What Is Script Analysis

A very good definition of script analysis is: “Script analysis is the close reading of a text to establish its intended meaning, including a thorough understanding of the setting, the subtext, and the character’s objective.” There are many variations of script analysis techniques, many of which refer back to the teachings of Constantin Stanislavski, and many of them involve similar concepts. I consider myself extremely lucky to have had the opportunity to learn script analysis from Susan Batson, who built on the foundational principles of Harold Clurman’s technique. In 1934, Clurman and Stella Adler both studied intensely for five weeks with Stanislavski in Paris as they were creating the famous Group Theater in New York. Both Clurman and Adler became masters of script analysis, and the ideas they shared are now a rare gift. Larry Moss mentions meeting Stella Adler in his book, “The Intent To Live”, and upon commenting that he was in her script analysis class and was hoping to carry on the traditions, she blurted out passionately, “Don’t let it die!” And wept.

Script Analysis Is A Tool

I believe there is an important distinction that a good script analysis technique is only a tool. When used well, it helps to uncover the possibilities in the material. Also, a good approach to script analysis is not merely an intellectual exercise. Breathing life into a character and into the words of the writer must be a living, breathing, visceral process. It is akin to what musicians do with a piece of music. The actor must learn how to “feel” what is on the page, similar to a musician who can feel the music as they read the notes. My favorite example of this is in Milos Forman’s 1984 film, “Amadeus” - in F. Murray Abraham’s Oscar winning performance, he beautifully creates the experience of his character simultaneously reading and experiencing Mozart’s music - see the clip below:

Feed Your Curiosity

It would not be practical to get into the specifics of Susan Batson’s script analysis technique in this post, but it’s something that I take pride in sharing with actors that I work with. There is a lot out there to read further about different elements of script analysis: Susan Batson outlines her technique in her book “TRUTH”. Harold Clurman outlines his philosophies and shares his directing notes in his famous book, “On Directing”. Larry Moss articulates the ideas extremely well in “The Intent To Live”, and Ivana Chubbuck has very practical guideposts in her book, “The Power of the Actor”. Just as with various acting techniques, there is not just one absolutely right approach to script analysis. The only path to success is to learn as much as you can about it, hold onto what works for you, and make it yours.

All my best,

Greg Braun

Visit Our Website