Simmer & Story Structure

Front

What is the inciting incident?

Back

When Ms. Peters tells him about the poetry contest

Answer explanation

The poetry competition is a tangible goal that Carter moves closer to and further away from depending on where he's at in the story.

Ms. Peters introducing it is the inciting incident.

Front

What is Carter's goal? (at this point in the story)

Back

Attend the poetry competition

Answer explanation

For the goal, it’s best to identify a clear, specific verb. It should drive the character.

Front

What is Plot Point 1? (when is the conflict fully committed to? what feels like the first turning point?) Options: Carter tells Anthony he can't use his poem, Mrs. Peters rejects Anthony asking for an extension, Carter's dream about his Mother, Carter calls his Dad in the hallway

Back

Carter tells Anthony he can't use his poem

Answer explanation

• This scene motivates Carter to pursue his goal. (the high school environment is painful, poetry could be a way out! Let me face the obstacle of my dad).

Even Carter's protectiveness over his work is a sign that he values it and wants to use it for something. (poetry competition)

Think about what comes right after this! He faces the obstacle of his dad!

Front

What tools/allies does Carter gain?

Back

Masked Spirit Oya

Answer explanation

Even Oya being an "ally/tool" is debatable. But, this is something to consider; what does Carter's lack of allies/tools mean for the story?

Front

What is the midpoint of the story? (feels like a moment of truth OR a complete 180 in the story)

Back

Carter calls his Dad in the hallway

Answer explanation

Carter's goal is dealt with here, remember? He tries to take a step towards the poetry competition. It's the moment of truth.

Logistically, this point also occurs about halfway (50%) through the film.

After this midpoint, the story takes a 180! Carter begins to move further from his goal instead of closer.

Front

What is PP #2? (feels like a "doorway", a transition between 2nd and 3rd acts)

Back

Anthony + Carter fight in the bathroom

Answer explanation

Carter and Anthony's fight is a "doorway" moment. There's no going back after this. Carter is definitely moving further from the goal of "attend poetry competition".

Front

CLIMAX
What is the climax?
(most heightened dramatic point of the film)

Back

Carter and his Dad's argument at home

Answer explanation

Carter and his dad's argument is an emotional height of the film and the central goal does come into focus! (attend the poetry competition).

This highlights another question; what did Carter need? Was it the poetry competition? Or something else?

Front

What relationship is at the core of the story? Options: Carter and Anthony, Carter and his Dad, Carter and Ms. Peters, Carter and his Mom

Back

Carter and his Dad