Good structure is invisible—but if it’s missing, everyone feels it. This section covers the most useful story structures in screenwriting, from the classic three-act setup to Save the Cat, the Hero’s Journey, and more.
We break them down with real examples from well-known films and show you how to hit the right beats without getting stuck in a formula. If you’ve ever asked “what should happen next?”—this is where to start.
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How To Come Up With Good Plot Ideas For Your Next Short Film Or Feature
You might have a good idea for a story’s premise, but how do you come up with the plot? Creating …
What is a Three-Act Structure in Film? An Illustrated Guide
Three-act structure Definition & Meaning The three-act structure (aka the Hollywood Story Arc) divides a story into three parts: the …
The Screenwriters’ Quick Guide to Storytelling Formulas
Every great script starts with a solid foundation, and storytelling formulas are the tools that help you build it. Whether …
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What Is a Plot Twist? Definition, Types & Movie Examples
plot twist Definition & Meaning A plot twist is a plot device where an unexpected turn of events in a …
What is a Plot Device? Definition & Examples
Plot Device Definition & Meaning A plot device is any element in a story—an object, character, event, or concept—that moves …
What is a Plot Hole? Definition & Examples from Film
plot hole Definition & Meaning A plot hole is an inconsistency or gap in a storyline that contradicts a narrative’s …
What is the Resolution in Film? Definition & Examples
resolution Definition & Meaning The resolution is the section in a movie where the plot’s conflicts and tensions are resolved, …
What is the Actantial Model? Definition and Examples from Film.
Actantial model Definition & Meaning Greimas’ actantial model (aka the actantial narrative schema) is a handy tool for analyzing narratives …
The Role of the Subplot. Meaning and Examples from Film
A subplot is a secondary storyline in a narrative that runs parallel to the main plot. It enriches the story …
What is a Subplot? Meaning, Definition & Examples From Film & TV.
Subplot Definition & Meaning A subplot is a secondary storyline that runs parallel to the main plot and helps to …
What is a Prologue in Film? Definition and Examples.
Prologue Definition & Meaning A prologue is an introductory segment that appears at the beginning of a movie or a …
Narrative in Film. Meaning, Definition & Examples.
Narrative Definition & Meaning A narrative is the structure and method used to build and present a story. It includes …
What is the Epilogue in Film? Meaning, Definition & Examples.
Epilogue Definition & Meaning An epilogue is the last little bit after the story ends. It ties up loose ends, …
Denouement in Film. Meaning, Definition, and Examples.
Denouement Definition & Meaning The Denouement is the plot’s outcome, where loose ends are tied up, and the conflicts are …
Climax in Film. Definition and Examples From Famous Movies.
The climax is the most intense and pivotal moment, where the conflicts and stakes peak, leading to a resolution or …
Exposition in Film. Definition, Examples & How To Write It.
The exposition presents essential information, such as background details, character introductions, or establishing the story’s setting and context. It helps …
The Anticlimax. Definition and Examples from Film.
Anti-climax is a disappointing or underwhelming conclusion or event that fails to meet the expectations or build-up that precedes it …
What is Campbell’s Monomyth? A Guide To The Heros Journey
Campbell’s Monomyth Definition & Meaning The monomyth, or Hero’s Journey, is a narrative template identified by Joseph Campbell. It outlines …
Save The Cat! Beat Sheet Explained. What It Is, And How To Use It.
Staring at the blank page is daunting, and decision fatigue is real. When you can write anything, what do you …
The Dan Harmon Story Circle Explained
Story structure is one of the most important things to understand when writing a screenplay. Formulating a beginning, middle, and …
What Is Plot In Film? Definition & Examples
PLOT Definition & Meaning A plot is the foundation of the story. It guides events and drives character growth. Actions, …