Welcome to the world of screenwriting, where the canvas is blank, the possibilities are endless, and the pressure to get it "right" can feel overwhelming. For anyone new to screenwriting—or even for seasoned writers looking for a fresh perspective—the concept of structure can be both a guiding light and a source of frustration. In a landscape filled with conflicting advice, one truth remains: understanding structure can elevate your script from good to great. But it’s not the only ingredient in the recipe for storytelling success.
The Great Debate: Does Every Story Need a Structure?
If you've ever googled "screenwriting structure," you’ve likely encountered a plethora of books, articles, and videos, each claiming to have the magic formula for writing a successful screenplay. Many of these resources argue that every screenplay must hit specific plot points—whether it’s the classic three-act structure popularized by Syd Field or the more complex 15 or 22-step models. On the flip side, some creatives bristle at the notion that all stories can be boiled down to a set of predetermined beats, calling such methods "academic garbage" designed to sell books and workshops.
So, who's right? The answer lies somewhere in the middle. Structure isn’t about following a rigid set of rules; it’s about having a practical framework that helps you navigate the complexities of storytelling. Whether you're stuck on your overall screenplay, a particular act, or even just a scene, structure can serve as a helpful tool rather than a restrictive formula.
Traditional Screenplay Structure: The Foundation
Let’s start with the basics. Traditional screenplay structure divides the story into three acts:
Act One: The setup (roughly 25% of the screenplay). This is where you introduce your characters, establish the world, and set the story in motion.
Act Two: The confrontation (about 50% of the screenplay). Here, the protagonist faces various obstacles, learns valuable lessons, and gets closer to their goal—only to face even greater challenges.
Act Three: The climax and resolution (the final 25% of the screenplay). This is the story’s peak conflict, followed by a resolution that ties up loose ends.
This structure, popularized by Syd Field’s book Screenplay, has become a cornerstone in Hollywood. However, as John Truby, author of The Anatomy of Story, points out, this traditional model doesn’t always provide the detailed roadmap needed to weave a great plot, especially in the challenging second act.
Dan Harmon's Story Circle: A Fresh Take on Structure
Enter Dan Harmon, the creative genius behind hit shows like Community and Rick and Morty. Harmon observed that all stories, regardless of their medium or genre, seem to follow a common pattern. He distilled this observation into what he calls the "story circle," which breaks down a story into eight essential elements:
You: A character in a zone of comfort.
Need: But they want something.
Go: They enter an unfamiliar situation.
Search: Adapt to it.
Find: Get what they wanted.
Take: Pay a heavy price for it.
Return: Then return to their familiar situation.
Change: Having changed.
This structure isn’t just useful for crafting a full screenplay—it can also be applied to individual acts and scenes, making it a versatile tool for writers. For instance, when analyzing The Dark Knight, Harmon’s story circle reveals how each act of the film follows this pattern, even as Batman’s goals evolve and the stakes rise.
Structure as a Tool, Not a Rule
While structure is undeniably useful, it’s crucial to remember that it’s not the only key to a great story. Harmon himself acknowledges that perfect structure doesn’t automatically translate to a compelling narrative. A well-structured story may be technically sound, but without heart, it risks feeling formulaic.
This is where Charlie Kaufman, one of the most celebrated screenwriters of our time, offers invaluable insight. Kaufman emphasizes the importance of honesty in storytelling—of saying who you are and what you genuinely want to express. According to Kaufman, a screenplay is an exploration, a journey into the unknown, where structure serves as a tool for focus and clarity, but not as the final destination.
The Missing Piece: Honesty and Purpose
So, how do you create a story that resonates on a deeper level? The answer lies in balancing structure with personal truth. Kaufman encourages writers to explore their own struggles, perspectives, and questions. By doing so, your story becomes more than just a series of well-timed beats; it becomes a reflection of your unique voice and a mirror for the audience to see themselves.
In essence, great storytelling isn’t just about hitting the right plot points at the right time. It’s about exposing humanity, examining flaws, and telling honest stories that resonate with others. Structure can guide you, but it’s your personal insights and emotional honesty that will truly make your story stand out.
Final Thoughts: Use Structure to Elevate Your Story, Not Limit It
Whether you’re a fan of traditional three-act structure, Dan Harmon’s story circle, or something entirely different, the key is to use these frameworks as tools rather than strict rules. Structure provides the scaffolding on which you can build your story, but it’s your unique voice, creativity, and honesty that will make it soar.
So, the next time you find yourself stuck—whether it’s on your screenplay, an act, or even just a single scene—don’t be afraid to lean on structure for support. But remember, it’s not the structure alone that makes a story great. It’s what you bring to that structure, the personal truths you explore, and the connections you make with your audience.
As Harmon cheekily suggests, try to "prove him wrong" by defying the story circle. You might just find that the very act of trying to break the mold leads you right back to the essential elements of storytelling. And in that journey, you’ll discover that structure isn’t a hindrance to creativity—it’s a powerful tool that, when combined with your unique voice, can help you create something truly remarkable.
Watch the 18 minute source video via Tyler Mowery here:
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