"No one is better than Michael Hauge at finding what is most authentic in every moment of a story. . . . " Will Smith, actor ". . . When I pick up the phone for help, Michael Hauge is the call I make. " Shane Black, Screenwriter: Lethal Weapon 1 & 2; The Last Boy Scout; The Long Kiss Goodnight "Like having an expert in the room, Hauge's meticulous, unimposing style carefully guides the reader . . . In the field of teaching screenwriting, Michael Hauge is indeed a master. " The Freelance Screenwriter's Forum A bestseller for 20 years, Hauge's unique 'six step' approach to screenwriting cuts through nonsense, striking the perfect balance between commercial advice, artistic encouragement and lucid examples from hundreds of great films. Never losing sight of the fundamental purpose of a script: emotional impact, Hauge's engaging and inspiring book takes you on a journey through story concept, character development, theme, structure and scenes. Screenwriting is an art, but Hagues book is unashamedely commercial with advice on how to submit a manuscript, select an agent and market yourself. Updates to this edition include: * a new, masterful analysis of AVATAR's script * new script to illustrate character categories, character growth and theme, and charting your screenplay * a new chapter on breaking the rules - succussful scripts that don't follow the traditional Hollywood model * online marketing tools for screenwriters *a re-examination of every single principle for writing and selling screenplays in today's marketplace