Sequencing helps immensely with focusing scene writing. Since every sequence is in effect a mini-movie that (with the others) builds the whole story, every scene in a sequence must work in both the sequence and the overall movie. Everything has to be justified. The beginning/middle/end structure of a story is fractal within any screenplay -- it informs every decision. I think a great scene expands on this with every beat.

That's why "something compelling happening" (in context of the overall story) is the key component of every great scene. Without a memorable event that fits perfectly, the sequence won't land with any real impact, and the overall movie won't feel connected and interwoven thematically, but rather episodic and disjointed.

A great scene strengthens the structure by remembering its purpose.

@Luzid: Excellent articulation. That last line -- "A great scene strengthens the structure by remembering its purpose" -- is that your line or from someone else. Because it deserves to be a screenwriting mantra.

It's original. Thought it up while crafting the reply -- another example of why I find writing so useful beyond just writing cool stuff down. : )

i'm always interested in double meanings and double purposes. i always ask myself in what way can each scene be a metaphor for some aspect of the broader story or the characters involved, somehow. certainly not as well-put or well-thought-out as luzid, but that's my 2 cents. :)

Alex, you make an excellent point!

If elements of a scene aren't doing multiple things at once (reinforcing the theme, revealing character, setting up/paying off, etc), I feel like I'm missing opportunities and must dig deeper to mine what lies beneath.

Chalk it up to my intense need to multitask in all areas of my life. : )

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