In screenwriting, Headway refers to the first leg of the protagonist's journey toward the desired goal where complications and distractions are thrown his path, but he is able to easily overcome them.

Usage

The Headway is used to give the protagonist some confidence by prevailing over obstacles that stand in his way. The audience will also appreciate this stage and not think the protagonist a complete wimp, but one who just might be up to the task.

Format

Headway usually appears right after the onset of the protagonist's journey and takes him right to the midpoint of the story.

It is important to place rest periods between the complication in the Headway segment of the script. The reason for this is to further get to know the protagonist, the allies, the antagonist and some possible Backstory clues.

Examples

E.T.

Elliot is beginning to understand E.T. He is also able to successfully keep E.T. out of sight.

Gladiator

Maximus escapes his execution, discovers his family killed, and is captured and sold into slavery, which will lead him become a great gladiator.

Raiders of the Lost Ark

Indiana Jones discovers the lost room of souls.