3 Act Structure - Story Structure Tips - Screenwriting

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 ก.พ. 2025
  • We cover 3 act structure, the main plot points in film structure, and the reasons why story structure is so important for screenwriting and filmmaking,
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  • @Nernage
    @Nernage 5 ปีที่แล้ว +369

    5 years later and this is still one of the best videos on story structure.

  • @leandrodude
    @leandrodude 8 ปีที่แล้ว +660

    You explained this better than my bloody screenwriting professor... Thank you.

  • @chasvang0625
    @chasvang0625 9 ปีที่แล้ว +435

    Writing a story is easy, writing a great story is extremely hard

    • @cosmicmariner6621
      @cosmicmariner6621 9 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      +guy james EXACTLY! I'm not trying to bunk the "hollywood formula" brit describes. But I want something great. If I can't make a story Im writting fit this structure does that mean it sucks? Example, I thnk "Before Sunrise" is a great romance. Can you make it fit in the above formula? What about "Pulp Fiction?" What about Leaving Las Vegas? --worst screenplay ever written, but pretty darn good movie. Is there something else? Seriously I don't know.

    • @jmmip202
      @jmmip202 7 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      "Writing is easy. All you have to do is stare at a blank page and bleed."

    • @jenniferjoaquin2899
      @jenniferjoaquin2899 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      guy james truuee

    • @TheKeithvidz
      @TheKeithvidz 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      "Applaudes."
      I wrote books, sp, short stories. My future stuff will be hard.

    • @6HO57
      @6HO57 6 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      writing comments on youtube is easy, saying something meaningful is hard

  • @andrealong9283
    @andrealong9283 10 ปีที่แล้ว +142

    This is an outstanding explanation of the 3-act structure. I am a high school teacher and you bestowed insight and knowledge to my small class. Thanks for all the effort you put into this video. A+

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +27

      I'm glad you found this useful enough to share it with your class. What an honor. You're more than welcome Andrea.

  • @rubentiagoQcoisa
    @rubentiagoQcoisa 9 ปีที่แล้ว +157

    "I'm gonna take care of this problem"

    • @helfimed
      @helfimed 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      +ruben tiago qualquer coisa Assim é que se apanha... write much? :D

    • @AllanRochez
      @AllanRochez 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      yESSS

  • @up_on_avon
    @up_on_avon 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'm 6 years late to this video, but as a high school English teacher, this is incredibly helpful. And my students love your videos. They think you're super entertaining but they also learn a lot about how to analyze stories. THANK YOU

  • @JRA6192
    @JRA6192 10 ปีที่แล้ว +53

    Another awesome video, and one I intend to use regularly as reference. But to my great delight, the structure you outline here I not only recognize in many of my favorite films, but a lot of my stories that I conceive and write a synopsis for, actually more-or-less follow the structure you describe to the letter. So I'm feeling quite pumped that I seem to have a good sense of a proper story structure, its an encouraging feeling.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I think you'll find that Sooooo many movies follow the same structure lol. It's a great thing though in my opinion because structure is sort of an empty container that you fill up with an amazing story. Thanks again for commenting Jones!

    • @exegodmode8038
      @exegodmode8038 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Jezus why are half of the comments like this one? "Nice video...btw I knew all this stuff before anyone told me. Im an amazing director/writer/whatever." its like you saw a good video and went like "good...Now how can I make this about myself."

  • @tisiclem1611
    @tisiclem1611 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Dude, I may not be a screen-writer, but I AM an aspiring writer. This SERIOUSLY helped me out, which is crazy because I've never liked to "plan out my stories" seeing as how I'm more of a panster. But you somehow make it feel organic! I never at once felt that it was too confusing for me! This is an OUTSTANDING explanation!
    Thank you so much!

  • @WildeKylee
    @WildeKylee 9 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I've written short stories for a long time and was considering getting into screenplays so this was super helpful!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  9 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      +Wilde Kylee Glad this helped ;)

  • @laurahoover1249
    @laurahoover1249 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi! I have never commented on a TH-cam video in my life. Besides the standard " first time caller, long time listener" bs, I felt compelled during these unprecedented times to share with you just how important you have been to my students and me.
    I am an H.S. English teacher that took several film classes in college, read Robert McKees "Story",and has a passion for film in general. I truly believe films are the perfect conduit to teach kids sociological, psycological, cultural, and historical ideas. I have shown your video the 1st week of Film 1 class for the last 5 years. It is fantastic! You grab kids attention, sir. That is no easy feat.
    You open the door for me to teach them to be active viewers and help me to help them " look behind the curtain" and see the structure and methodology of art. I can't believe that I've never thought to thank you until now.
    My district has gone full online due to Covid. I have kept your video as part of my first week. In a completely online teaching environment, engagement is more important than ever.
    I can honestly say that they love you just as much, if not more, in this brand new scenario, than ever. I can't thank you enough.

  • @racewiththefalcons1
    @racewiththefalcons1 10 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    What is absolutely *vital*, as far as I am concerned, regardless of whatever story structure you use, is that the major turning points in your plot are also the major turning points for your characters. Watch Terminator 2 and pay attention to the major changes in character, and how perfectly they coincide with the major changes in the direction of the plot. And being that this is an action film, they are all action scenes. It's perfect. That's what the phrase "story is character/character is story" means.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Good points falcon. Thanks for commenting :)

  • @maxgleschinski5764
    @maxgleschinski5764 10 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Glad I found this some weeks ago.
    I just finished my last short film project and finally decided to start writing on a first feature.
    I reminded myself on this great video of yours and studied it again and again. You got it right on how simple AND complex story structure is.
    Thank you man! Helped me a lot!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      So glad you're taking the time to really try and understand story structure instead of runing from it Max. I think you'll find that the more you really understand it, the more liberating your writing can actually become. Good luck with the writing and don't give up. Even when things get complicated :)

  • @JosiahSandhu
    @JosiahSandhu 10 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    After watching this video, I watched a but load of videos about this and I'm pretty sure yours is the best.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I tried to cover as much as I could and it resulted in a video that was way longer than I wanted but I didn't want to leave anything out lol. Thanks for commenting Josiah.

  • @katerinamanola9391
    @katerinamanola9391 ปีที่แล้ว

    I cannot BELIEVE the value of this video! It's all the theory of screenplay writing at a glance! Very, very well done!

  • @specials29
    @specials29 10 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This video is going to be my bible for writing screenplays. Thanking you for summarising everything so simply! really appreciate it

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      You're more than welcome Toby. I'm glad you could easily follow along =)

  • @grantmcnair7454
    @grantmcnair7454 10 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I've been studying screenwriting for over ten years. This is a clear, concise explanation of structure. Thanks for posting this!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you for commenting Grant. I appreciate the feedback.

  • @sardomaitland8156
    @sardomaitland8156 10 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thanks for this video! I'm not into making movies, but I've been trying to write a basic "script" for an adventure game for some time now. No puzzles yet, just the basic story. But I never could get all the ideas into any kind of order. After watching this video and the movie breakdowns, the "script" kind of wrote itself. Everything fell into place, the main character gained depth, there are setups an payoffs, there are callbacks in the first dialogue drafts ... I'm having a lot of fun here.
    Plus, I found a new hobby: Watching movies and breaking them down. Talk about educational procrastination. :)
    Anyway, great video, great channel! Thanks a lot! Greetings from Germany!

  • @19GirlBad
    @19GirlBad 10 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I learnt a lot in my current film school on screenwriting lectures. Also, reading many screenwriting books especially Robert McKee "Story: substance, structure, style, and the principles of screenwriting," Syd Field "Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenplay," Patricia Cooper and Ken Dancyger "Writing the Short Film" and Linda Seger "Making A Good Script Great."
    That's how I build up my knowledge writing short and feature scripts using the 3 Act Structure. Yes, the 3 Act Structure can be a pain but also helps to structure the story better and catch the audience attention if the film will be good or bad. The more I rewrite and check my scripts, the more visuals and well written my scripts can be. All I have to do is make my film titles and strapline appealing to the audience. This way, they can understand the story is about.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      You mentioned some awesome books. Spending the time investigating your craft is the best thing you can do if you wanna be great at what you do. screenwriting is no different.

    • @19GirlBad
      @19GirlBad 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      D4Darious Yep :D that's true. I been recommended to read those books from my lectures because these authors know their stuff. Took me a while to get used to the screenwriting craft. Trying to visualise the story but have to break the story down in a 3 Act Structure was tough. At the end, it was worth it. I would tell people if they want to write a script but needs help. I would recommend those books.

  • @CriticalHitStory
    @CriticalHitStory 10 ปีที่แล้ว +50

    This is a really solid sum up.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      CriticalHit thank you Critical. It took me a while to put this video together.

    • @CriticalHitStory
      @CriticalHitStory 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      D4Darious
      Yeah man. really well done. This critHit channel here is something my friends and I started awhile back essentially to do something similar to your 'movie breakdown videos'. We felt like not enough people talked about story and structure. If your ever bored, I love to get some feed back on any of our content. Anywho, great stuff!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I'll check you guys out when I get some time =)

  • @merlynavila1594
    @merlynavila1594 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've seen this video so many times and professors use it in my productions classes. Definitely the best 3 Act Structure video there is on youtube. You're the best D4Darious

  • @copafeel86dointricks
    @copafeel86dointricks 10 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    structure is a must for me when filmmaking, without structure you have chaos,
    with chaos you have tension, with tension its very hard to direct a film smoothly and its just makes
    you look un professional... having said this I' am guilty for lack of structure and keeping a set moving lol

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Garrett Coleman Thank you for commenting Garrett. All of what you said is very true lol.

  • @MirageUchiha
    @MirageUchiha ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You explained this so well, that I was able to breakdown your own YT video into the 3 Major Acts!👍🏾💯

  • @Rebassed
    @Rebassed 10 ปีที่แล้ว +117

    Why did it take filmschool 4 years to teach me this? fucking scammers

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Lol. Hopefully you made some great friends in school that you can call up for help with film projects.

    • @Rebassed
      @Rebassed 10 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Man you are the fucking bomb (sorry for my language) I wish you all the luck and i am convinced that you will succeed in this game.
      Also you have tips to keep that fire going ? I mean i dont get to see much progress in my film making path :/

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Rebassed Honestly, keep doing it Rebassed. I promise you you'll get better if you keep at it. Also try and get on some film sets and help others out. You'll learn so much by helping others whom know more that you. You can take all that knowledge and apply it to your own films.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      alexandre do
      you can still build your network of collaborators by volunteering to help film students out on their sets at film schools. they're always looking for help and you'll be surprised at who you can meet! I made a video all about how to find crew for films.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Hmmm. That could be a challenge. If you're persistent in your efforts to help though, I think everyone'll respect that. I've been told no on a few things and turned them into yeses over time lol.

  • @jjpnh
    @jjpnh 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is excellent stuff. I'm not a writer but I have been involved with quite a few productions, and it's amazing how few amateur writers have no idea how to structure a story.

  • @jambononi
    @jambononi 10 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I've often ignored story structure, probably because I'm slightly lazy. But I think it's about time I tried to use it properly. Really good video btw. Straight to the point.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Im glad it helped Jambononi.

  • @thebluefaery_silly
    @thebluefaery_silly 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    STILL the best explanation and breakdown of the 3 act structure ever made in my opinion. Read about it and had it explained to me countless times and it never clicked, but then in less than 12 minutes you made it super easy to understand

  • @TheVirtuallyAddicted
    @TheVirtuallyAddicted 10 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Great points. The issue I have with my main screenplay is that the main character is an anti hero, a vigilante to the extreme, so I am having a hard time working through the three acts without it just being a one act killing spree.

    • @MrJobodhobo
      @MrJobodhobo 10 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      What you want to do is to first have a good idea of your character's story arch. How you want it to start end and a midpoint for that specific character. Then find a way to represent that. You could (for example) open with the hero killing someone. But then focus on how the news demonises them out of preporsion, and to end it they could save a life. Just an idea.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      What could help you is to watch movies with anti-heroes and see how they handled the characters (might give you some ideas) Mad Max and is a good example of an anti-hero. Watchmen is full of anti-heros lol. Even anti heros can evolve and change during the course of a story so I agree with Mr Jobodhobo in figuring an arc for your character.

    • @TheVirtuallyAddicted
      @TheVirtuallyAddicted 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for the advice, but does a movie always have to start with a bang? I can see the action starting in act one, no one likes a dragged out plot, but my plan was to give a little justification to his killer ways or should that be a flash back later on?

    • @JRA6192
      @JRA6192 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Generally, if I have a story with an anti-hero, I try to either have them start as already descended into their ways, and then are tossed in a situation forcing them to test their skills or even re-evaluate their ways (which results in basically a redemption arc), or they start as someone different, but an event happens, that changes them, and then the story tells how they transform into this cold, brutal anti-hero (which results in basically a tragic fall from grace story). Maybe one or the other would help you, but its up to you what you want from the story.

    • @JRA6192
      @JRA6192 10 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      TheVirtuallyAddicted And as for the question of opening with his origin or having it be flashback, there's merit to both approaches. The origin straight-up can immediately tell your audience what the character is like, why they're like that, and so they're instantly aware of what's going on with the dude. But a flashback is also neat sometimes, as then you can build mystery around the guy and why he's like this, and treat him as this enigma, but later you get a flashback to why he's like this, and that can sometimes be an emotionally powerful revelation for viewers, especially if they had made up their mind about the character and so are shocked to find new layers to him.

  • @Justaspacedude
    @Justaspacedude 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    You’re the man, and this is one of my favorite videos to re visit. I swear a good hundred of these views are me. Thank you Mr Britt

  • @blue_frog5709
    @blue_frog5709 8 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Currently writing a book. I use tips for screenwriting and apply it to my witting.

    • @wemojo6343
      @wemojo6343 8 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      i hope you write better than you witt :P

  • @CrackOnaTrack
    @CrackOnaTrack 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love It.. Still blowing minds three years later.

  • @LearnColorGrading
    @LearnColorGrading 10 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thank you, i tried to understand it before and failed. The way you explained it was easy and to the point.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      You're welcome LCR. I tried to make it as clear and unconfusing as I could.

  • @bobo105012
    @bobo105012 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    I know this comment might not mean anything, but i have just written a novel with intent on creating a film adaptation and i hadn't been greatly educated on the 3 Act Structure, but i literally hit the nail on the head with what you have just described and it's a really nice confidence boost for the film. I have been watching many of your other tip videos and they've been incredibly helpful. Keep it up and thank you!

  • @EskimoBlankets
    @EskimoBlankets 10 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thank you so, so much for this video. Seriously, I've been struggling with this for a long time and this is the thing that finally made me get it. Thanks a bunch.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      You're welcome Eskimo. Glad to help bruh :)

  • @LeoStriker17
    @LeoStriker17 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice Video D4Darious. For someone like myself who knows little to nothing about three acts structure, this was helpful and easy to understand.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks ARThomas! I tried to make it as easy to follow as I could for such a dense topic.

  • @AlienRockPictures
    @AlienRockPictures 10 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    This is one of the best filmmaking channels on youtube. Right up there with filmriot and indymogul.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you Alien Rock. I'm glad you enjoyed the video! I love filmriot and indymogul.

    • @AlienRockPictures
      @AlienRockPictures 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      btw, I stumbled upon you in the Facebook filmmaking group.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Alien Rock Thanks for letting me know how you found me =)

  • @leewoodauthor
    @leewoodauthor 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Best video and description I've ever come across. Congratulations man. You truly rock.

  • @MultiTrace22
    @MultiTrace22 10 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    When possible, I would LOVE if you break down “Interstellar”!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I haven't seen it yet. Thanks for the suggestion.

  • @johnmyrtial4099
    @johnmyrtial4099 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I agree with you Darious about act 2, Act 2 is the tough one..... It can be a struggle part to write because you gotta make sure everything make sense and everything goes together. Great tips. Thanks Bro!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad you enjoyed it John. Thanks for commenting Bruh.

    • @johnmyrtial4099
      @johnmyrtial4099 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks to you for those great tips...

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Anytime.

  • @AquaticApes
    @AquaticApes 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    this is a fantastic video

  • @bazalbaz
    @bazalbaz 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm in LOVE with this video - especially your breakdown of movies. I'm taking notes, and will take apart my own story and chart out its structure. I've watched some of your video production uploads before, but now I'm a subscriber.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm glad you found these vids useful Aaron :)

  • @stevie_emerson
    @stevie_emerson 6 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    holy shit dude, thank you

  • @heathermackie2471
    @heathermackie2471 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I am a high school English teacher and I find that your videos provide clear explanations that my students understand and enjoy. My students are able to relate to the way you present information. Thank-you so much!

  • @bluebee
    @bluebee 10 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Your videos rock!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      ***** Thank you Thomas!

  • @RebelRAC13
    @RebelRAC13 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just started on my first screenplay and I just couldn't figure out how to structure the script. Now that you explained the three act structure, which I never knew well, I know how I want to write it. Thanks :D

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      You're more than welcome Rachel. I'm glad you found the info useful and good luck on your first screenplay =)

    • @RebelRAC13
      @RebelRAC13 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks I need all the luck I can get :)

  • @cooper99000
    @cooper99000 9 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    You are pretty awesome man!

  • @ThomasDavis5213
    @ThomasDavis5213 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have to say, ive listened and listened to others and i get something each time but you layed it down line by line just the way i needed to hear it

  • @ChefarztWayne
    @ChefarztWayne 10 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    World War Z and Independence Day are very similar in Plot. But now I realize that a Lot of Movies Are like that.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Most Hollywood movies follow the same template. There isn't anything wrong with that its just a way to keep films evolving and progressing. To the average movie goer watches a ton of movies and never notices how similar in structure the movies are lol.

    • @priyanshjig
      @priyanshjig 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@D4Darious hii

  • @themastercypher357
    @themastercypher357 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love it. I'm a musician who deciding to make the step from music video's to full length films, and wanted to do all the research I could on how hollywood pulls it all off, and get as much mathematics behind my wild idea's and this video was a perfect booster to add to all the conventional stuff I've found. Thanks!

  • @themrcargo
    @themrcargo 10 ปีที่แล้ว +48

    My professor used this video to help explain story structure in my screenplay class. I don't know how to feel about that...?

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +27

      ***** Thank you for commenting Cargo. Story structure can be tough to wrap your head around when you're starting out. It can be tough to explain as well. I've heard of a few teachers using this video as a teaching tool haha.

    • @dishachakraborty2184
      @dishachakraborty2184 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      XD

    • @delacelz
      @delacelz 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@D4Dariousmy professor sent me here 😂😅

  • @The1BluePhantom
    @The1BluePhantom 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    What do you know, I am here again while trying to write. Seriously, this video is super helpful, never stop.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      The1BluePhantom Glad to help BluePhantom =). Good luck!

  • @badnews1967
    @badnews1967 10 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Very cool stuff!!!

  • @NancyCoster
    @NancyCoster 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    We are getting your video as compulsary reading at uni at the moment - but glad I got here this way! Interesting and clear explanation of what a 3 act structure is. Thanks!

  • @bigbox8992
    @bigbox8992 8 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    This video is just so good.

  • @Epic4Evr1990
    @Epic4Evr1990 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I loooovvveee that you gave all of these examples in real stories. I’m a visual learner so I need examples!!!! And you’re the only one that has given real examples this way AND IT IS PERFECT!!!! Thank you!!!

  • @AwesomeEvan9
    @AwesomeEvan9 10 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Wow, you did a really great job with this!
    I shall spread this like the plague!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hahaha thanks FlashForward. I'm glad this was useful to you bro.

  • @hillarybrazell2516
    @hillarybrazell2516 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    My professor uses your videos as a part of our film course and your content makes things so much easier to understand than our textbook- thanks!

  • @RaymondHamby
    @RaymondHamby 10 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hey Darious, I'd like to,see you make a video to explain how in every scene in the movie it should end completely opposite from how it began and have some kind of conflict. Like how the 2nd act break is a fake win or defeat from the mid point. Do you know what I mean by each scene ending opposite than how it began?

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the suggestion Raymond. I know what you mean. I'll see what I can do with that later on :)

    • @RaymondHamby
      @RaymondHamby 10 ปีที่แล้ว

      ok i hope to see it soon! thanks Darious!

    • @ddland45
      @ddland45 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I was taught that each scene is basically a mini movie where you have a beginning, middle and end. Blake Snyder suggests that each scene must have a conflict between two opposing forces in some way, shape or form, like for example, you have to go to the bathroom, but the doorbell rings. You answer the door and its the hot chick who just moved in next door. The conflict arises with you cramping verses your desire to talk to this hot lady.
      All kinds of wild endings can happen in a scene like this...

    • @RaymondHamby
      @RaymondHamby 10 ปีที่แล้ว

      ddland45 thank you so much for your reply. it was well received and would be a funny scene to see played out on film.

  • @Unkomfy
    @Unkomfy 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you so much!! I just recently decided I wanted to start writing web comics and I had no idea where to start. Nothing I found was helpful, and then I remembered just last night that the 3 Acts is a classic tried and true story structure. I went ahead and looked it up and found your video, and it helped so much!!!

  • @playingforpeanuts
    @playingforpeanuts 10 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Bryan Hill sent me. And I'm glad he did. Nice work.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you John :)

  • @iDYPilms
    @iDYPilms 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Im learning the specifics. I learned about it in Greek Myths and Fairy Tales as a kid. Now Im trying to make VLOGS so I want to make structured stories rather than just plain documenting. Thanks for this man.
    I subscribe.

  • @walterwhite9579
    @walterwhite9579 10 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Ur awesome

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks Walter.

  • @eliana93fer
    @eliana93fer 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for this! It was a very clear introduction and sum up to the subject, thanks!

  • @ammo76534
    @ammo76534 8 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I love the 3 act structure but I am not as faithful to it as I want to be. While most movies have that twist what I'd do is continuously build up with difficulties and things blocking the main character to accomplish what he wants to. In my opinion I think that adds more weight to the ending and that it gives more satisfaction to the viewer because we've been on a roller coaster of difficulties and finally they reach the top. Am I right for doing that or should I change ?

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      you've definitely got the right idea ;)

    • @priyanshjig
      @priyanshjig 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@D4Darious hii

  • @julianschlanger6925
    @julianschlanger6925 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    bro i aint even get to act 2 yet in this but already you giving me the most information on this from anyone else on here

  • @JohnnyFilmsy-Boi
    @JohnnyFilmsy-Boi 10 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great video! I learned a lot. Just one question. I am planning on writing a screenplay that will most likely follow all those plot points and go along with the three act structure, but I have an ending for the story that I really like and think will work. Is it possible to have an extra little scene after the resolution that leaves the audience with questions and leave them going like "Oh my god, what's that character gonna do?!!!"?

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      When you through a scene at the end that leaves your audience wondering what will happen next it's called a cliff hanger. You could definitely do that, in fact there are many movies that do that exact thing. Off the top of my head I remember the second matrix movie ends with a cliff hanger.

  • @fioreirving
    @fioreirving 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    This was great! In school we always learn that you should master the formula BEFORE you break the rules because you want to break rules INTENTIONALLY. You want your choices to read well in your story instead of simply appearing amateurish. I think a lot of people are tempted to jump the gun to seem creative before they fully understand story structure. However, one shouldn't run a marathon without proper training. The ability to create creative stories that follow the story structure is limitless for someone who is actually creative. Eventually it is great to figure out a way to break out of that structure but only after you've used it properly, understand its strengths and can build on your story instead of breaking it. Kudos!

  • @black_sushi
    @black_sushi 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Dang, dude. That was dope.

  • @baldielou8504
    @baldielou8504 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for talking about this, seriously, I prefer floaty meandering stories like 'unlikely hero' but even that film follows a similar structure to what you're describing! Just realised how important it is, thankyou

  • @masonbrown9155
    @masonbrown9155 10 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    what's the name of your first film?

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      It's called Unsound. There's a trailer on my channel.

    • @masonbrown9155
      @masonbrown9155 10 ปีที่แล้ว

      how do i get access to it?

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      we haven't released it yet. l regularly post updates on our progress getting our film released. we r.looking to release it nest spring.

  • @ryanmccurdy9423
    @ryanmccurdy9423 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Your video puts the blurry image of writing a movie into focus. Thank you. Your videos are great keep doing what you are doing.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ryan McCurdy Thank you Ryan. I appreciate the support and thank you for watching!

  • @Rebassed
    @Rebassed 10 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    How is Interstellar when it comes to story and structure?

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      I haven't actually seen interstellar yet. I've heard great things so far.

    • @Rebassed
      @Rebassed 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Holy shit i will read that tommorow thanks for the reply!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      alexandre do
      Nice Alexandre! Thanks for taking the time to share that!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      alexandre do
      Very true. Thinking critically about film is such a useful tool in terms of sharpening your own skills and understanding of things though. It's not a wast of time and the more you do it, the more those subjective patterns become a little more concrete to you (because you'll have seen them 1000 times lol)

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ah gotcha =) That sounds like a crap ton of research and analysis. Must have been a really long dissertation.

  • @donniebonelli5412
    @donniebonelli5412 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you so much for making this video! I created a worksheet based on it that I use to get my initial outlines done before I really dive in and get creative. It's been a huge help in actually finishing outlines before I start writing. You're awesome D and I love your channel. Cheers.

  • @Waxalousgalaxy
    @Waxalousgalaxy 9 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    I think the three act structure is the staple of uncomplicated Hollywood films. When people come up with examples of it used in great films it is often concidence. If you look at North by North West, 2001: A space odyssey, the Grand Budapest Hotel, The Wizard of Oz, any studio Ghibli film, most Kurosawa films and anything based off Shakespeare you'll see they don't follow that structure. And as for Aristotle using it, it's simply not true he said all stories have a beginning, middle and end. The three act structure just tries to create rules for creativity and makes films like the Avengers boring and predictable.

    • @Waxalousgalaxy
      @Waxalousgalaxy 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Love your channel though.

    • @cynthiautz6702
      @cynthiautz6702 9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +Waxalous Galaxy I follow the Three Act Structure. And I've been doing pretty good at it.

    • @TheKeithvidz
      @TheKeithvidz 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Corey Pack i took i suspect an identical route with my completed story - how do you plan on it reaching movers and shakers?

    • @TheKeithvidz
      @TheKeithvidz 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Corey Pack
      the agents and execs

    • @TheKeithvidz
      @TheKeithvidz 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Corey Pack
      I've contacted agents. I'd like to see how it goes at your end. Have any in mind yet you can pass on? You have a contact?
      And my SP, "criminal element" is on Amaz studio

  • @sophiepigdon574
    @sophiepigdon574 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    This was sooooo helpful!! I had no idea what 3 story structure was until I saw your video and it makes so much sense. Thanks man!

  • @9cloudsfilms944
    @9cloudsfilms944 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    i've looked at your tips at each point in writing and filming i'm so glad you bring a lot of good points into perspective

  • @williepadin
    @williepadin 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Darious this was superb! This is a good formula. For everyone out there thinking this is not perfect, IT ISNT. These are guidelines, and they do work!

  • @Marcsine
    @Marcsine 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love how the buffer icon gives you a shiny monocle.

  • @-UA
    @-UA 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your 5 years old video just earned you a new subscriber! Thanks for the great lesson!

  • @FITLBOX
    @FITLBOX 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hey, man. Been following you online. You're videos are really helpful. I'm a fiction filmmaker turned documentary editor and desperately wanting back into fiction. However, gotta go back with a clearer understanding of fiction. This was helpful.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      FITL BOX Thank you for commenting FITL. I'm glad you found this helpful and best of luck with making that transition back to fiction!

    • @FITLBOX
      @FITLBOX 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah, man. Just watched your breakdowns of The Matrix and Batman. Very good work, man. More people need to flock your way.

  • @Shiznaft1
    @Shiznaft1 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for posting this. It was one of the clearest explanations that I have seen. The accompanying examples really hammered home the points.

  • @CUTEMKUltras
    @CUTEMKUltras 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video man. I write using a three act structure and find it a foolproof way to deliver a story to an audience.

  • @averynonym
    @averynonym 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    This was extremely helpful. Way better than any class I’ve taken so far.

  • @MrPrettyPauly
    @MrPrettyPauly 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    An old professor of mine tried explaining the 3 act structure, but it was never like this! Great vid!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you Inerded and thank you for checking it out!

  • @antdolla702
    @antdolla702 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    thanks D! writing a short film these tips are awesome

  • @LilianBrooksacts
    @LilianBrooksacts 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for all these videos. I'm working on my first Webseries and Feature film Scripts and this video is really helping me a lot.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      You're welcome Lilian. Good luck on your first webseries.

    • @LilianBrooksacts
      @LilianBrooksacts 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      THANK YOU!

  • @msisson1
    @msisson1 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great job. I'm a screenwriting professor and I found your presentation engaging, easy to understand and very helpful. I'm going to share with my students.

  • @ace5
    @ace5 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is some great stuff! Very concise and well delivered. Im trying to get myself to write more stuff and this is great!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad to help Aleksey and good luck with your script.

  • @peggyj_SEO
    @peggyj_SEO 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great way to explain and navigate several books making the 3 Act Story structure easier to understand. Thanks.

  • @DanAbsalonson
    @DanAbsalonson 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Dude this video is awesome! A great overview and I loved how you showed how the different parts are different things from different structure tools like what Save the Cat calls it verses Sid Field etc. I'll be watching this over and over again to try and get story structure ingrained in my brain. I'm a fiction writer but this works great for novels too!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you Dan. I think what would really help you nail it is applying it to movies that you watch. After you study a few movies and see the structure in them you'll definitely have it down lol.

    • @DanAbsalonson
      @DanAbsalonson 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks man. Yeah every time I watch a movie now I think about it's story structure. The kids and I watched Toy Story last night. Man it has a well written third act. Talk about try fail cycles :)

  • @CiprianGavriliu
    @CiprianGavriliu 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    The best resource on 3 Act Structure in the entire galaxy. Thanks man!

  • @adetayo_first
    @adetayo_first 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    8 years later, and this is still amazing. I wonder how you’re doing now.

  • @puneethrudranag7597
    @puneethrudranag7597 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Buddy, Thank you so Much... I've started off as Assistant director to a well known director in a part of Indian Cinema, but have no idea of film making as of now.. Your video though its short gave ample amount of information on HOW to compose a concept clearly in your mind... This just gave me an insight and I completed a script.. It was a true story plot which was experienced by myself during my upbringing but had no idea of putting it together.. Guess what??? The story is approved and it goes on floor in the year 2016.. I'll be DIRECTING it.. :-D.. I still need to know directing in DETAIL(practically) so i'm assisting for the next 3 projects.. Gods great, he's put me at the right hands i mean big banners.. I'll be in touch hopefully we could work together in the future.. Thanks a million again dude.. I'll watch all your other videos too.. Your theory looks important and to the point..

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Congrats Nandi! I'm happy to hear that. Sorry for the late response. I've been slammed with work lately. I think you'll find that your history as an Assistant AD will help you in directing believe it or not. I hope I get to see your work someday.

    • @puneethrudranag7597
      @puneethrudranag7597 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you, i bet you will.. I'll be in touch..

  • @dorothystoltz8939
    @dorothystoltz8939 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you, I understand better the composition of a play and how authors use structure to build it. I had never thought about the complexity of writing a play before.

  • @film_magician
    @film_magician 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Blake Snyder made it really accessible and easy to get super creative within story structure. Love his books. Love Hero with 1000 faces, and Aristotle's poetics is great to know too.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for commenting. Magician.

  • @Trunkalunx
    @Trunkalunx 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Don't forget about ambiguous or cliffhanger endings, Darious. The Thing or Inception are perfect examples of this. Some audience members love to be the judge of what might've happened next after the big climax and resolution.

  • @andrewbrown9688
    @andrewbrown9688 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I still come back to this video. Blessings and keep going brotha.

  • @curlythephotographer
    @curlythephotographer 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I found your page watching film riot and love it so far, going through and watching all the tips... I start shooting my 1st film this Sunday (tomorrow) wish I would have seen some of your videos before we finished our script lol... But I think we'll do ok, anywhooo Thanks for the tips and what not we appreciate you!

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curly ThePhotographer Thank you Curly! Good luck on your shoot Bruh!

  • @GregorySchrupp
    @GregorySchrupp 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    thank you for such a good breakdown...worth two watches. you simplified it to a point that even i can understand

  • @richardrosenthal5506
    @richardrosenthal5506 10 ปีที่แล้ว

    You nailed it in less than 12 minutes! Congrats! I use them and love them.

    • @D4Darious
      @D4Darious  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you Richard!

  • @metoons
    @metoons 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just want to thank you brother! I'm struggling with a script for an animated feature film for adults here. You are helping a lot!