Structure in Screenwriting

I really enjoyed reading and learning more about how a screenwriter can use systems such as the Three-acts structure, the Hero’s Journey, and the 19-Points Story map to construct the narrative in a way that attracts the viewer’s attention. Considering both the physical and the emotional journey of the protagonist enables the writer to map out the character arc in advance. These are practical tools that could make all the difference when it comes to writing professionally and dealing with deadlines and different target audiences.

Learning about structure allowed me to scrutinize my work and define the physical and emotional journey of my protagonist. It also pointed me at certain beats in the narrative which could use more work.

Creating the step outline was a bit challenging because my story is set up in one location and I was struggling with breaking the treatment into separate scenes. I received some very good advice on how to write the scene headers and on when to finish and start a new scene in a case like that. One important suggestion was to take full advantage of the location and its different sections that could influence the course of the story and raise the stakes.

I am very happy with this week’s content. I am confident that I am working with the right protagonist who is driving the storyline. Even though it will take me some time to practise and start applying more effectively structure systems as the 19-Points Story Mar, I am quite excited about what’s coming next.