Every great film starts with a solid story foundation built upon a well-designed screenplay structure. Just like a house needs a robust framework to stand strong, a screenplay requires a coherent structural blueprint to create an engaging narrative that resonates with audiences.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, understanding the different types of screenplay structures is crucial for any aspiring screenwriter looking to craft compelling stories that keep viewers hooked from beginning to end.
Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or a budding talent, grasping the nuances of various structural models can elevate your screenwriting skills and help you navigate the intricate world of plot development, character arcs, and emotional payoffs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most prominent screenplay structures, their key elements, and how they can be adapted to fit your unique storytelling needs.
-
The Three-Act Structure
The three-act structure is perhaps the most widely recognized and commonly used screenplay format, dating back to the ancient Greek plays of Aristotle. This linear, straightforward approach divides a story into three distinct acts: Act I (Setup), Act II (Confrontation), and Act III (Resolution).
- Act I, also known as the Setup, introduces the main characters, establishes the story’s premise, and presents the inciting incident – the event that sets the protagonist’s journey in motion. This act typically constitutes the first 25-30% of the screenplay and culminates in the first plot point, a crucial moment that propels the story into the second act.
- Act II, the Confrontation, is the meat of the story, where the protagonist encounters obstacles, faces conflicts, and undergoes personal growth or transformation. This act often comprises around 50-60% of the screenplay and features key moments like the midpoint, where the story takes an unexpected turn, and the second plot point, which sets up the climactic third act.
- Act III, the Resolution, is where the story reaches its climax, the protagonist faces the ultimate challenge or conflict, and the central dramatic question is answered. This act typically makes up the final 25-30% of the screenplay and includes the climax, the falling action, and the denouement (the final resolution or wrap-up).
Throughout the three-act structure, writers incorporate a series of plot points and story beats that drive the narrative forward and maintain tension and suspense. While this structure is widely used for its simplicity and familiarity, some writers find it too restrictive or formulaic for certain stories.
Pros:
- Provides a clear, linear roadmap for storytelling
- Familiar structure that audiences easily recognize and understand
- Allows for effective pacing and story progression
Cons:
- Can feel formulaic or predictable if not executed skillfully
- May not suit more experimental or non-linear narratives
- Requires careful balance of story elements within each act
-
The Hero’s Journey
Derived from Joseph Campbell’s seminal work, “The Hero with a Thousand Faces,” the Hero’s Journey is a powerful narrative structure that taps into the universal themes and archetypes found in myths and legends across cultures.
This structure closely aligns with the three-act structure but adds depth and resonance by mapping the protagonist’s transformative journey through a series of stages.
The Hero’s Journey typically begins with the “Call to Adventure,” where the hero is introduced to an extraordinary circumstance that disrupts their ordinary world. This is followed by stages such as “Supernatural Aid” (meeting a mentor or receiving a tool to aid their quest), “The Road of Trials” (facing challenges and obstacles), and “The Approach to the Inmost Cave” (confronting their greatest fear or challenge).
At the heart of the journey lies the “Ordeal” or the “Supreme Ordeal,” where the hero must face their most significant test or undergo a symbolic death and rebirth. After conquering this ordeal, the hero experiences a “Reward” or newfound wisdom, leading them to the “The Return” stage, where they must bring their newfound knowledge or power back to their ordinary world.
Films like “Star Wars,” “The Matrix,” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy are notable examples of stories that follow the Hero’s Journey structure, resonating with audiences on a deep, archetypal level.
Pros:
- Taps into universal human experiences and emotions
- Provides a powerful, transformative character arc
- Allows for rich symbolism and deeper thematic exploration
Cons:
- Can feel clichéd or predictable if not executed creatively
- May not suit stories with ensemble casts or multiple protagonists
- Requires deft handling of symbolic elements and archetypes
-
The Five-Act Structure
Originating from classical Greek and Shakespearean drama, the five-act structure is a more intricate approach that divides a story into five distinct acts, each serving a specific purpose in the narrative progression.
Act I, the Exposition, introduces the characters, setting, and central conflict or dramatic question. This act typically comprises around 20-25% of the screenplay and ends with the inciting incident that sets the story in motion.
Act II, the Rising Action, is where the protagonist encounters obstacles and complications as they pursue their goal or objective. This act often takes up around 25% of the screenplay and culminates in a midpoint, a pivotal moment that raises the stakes or changes the course of the story.
Act III, the Climax, is the turning point where the protagonist faces their greatest challenge or confrontation. This act typically occupies around 25% of the screenplay and features the climactic moment where the central conflict reaches its peak.
Act IV, the Falling Action, deals with the aftermath of the climax, where the consequences of the protagonist’s actions are explored, and loose ends are tied up. This act usually comprises around 15-20% of the screenplay.
Act V, the Denouement or Resolution, provides closure and wraps up the story, resolving any remaining conflicts or questions. This final act typically accounts for the remaining 10% of the screenplay.
The five-act structure allows for more intricate plot development and character exploration, making it well-suited for complex stories with multiple storylines or subplots.
Pros:
- Provides a more detailed and nuanced structure for complex narratives
- Allows for deeper character development and exploration of themes
- Offers flexibility in pacing and distribution of story elements
Cons:
- Can feel overly structured or convoluted if not executed skillfully
- May require careful balancing of multiple storylines and subplots
- Not as widely recognized or understood as the three-act structure
-
Nonlinear Structures
While most traditional screenplay structures follow a linear, chronological progression, some writers choose to employ nonlinear storytelling techniques to add depth, complexity, or a unique perspective to their narratives. Nonlinear structures can take various forms, including:
Flashback: This technique presents events or scenes from the past, often employed to provide backstory, reveal character motivations, or create dramatic irony. Films like “Memento” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” are notable examples of flashback-driven narratives.
Frame Story: In this structure, a primary story is framed or bookended by a secondary narrative, often used to provide context or commentary on the main storyline. Examples include “The Princess Bride” and “Forrest Gump.“
Parallel Narrative: This approach presents multiple storylines or perspectives simultaneously, weaving them together to create a rich, multifaceted narrative tapestry. Films like “Pulp Fiction,” “Babel,” and “Crash” employ parallel narratives to explore complex themes and interconnected characters.
Nonlinear structures can be incredibly effective in creating suspense, revealing character depth, and exploring themes in unique ways. However, they also present challenges in terms of maintaining coherence, pacing, and audience engagement.
Pros:
- Allows for unique narrative perspectives and storytelling techniques
- Can create suspense, dramatic irony, and unexpected twists
- Encourages deeper character exploration and thematic development
Cons:
- Can be confusing or disorienting for audiences if not executed skillfully
- Requires careful plotting and structure to maintain coherence
- May not suit certain genres or storytelling styles
-
The Sequence Approach
The sequence approach is a screenwriting technique that breaks down a story into a series of eight sequences, each functioning as a mini-movie or self-contained narrative unit.
Developed by Frank Daniel, this approach encourages writers to think in terms of distinct story beats and pivotal moments rather than adhering to rigid act structures.
Within this model, each sequence typically spans 10-15 pages and consists of its own beginning, middle, and end, complete with an inciting incident, a crisis or turning point, and a resolution. These sequences are then connected by transition scenes or moments that propel the story forward and maintain narrative momentum.
By breaking down a story into these digestible sequences, writers can more easily identify and address potential structural issues, pacing problems, or character development gaps. This approach also allows for greater flexibility in structuring complex narratives or experimenting with non-linear storytelling techniques.
Pros:
- Encourages focused, self-contained storytelling within each sequence
- Allows for greater flexibility in structuring and pacing
- Facilitates easier identification and resolution of structural issues
Cons:
- Can feel overly compartmentalized or episodic if not executed skillfully
- Requires careful planning and transitions between sequences
- May not suit certain genres or storytelling styles that demand more linear narratives
-
Other Notable Structures
While the structures mentioned above are among the most widely recognized and used in screenwriting, there are several other notable approaches that have gained recognition and usage in various contexts:
- The 7-Act Structure: Developed as part of Australia’s Script Development process, this structure divides a story into seven acts, each serving a specific narrative function. It’s particularly useful for complex, multi-threaded stories or ensemble pieces.
- The 9-Act Structure (The Dash Structure): Popularized by screenwriter and author Nigel Watts, this structure divides a story into nine “dashes” or narrative movements, allowing for greater flexibility and non-linear storytelling approaches.
- The 22 Steps of Story Structure: Based on Syd Field’s influential book “Screenplay,” this model breaks down the three-act structure into 22 specific story beats or plot points, providing a highly detailed blueprint for plot development.
While these structures may not be as widely known or utilized as the more traditional models, they offer unique perspectives and tools for writers looking to explore different storytelling approaches or tackle specific narrative challenges.
Choosing the Right Structure
With so many screenplay structure options available, it can be daunting for writers to determine which approach best suits their story and personal storytelling style. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Genre: Certain genres may lend themselves better to specific structures. For example, action or adventure films often thrive within the three-act or Hero’s Journey framework, while character-driven dramas may benefit from the nuances of a five-act or nonlinear structure.
- Story Complexity: More intricate, multi-threaded narratives or ensemble pieces may require the additional flexibility and depth offered by structures like the five-act or sequence approach. Simpler, more linear stories could work well within the familiar confines of the three-act structure.
- Personal Preference: Every writer has their own creative process and storytelling style. Some may prefer the clear roadmap of the three-act structure, while others may find greater creative freedom in nonlinear or experimental approaches.
Ultimately, it’s essential to remember that these structures are tools and guides, not rigid formulas. The most successful screenwriters understand how to adapt and blend various structural elements to serve their unique story and vision best.
Mastering structure is also crucial for the rewriting process, as it allows writers to identify and address structural issues, tighten pacing, and ensure that all story elements are working in harmony to create a cohesive and engaging narrative.
Conclusion
In the world of screenwriting, structure is the foundation upon which great stories are built. From the classic three-act structure to the intricate five-act model, and the innovative nonlinear approaches, each structural paradigm offers writers unique tools and perspectives to shape their narratives.
While some structures, like the Hero’s Journey, tap into universal archetypes and resonate on a deep, emotional level, others, like the sequence approach, provide flexibility and focused storytelling within distinct narrative units.
Ultimately, the key to successful screenwriting lies in understanding the strengths and limitations of each structural model and adapting them to fit your unique storytelling vision. Structure should serve the story, not the other way around.
As writers, it’s essential to experiment with different approaches, embrace their nuances, and find the structural framework that resonates most with your creative voice. Only then can you truly unlock the full potential of your stories and craft narratives that captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact.
So, whether you’re a seasoned screenwriter or just embarking on your storytelling journey, embrace the power of structure, and let it guide you in crafting stories that will stand the test of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many screenplay structures are there?
There is no definitive number, but some of the most common screenplay structures include the three-act structure, five-act structure, Hero’s Journey, nonlinear structures, sequence approach, and other models like the 7-act or 9-act structures. The variety allows writers to choose a structure that best fits their story.
What is the 4 act structure?
The four-act structure is similar to the three-act structure but divides the second act into two separate acts. Act 1 is the setup, Act 2 is the response/reaction, Act 3 is the attack, and Act 4 is the resolution. This provides more space for exploring the protagonist’s journey.
How many types of screenplays are there?
There are several main types including feature films, TV pilots/episodics, shorts, stageplays, musicals, webisodes/digital series. Each has its own distinct formatting guidelines.
What is a 12 sequence structure?
The 12 sequence approach breaks a screenplay into 12 sequences of around 10 pages each. Each sequence contains its own mini-story with an inciting incident, complications, and resolution before transitioning to the next sequence.
What is a 7 point structure screenplay?
The 7 point story structure lays out 7 key beats: an opening image, theme stated, set-up, catalyst, big event (midpoint), final push, and closing image. It focuses the story around driving towards the big event/climax.
What is the 8 reel structure?
The 8 reel structure divides a screenplay into 8 reels or sequences, allowing writers to treat each reel like a mini-movie with its own arc. Popularized by Paul Gulino, it provides built-in act breaks.
What are the 5 act structures?
The 5 act structure originated in Greek/Shakespearean drama with Act 1: Exposition, Act 2: Rising Action, Act 3: Climax, Act 4: Falling Action, Act 5: Resolution/Denouement.
What is the basic 5 act structure?
The basic 5 acts are: Act 1 (Setup), Act 2 (Complications arise), Act 3 (Midpoint/Main conflict), Act 4 (The route to confrontation), Act 5 (Climax/Resolution).
How many acts should a screenplay have?
Most screenplays employ a 3 act, 4 act, or 5 act structure, though less traditional non-linear or sequence structures may break from this model. The 3 act and 5 act tend to be most prevalent.
