Most story structures just turn out to be slight variants of the main three act one (as detailed in Syd Field's 'Screenplay'). Every story has to have a beginning, middle and end, and each of these is going to breakdown into a number of shorter sequences.

As for established paradigm vs. organic - I find the three act structure (with it's various plot points) extremely useful when I'm outlining and writing the first few drafts. But then I think you have to put it out of your mind in the latter stages and go more with what feels right for the specific story you're writing.

Totally agree with Scott. It's like learning to play a musical instrument, or learning to paint. You have to spend years mastering and internalizing existing techniques and repertoire, in order to be able to forget all about them and do your own thing.

I personally think that if the the structure of a screenplay is right, it will reflect the content of the story. The three act structure is perfect for the kind of mythical, hero-based story that Hollywood does so well. But there are plenty of other kinds of stories being told too (in India, Europe, SE Asia, etc.).

In the end, whatever you call the structure of the story, the most important thing is to maintain some kind of tension for the reader/viewer. The more familiar the structure, the bigger the challenge this is.

My two cents.

Dave

I have written six normal linear format screenplays which got me represented by the number one agency in Canada. None optioned or sold yet.

However, after watching Pulp Fiction and Memento I decided to write a non-linear spec script against my agent's wishes. It was refreshing to not be restricted by the 3 act formula and be able to reveal plot and characters and twists in a more suspense-like way.

Even though it was hard to follow - it actually got optioned. So the key, I think, is to write the stories you really want to tell and the passion and emotion will cross over to the reader and hopefully turn them into buyers.

Cheers!
Sandford Tuey
www.Playdigm.com