Richardson, Rebecca Jayne De Vesci (2026) More Than You Know: Character, Composition & Authenticity in the Noir Screenplay. Doctoral thesis, York St John University.

Text (Doctoral thesis) More Than You Know - Character, Composition & Authenticity in the Noir Screenplay (Redacted).pdf - Published Version Restricted to Repository staff only until 5 October 2027. Download (1MB) Request a copy

Abstract

This thesis examines authenticity as a fundamental consideration in writing the historically set, long-form genre based television series. It argues that authenticity emerges when the writer cultivates a deep, embodied knowledge of character, location, setting and time. This is discussed as a sense of deep knowledge of time and place, context and sound. The project traces the evolution of More Than You Know from a ‘conventional’ feature screenplay into the complete first season of an ensemble drama series, demonstrating how long-form structure functions in terms of a sustained interrogation of character, structure and form beyond the constraints of the ninety-minute film, whilst at the same time acknowledging its foundations in this form.

The research identifies a writerly move from pursuing authenticity in the text to pursuing authenticity in the writing process itself. This shift is grounded in dramaturgical practice, acting-based character work, and historically granular world-building. This detail enables characters to lead in the narrative development rather than conform to prescriptive structural paradigms.

Through consideration of genre and form, analysis of key long-form dramas, extended character studies of the two lead characters, consideration of acting rehearsal techniques, music as model and reflection on industrial practice, the thesis suggests a model of screenwriting that privileges polyphonic character evolution, research-driven authenticity, and spontaneous prose. It positions this approach against the formulaic tendencies of screenwriting manuals, instead suggesting a writer-centred, process-oriented methodology capable of generating historically credible, psychologically resonant noir drama for the writer. The conclusion outlines implications for future practice and the wider discourse on authorship and authenticity in contemporary television writing.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Status:	Published
Subjects:	P Language and Literature > PN Literature (General) P Language and Literature > PN Literature (General) > PN3311 Prose. Prose fiction
School/Department:	School of Humanities
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/15875

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