February 4th, 2009
Episode 711: Shit-Tanks
A hat tip to Robert McKee for providing the source material: in Chapter 6 of Story there’s an oft-forgotten but crucial passage: “Four out of every five screenwriters will overuse the word “shit-tank” at least once in their careers. Be wary of “shit-tank.” Sure, a police commissioner or a firebrand realtor might throw around some s-t’s after a few g&t’s, but once you have your matronly laundress and wise-ass greaser saying it, you’re in too deep. Pull in the reins. Take five and relax, and vow to never write “shit-tank” again. Your audience will thank you. Your characters will thank you.”
