GITS Script Reading and Analysis Series: “Michael Clayton” — Structure

Go Into The Story Script Reading and Analysis Series: “Michael Clayton” — Structure

This week we are analyzing the screenplay for the 2007 movie Michael Clayton written by Tony Gilroy.

You may download a copy of the shooting script here.

Today we discuss the script’s structure.

Three-act structure? A scene-by-scene breakdown? Major plot points? Sequences? Subplots? Here is your chance to use your analytical muscles.

See you in comments!

A GreenCine interview with Gilroy about writing and directing Michael Clayton. Awesome money quote:

People have asked me if I write differently because I directed it; but every script I’ve ever written, I’ve directed. Anybody who’s a good screenwriter is directing the movie. There’s two parts to it. The biggest part is imagination. That’s the thing that gets constantly lost in all these conversations about craft and mechanics. It’s very easy for people to talk about screenwriting like it’s taking a car apart; but basically, ultimately, it’s imagination. A huge part of it is making shit up.

NOTE: This series is for educational purposes only!

For Part 1 of this week’s series, go here.

EXCITING NEWS! In conjunction with this series, screenwriters Scott Frazier [@screenwritten] and John Gary [@johngary] will be hosting a live-Tweet Michael Clayton screening event this Wednesday, March 28. If you wish to participate — and I will be there — at precisely 8PM PDT / 11PM EDT [U.S.], push “play” on a DVD or whatever version of the movie you have, then follow along on Twitter as we will be commenting on the movie. Use the hashtag #mclay. Let’s spread the word on this, people. If this turns out to be popular, we may do something like this every month: live Tweet a movie.

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