# Scene Analysis

> Scene-by-scene analysis techniques for screenplays. Covers scene anatomy, beat breakdown, pacing evaluation, and the core question "what changes?" to identify unnecessary or weak scenes. Use when: analyzing scene effectiveness, evaluating scene pacing, identifying scene problems, or breaking down scene beats.

- Skill: `bybren-llc/scene-analysis-2` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add bybren-llc/scene-analysis-2`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/bybren-llc/scene-analysis-2/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: bybren-llc (https://skillmd.com/u/bybren-llc)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/bybren-llc/scene-analysis-2

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# Scene Analysis

## Scene Essentials

Every scene needs:
1. **Goal** - What does the protagonist want?
2. **Conflict** - What's preventing them?
3. **Outcome** - Win, lose, or complication?

## Scene Types

### Confrontation Scene
Two or more characters in direct conflict.
- Clear opposing goals
- Rising tension
- Resolution or escalation

### Discovery Scene
Character learns important information.
- Setup mystery/question
- Investigation or revelation
- Reaction and implications

### Action Sequence
Physical conflict or chase.
- Clear geography
- Escalating stakes
- Cause and effect

### Montage
Series of shots showing passage of time.
- Unified theme
- Clear progression
- Music/voiceover optional

### Flashback
Scene from the past.
- Clear trigger
- Relevant information
- Smooth transition back

## Scene Structure

### Entry Point
- Enter late, leave early
- Start with action/conflict
- Establish location quickly

### Development
- Escalate conflict
- Reveal character through action
- Advance plot and theme

### Exit Point
- End on change
- Hook to next scene
- Don't overstay welcome

## Scene Grading

Rate each scene (1-5) on:

| Criteria | Question |
|----------|----------|
| **Purpose** | Does it advance plot or reveal character? |
| **Conflict** | Is there tension? |
| **Change** | Does something shift by the end? |
| **Uniqueness** | Could this scene happen elsewhere? |
| **Economy** | Is it as lean as possible? |

## Red Flags

- Scene exists only for exposition
- No conflict or tension
- Characters unchanged by end
- Dialogue carries all the weight
- Scene could be cut without impact

## Scene Questions

Before writing, answer:
1. What does the protagonist want in this scene?
2. What's stopping them?
3. What do they learn/lose/gain?
4. How does this change the story?
5. What's the emotional temperature?