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Robert McKee
Robert McKee Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting

Robert McKee Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting

Best price now

$3.99at HarperCollins PublishersChecked Nov 8

83% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 5 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

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Price facts

  • Last seen at $3.99 at HarperCollins Publishers on Nov 8.
  • Checked at 5 stores.

Our take on the Robert McKee Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting

This seminal text serves as the definitive guide to the craft of screenwriting, focusing on the fundamental principles of narrative structure rather than rigid formulas. Robert McKee breaks down the mechanics of storytelling, from character motivation to scene design, making it a staple for industry professionals. It is widely regarded as more comprehensive and theory-driven than competitors like Save the Cat.

Best forAspiring screenwritersFilm industry executivesNovelists seeking better structureProfessional development for producers
Pros
  • Deep analysis of narrative theory
  • Focuses on principles over formulas
  • Applicable to both film and prose
  • Clear definitions of story elements
  • Highly influential in Hollywood
Cons
  • Dense and academic writing style
  • Focuses heavily on classic cinema
  • Can be intimidating for absolute beginners

Robert McKee Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting prices at every store

  • HarperCollins PublishersNew

    In stock

    $3.99Free shippingChecked Nov 8
    Visit HarperCollins Publishers
  • TargetNew

    In stock

    $23.49+ $5.99 shippingChecked Nov 8
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  • Barnes & NobleNew

    In stock

    $45.00+ $6.99 shippingChecked Nov 8
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  • AbeBooks.co.ukPre-owned

    Availability unknownShips from the UK · duties may apply

    $8.68+ $3.75 shippingChecked Nov 8
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  • AmazonNew

    Availability unknown

    As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

    $20.12Checked Nov 8
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Robert McKee Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting price history

Lowest price we've seen: $3.99 on Nov 9 at HarperCollins Publishers. Tracked across 4 stores since Nov 9.

What reviewers say

Readers and critics consider this the 'bible' of screenwriting, praising its intellectual depth while noting its demanding nature.

What people mention
  • StructurePraisedThe book is highly valued for its detailed explanation of how to build a cohesive narrative arc.
  • ToneMixedWhile many find the authoritative voice inspiring, others find it overly rigid or academic.
  • ExamplesMixedThe use of classic films like Casablanca is helpful for theory but may feel less relevant to genre writers.

Specifications

Author Name
Robert McKee
Binding Type
Hardcover
Book Format Type
Hardcover
Digital Format
eBook
Publisher
HarperCollins
Main Genre
Non-fiction
Subgenre
Creative writing guides
Educational Subject
Screenwriting
Educational Highlights
Creative writing and creative writing guides
Book Author
Robert McKee
Book Title
Story: Style, Structure, Substance, and the Principles of Screenwriting
Book Language
English
Book Publisher
HarperCollins
Book Dimensions
38 mm (spine width)
Book Weight
680 g
Original Language
English
Translated Language
No
Skill Level
Novices
Typical Users
Writers, Agents, Development executives, Industry insiders, Producers
Age Range
ADULT

Questions and answers

Is this book only for screenwriters?
No. While it uses film as the primary medium, the principles of character and plot apply equally to novelists, playwrights, and journalists.
How does this compare to Save the Cat?
Story focuses on the 'why' and the deep theory of narrative, whereas Save the Cat provides a more prescriptive 'how-to' beat sheet for commercial scripts.
Is the hardcover version worth it?
The hardcover is a durable reference book with a 38mm spine, designed to be consulted frequently throughout a writing career.
Is it suitable for beginners?
It is accessible to novices, but it requires a serious commitment to study due to its technical depth and 680g weight.
Where is the Robert McKee Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting cheapest?
At HarperCollins Publishers, for $3.99, 83% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.
Where can I buy the Robert McKee Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting?
5 stores we checked sell it, including HarperCollins Publishers, AbeBooks.co.uk, Target, Barnes & Noble, Amazon.

Stores we've priced the Robert McKee Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting at

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