Opening Image (1% of the script)

• This is the first impression of what kind of story the audience is about to see. It's a snapshot of the main character's problem before the adventure begins.

Theme Stated (5%)

• The theme of the story is subtly suggested, often in a conversation.

Set-Up (1-10%)

• This section provides more information about the hero's life as it currently is and what's missing from it.

Catalyst (10%)

• A problem disrupts the hero's life, also known as the “call to adventure”.

Debate (10-20%)

• The hero doubts the journey they must undertake. It's the last chance for the hero to say “No”.

Break into Two (20%)

• The hero makes the decision and enters a new world or way of life.

B Story (22%)

• A secondary story begins, often involving a love interest or a sidekick, that will weave in and out of the main story. It often carries the theme of the story.

Fun and Games (20-50%)

• This is often where most of the trailer moments are found. The hero explores the new world and the audience is entertained.

Midpoint (50%)

• A moment of either success or failure that changes the hero's journey in a meaningful way.

Bad Guys Close In (50-75%)

• If the midpoint was high, things get bad here. If the midpoint was low, things start to look up.

All is Lost (75%)

• The lowest point for the hero. The journey seems impossible to complete, and the hero feels defeated.

Dark Night of the Soul (75-80%)

• The hero hits rock bottom, wallowing in hopelessness. The hero learns the theme stated back at the beginning.

Break into Three (80%)

• The hero finds inspiration, often from the B Story, and decides it's time to fight.

Finale (80-99%)

• The hero confronts the antagonist or whatever stands in their way. The lessons learned in Act Two are put into action.

Final Image (99-100%)

• A reflection of the opening image, showing how the hero's world and character have changed.