Why the name Act Four? by Daniel Calvisi www.actfourscreenplays.com

why the name "act four?"

By Daniel Calvisi

*My method is based on Classical Three Act Narrative storytelling, which is the foundation of 98% of feature films and novels. Three major Acts: Beginning, Middle, and End. (I actually use a FOUR act structure as I split Act Two into 2A and 2B...but that's not why I use the name Act Four!)

*If 98% of feature films are EDITED this way, then I believe your spec script should be structured in this way on the page.

* No writer can be truly objective in analyzing and evaluating their own work. NO WRITER, no matter how much experience.

*Anyone with an interest in writing can complete a first draft with a beginning, middle and end.

*EVERY writer's first draft is terrible, even that of a seasoned pro.

*But what comes after, to separate the amateurs from the pros? The completed screenplays from the Great Scripts?

*What comes after is...Act Four.

Act Four is possibly the MOST CRUCIAL PHASE, if you're serious enough about screenwriting to aspire to be a professional.

Act Four is the Analysis, Notes, Editing, Rewriting, and Polishing phase. Since I don't believe that you can see your own work objectively, I believe that seeking the view of a discerning and capable Story Analyst is absolutely crucial.

Act Four also necesitates a strong consideration for the Marketing and Submission of your work, but the actual execution of these steps should be considered as the next stage in the life of your screenplay.

So you wrote a screenplay -- I congratulate you on your achievement.

It's a lot of work.

It can be a very exciting process.