The hero’s journey is the screenwriting template. Screenwriters can use it to write effective screenplays. Below are a few of the elements of each stage of the journey.
Meeting with the Goddess.
Encountering a supreme ideal. In Out of Africa (1985), Karen is drawn to the possibility of capturing something wild and free (Denys). In Raging Bull (1980), Jake La Motta has to take a dive for the Mafia in order to eventually have a chance at the Title.
Guardians may prevent the hero from easily Seizing the Sword. In Dances with Wolves (1990), John cannot be seen with Stands with a Fist, as she is in mourning. In Star Wars (1977), Leia is guarded.
Seizing the Sword. In Carlito’s Way (1993), Carlito wins over Gail.
Woman as Temptress.
Tempted into a Decent. The hero is tempted (often, but not necessarily, by a female) into the depths. In Dances with Wolves (1990), Stands with a Fist tells John that the Pawnee are to attack, which causes him to go back to the fort and dig up the guns.
Near Death Experience. The hero has a near death experience after which he is reborn. In An Officer and a Gentleman, Zack Maya is beaten to near death by Sgt. Foley – not insignificantly, this happens in the martial arts gym and after his argument with Paula.
Baptism Underwater. In Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969), both have to jump into the river down below to escape their pursuers (Sundance: "I can't swim." Butch: "Why you crazy, the fall will probably kill you.")
Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Fire. In Unforgiven (1992), Clint Eastwood does not easily recover from his beating.
The Complete 188 stage Hero’s Journey and FREE 17 stage sample and other story structure templates can be found at http://www.managing-creativity.com/
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Kal Bishop, MBA
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Kal Bishop is a management consultant based in London, UK. His specialities include Knowledge Management and Creativity and Innovation Management. He has consulted in the visual media and software industries and for clients such as Toshiba and Transport for London. He has led Improv, creativity and innovation workshops, exhibited artwork in San Francisco, Los Angeles and London and written a number of screenplays. He is a passionate traveller. He can be reached at http://www.managing-creativity.com
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