Introduction

For any aspiring screenwriter or playwright, the insight and guidance from experienced professionals can often be the key to unlocking their full potential. In this article, we explore the powerful advice offered to Steven Spielberg by John Ford, one of the greatest film directors in history. Their encounter not only shaped Spielberg's career but also offers invaluable lessons for anyone seeking to craft compelling stories on the screen or stage.

John Ford's Advice to Steven Spielberg

During a visit to Los Angeles, Steven Spielberg had the privilege of meeting the legendary director John Ford. As Spielberg recounted, Ford imparted to him the core principles that every aspiring filmmaker should keep in mind. Ford's advice was succinct yet profound, and it has since become a cherished piece of wisdom within the film industry and beyond.

Decoding the Third Act

One of the most inspiring pieces of advice was “A real problem in the third act is a problem in the first”. This statement encapsulates a fundamental truth in screenwriting and playwriting. It suggests that a weak third act often stems from foundational issues that were not adequately addressed in the initial stages of the work. Billy Wilder's cryptic advice is paraphrased here to provide a clearer understanding of Ford's sentiment.

Interpreting Billy Wilder's Advice

Billy Wilder's advice, “If you have a problem with the third act the real problem is in the first”, can be interpreted as follows:

Proactive Planning: It emphasizes the importance of thorough planning and careful consideration during the initial stages of the script. A strong foundation is crucial for the entire narrative to hold together. Character Development: The third act often reveals the true nature and depth of the characters developed in the first act. Weak third acts can indicate that character development was insufficient or underdeveloped. Story Arc Consistency: Ensures that the emotional and thematic arcs introduced in the first act are resolved or revisited in the third act without feeling inconsistent or contrived.

Applying the Concept to Screenwriting

Steven Spielberg's interpretation of John Ford's advice has been a guiding principle for many aspiring and established filmmakers. Here’s how one can apply this concept to their writing:

Strong Beginnings: Start with a compelling and well-structured opening that lays down the essential elements of your story. Introduce the setting, characters, and conflict. Developing Character Archetypes: Before diving into the third act, ensure that your characters are fully developed and well-defined. Their motivations and growth should be consistent throughout the narrative. Consistent Storylines: The third act should be a natural extension of the first two acts. Resolve subplots, deepen themes, and tie up loose ends.

Additional Insights from John Ford

John Ford’s wisdom extends beyond just the third act. Spielberg also shared another piece of invaluable advice: “I wanted to tell you about the other thing Ford told me. He told me when writing a story or screenplay, you have to know what the ending is, before you begin.”

This advice highlights the importance of clear vision and planning. It encourages writers to have a clear understanding of where the story is heading, ensuring that every element of the narrative contributes to the journey towards the climax.

Conclusion

John Ford's guidance has been a lifelong source of inspiration for Steven Spielberg. The lessons learned from this encounter serve as a blueprint for successful storytelling in both screenwriting and playwriting. Whether it's understanding the importance of a strong foundation or having a clear vision for the ending, these insights are invaluable for anyone aiming to create compelling and resonant narratives.

References

Spielberg, Steven. Personal conversations and interviews. John Ford. (1913–1973).

Further Reading and Resources