188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: THE OUTER CHALLENGE IS A CONSEQUENCE OF THE INNER CHALLENGE

In every successful Hollywood story, there are a number of challenges to be resolved. It is not uncommon for the Hero to have at least Four Core Challenges (Inner, Outer, Romantic, Greater Antagonism) and each is mapped onto the Hero's Journey and resolved in a very specific order.

The Outer Challenge is often a manifestation (or consequence) of the Inner Challenge (frequently a deep psychological issue).

In American Beauty (Academy Award Winner Best Film, 1999), Lester's marriage will not begin to resolve itself until he begins to feel good about himself.

In An Officer and a Gentleman (1982), Zach is self-centred beacuse his mother committed suicide and his father didn't care for him.

In Titanic (Academy Award Winner Best Film, 1997), Rose is marrying Cal because she (and her mother) is concerned about money and status.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

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188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: EVERY GOOD HERO HAS AT LEAST FOUR CORE CHALLENGES

In every successful Hollywood story, there are a number of challenges to be resolved. It is not uncommon for the Hero to have at least Four Core Challenges (Inner, Outer, Romantic, Greater Antagonism) and each is mapped onto the Hero's Journey and resolved in a very specific order.

In American Beauty (Academy Award Winner Best Film 1999), Lester Burnham's Inner Challenge is to feel good about himself, his Romantic Challenge is Angela, his Outer Challenge is his marriage with Carolyn and the Greater Antagonism is Col. Frank Fitts, US Marine Core.

In Top Gun (1986, receipts of $176,000,000), Maverick's Romantic Challenge is Charlie, his Inner Challenge is his personal and father's story, his Outer Challenge is getting over Goose's death and the Greater Antagonism is becoming Top Gun.

In Titanic (Academy Award Winner Best Film 1997; No. 1 All-Time USA Boxoffice with receipts of over $600,000,000), Rose's Inner Challenge is to overcome her committment to her mother as well as Jack's lower status, her Romantic Challenge is Jack, her Outer Challenge is Cal and the Greater Antagonism is escaping the sinking ship.

The Four Core Challenge categories can be viewed as classes:

In Tootsie (Academy Award Nominee Best Film 1982), Michael's Romantic Challenge is Julie, his Inner Challenge is represented by his penultimate line "I was a better man with you as a woman than I ever was with a woman as a man...I just gotta learn to do it without the dress...", his Outer Challenge is Ron [symbol of male condescension] and the Greater Antagonism is his problem that the network and fans thinks he's really a woman. But within the class of the Inner Challenge is Sandy and within the class of the Romantic Challenge are the attentions of Les and Van Horn.

It is common for secondary characters to have their own (fewer) challenges (these are the core of any subplot) and each is also resolved in a very specific order:

In Gladiator (Academy Award Winner Best Film, 2000), Proximo and Lucilla both have their own demons to overcome.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

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188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: EVERY HERO GETS A NEW NAME

Every Hero transforms from an Ordinary (Old) Self to a New Self. The emergence of the New Self is demonstrated in a number of ways. One of these is the receiving of a New Name.

In City Slickers (1991), before Mitch, Phil and Ed set off on their Journey, they're "City Slickers." When they return, they're "Cowboys."

In Big Jake (1971), John Wayne is initially "Daddy." Finally, he is "Father."

In The Matrix (1999), "Neo" becomes "The One."

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: THE NEW WORLD IS A PLACE THAT THE HERO INITIALLY FEARS

It is not uncommon for the Hero to experience fear as he (or she) enters the First Threshold. It is not incorrect to say that the First Threshold is a place or state that the Hero is most afraid to go.

In Kramer versus Kramer (1979), Ted is somewhat afraid to be home alone with Billy.

In Scarface (1983), Tony is somewhat afraid of tackling the Colombians.

In The Matrix (1999), Neo is somewhat afraid of crossing over into the Matrix.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: EVERY HERO MUST MEET AN ORACLE

The Oracle is that entity that guides the Hero towards the tangible (Sword) that represents the intangibles (Expansion of Consciousness etc).

The Oracle can be literal. For example, in The Matrix (1999), a literal Oracle guides Neo towards the choice he must make.

The Oracle can be an inanimate object. For example, in Alien (1979), the Oracle is Mother the computer.

Or the Oracle can simply be metaphoric for any event that pushes the Hero in the required direction. In Scarface (1983), it is the assassination attempt that pushes Tony to take out Frank.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: EVERY GREAT STORY ENDS WITH MULTIPLE CATHARSES

Between the Crossing of the Return Threshold and the Mastery of the Two Worlds, a hell of a lot happens that, astoundingly, is rarely given mention, let alone explanation.

One critical process that completes your story is closure with Multiple Catharses (often at least four). The most successful stories do not just end, they use distinct mechanisms to very carefully build and release emotional tension:

In The Godfather (1972), multiple catharses include a) when Michael shoots the heads of the other families, b) when Michael kills Carlo, c) when Tessio is taken away and d) when the lieutenants finally accept Michael's leadership.

In The Shawshank Redemption (1994), multiple catharses include a) when Andy escapes, b) when Andy steals from the Wardens accounts, c) when the Warden kills himself, d) when Capt. Hadley sobs while being arrested and e) when Red finds Andy on the beach.

In Planet of the Apes (1968), multiple catharses include a) when Taylor et al find human remains in the cave, b) when Dr. Zaius reveals that he knew all along, c) when Dr. Zaius lets Taylor and Nova leave and d) when Taylor finds the statue of Liberty.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: DRAGON BATTLE

The value of the Hero's Journey is best appreciated by understanding and applying the symbolism and metaphors. One example is "Dragon Battle."

As in the fairytales you are familiar with, before the Hero is able to rescue the Princess, he (or she) must battle her Guardian (a literal or metaphoric Dragon).

Thus (bearing in mind that the Princess can also be literal or a metaphor for a tangible):

In When Harry met Sally (1989), before Harry beds Sally, he must help her overcome her disappointment regarding her ex-lover.

In The Godfather (1972), before Michael is able to marry Apollonia, he must go through the traditional ritual.

In Once Upon a Time in the West (1968), Cheyenne must kill Morton's men before he can rescue Harmonica.

In The Matrix (1999), Neo and Trinity must overcome the Agents before they can rescue Morpheus.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

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188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: HAND TO HAND BATTLE

One often missed aspect of the Hero's Journey is the Hand to Hand Battle. The Hero and Antagonism must confront each other directly.

In Spiderman (2004), the Green Goblin and Peter confront each other.

In Annie Hall (1977), Alvie must confront Annie.

In Gladiator (2000), Commodus and Maxuimus confront each other.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: AFTERLIFE ACT

Many successful stories go beyond the Freedom to Live stage. An Afterlife Act closes successful stories or prepares them for continuation.

In Out of Africa (1985), Denys' burial follows a very specific pattern.

In Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005), the Supernatural Aid awaits the coming of the next generation, according to a very specific pattern.

In Conan the Barbarian (1982), Conan becomes king and lives on, according to a very specific pattern.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

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188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: THE BEACHHEAD

A good way to understand the First Threshold is to look at it as a Beachhead. It is the first foothold in the New World and explains some of the events that must occur there (if you want to write successful stories and screenplays), such as the Fish out of Water stage.

In Scarface (1983), the burger stand is the Tony Montana's first foothold in the USA.

In The Devil Wears Prada (2006), the junior receptionist job is Andy's first foothold in the fashion world.

In The Thing (1982), Macready gives the Thing it's first foothold in the station.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

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188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: EVERY HERO GETS A NEW NAME

Every Hero transforms from an Ordinary (Old) Self to a New Self. The emergence of the New Self is demonstrated in a number of ways. One of these is the receiving of a New Name.

In City Slickers (1991), before Mitch, Phil and Ed set off on their Journey, they're "City Slickers." When they return, they're "Cowboys."

In Big Jake (1971), John Wayne is initially "Daddy." Finally, he is "Father."

In The Matrix (1999), "Neo" becomes "The One."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: THE BACKSTORY IS THE MOMENT WHEN THE HERO LOST HIS (OR HER) BALANCE

The Hero embarks on the Journey and Transformation, not to gain a capacity, illumination, power or balance, but to regain it. It is not the attainment of a capacity that helps the Hero conquer his (or her) challenges but the reattainment of it. The backstory often centres around the moment when that capacity was lost.

In Silence of the Lambs (1991), Clarice recites the moment when balance was lost - the story about the lamb.

In Midnight Cowboy (1969), Joe Buck has flashbacks about the moment when balance was lost - he is abused and his girlfriend is raped.

In An Officer and a Gentleman (1983), Zach has flashbacks in the bathroom about the moment when balance was lost - his mother commits suicide and his father is disinterested in him.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

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188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: THE BEACHHEAD

A good way to understand the First Threshold is to look at it as a Beachhead. It is the first foothold in the New World and explains some of the events that must occur there (if you want to write successful stories and screenplays), such as the Fish out of Water stage.

In Scarface (1983), the burger stand is the Tony Montana's first foothold in the USA.

In The Devil Wears Prada (2006), the junior receptionist job is Andy's first foothold in the fashion world.

In The Thing (1982), Macready gives the Thing it's first foothold in the station.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

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188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: THE OUTER CHALLENGE IS A CONSEQUENCE OF THE INNER CHALLENGE

In every successful Hollywood story, there are a number of challenges to be resolved. It is not uncommon for the Hero to have at least Four Core Challenges (Inner, Outer, Romantic, Greater Antagonism) and each is mapped onto the Hero's Journey and resolved in a very specific order.

The Outer Challenge is often a manifestation (or consequence) of the Inner Challenge (frequently a deep psychological issue).

In American Beauty (Academy Award Winner Best Film, 1999), Lester's marriage will not begin to resolve itself until he begins to feel good about himself.

In An Officer and a Gentleman (1982), Zach is self-centred beacuse his mother committed suicide and his father didn't care for him.

In Titanic (Academy Award Winner Best Film, 1997), Rose is marrying Cal because she (and her mother) is concerned about money and status.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: PERIOD OF REFLECTION

The Period of Reflection is that consideration just before the Hero decides to detach from Old World attachments.

In The Insider (1999), Wigand decides that he should become a whistleblower.

In The Godfather (1972), Michael decides to tell Kay he doesn't know when he'll see her again.

In Bull Durham (1988), Crash decides he better do a good job of training Nuke.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: SUPERNATURAL AID'S CORE COMPETENCY

Superatural Aids come in many shapes and sizes. The most common form is the wretched old man or hag, but this is not necessarily a given.

The only requirement of a Supernatural Aid is that he (or she) be able to traverse both the Old and New Worlds. It is this quality that enables the Supernatural Aid to provide Magical Gifts.

In Raging Bull (1980), Vickie is able to straddle both Jake's world and the world of the mafia.

In Gorillas in the Mist (1988), Sembagare speaks both languages.

In Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), Margaret understands both Ted and Joanna.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: RUPTURE

Rupture (or Physical Separation) is that stage of the Journey where the Hero is (often forced out) of the First Threshold and into the Deeper New World. This is the marker where the Hero breaks with the Old Self.

In Dances with Wolves (Academy Award Winner Best Film, 1990), John Dunbar leaves the fort and ventures to the Indian village.

In The Godfather (100 Greatest Films, 1972), Michael leaves New York for Sicily.

In Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977), this is where Roy begins his obsession.

In Raging Bull (1990), this is where Jake gets married, has kids and gains weight.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: INNER RESOLVE

One often missed aspect of the Hero's Journey is the stage of the Inner Resolve. The Hero faces an Unbearable Antagonism that forces him to reveal his True, New Self.

In Return of the Jedi (1983), Luke shows he is stronger than Vader (after Vader threatens Leia).

In Cinderella Man (2005), Jim Braddock starts to win (after it appears his opponent will win).

In The Matrix (1999), Neo plays with the bullets (after it appears that the odds are against him).

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: INTO A NEW WORLD AND TOWARDS A NEW SELF

The idea of the Hero entering a New World and venturing towards a New Self should not be taken lightly in storytelling. It is the essence of the Hero's Journey and is symbolically prevalent in the vast majority of successful stories. So much so that this process is the skeleton around which your story should be based:

In Dead Poets Society (Academy Award Nominee Best Film, 1989), the boys arrive in their new school - the New World in which the boys will evolve.

In Platoon (Academy Award Best Film, 1986), Taylor arrives in Vietnam - the New World in which Taylor will evolve.

When Harry met Sally (1989), both Harry and Sally travel from Chicago to New York - the New World in which both shall evolve.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: ADAPTATION

The function of the Journey is Transformation. This can be explained in many ways and one way is to look at it as adaptation. The Hero ventures into a New World and adapts until he (or she) becomes an integral part of it.

In Gorillas in the Mist (1988), Dian becomes one of the gorillas and "owns" the mountain.

In Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), Ted becomes a Mom.

In Educating Rita (1983), Rita becomes the archetypal student.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: ADAPTATION

The function of the Journey is Transformation. This can be explained in many ways and one way is to look at it as adaptation. The Hero ventures into a New World and adapts until he (or she) becomes an integral part of it.

In Gorillas in the Mist (1988), Dian becomes one of the gorillas and "owns" the mountain.

In Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), Ted becomes a Mom.

In Educating Rita (1983), Rita becomes the archetypal student.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: EVERY HERO MUST FIGHT HIS (OR HER) FINAL BATTLE ALONE

Between the Crossing of the Return Threshold and the Master of Two Worlds a hell of a lot happens, most of which is rarely, if ever, noted in analyses of the Hero's Journey.

It is critical to note that every Hero must fight his (or her) Final Battle alone - how else can he (or she) be certain that the Antagonisms (which in no small measure are psychological) have certainly been overcome.

There are a number of ways in which the above is expressed, including:

a) The disappearance of Transcendental Powers. In the Wizard of Oz (1939) the Wizard cannot help Dorothy return home.

b) The disappearance of Magical Gifts. In American Beauty (1999), Ricky can no longer supply Lester with marijuana.

c) Hand-to-Hand Battle. In Annie Hall (1977), Alvie flies to LA to persuade Annie to come back.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: SUPERNATURAL AID'S CORE COMPETENCY

Superatural Aids come in many shapes and sizes. The most common form is the wretched old man or hag, but this is not necessarily a given.

The only requirement of a Supernatural Aid is that he (or she) be able to traverse both the Old and New Worlds. It is this quality that enables the Supernatural Aid to provide Magical Gifts.

In Raging Bull (1980), Vickie is able to straddle both Jake's world and the world of the mafia.

In Gorillas in the Mist (1988), Sembagare speaks both languages.

In Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), Margaret understands both Ted and Joanna.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: EVERY GOOD HERO HAS AT LEAST FOUR CORE CHALLENGES

In every successful Hollywood story, there are a number of challenges to be resolved. It is not uncommon for the Hero to have at least Four Core Challenges (Inner, Outer, Romantic, Greater Antagonism) and each is mapped onto the Hero's Journey and resolved in a very specific order.

In American Beauty (Academy Award Winner Best Film 1999), Lester Burnham's Inner Challenge is to feel good about himself, his Romantic Challenge is Angela, his Outer Challenge is his marriage with Carolyn and the Greater Antagonism is Col. Frank Fitts, US Marine Core.

In Top Gun (1986, receipts of $176,000,000), Maverick's Romantic Challenge is Charlie, his Inner Challenge is his personal and father's story, his Outer Challenge is getting over Goose's death and the Greater Antagonism is becoming Top Gun.

In Titanic (Academy Award Winner Best Film 1997; No. 1 All-Time USA Boxoffice with receipts of over $600,000,000), Rose's Inner Challenge is to overcome her committment to her mother as well as Jack's lower status, her Romantic Challenge is Jack, her Outer Challenge is Cal and the Greater Antagonism is escaping the sinking ship.

The Four Core Challenge categories can be viewed as classes:

In Tootsie (Academy Award Nominee Best Film 1982), Michael's Romantic Challenge is Julie, his Inner Challenge is represented by his penultimate line "I was a better man with you as a woman than I ever was with a woman as a man...I just gotta learn to do it without the dress...", his Outer Challenge is Ron [symbol of male condescension] and the Greater Antagonism is his problem that the network and fans thinks he's really a woman. But within the class of the Inner Challenge is Sandy and within the class of the Romantic Challenge are the attentions of Les and Van Horn.

It is common for secondary characters to have their own (fewer) challenges (these are the core of any subplot) and each is also resolved in a very specific order:

In Gladiator (Academy Award Winner Best Film, 2000), Proximo and Lucilla both have their own demons to overcome.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

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188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: DEVOLVED NAME

It is not unusual for the Hero to be given a Devolved Name, which represents his (or her) Devolved Self. This is an alternative to the Hero's Ordinary World name.

In Bull Durham (1988), Crash keeps calling Nuke "Meat."

In An Officer and a Gentleman (1983), Foley calls Zach "Mayo(nnaise)."

In the Dirty Dozen (1967), the men are referred to by their criminal names before Reisman collectively calls them the "Dirty Dozen."

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: FINAL CONFLICT

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

The Final Conflict is so important that it is astounding that it is rarely given mention, let alone explanation. Between the Crossing of the Return Threshold and the Mastery of the Two Worlds and Selves, a hell of a lot happens, including:

a) Dangerous Place: the battle takes place somewhere fearful from the Hero's perspective. In Annie Hall (1977), Alvie has to go to Los Angeles to convince Annie to come back.

b) Polarization: a sequence that establishes the Antagonism's potency. In Little Miss Sunshine (2006), all the girls at the pageant are far more likely to win than Olive.

c) Hand-to-hand battle. The Hero and Antagonist always battle face each other - In Alien (1979), Ripley and the Alien do battle in her little escape pod.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: FINAL CONFLICT

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

The Final Conflict is so important that it is astounding that it is rarely given mention, let alone explanation. Between the Crossing of the Return Threshold and the Mastery of the Two Worlds and Selves, a hell of a lot happens, including:

a) Dangerous Place: the battle takes place somewhere fearful from the Hero's perspective. In Annie Hall (1977), Alvie has to go to Los Angeles to convince Annie to come back.

b) Polarization: a sequence that establishes the Antagonism's potency. In Little Miss Sunshine (2006), all the girls at the pageant are far more likely to win than Olive.

c) Hand-to-hand battle. The Hero and Antagonist always battle face each other - In Alien (1979), Ripley and the Alien do battle in her little escape pod.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: THE NATURE OF THE ELIXIR

From the perspective of the physical Journey, the Elixir is a tangible, often a valuable prize of some sort. But from the perspective of the psychological transformation, the Elixir is the Master of the Two Selves. It is only once the Hero has become his (or her) Ultimate Self, that she (or he) can claim the tangible prize.

In The Insider (1999), it is only once both Lowell and Jeffrey have made the required sacrifices that they defeat the corporation.

In Back to the Future (1985), it is only once Marty has Mastered his Old and New Selves, that he can return to find the perfect family.

In Erin Brockovich (1999), it is only after Erin has Mastered her Old and New Selves, that she can go on to defeat PG&E.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: FINAL CONFLICT

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

The Final Conflict is so important that it is astounding that it is rarely given mention, let alone explanation. Between the Crossing of the Return Threshold and the Mastery of the Two Worlds and Selves, a hell of a lot happens, including:

a) Dangerous Place: the battle takes place somewhere fearful from the Hero's perspective. In Annie Hall (1977), Alvie has to go to Los Angeles to convince Annie to come back.

b) Polarization: a sequence that establishes the Antagonism's potency. In Little Miss Sunshine (2006), all the girls at the pageant are far more likely to win than Olive.

c) Hand-to-hand battle. The Hero and Antagonist always battle face each other - In Alien (1979), Ripley and the Alien do battle in her little escape pod.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)

The Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (all available at http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Gives you a universal structural template upon which you can superimpose your situational story. This is why stories such as Alien (1979), Gladiator (2000), Midnight Cowboy (1969), American Beauty (1999), The Graduate (1967) and many others (all deconstructed at the URL below) appear to be different but are all constructed, almost sequence by sequence, in the same way.

and more...

[simply go to http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.story-structure.org/ or http://www.heros-journey.info/ or http://www.monomyth.info/ for full details]

HERO'S JOURNEY TIP OF THE DAY: THE OPPOSITE SELF

During the Road of Trials and the Dissolution of the Old Self, it is not uncommon for the Hero to meet an Opposite Self. This is someone that is representative of the Hero's eventual New Self (as he or she would like to be). This archetype is akin to the Prototype Father (see Advanced Archetypes).

In Pretty Woman (1990), Edward encounters the owner of the company he is buying.

In The Godfather (1972), Michael encounters Don Tomasino.

In Goodfellas (1990), Henry is introduced to Jimmy Conway.

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Go to http://www.clickok.co.uk/index4.html for more info on the 188+ stage Hero's Journey....

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