GITS Script Reading & Analysis: “Raiders of the Lost Ark” — Structure

This week we are analyzing the screenplay for Raiders of the Lost Ark, the beloved 1981 action-adventure movie [screenplay by Lawrence Kasdan, story by George Lucas & Philip Kaufman].

You may download a copy of the script [August 1979] here.

Here is Part 1 of an interview with Karen Allen who played Marion Ravenwood in Raiders:

Today we discuss the script’s structure. How would you break down the story’s plot? What do you think are the major Plotline points? How did the story sustain its incredible narrative drive?

Here is Part 2 of the Karen Allen interview:

Great news! Tomorrow and Thursday, we will be featuring a terrific analysis of Raiders, specifically character and theme, from professional screenwriter John Gary. Outstanding commentary you will not want to miss!

We have another live Tweet-Cast on Wednesday, September 26 at 8PM Pacific. What’s a Tweet-Cast? Everybody lines up a DVD, Netflix, or whatever version of the movie, then hits “Play” precisely at the top of the hour. During the movie, we comment on it real time on Twitter.

We generally have a group of professional screenwriters participate including Tom Benedek, Scott Frazier, John Gary and myself, and anyone is invited to drop by. It’s a lot of fun, but also a great way to break down and analyze a movie. Hashtag: #ROLATC

If you know of any great behind-the-scenes videos or interviews about Raiders, please post them in comments.

For all of the other screenplays and commentary in the GITS Script Reading & Analysis series, go here.

NOTE: THE USE OF THESE SCREENPLAYS IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

See you in comments to discuss the story structure of Raiders of the Lost Ark.

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