This is a new feature we’ll be doing from time to time. We read a lot of filmmaking websites and wanted to let you know about some of our favorites. This week we’d love to direct your attention to ScriptSecrets.net.

Script Secrets is written by professional screenwriter William Martell. Bill has become somewhat of a mentor to us over the years. His site is an incredible wealth of screenwriting tips. Each day the site features a new tip with in-depth examples from popular films. We credit Bill’s tips with helping us figure out the structure of Dangerous Calling.

I was going back through some of our notes this week and found this little gem from Script Secrets.

I think of story as: A character who is forced to resolve an emotional problem (character arc) in order to resolve a big dangerous physical problem (that high concept story conflict).

So both “needs” are connected – though one is emotional and another has to do with a tornado and a sewage treatment plant and the resulting sh*tstorm headed our way… and only the hero can stop it!

In MATRIX Neo needs to believe in himself… and he needs to stop Agent Smith and the Matrix from killing him. Hmm, they *seem* like two different needs, but see how they are connected? The only way to stop Agent Smith is if he believes that he’s “The One” and kicks some computer program ass.

The man is a screenwriting genius. I can’t recommend his site highly enough. If you want to be a screenwriter, bookmark it and return daily. Sadly, there is no RSS or subscription method on his site. Bill’s also got a personal blog that frequently has good advice as well.

What sites do you frequent?