Kerstin, Adam, Ronald, Hugo, and other colleagues:
First of all, thanks very much to you all for the comments on the subject of Pfister's theory and computer-aided analysis. Your response shows that at the very least--regardless of one's view on this topic--there is a need and desire to discuss possible applications of those methods in our field.
First of all, I would agree with you Kerstin, that there are certainly limits to which structural theories and computer-aided methods can be applied in screenwriting research. Even though I'm a very strong advocate of those methods, I do not believe that computers will ever-or perhaps better to say, in a foreseeable future-- are going to replace or compete with a human expert in her ability to analyze complex issues associated with screenwriting theories.
However, I do believe that Pfister’s theory could serve as an algorithmic foundation for AI-based software that will might be capable of analyzing a vast array of screenplays. This could lead to a huge expansion of current capabilities for screenplay theory and analysis, particularly in terms of comparative studies of screenwriting styles by the same screenwriter, as well as comparing and contrasting a large number of screenplays of the same genre.
Adam, I'm thrilled to learn that you have done some work in the area of computer-aided analysis of screenplays. How could I possibly see the results of your work? I'm currently working with Dr. Brock Stitts, who is an expert on Artificial Intelligence, on the feasibility study of application of AI methods in screenwriting research, and that is why your work is particularly interesting to me.
Again, thanks very much to you all for maintaining this very useful discussion. Please keep sharing with the community your thoughts and ideas on these topics.
All the best,
Sam Marinov
Atlanta
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