Screenplay by Disney: Tips and Techniques to Bring Magic to Your Moviemaking : Book Review

"Screenplay by Disney" by Jason Surrell is an incredibly captivating and educational book that is sure to appeal to both Disney fans and aspiring screenwriters. It takes readers on a fascinating journey into the creative process behind some of Disney's most beloved films, such as "The Lion King," "Beauty and the Beast," and "Aladdin."

What sets this book apart is Surrell's remarkable ability to truly capture the essence of each film's story and characters. He provides in-depth explanations of the story development, character creation, and dialogue writing that went into crafting each screenplay. By doing so, Surrell offers valuable insights into the thought and intention behind Disney's storytelling techniques, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the art of storytelling.

Throughout the book, Surrell includes interviews and insights from the talented writers, directors, and animators who brought these films to life. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into the challenges and triumphs that occur during the creation of a Disney screenplay adds another layer of fascination to the book. Learning about the inspirations behind iconic moments and songs directly from the creators themselves is truly captivating.

Furthermore, "Screenplay by Disney" also impresses with its inclusion of detailed script excerpts. These excerpts serve as a valuable resource for aspiring screenwriters, as they showcase the format and structure of a well-crafted screenplay. Surrell's analysis of these scenes, where he highlights narrative choices and character development, offers valuable lessons in storytelling for both novice and experienced writers.

In summary, "Screenplay by Disney" is a delightful and insightful book that takes readers on a deep dive into the enchanting world of Disney storytelling. Surrell's passion for the subject matter is evident throughout the book, making it an engaging read for Disney enthusiasts and aspiring screenwriters alike. Whether you're curious about the process behind these iconic films or seeking inspiration for your own writing, this book is a worthwhile addition to any collection.

What are readers saying?

"Screenplay by Disney," written by Jason Surrell, has garnered a range of opinions from readers. Some have praised the book for its insightful exploration of the behind-the-scenes process involved in creating Disney screenplays, while others have criticized it for being overly technical and lacking in depth.

Many positive reviews highlight the book's informative and engaging content. Readers appreciate Surrell's in-depth analysis of Disney films, commending his ability to dissect complex storytelling techniques and provide valuable behind-the-scenes information. These readers find the book to be a valuable resource for aspiring or experienced screenwriters, as well as Disney enthusiasts.

However, some reviewers feel that "Screenplay by Disney" falls short in terms of depth and analysis. They argue that the book could have delved deeper into the creative process, offering more substantial insights and examples. These readers were left wanting more detailed information on script development and the decision-making processes throughout Disney's history.

In addition, a few negative reviews critique Surrell's writing style. Some readers find his prose to be dry and lacking excitement, making it difficult to maintain interest in the book. They also mention that the technical jargon used throughout the book can be overwhelming for those who are unfamiliar with filmmaking terminology.

On the other hand, several positive reviews appreciate Surrell's ability to balance technical information with entertaining anecdotes. These readers enjoy his accessible writing style, finding the book enjoyable for both casual readers and industry professionals.

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