SCRIPT TO SCREEN: FILMMAKERS, DARE SOMETHING DIFFERENT or "A 3-Act Structure Tale About 3-Act Structure Elements Called "3-Act Structure""

The 3-Act Structure rules Hollywood even though some think the 3-Act structure actually kills scripts. And as the cartoon demonstrates below in amusing and sarcastic fashion, the 3-Act structure is made up of elements that engage and entertain us while also being repetitive and derivative.  So here's a challenge to all filmmakers, from indie newbies to hollywood bigshots, do you dare tell stories outside of the 3-Act structure? 

Ok, you say, I'm down but what else is there outside of the 3-Act structure?

Well, my friend, that's where your creativity as a writer, director, producer and editor comes in. Plus the cojones to dare and even fail or get audience heads scratching. But if you want some suggestions for ideas well here are a few places to look:
  • One way to start is by considering other options for narrative structures beyond just "linear narrative." 
  • Another suggestion for inspiration is to look to the East for non-Western dramatic structures such as Jo-ha-kyū and Kishōtenketsu
  • And finally be inspired by ideas and concepts we already have in the West such as what you find in experimental cinema, an African-American cyclical structure style as described in this academic paperScott McCloud's Understanding Comics and French actor/writer/dramatist Antonin Artaud's books.



Originally published in Daily Kos.

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