Four Act Screenplay

A different approach to the traditional second act.

Overview

This template is nearly identical to the classic Three Act structure with one important distinction: it splits the screenplay's second act into two equal parts, creating a powerful Midpoint for the story. The Midpoint is a classic story beat, or event, that sends the narrative in a drastically different direction just before it enters the second part of act two (Act IIb). Often this involves the protagonist recognizing and overcoming or succumbing to their weaknesses, driving them towards their final confrontation with the antagonist in Act IIb. While many films can fit into this paradigm with a little imagination, a classic example of four-act screenplay structure is Rocky.

Structure

  1. Act I

    Sets up the story world, the main character, and the problem they face. Raises the dramatic question: will they succeed?

  2. Act IIa

    Follows the hero's quest to get what they desire. Each new situation will challenge their usual methods and beliefs. Near the end of this act, at the Midpoint, their first attempt at beating the antagonist will fail.

  1. Act IIb

    After failing in Act II, the main character will sink to their lowest point, rally, and realize how they can try again and win.

  2. Act III

    Having learned more about themselves and others, the main character is ready to take on the antagonist again. The outcome of this battle will answer the dramatic question posed in Act I.