maiguy

Miss G, Sorry for the late reply. I haven't been on the TCM site for a while. Unfortunately John Truby doesn't haven't a written version of his Pimpernel analysis. He said he'd have to think about a You Tube version. I think he doesn't want to give it away for free -- which is understandable. If the film comes around on TCM I can try to do a posting here about why Truby uses it as a classic example of great screenwriting.

Miss G, I should have mentioned that Truby's analysis is available as part of his screenwriting course on DVD and video but that's a far too expensive proposition for most. I'm actually seeing John Truby this weekend. I'm going to ask him if there's written version of the analysis available or if he might post it on You Tube. Larry

I feel fortunate that I own Skyscraper Souls -- on Laser Disc! It was part of a great set of pre-code films. I believe the same set has been released on DVD, though I'm fond of those clunky discs -- the video version of my LP collection! As to the film itself, I love it. What a spirit a lot of these pre-code films have. To me they represent the American spirit as much any films ever made. Tough minded characters with a sentimental streak. Melodramatic stories with a touch of realism, or is it the other way around? A really extraordinary period for movies. thanks for the starting this thread!

Ayres, Smokin' is right! Have you ever seen on TCM, or TV anywhere? I can only find it on those 99cent store DVDs! Shouldn't complain for the the price but it's like watching a movie through a frosted window.

This may already be posted. If so sorry. Can anyone recommend video or DVD versions of the early English Hitchcock films that come from GOOD prints. I've really been enjoying the early Hitchcock but the prints have all been awful. It would be a revelation to see them with a high quality print. I'm also looking for a good quality version of the 1933 Scarlet Pimpernel, starring Leslie Howard -- another great film that seems to only exist in lousy prints. Any help will be greatly appreciated! For the what it's worth file: A screenwriting instructor named John Truby does a great analysis of the Scarlet Pimpernel screenplay -- showing why it's a classic model of dramatic writing. if you can ever check it out it will add to your appreciation of this underrated film.