Clearly a screenplay is built through scenes, sequences, acts, using tension and conflict,
while eliciting hopes and fears, etc., but the most basic template for structuring a screenplay
is to build it around the five major plot points of a film.
"A movie, I think is really only four or five moments between two people; the rest of it exists
to give those moments their impact and resonance. The script exists for that. Everything does."
- Robert Towne -
1. Inciting Incedent
Often called the point of attack, the inciting incident is the first premonition of impending
trouble, dilemma, or circumstance that will create the main tension of the story. It usually
falls at the end of the first sequence. But it can sometimes appear in the first few minutes of a film.
It's the first moment that shakes up the status quo. A new door is openend to you character.
Which he doesn't have to enter right away, but eventually will have to, to abtain his main objective.
An inciting incident is an event that sets the plot movie or play into motion. This normally occurs after the background
and setting have been given.
2. Lock-In
The protagonist is locked into the predicament that is central to the story, which occurs at the end
of Act One, This lock in, therefore, propels the protagonist into a new direction in order to accomplish
his/her new objective throughout the second act.
The opened door closes behind protaganist. (no way back)
3. First Culmination (Midpoint)
The first culmination generally occurs around the midpoint of the second act and is a pivotal
moment in the story but not as critical as the Lock In or Main Culmination. Consider the first
culmination as the second highest or second lowest point in Act Two, the second highest hurdle to be faced.
Protaganist reaches first succes or failure. If it's succes it's an achievement on his way to his main objective.
If it's a failure it moves protaganist further away from his main objective.
4. Main Culmination (Climax)
The final culmination occurs at the end of the second act and brings the main tension to a close
while simultaneously helping to create a new tension for Act Three.
This is the highest or lowest point of the protaganist so far. Sequence six builds to the climax: The largest obtacles.
5. Third Act Twist
The twist is an unexpected turn of events in the third act. Without a twist, the third act can
seem too linear and predictable. It can also be the last test of the hero. A new plan has to be formulated to reach the main objective.
