Most stories compass easily defined beginnings, middles and ends, nevertheless in the screenwriting earth, this is manifest as the three-act structure. The three-act structure is easy to understand, but developing it in a screenplay can take a lot of work and editing. Formulating a solid three-act structure will help with the success of your script in Hollywood.
Instructions
For example, Larry is afraid of gun and this is shown when a customer tries to buy a cap gun and Larry is hesitant to even scan it. Then he must face his fears and use a gun with the mob. The first act should be used to set up several plants and payoffs. You can also expand on this and feature different twists or intense scenes, but normally this is a set-up to learn more about the character.
2. Put an obstacle or change of pace into the character’s life. This plot point will send the movie into the second act. For example, Larry spends every day working at the same grocery store until one day he is kidnapped and forced to work for the mob. Basically, it should be something that sends the story in a new direction and becomes the main plot of the movie.
3. Use characteristics from the first act to propel the character through the second act.1. Start out with an opening that sets up the character. This should show what normal life is for the character before a big obstacle is introduced. Plants are something that is introduced early in the film and then brought back in as a key plot point or element of character growth.
4. Write the second act as the bulk of the movie. It should feature the most action and really drive the story forward. Start and end every scene as early and as late as possible. Some scenes will be used to build up suspense or drama as necessary, but in general, everything should go at a steady pace.
5. End the second act of the movie with a new plot point that pushes the story into another new direction or adds more complication to the current plot. This section of your screenplay should dive right into the climax of the movie where all of the character’s struggles come together.
6. Finish the script with a short third act. This should tie up any loose ends presented in the story and provide viewers with a satisfying finish to the movie. The third act could also present a false finish for the characters, letting them think that one conflict is over, but then thrusting them right into another one.
