Chapter 1: The Opening Image
* Presents the first image of the protagonist and establishes the inciting incident.
* Example: In "The Shawshank Redemption," the opening image shows Andy Dufresne entering Shawshank prison, conveying his initial sense of hopelessness.
Chapter 2: Theme Stated
* The protagonist expresses their core desire and internal conflict.
* Example: In "The Martian," Mark Watney declares, "I'm going to have to science the sh*t out of this," revealing his determination to survive despite the odds.
Chapter 3: Set-Up
* Introduces the protagonist's world, relationships, and obstacles.
* Example: In "Titanic," the setup establishes Rose's wealthy but restrictive life and her growing attraction to Jack, a penniless artist.
Chapter 4: Catalyst
* A significant event that forces the protagonist to confront their problems.
* Example: In "Pretty Woman," Vivian's encounter with Edward Lewis challenges her assumptions about her life and work.
Chapter 5: Debate
* The protagonist struggles internally with their choices and fears.
* Example: In "The Blind Side," Michael Oher has doubts about his future and the sacrifices he must make to succeed.
Chapter 6: Break into Two
* The protagonist makes a pivotal decision that alters the course of their journey.
* Example: In "The Lion King," Simba's confrontation with his past leads him to decide to return to Pride Rock and reclaim his rightful place.
Chapter 7: B Story
* Introduces a parallel storyline that intertwines with the protagonist's main quest.
* Example: In "The Fault in Our Stars," the B story is the relationship between Hazel and Augustus, which provides emotional depth and a counterbalance to the protagonist's struggle with cancer.
Chapter 8: Fun and Games
* A period of levity and adventure as the protagonist explores their new path.
* Example: In "Bridesmaids," Annie's hilarious attempts to be the perfect maid of honor provide comic relief amidst the wedding chaos.
Chapter 9: Midpoint
* A major turning point that forces the protagonist to confront their greatest challenge.
* Example: In "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring," the Fellowship reaches the Mines of Moria and must face the Balrog.
Chapter 10: Bad Guys Close In
* The protagonist faces mounting opposition and setbacks.
* Example: In "The Wizard of Oz," the Wicked Witch of the West intensifies her pursuit of Dorothy and her friends.
Chapter 11: All Is Lost
* The protagonist reaches their lowest point and feels defeated.
* Example: In "The Pursuit of Happyness," Chris Gardner loses everything, including his job and his son's custody.
Chapter 12: Dark Night of the Soul
* The protagonist experiences deep introspection and confronts their fears and demons.
* Example: In "The Dark Knight," Batman confronts his own inner darkness as he battles The Joker.
Chapter 13: Break into Three
* The protagonist regains hope and finds a new path forward.
* Example: In "The Matrix," Neo's belief in himself enables him to break free from the confines of the virtual world.
Chapter 14: Finale
* The protagonist confronts their antagonist and overcomes their greatest obstacle.
* Example: In "Star Wars: A New Hope," Luke Skywalker destroys the Death Star and saves the galaxy.
Chapter 15: Final Image
* Provides closure and reflects the protagonist's transformation.
* Example: In "The Shawshank Redemption," the final image shows Andy Dufresne standing on a beach in Mexico, symbolizing his freedom and newfound life.
