In a screenplay, the Reversal is the stage in the story when the protagonist, at his lowest point, receives a crucial piece of information, causing him to move in a different direction and "get back in the game"

Usage

The Reversal, which serves as the key component within a Two-goal Plot story, is used to swing the storyline in a new and unexpected direction. During the Reversal, the protagonist realizes that he was going after the wrong goal the whole time. He was going after what he "wanted" instead of what he "needed". With this new mindset, the protagonist now knows what must be done.

Format

The key to creating an enticing Reversal is to dip into the Backstory for the crucial information to be absorbed. This can be information from the protagonist's backstory or the antagonist's backstory....or even an unrelated event. The important thing to remember is that the new information must strengthen the protagonist in a new way sending him in a new direction with a new plan, toward a new goal.

Also, the Reversal must be placed right after the protagonist's Apparent Defeat (about 75% into the script) when all hope was gone and the protagonist's exclamation of "Aha!" is well received by the audience.

Examples

The Return of the Jedi

After Luke succumbs to the dark side, he learns Darth Vader is his father. Luke sees himself in his father and this terrifies him, causing him to lash out at the emporer.

Ghostbusters

After Peter is shut by the city for capturing and storing ghosts, he stumbles upon a door that will bring about the end of the world. This new development presents an even bigger challenge that can only be met by the Ghostbusters.

Batman

Batman originally sets out to nab the Joker and bring him to justice but as the Joker became stronger he began to lovingly brandish the past action of killing off Batman's parents. This was enough for Batman to go beyond the law and seek revenge.