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by Robin Sharma
Save the Cat summary
Brief summary
Save the Cat by Blake Snyder is a renowned guide for aspiring screenwriters. It offers insightful tips and a structural blueprint for crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. A must-read for anyone interested in mastering the art of storytelling.
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Table of Contents
Save the Cat
Summary of key ideas
Understanding the Basics of Screenwriting
In Save the Cat by Blake Snyder, we are introduced to the basics of screenwriting. The title refers to the idea that in a movie, the hero must do something early on that makes the audience like them, such as saving a cat. Snyder explains that this is a crucial element in creating a relatable and likable protagonist.
Snyder then introduces us to the concept of the “beat sheet,” a fifteen-beat structure that he believes is essential for a successful screenplay. These beats include the opening image, theme stated, set-up, catalyst, and more. He argues that following this structure can help writers create a compelling and engaging story.
Understanding the Importance of Genre
Next, Save the Cat delves into the importance of genre in screenwriting. Snyder argues that understanding the genre of your story is crucial because it helps you understand the audience's expectations and allows you to play with those expectations. He introduces ten different genres and explains the conventions and obligatory scenes that each genre requires.
He also emphasizes the importance of creating a unique and fresh take on a familiar genre. He encourages writers to combine genres or subvert genre expectations to create something new and exciting.
Developing Characters and Plot
Snyder then moves on to discuss character development. He introduces the concept of the “save the cat” moment, which is a small act of kindness or heroism that makes the audience like the protagonist. He also discusses the importance of creating a clear and compelling character arc for the protagonist.
When it comes to plot, Snyder emphasizes the importance of creating a clear and compelling “logline” for your story. He also introduces the concept of the “board,” a visual representation of your story's structure that can help you identify and fix any issues with your plot.
Writing and Selling Your Script
In the latter part of Save the Cat, Snyder offers practical advice on the writing process. He discusses the importance of rewriting and getting feedback, and he provides tips on how to approach the rewriting process effectively.
Finally, Snyder offers advice on how to sell your script. He discusses the importance of networking, creating a compelling pitch, and understanding the business side of the industry. He also provides insights into what producers and studios are looking for in a script.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Save the Cat by Blake Snyder is a comprehensive guide to screenwriting. It offers a clear and structured approach to creating a successful screenplay, emphasizing the importance of understanding genre, creating compelling characters, and following a well-defined story structure. Whether you're a novice or an experienced writer, Snyder's insights and advice can help you improve your screenwriting skills and increase your chances of success in the competitive world of film.
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What is Save the Cat about?
Save the Cat by Blake Snyder is a must-read for aspiring screenwriters. Through insightful tips and practical advice, Snyder breaks down the key elements of successful storytelling in film. From crafting a compelling logline to understanding the importance of structure, this book offers valuable guidance for anyone looking to write a screenplay that resonates with audiences.
Save the Cat Review
Save the Cat (2005) by Blake Snyder is a guidebook for aspiring screenwriters that offers valuable lessons on crafting compelling stories. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With its practical advice and clear guidelines, it provides readers with a solid framework for developing effective screenplays.
- The book's insights into storytelling and genre conventions help writers create engaging and marketable scripts.
- Through its real-life examples and Snyder's own experiences, the book offers a wealth of valuable information that is both informative and interesting.
Who should read Save the Cat?
- Aspiring screenwriters looking to understand the basics of successful scriptwriting
- Filmmakers who want to create engaging and marketable stories
- Individuals interested in the behind-the-scenes work of the entertainment industry
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Save the Cat FAQs
What is the main message of Save the Cat?
Save the Cat teaches the art of storytelling and the importance of structure in creating compelling stories.
How long does it take to read Save the Cat?
The reading time for Save the Cat varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Save the Cat a good book? Is it worth reading?
Save the Cat is worth reading for aspiring writers looking to enhance their storytelling skills.
Who is the author of Save the Cat?
Blake Snyder is the author of Save the Cat.
What to read after Save the Cat?
If you're wondering what to read next after Save the Cat, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Where Good Ideas Come From by Steven Johnson
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- A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink
- Theory U by C. Otto Scharmer
- The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman
- The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
- Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda