Or, how focusing on good drama will result in good subtext.

We often hear how subtext is important for good screenwriting. We're here to tell you it isn't. Good subtext is a result of good drama, and your focus should be on creating that good drama. But how?

In this episode, Chas Fisher and Stu Willis are joined by screenwriter+teacher, Tom Vaughn (Winchester) to delve into the world of subtext.

We kick off the discussion by talking through Tom's article "Why Subtext is Overrated" and break down his core idea that subtext is a byproduct of character goals, tactics and fears.

We explore this further through close examination of "the other way" scene from MICHAEL CLAYTON, "the strudel" scene INGLORIOUS BASTARDS (both known for their subtext) and the "new years" sequence from THE SUBSTANCE.

Inevitably discussion also terms to the relationship of subtext to emotional truth, theme, symbolism, dramatic irony and filmmakers subtext (?!).

As always: SPOILERS ABOUND and all copyright material used under fair use for educational purposes.

CHAPTERS

00:00:20 - Intro: What is Subtext?
00:00:21 - Cold Open
00:18:59 - Michael Clayton
00:42:59 - Inglorious Basterds
01:13:48 - The Substance
01:46:13 - Wrap up & Key Learnings

RELATED EPISODES

DZ-40: Tactics and Scenes
DZ-108: The Emotional Event with Judith Weston
DZ-119: Final character choices & great endings

LINKS

The New Literalism Plaguing Today's Biggest Movies: https://www.newyorker.com/culture/critics-notebook/the-new-literalism-plaguing-todays-biggest-movies
Emotional Truth Over Subtext: Unlocking Compelling Scenes in Your Screenwriting: https://blog.storyandplot.com/why-subtext-is-overrated-8502a501aff8
Story and Plot - https://storyandplot.com/
Raising the Stakes - "What is subtext?": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-jILeLdfEw

More Draft Zero is brought to you more often by our awesome Patreons. Especially Lily, Paulo, Alexandre, Malay, Jennifer, Thomas, Randy, Jesse, Sandra, Theis, and Khrob.

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We are @stuwillis, @mehlsbells and @chasffisher on Twitter. You can find @draft_zero and @_shotzero on Instagram and Twitter.

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DZ-120: Subtext is overrated

Draft Zero: a screenwriting podcast