinger's Cat
September 26, 2017 14:30 - 42 minutes - 39 MBIn 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...
The Fugitive: When a Situation Isn't A Situation
September 19, 2017 15:15 - 41 minutes - 37.6 MBThe 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 Thr...
Get Out and Breaking Structure for Shock Value
September 12, 2017 14:30 - 48 minutes - 44.2 MBThis 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 conce...
Everything You've Been Told About Story is Wrong
September 06, 2017 14:30 - 37 minutes - 34 MBThis week I take a gander at Okja and discuss the reasons why many swayed by this film's message ultimately reverted to their old ways. Propaganda fades--complete stories last. With that in mind, I then cover the Dramatica storyform and how it holds an image of the mind's problem-solving process in its complex and sophisticated arrangement of story points. Interested in writing something that lasts? You'll want to listen to this podcast and begin to develop an understanding of story...
The Final Word on Captain America: Civil War
August 29, 2017 05:46 - 50 minutes - 46.7 MBWrapping up the month long discussion on this superhero epic, I explain the purpose of an Influence Character perspective within the context of a complete story. I also dive into an extensive analysis of The LEGO Batman Movie. This latest animated feature parodies both Batman and story structure. If you ever wanted an introductory film to gleam Dramatica's concepts, this would be the one. The Dramatica Mentorship Program - my premier service designed to give you the tools and techn...
Figuring Out the Throughlines of a Complete Narrative
August 22, 2017 14:54 - 41 minutes - 37.9 MBContinuing the series on Identifying the Key Story Points of a Narrative, I explain a method for singling out the various perspectives within a complete story. For each Throughline, conflict appears as either a Situation, an Activity, a Fixed Attitude, or a Manner of Thinking. Effective narratives balance out these four areas throughout the Four Throughlines. In addition to explaining a process for determining these areas in your story, I also explain what Dramatica means by Concep...
Protagonists and Antagonists, Bad Guys and Good Guys
August 15, 2017 15:18 - 36 minutes - 33.7 MBIn this episode, I continue the discussion surrounding Captain America: Civil War focusing this time on the Protagonist and Antagonist of a complete narrative. The visual planning tool Milanote makes an appearance, along with a brand new analysis of the romantic comedy, The Big Sick. A brand new feature starts this week--The Word of the Week--where I take one of Dramatica's terms and explain the ins and outs of how it works within story. This week's word is Preconscious (starting ea...
The Civil War Over Captain America: Civil War
August 08, 2017 14:00 - 54 minutes - 49.6 MBIn this podcast, I go into a deep thematic analysis of Logan and Dunkirk, and then begin the first in a series of conversations surrounding Captain America: Civil War. If you have ever been interested in how the Dramatica theory of story works and how you could use it to improve the quality of your storytelling to the level of these films, you will want to check out this episode. The Dramatica Mentorship Program - our premier service designed to give you the tools and techniques fo...
Moonlight: Writing the Personal Story Through Propaganda
August 01, 2017 20:27 - 33 minutes - 30.6 MBThe second season of story structure and story analysis begins! In this episode, I catch you up on the latest changes to the site and discuss why Moonlight won Best Picture. In two months, I've re-written a screenplay and planned out two complete television series. The secret? Understanding how to leverage the power of the Dramatica theory of story to craft meaningful narratives. I explain why in this episode as well as successfully predict what would be wrong with Dunkirk from a s...
The Final Word on Generating Dramatic Tension in Your Story
June 21, 2017 21:22 - 1 hour - 63.1 MBIn addition to wrapping up the events of last month, we showcase two interviews--one with a writer new to Dramatica and the other, with a writer who discovered Dramatica. Dramatica will save your life. Whether within the story room or out there in the real world, Dramatica's unique understanding into what makes narrative--and therefore us--work allows you to weather any storm. In the story room, where you're constantly barraged by one story note after the next, Dramatica's storyfor...
Run With Me
June 06, 2017 22:37 - 43 minutes - 39.8 MBExperience writing with us. What happened to the Narrative First podcast? We've actually been writing on several different projects. One a big budget animated feature, the other a super low-budget indie animated film, and the last an epic adult animated cult series. Details on all to be provided in the months to come, but for now--we're freakin' busy! When we're heads down and plugged in and focused we tend to obsess over one song. It's not unusual for us to listen to the same son...
Discovering Dramatica and the Genesis of Narrative First: Part Two
May 08, 2017 17:15 - 43 minutes - 40.1 MBIn this second part of our two part series, we continue our introduction to the development of the Dramatica theory of story and Narrative First. Join us as we unearth the top 16 articles on story structure & story analysis, everything from evaluating competing paradigms to exploring the magic of Dramatica to the essence of perfect scene structure. If you're new to Dramatica or Narrative First, this podcast series beckons you forth. And if you're not new--you just mind fond somethin...
Discovering Dramatica and the Genesis of Narrative First: Part One
April 15, 2017 06:14 - 45 minutes - 41.7 MBIn this episode, we offer an introduction to the development of the Dramatica theory of story and Narrative First. In addition, we dive into our unique collection of Vault articles written during our first four years. Short and sweet, these articles provide a great place for writers and producers new to Dramatica to learn the basics of the theory. The Dramatica Mentorship Program - our premiere service designed to give you the tools and techniques for applying Dramatica's powerful ...
James Bond is NOT the Antagonist
April 08, 2017 21:41 - 44 minutes - 40.4 MBNo matter how hard you try to twist it, James Bond will always be the Protagonist--as long as you accurately account for the drive towards resolution. One of the first things a writer learns when they come to Dramatica is this idea of looking at characters from an objective point-of-view. Enticing as it may seem, the idea that James Bond works towards preventing or avoiding resolution runs counter to the holistic nature of the story points within the Dramatica storyform. Also, with...
Narrative Science and the Dawning of the Singularity
April 01, 2017 00:23 - 36 minutes - 33.2 MBReady to have complete stories beamed directly into your nervous system? Fear not, Narrative First and Dramatica will be there to help make the transition a smooth and painless procedure. This week we discuss the singularity and the hope that those in charge of our Brave New World know a thing or two about the Dramatica theory of story. After all, if you're going to invade the mind you might as well have a working model of how it problem-solves and justifies, amiright? The Spike J...
What Story Structure Looks Like To Your Characters
March 25, 2017 02:37 - 45 minutes - 41.8 MBIt's one thing to play God when writing a story, but wouldn't it be great if you could see what the major plot points in your story look like from the point-of-view of your characters? Well, now you can. In this episode, not only do we present our greatest impression yet, but we also manage to cover the Four Throughlines of Manchester by the Sea, speak about the objective and subjective nature of story paradigms, and lay down a detailed approach for connecting story structure to yo...
The Most Boring Storyform in the Entire World
March 17, 2017 03:18 - 24 minutes - 22 MBIn this episode we cover the world's most familiar--and therefore, drabbest and dreariest--story structure. A popular message out of America in the mid to late 20th century, this storyform speaks of the essence what it is to be Male and focused on achievement. Show Notes & Links The Dramatica Mentorship Program - our premiere service designed to give you the tools and techniques for applying Dramatica's powerful concepts to your stories. Why Daylights Savings is a Bad Idea Smart ...
Arrival & The Zero-Sum Game
March 09, 2017 04:50 - 39 minutes - 36.3 MBIn this episode we make the connection between Arrival and the holistic approach to story structure offered by the Dramatica theory of story. Why speculate about how your story will end when you can make meaningful progress by developing a narrative that supports your artistic intent? In addition we take a look into creating dramatic tension and hooking your audience into your story by looking both subjectively from within you story and objectively from outside of your story. Sound...
The Best Picture of 2016 Doesn't Have a Story
March 02, 2017 05:16 - 37 minutes - 34.7 MBWelcome back! In this, our first episode of the second season of the Narrative First Podcast, we catch up on all things story structure & story analysis including a look into the Oscar winner for Best Picture in 2016. Tons of links and articles and blog posts from the past three months for you to review. In fact, too many to summarize in this short paragraph. Best to scroll down to the Show Notes and follow along while you listen. If you have any questions or would like help struc...
The Crucial Element to Telling a Great Story
December 02, 2016 05:47 - 31 minutes - 29 MBIn this, our final episode of the 2016 season, we discuss the most important part of any story--the intersection of the objective and subjective points-of-view. We also discuss our analysis of Moana and wrap up our series on using Dramatica to write for Nanowrimo. Narrative First publishes yearly from March through November. The podcast will continue to run over the holiday season and into the new year. If you have any questions or would like help structuring your story with Dramat...
Finding Your Own Unique Voice When Writing for Nanowrimo
November 23, 2016 01:11 - 18 minutes - 16.6 MBIn this episode, we show you how to take that burning desire within your heart to be heard and apply it to a concrete and solid story structure. The Dramatica storyform is a powerful and effective tool for organizing your story's argument. But you still need to know what it is you want to say with your work. By connecting to that inner voice and discovering what is near and dear to you, you will have a better idea of what to actually attach to the storyform to give it passion and he...
Finding Inspiration for Nanowrimo Within a Great Story
November 18, 2016 06:19 - 26 minutes - 24.5 MBIn this episode, we learn how to use the storyform from an inspiring narrative to help define the structure of your own. But first, a roundup of this month's Dramatica analysis of Spotlight, and an insight into how to run a story room in order to effectively get everyone to come to a consensus as to the most important story point in a narrative--the Main Character Resolve. Remember, you can always Ask Us a Question we answer everything, or Leave a Voicemail click the microphone but...
Trolls, Hacksaw Ridge, & Brainstorming a Brand New Genre
November 11, 2016 06:07 - 30 minutes - 28.3 MBIn this episode we create a brand new category of story by combining Gist Collections from two different Genres. In addition, we take a look at Dreamworks' animated film Trolls and Mel Gibson's first film in ten years, Hacksaw Ridge. One is fun and functionally broken, one is moving and solidly structured. Care to guess which is which? Remember, you can always Ask Us a Question we answer everything, or Leave a Voicemail click the microphone button and leave a message after the beep...
Captain Fantastic and Creating a Story from Scratch for Nanowrimo
November 04, 2016 06:27 - 33 minutes - 30.3 MBIn this episode we show how you can come up with a compelling and meaningful story in less than two hours using Dramatica's powerful brainstorming tools. We also dive into a deep analysis of the fantastic Captain Fantastic, written and directed by Matt Ross and starring Viggo Mortensen. The film is a shining example of combining both objective and subjective views into a concrete and effective narrative. Remember, you can always Ask Us a Question we answer everything, or Leave a Vo...
Discovering the Hidden Narrative Code Within a Great Story
October 28, 2016 04:19 - 33 minutes - 31.1 MBIn this episode we take you step-by-step through a deep thematic analysis of The Dark Horse--a tremendous independent film out of New Zealand. Remember, you can always Ask Us a Question we answer everything, or Leave a Voicemail click the microphone button and leave a message after the beep. Show Notes & Links Alex Hull Wins Movie of the Week on Destiny! My son, who composed and performed the theme for the Narrative First podcast won the community prize for the video game Destiny...
How to Analyze a Narrative with Dramatica
October 21, 2016 04:37 - 32 minutes - 29.9 MBIn this episode not only do we cover how to successfully analyze a story with Dramatica, but we also look into four different kinds of scenes found in the psycho-technological thriller Ex Machina. And as a special bonus feature, Dramatica co-creator Chris Huntley offers his insights into how to successfully build a storyform. Remember, you can always Ask Us a Question we answer everything, or Leave a Voicemail click the microphone button and leave a message after the beep. Show No...
Ex Machina Mea Culpa
October 14, 2016 05:39 - 35 minutes - 32.4 MBOur original analysis of Ex Machina relied on subjective interpretation and proved faulty. This updated analysis clears up those issues by taking an objective point-of-view of the film's narrative. In addition we cover how Dramatica is a conflict-detection machine and how its unique set of story points identify the source of that conflict. Remember, you can always Ask Us a Question we answer everything, or Leave a Voicemail click the microphone button and leave a message after the ...
An Introduction to Scene Construction with Dramatica
October 05, 2016 01:32 - 31 minutes - 29.1 MBIn this episode we begin our discussion of deep thematic scene structure through the lens of the Dramatica theory of story. Typically we don't get this deep into the theory--at the Scene level the signal to noise ratio is so great that any inaccuracy will wash out when it comes to the meaning of the narrative. Still, it's fascinating to see perfect story structure working at this level. Remember, you can always Ask Us a Question we answer everything, or Leave a Voicemail click the ...
Getting Personal with Your Storytelling
September 28, 2016 02:49 - 22 minutes - 20.3 MBThis week we shorten things up a bit and take a look at one story point: the Main Character Approach. Does your Main Character prefer to solve problems externally or internally? The answer creates a pathway for the Audience to become a part of your story. In addition, we take a quick analysis at the live action Jungle Book movie from Disney. Remember, you can always Ask Us a Question we answer everything, or Leave a Voicemail click the microphone button and leave a message after t...
The Essential Ingredients of Every Complete Story
September 21, 2016 00:04 - 37 minutes - 34.4 MBIn order to wind up the dramatic potential for a story, an Author must answer eight essential questions. In this episode, we cover the first two ingredients of an effective narrative. Stories are not simply about three-dimensional characters bumping up against rising tension. Rather, they model the human mind's problem-solving process in an attempt to argue the effectiveness of a particular point-of-view. The closer a story mirrors this process the clearer it's message and the less...
The True Nature of Story
September 15, 2016 05:35 - 44 minutes - 40.7 MBIn this episode, we wrap up our exploration of the Audience Appreciations found in Dramatica by discovering the true nature of the purpose of narrative. This is a big one you won't want to miss. Also, our first caller! Show Notes and Links Thoughts on Story Structure Our daily blog postings on story structure & story analysis Seth Godin's Blog Seth Godin's super inspirational daily blog Tim Ferris' Four Hour Work Week Blog Tim Ferris' blog (also super inspirational) Dramatica ...
Does Your Main Character Build Resistance or Facilitate Flow?
September 07, 2016 03:43 - 33 minutes - 30.8 MBIn this episode we cover the tendency of the Main Character's personal problems to either build-up dramatic resistance or facilitate a greater flow throughout the story. In addition, we analyze Nice Guys and Sing Street, two new films out for streaming that you should definitely take a look at. Leave voicemail feedback for the show at narrativefirst.com/podcasts Links and Show Notes From Logline to Treatment Our FREE email course to help you take your 2-3 sentence logline and tur...
Defining the Feeling of Tension in Your Story
August 31, 2016 04:11 - 36 minutes - 33.6 MBIn this episode we take a look at the Audience Appreciation known as Essence and search for a new way to define it that is easy to understand for writers new to Dramatica. In addition, we have follow-up from last week's "controversial" podcast on Mental Sex and a brief Conversation with Melanie Anne Phillips, one of the co-creators of the theory. Links and Show Notes What is Mental Relativity Melanie explains the foundation of Dramatica Mental Sex is Not Sexist We get letters. An...