Archetypes in Screenwriting
rite a script that is2–4 pages long. Your storymay be funny, adventurous, mysterious, realistic, or fantasy,
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but it must include the required script elements below.
Required Script Elements
1. Action Lines
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● escribe what the audience sees happening at the beginning of a scene.
● Write in thepresent tense.
● Donotinclude characters' thoughts or feelings unlessthey are shown through actions.
Example:
aya slowly walks into a room inside what looks like ruins. The room is filled with various chests
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and treasure. There is one large chest in the center of the room on a platform. Maya opens the old
treasure chest. A bright light fills the room.
2. Character Cues
● Write the speaking character's name inCAPITAL LETTERSbefore each line of dialogue.
Example:
MAYA:We finally found it!
3. Stage Directions
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● se parentheses to describehowa character speaksor moves.
● Keep them short and only include important actions or emotions.
Example:
MAYA(whispering):Someone's coming.
4. Dialogue
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● ive each character meaningful dialogue that helps move the story forward.
● Show each character's personality through what they say and do.
Include These Four Character Archetypes
Your story must includeat least four different archetypesfrom the list below.
Choose from:
Archetype Description Examples
he main character who faces challenges and
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Hero grows. Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Moana
Mentor A wise guide who teaches or prepares the hero. Gandalf, Dumbledore, Obi-Wan Kenobi
idekick (Loyal
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Companion) Supports and helps the hero. Ron Weasley, Samwise Gamgee
The Innocent Optimistic, pure-hearted, and trusting. Dorothy, Winnie-the-Pooh
The Rebel (Outlaw) Challenges rules and authority. Katniss Everdeen, Robin Hood
The Explorer Seeks adventure, discovery, or freedom. Bilbo Baggins, Dora the Explorer
The Caregiver Protects and helps others. Charlotte (Charlotte's Web)
The Creator Uses imagination to invent or build. Geppetto, Tony Stark
The Ruler Leads and values order and responsibility. Mufasa, King Arthur
The Jester Uses humor to entertain or reveal truths. Timon and Pumbaa, Puck
The Lover Motivated by love, relationships, or loyalty. Romeo, Juliet
The Trickster Clever, mischievous, and often bends the rules. Loki, Anansi, Bugs Bunny
epresents the hero's greatest obstacle or
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The Shadow (Villain) darker side. Voldemort, Scar, Darth Vader
Story Requirements
Your script should include:
● clear beginning, middle, and ending
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● A setting
● A problem or conflict
● A solution or resolution
● At leastfour speaking characters
● A creative title
SAMPLE SCRIPT FORMAT:
Title:The Lost Backpack
Scene 1: The Classroom
he classroom is quiet. Students are packing their bags after school. Emma looks worried as she searches
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under her desk.
EMMA:(looking around nervously) Where is my backpack?I know I left it here!
(Leo walks over and notices Emma searching.)
LEO:What's wrong?
EMMA:I can't find my backpack. It has my homeworkand library book inside.
LEO:(thinking) Let's check the lost and found beforewe panic.
They walk toward the classroom door.