For the last two years, our Development Director José Silerio has been integral to the success of Blake’s workshops and classes. Jose worked alongside Blake schooling writers in the “Cat” method. As a teacher and consultant, José has helped numerous writers learn Blake’s paradigm and apply it to their projects. The following tribute was written by Jose:
Who’s your hero? This is the number one question of Blake’s Story Spine Checklist. Who’s the hero? That seems easy enough to answer. In fact, it should be obvious. I’m the writer. I should know who the hero is, right? Pffft! What kind of question is that? Who’s the hero?!? Really?!?
Yes, really.
The truth is it’s not always that easy to answer that question. And sometimes it takes more than we care to know.
I first found out Blake passed away when Rich Kaplan called me that fateful afternoon. His voice wasn’t as steady as it usually was, and it was even more somber and lower than usual. As he said, “José, there’s really no other way to say this…” For a split second, the first thought that came to mind was “I’m getting fired.” I thought that jokingly but still somewhat fearfully. But the words that followed weren’t what I expected nor what I wished to hear … ever. Honestly, I’d rather have been fired. At least that, upsetting as it may have been, is something that’s just temporary. Not something so permanent, so absolute, so final.
As the comments and tributes started coming in and filling this website, it became obvious how many people — how unbelievably many — were touched by Blake, whether it was through a weekend workshop, a seminar, a talk, a phone call, a consultation, an email, a five-minute conversation or even justa handshake. But the other thing that stood out was the sense of loss. The loss of a mentor, a teacher, a friend, a loved one. And in Save the Cat! jargon, most felt this was a true All Is Lost.
I don’t blame you. Loss of a mentor. Whiff of Death. Isn’t that what Blake said? Page 75. All Is Lost. Game over, man.
Yes, Blake said that. But Blake also said the beat sheet isn’t formula. And it’s because of that I know this isn’t an All Is Lost. If you read his books and listened to his lectures — I mean really listened — you should know this isn’t the All Is Lost. And don’t tell me it’s a False Defeat either. This is a Catalyst.
Let me paraphrase Blake: “I like the catalyst moment because… it’s life. Those moments happen to all of us. And life-changing events often come disguised as bad news. Like many of the beats in the BS2, the catalyst is not what it seems.” (Save the Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You’ll Ever Need, p. 76-77)
The Catalyst is something that’s done to the hero that sends him or her off on another path that he or she didn’t expect. Trust me when I say these words resonate in me more now than they ever will. And just like any protagonist, I find myself at a crossroad, a Debate, if you will. And I think many of you find yourself in the same situation.
The funny thing about the Debate is that it seems like the most unimportant of all the beats in the BS2. Do I take the red pill or the blue pill? Do I go through the door or not? Do I get on the ship or not? Do I call the girl or not? I mean, the answer has to be “yes,” right? If not, there’s no story. So, what’s the point to the Debate? Interestingly, I think, the Debate is the moment when we see our protagonist as most vulnerable, most fearful, most human — and, in a way, showing us why we associate with the protagonist and what made us follow the story in the first place.
And just as I said it, whether I’m ready or not, willing or not, I Break Into Two. Into the upside-down world of Act II. A world without Blake.
And I ask you to do the same.
Don’t be scared because, as Blake always said, this is the best part. The Fun & Games. The promise of the premise. The poster of your movie. The poster of your story. And what’s really great about this is that you already have a B Story to accompany you in your Fun & Games. That little booster rocket that helps smooth over the shockingly obvious A Story act break (another Save the Cat! gem). What is it? It’s Blake’s story. So now you know what “B” stands for.
Here’s another line from Save the Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You’ll Ever Need (p. 79): The B Story says: “Enough already, how about talking about something else!” With that ever-present Blake Snyder exclamation point, no less. And that’s exactly what Blake would be saying right now.
But don’t use Blake as a flashback. We all know Blake hated flashbacks. He thought they were a cheat. An easy way out. But more so, a flashback moves the story backwards, not forwards. When you think of Blake, when you remember that special moment you shared with him — whether it was a brief encounter, a lifelong friendship, or an awakening while reading his words — make sure you’re moving your story forward. Make sure you are moving your life forward. Because that’s the only way Blake would have wanted it.
And I have no doubt you will, we all will. Thesis. Antithesis. Synthesis. As Blake always said, “It’s easy!”
So, let me ask you again: Who’s the hero? That’s really easy to answer now. You are. You all were Blake’s heroes. Those of you who courageously fought off your temptations on a daily basis so we may be encouraged. Those of you who persevered to find the story of your life so we may follow. And, mostly, those of you who never gave up on your dreams so we may be inspired.
So, go and write your screenplay, your novel, your movie, your story. Go and watch a movie, in groups, with your loved ones, or by yourself. And when you see the hero do something nice when you first meet him, shout out “Save the Cat!” And when you see the hero alone and beaten, shout “All Is Lost!!” And when you see the hero rise back up to his or her feet, and finally, once and for all, remove that Shard of Glass, and throw it away, shout “Dig Deep Down!!!” Do it, not so theater owners will love you. Do it because Blake loves you.
Thanks, big guy! Miss ya! Love ya!
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Jose, you have captured the true spirit of Blake with these words! You’re right… This is the Catalyst moment, Blake is the B Story, and we are each the Hero of our own story!
Thank you for being there! I know Blake is somewhere looking down on us and giving us hope and inspiration!
I will always cherish my time I got to spend with him.
Well said, Jose. Blake said you are, “a master of story beats,” and it’s obvious now just how right he is. I say, “is,” because Blake’s soul lives on. This, I believe, is what story is really all about. The beats are about transition, and the ultimate transition is death. Just ask Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, or read some of her work with terminally ill patients, and notice the parallel with Blake’s work. We love the story because we see the hero transform; and take from him the inspiration, the CATalyst, for our own story, our own transformation. To, as you so beautifully pointed out, become our own hero. Thank you, Jose! Thank you, Blake!
I met Blake briefly. I hurried to say hello before he was to present a class. After I told him that after reading many (I mean many) books, attending classes and endless seminars that gave me the “pieces” to complete a screenplay I was still very frustrated. Only until I followed his beats format did I understand how to put the “pieces together” and the story made sense. He told me that my idea was excellent and congratulated me. I am so thankful for his kindness, his sincere interest and his warm handshake. Gracias Blake, I will always tell people who taught me to tell a story. May you find rest in the Lord.
It’s funny, shortly after I heard the news of Blake’s passing, I thought that I must use this as motivation to start pounding the keys. His death is a catalyst, but he has given us all we need – like a mentor on page 75. He’s done all he can, now it’s our turn.
At the end of my first film – and I am sure many other writer’s first films to come – the audience will see the words “For Blake”.
I had him on my hands, Blake Snyder.I’ve never spoken to him, I’ve never met him.I’ve never shaken hands with him but I had him in my hands and I was getting to know him well when I received the message of his passing away.
How strange. How unexplainable. Was it prophetic that the news came at the moment Blake Snyder should introduce me to Johnny Entropy whose motto is: “What’s the point? We’re all gonna die anyway.” (p.145, Chapt 7 What’s Wrong With This Picture,Save the Cat) Now the Hero’s gone. I pray for you Blake Snyder.
Jose, that must have taken so much courage to write but obviously we all know your words are true. Thank-you. I,like many others have been more inspired to write my dream and, like Kieron, there is no doubt that my film will end ‘For Blake’ i hope my film reflects his true message not just of films but of life, and love, also. God Bless. x
Thank you, Jose! I too have been thinking along these lines. I’m sure that Blake would be disappointed in us all, if we stopped so long in mourning him that we completely stalled out in our own storytelling. He was always excited by a new story idea, his own or anyone else’s.
I had recently started developing a new non-fiction project, and was looking forward to telling him about it. He had been very supportive of my first book. But even though he’s not here to be told, I can readilly imagine his encouragement, the way his eyes would light up as the idea took root.
I hope everyone he has touched will continue to be energized by his words and enthusiasm. He had such joy in storytelling. That is infectious — and I want to go on spreading that “infection”. Bless you all.
Bravo, Jose! Well said, and thank you for saying it!
Thank you, Jose, for a beautiful, energising tribute. Blake, as you know, was hugely instrumental in my changing my life and turning to LA to pursue my writing career – in this, he was the catalyst. I went on to call him my B story and said that as B stories went, he was the best. And, yes, like so man,y I’ve been feeling the All Is Lost moment of him, too. Talk about hogging the whole movie, Blake! But you are right, Jose: this isn’t an ending with a That’s All Folks! sign-off; I’m trying to think of it as a To Be Continued . . . We will continue to miss him, but he would have wanted us to go on, hard as that feels at the moment. Thank you, thank you, Jose, for this wonderfully comforting piece from the heart. Love Jaci xxx
Thank you, José, for an inspiring and insightful post. The part that particularly resonated with me was when you wrote about the Debate and said, “So, what’s the point to the Debate? Interestingly, I think, the Debate is the moment when we see our protagonist as most vulnerable, most fearful, most human — and, in a way, showing us why we associate with the protagonist and what made us follow the story in the first place.”
That’s where I am now in a book — the Debate. And the reminder is much appreciated. Thank you not just for your insights about Blake and what he would want us to do with our work, but, in fact, for picking up where Blake left off!
Thank you for your caring, thoughtful words Jose. Very moving, and very true.
What a beautiful community Blake has built here.
Warmest regards,
Mat
Jose,
My dear friend, the keys to the cat kingdom are in excellent hands. Use them well for with great power comes great responsibility.
The magnificent Blake, who inspired hopes, dreams and ideas of many, has chosen well the rock upon to build his church.
I look forward to our amazing journey together.
Thank you, Jose. Appreciate your true words of a kind and gentle giant. Thanks for carrying on the mission. I’m sure Blake is smiling right now.
That was just great, Jose. Well done!
Jose, thank you very much for everything. Especially your heart.
I recall when you came on board and how well you and Blake worked together parsing screenplays. I especially remember Blake giving us all instructions on things to be done over the break. We fumbled about until you started asking questions, not telling us what to do but asking specific questions about our screenplays, the answers to which made everything clear.
It is indeed the break into three. I am aware of two things: I will miss Blake forever, and I would not be standing here poised to set the third act in motion without Blake’s caring wisdom.
Thank you,
zeb
I came here looking for I don’t know what, and found this. It was perfect. Thank you.
After reading this, only a faint amount of light remains from an opened door several paces behind me. I’ve gone through. I’m on the other side.
I’ll see you in a few pages Jose.
faithfully, your friend from pitchfest.
All lives have a purpose, which we are meant to address or fulfill in some way. Blake’s work seems to have been an ideal fulfillment of his life’s purpose–pursuing his love of screenwriting and his love of teaching. His life teaches us that every life is a story.
I am an older writer and although greatly rewarded by Blake’s theory and method, I had trouble motivating back into the writing work I had done years before, as if waiting for that spark of inspiration. Tonight, in the shock of seeing he is gone, the event itself becomes a lesson from Blake to writers like me–don’t wait for inspiration, FIND it. The clock is ticking.
God bless you, Blake. Wherever you live on, you surely also live on here, in your ‘family.’
As a teacher at a film school, the first thing I say to my students is “Save the cat!”
As a screenwiter, Blake is the first person I turn to to fix a script, usually with something simple like “make the bad guys badder”.
Along the hero’s journey, sadly, the mentor must die so the hero can come into his own. I would urge every screenwriter who has been touched by Blake’s life to start their computers and type “Fade in…” The road will be long, the journey arduous, but with Blake’s spirit in our hearts we can get to “Fade out…”
Jose, Thank you. That was just perfect.
Great article, Jose. Thanks for sharing an uplifting perspective on this whole thing. I like thinking of Blake as my catalyst!
Thank you, Jose. And thank you, Blake.
I never met or spoke to Blake, but I won’t forget his generosity. I emailed him a logline, and he was kind enough to encourage me to develop it into a script. He even gave me my antagonist, although I never mentioned in my email that I needed a better one! My script was a finalist in a recent contest, and I am currently rewriting it. I can imagine how much his friends must miss him.
Wonderful, Jose. Thank you. I am one of those people who only knew Blake because I asked a question in one of his free sessions at a pitchfest and he offered to meet me afterwards to work with me. He offered. I didn’t ask. The ten minutes he spent focused on my question was a life changing experience for me. I didn’t know which was more amazing — the advice he was giving me or the fact that he was offering it so genuinely, generously, and enthusiastically. When I got back to my little corner of the world, I kept telling people about this wonderful man who had helped me in such an unselfish and positive encounter. The best part, I think, is that Blake touched so many people in a similar way. I will always remember and treasure my brief conversation with Blake. It must be so much harder for those of you who knew him well and longer.
SAVE THE CAT SAVED THIS CAT.
THANKS,
MR. SNYDER
Beautifully put, Jose.
Boy did I need that! Thanks Jose.
Thanks, Blake. Only screenwriting teacher worth your salt.
After the tears stopped, I saw Blake’s passing as catalyst right away. I picked up a script I’d let stall, one that I began in his Beat Sheet workshop a year ago and was halfway through a 2nd draft. Suddenly his enthusiasm for the story, for me, for all the people in the class, which had faded in my memory and become shoved aside by more present realities (credit card bills!)came roaring back unbidden. I’ve been working on it every morning since for the longest unbroken stint since the workshop. Blake’s picture I took in class is up on the board next to my desk. I can almost see him smile brighter with each new idea I stick up there. I’m also coming up with lots more new ideas for new scripts, mostly family comedies, his favorite. I know I’m not the only one doing this. i wonder if we’ll see a “Blake Boom” of new scripts in a few months?
Thanks, Jose, for a spot-on tribute and kick in the butt. Even the All is Lost and Dark Night of the Soul beats combined only last 10 pages. It’s time to storm the castle!!
Nicely said, José. It is the way Blake would want it. Our mission is clear. Write on!
When I read that he died, I was shocked. I’ve met him last year at First Draft Pitch. Ive bought his both books first time then & his programme. I was on his workshop and got his autograph. We talked about his 2rd book coming. I actually have a photo with him… It’s so strange, I just can’t fully believe that he’s gone. He was not only a talented screenwriter and mentor, he was such a nice person.
Thank you Dear Jose. I salute you for putting this so clearly for all of us to remember. I too have been more inspired and committed since Blake’s shocking and heartbreaking departure. Catalyzed yes! Before Blake’s passing, every word/scene I wrote, I imagined Blake’s response. Now, Blake must be inside me, a part of me… since that is the only way I can still have him in my life. And so now, with each word I write, I check in with my inner Blake… and he lives. I can feel him. His enthusiasm and joy, his courage to make scenes primal and most of all his infinite belief that “it’s easy” and that we can all enjoy and be part of the journey.
Jose, you have a gift for saying just the right thing just when we need to hear it. Thank you!
You’re so right about Blake’s passing being a catalyst. I will always miss him, but now I feel I have no choice but to make sure my stories (Blake and you guided me with creating) are a success. Then write, write, write more.
Blake’s life was a wonderful story. What better way to honor him than by using his wisdom to create what he loved best…STORIES.
DEBATE done.
BREAK INTO TWO…
Dear Mrs. Snyder and family,
You raised a wonderful son, a wonderful teacher and an amazing man. You did an incredible job…he is now with the greatest storyteller of all.
I pray that during this extreme time of pain and agony that you will feel love and support from above. And though no one can fill your hole –I pray you will be able to find hope.
I too lost a son this summer and my heart goes out to you in your sudden loss.
Warmest regards,
Rachel Nightingale
Thanks for the beautiful blog about Blake. He was so kind to everyone and he will be greatly missed. I first spoke to Blake through email. My sister and I were working on a script and we pitched him a logline. He was so nice and helpful. He gave us some hope that we could make it in a world that had just about discouraged us completely.
He knew us as the Sister Team and it didn’t matter how long the gap was between our talks, he always remembered us. I’ll never forget that. I’ll miss him and I’ll always remember the gift he gave all of us. Thank you for the words! Blake has once again inspired me to write out my dreams and never give up.
Jose- I hope someone picks up this ball and runs with it as this blog is so important in keeping the essence of “The Cat” . I personally have just moved off of denial about Blake. I saw my new carreer and life so intertwined with Blake’s advice and kindness that I could not handle the news that he’s gone. Most people who read my stuff say I need to see if I could get a job as a Walmart greeter but Blake called me BRILLIANT! Damnit I am and I’m not quitting what Blake said about me or the personal messages he sent. KEEP ON BLOGGING because “B” also stands for BLOG.
thanks for making me cry, yet again, at my desk!
Blake taught me so much. I will love you forever, and will see you in heaven.
Blake was a true inspiration, his spirit lives on through his books and this site … I miss him.
Love you bud! See you on the flip side.
Hi out there from Germany
The first i’ve done after I’ve heard that Blake passed away – I opened the StC Software and thought : Now more than ever.
I’m working on some scripts with the StC Software … and it works. Also in Germany…
Pg. 75-85 Dark night into soul – break into 3 !
Blake, you signed my StC Book with following words:
To Frank
Best of luck on your writing and filmmaking career!
See you in Hollywood!
I write you back, now:
To Blake
Your timing of beat-sheets was horrible THIS time.
See you in heaven – at the final image.
(and pls be calmed – I just write in German language ..;op )
I (we) lost a great teacher…
Thanks, Jose! This was a very touching tribute to Blake and all his followers. I met him in NYC in 2006 and still refer to his outline sheets on a regular basis. He seemed to have such a love for writers, patience and passion. I’m grateful to have known him through his books and weekend class.
Thank you.
Jose, It’s taken me a few days before I could write anything here… because yes, like so many others, reading your words made me cry, again. Blake chose wisely with you and you chose wisely to receive the mantle. I’m so deeply grateful for Blake… he will always have a piece of my heart. I am also deeply grateful for you, your spirit emanates brightly. Blake’s work, his joy, his love for all things writing and people will live on, not just through his books and all he did, but because of you. May God Bless You. Claudia
Hi………. I am sitting here crying as I write. I just had a call from Blakes publishing company, telling me Blake wouldn’t be able to do a workshop in Houston, as he passed away on August 4th. There was no media announcement that reached me. Although I have had him strongly on my mind for several weeks. I have been talking about him, and arranging the use of his book with my Screenwriters group. I met him, bought his book, listened to him at one of his many Borders appearances in LA, and adored his philosophy, and intentions. For some reason, I feel I’ve lost a dear friend. Keep on keeping on!! If you can arrange a Houston trip, please contact me! ))_^^(( Jacquie
Jose,
I know Claudia has already gotten back with you, back I just have to respond as well. Your words were so touching, so on point. I am MOST certain that Blake would be beaming with pride over you if he were standing physically still in our midst, despite his fussing at all of us for fussing so much over him!! LOL. (YES) we would have heard an “ICEBERGE!” from him by now as he playfully chided us to continue on to our B story. The part I do love is that now I can see his laughter and smile now when I am crying somewhat and use that chiding to my advantage sort of as a cable to “jumpstart my creative motor.”
I also wanted to say that Jaci, David, Sarah, Anne, and all of you are right… this is a GREAT community that Blake has created and I know they will be around for a long time to come, Jose, and I join with them in supporting you in this endeavor. Blake would be, no IS, I’m sure, SOOOO proud of what you are doing with his CAT group, in keeping it together.
In keeping it strong and all of us writing. And THAT is what is the most important component of all…that we WRITE…always. THAT is the rest of the story!
GOD bless you Jose!!!!!!
Keep on Writing everyone! From what I have read on the blogs, you all are SOOOO talented!!!
We’re reading and LEARNING!
Jose, thanks for continuing Blake’s work and for being so accessible by email for inquiries. I hope you continue to blog either here or elsewhere and carry on the Cat wisdom.
This is a lovely, lovely tribute to Blake. As I think about him I just crack up at his fabulous descriptions that broke down every story to its essence. Pope in a Pool. Who’d have ever thought of that? I’m sure he’s got some fabulous workshops he’s conducting in the afterlife now.
I’ve dedicated my next book, SHADOWLAND, in Blake’s memory. He was a beautiful soul and definitely a hero of mine.
Jose,
The words were beautiful and very inspirational. I happen to look at my inbox today and read an old message from Blake. I decided to come check out his blogs after not stopping by in a while to find your words instead. Blake seem to live on in our works, future works, and memories. He is in no doubt affecting many people still as suppose to many that are living. Isn’t that a statement in itself? Thank you for the wonderful tribute and best wishes to everyone here.
Great job Jose… you should feel free to continue to post thoughts and use Blake’s STC tools to as many minds as possible. this way Blake’s work will truly live on.
IMHO.
I never had the opportunity to meet Blake, but his work most certainly helped me. His inspiration and advice will always be with me.
Rest in Peace, Blake…
I never knew Blake, but worked for his father, Ken Snyder as an illustrator and animator for a pilot TV series called Amiguitos in the late 1970’s in Santa Barbara, next door to the Big Blue Marble headquarters. Blake’s father was quite a creative presence to be around. But reading your tribute about Blake’s contributions to the film industry is truly inspiring, and I wish I would have met him. A real Pass-It-Forward personality.
Jose,
Excellent post. I realize STC is Blake’s creation, but after working with you in two of Blake’s workshops, and especially after the way you helped me “back away from the ledge” in the master’s workshop, I can’t imagine a better person to continue the STC mission, regardless of what it’s called.
I hope to read/hear more from you, either here or on a website of your own. It would be a great addition to Blake’s legacy, and a great help to many of us out here in storyteller land.
Jose, many thanks. I have been avoiding the web site for a couple weeks because I always get teary-eyed and can’t read the damn thing. Your post was a much needed kick in the butt – like something Blake once told me when I complained that I had outlined for weeks and stil couldn’t start the script. His answer was, “Let ‘er rip!”
Thanks again.
I read STC two years ago and since then have given copies to many friends. When I used it myself last year on a project, I wrote to this site to let Blake know. I also shared with him the fact I was on a local version of THE FUNNY COMPANY, his dad’s first major kid’s show. To my surprise Blake responded minutes later and we shared a few more memories of his dad’s work.
By sheer co-incidence, I wound up working at a studio this year which hired Blake to do a crash course version of STC for all of us in July. It was great to meet him and hear him live. I was stunned a few short weeks later to learn this news. Perhaps especially because we’re the same age.
I hope STC continues to be a classic book and that the sequel (some of which he shared with us in July) will add to that legacy. Sincere condolences to everyone associated with this sad and sudden loss.
R.I.P. Blake!
I loved your book! Say hi to Jesus for me?
Robert
Thank you for this inspiring, and oh-so-appropriate tribute to Blake, Jose. I hold Blake responsible (in the best possible way)for making screenwriting click for me, and regularly recommend his books to all aspiring and working screenwriters. I had the great fortune of finally meeting Blake earlier this year when he was a guest workshop leader at LA’s Storyboard group. He made such a valuable contribution to the art of storytelling during his life, and was such a genuine soul to boot. He will be greatly missed.
At this moment, I’m shock, and sad. I started to remember when I first met Blake when his first book came out. I met him several times in Chicago. I must say to you all, he was a great guy and incredible gift to teach us. I thanked to him in number of times that I was glad he wrote Save the Cats.
The first time I met him, I was very nervous to meet him because I’m deaf, and didn’t want to have a lack of communication between us. He made it very easy for us to communicate. I’m thankful for his patient to let me to develop my story that I have longed wanted to write. At those times, we shared many different level of emotionally to tell stories. The sad thing is that I didn’t finish it for several reasons. Until now when I learned about his passed on, I realized I took things for granted.
I felt like I owe him something that I need to give back to him when we first started. With the guilt inside of me, I need to finish my script to honor him.
As I knew Blake, I know he will say, finish it.
To all of you, I wish you all the best and use his beatsheet to honor him.
Richie the deaf punk
Oh. My. God. I had no idea. I was working on a story and surfed over here to print out yet another copy of the much beloved Beat Sheet. I am in shocked disbelief, also trying not to cry at work. Like many other posters, never met Blake but his book is always in my briefcase/desk/mind. Very very sad to hear of his passing.
Thanks Jose for saying just the right words. We’re on our own now. The Fun and Games begin as does the journey. I feel incredibly lucky to have met Blake on a few occasions, shook his hand and got my books signed. And now after his tragic passing, I have the satisfaction of taking the opportunity to personally thank him for changing the way I write. I thanked him face to face. “Thank you for writing that book.” The screenplay makes sense now. I have a chance. I can do it.
Thanks Blake.
Jose, the mantle has been passed. In light of the above blog post, we’re in good hands. Enough tears and sorrow. Let’s write.
I keep checking back here, both to read all your wonderful posts and also see if there is any news on a memorial. Anyone know anything? Tentative date, perhaps?
Thanks all
Lisa
Today, after finishing a tough production, I thought I would just check in with Blake and found this news.
I have been reading and recommending his work for years. I met Blake last year at the Writers Expo, the only sold out room all week, although our conversation was brief, we conversed as so many had through his email and this website.
He mentioned a third book was forth coming, I hope those who can will see it published not as a memorial but as a beacon from a great man.
We will all miss his smile and incredable insight.
I never met Blake. I’d intended to e-mail, but put it off ’til my script was nearer completion. This script was something I thought I knew inside out, and was ready to write. I began writing, and immediately found myself in a cul de sac. I’d bought STC, but hadn’t read it. I pulled it out and began. About a third of the way through, I was starting to see the gaps in my story. I hadn’t even been aware what was missing, let alone where. I don’t know if what I’m writing will sell, but I know it’s going to be worth buying. Thanks Blake.
If I ever win the big lottery, I’m going to produce my own movie and you can bet it will have a dedication to Blake Snyder, the world’s greatest screenwriting cheerleader and leader.
I’ve just started writing page 76.
blake snyder will be missed by his family, friends and students. fortunately, his impact will continue through his excellent screenwriting books.
My thoughts and prayers are with Blake Snyder’s family. I was really looking forward to seeing him at this year’s Screenwriting Expo.
Because of Blake, many cats have been saved.
Thank you Blake for helping me to discover the humanity within my protagonists.
RIP
Dear Jose,
Thank you for your words of tender comfort. I’ve reread your post many times and it always brings a glimmer of sunshine and warmth to my heart.
Sincerely,
Sandy
I’m using the STC software for my current script and the “cat” window keeps popping up reminding me to introduce all the characters in the first act, or to deliver the “promise of the premise”. Blake is still teaching me. :-)
Any news about a memorial?
Save the Cat is without doubt the last book on screenwriting we’ll ever need.
Thank you MR.Snyder, you truly are the Joseph Campbell of our time. May your soul rest in peace
You guys be sure to check the “Tributes” column in the top right hand corner of this page. Read Jim Haggin’s recently posted piece in the Santa Barbara Independent. It made me smile as I remembered Blake pacing, thinking, smiling, and getting excited whenever a story moved another step forward.
Thank you for one of the most beautiful tribute/obits I’ve ever read and an inspiration to a life well live. Story On!!!!
(Extra exclamation points for Blake.)
Thank you for a wonderful example of how to apply BS2 to life and storytelling. I’ve taken a few notes to make my story so much better.
Thanks again!!!
I never had the pleasure of meeting Blake, but when I read Save the Cat and read in the end where he wanted me to email him anytime, I thought we’d be best friends. Unfortunately I didn’t email him in time but that doesn’t mean he didn’t touch my life in a positive way. He’s the guy who made me believe I could actually do this! And though I never met him, I miss him immensely, that’s how profound Save the Cat is for me.
Beautiful tribute for a man who touched so many lives!
And thank you Jose for carrying the torch so that Save the Cat can live on!
RIP Blake –
A heart-felt tribute to a wonderful person who touched many lives, and is dearly remembered today.
Thank you, Jose