In a screenplay, the Two-goal Plot is a structural tool that has the protagonist pushing towards a false goal until a major piece of information is discovered, causing the protagonist to move in an entirely different direction. This Two-goal Plot storyline structure not only creates an unpredictable and intriguing storyline but is also the "rule" for producing a successful motion picture.

Usage

As previously stated, the Two-goal Plot is a crucial implement for anyone wishing to produce a successful motion picture. Sure, there are a few movies that have followed the linear format and have done very well (the River Wild is good example of this), but the "rule of thumb" is to create the rollercoaster ride of the Two-goal Plot, which will, in turn, catch the audience by surprise.

Format

Creation of the Two-goal Plot should be one of the first tasks a screenwriter should do when outlining the elements of a script.

Goal #1

This is commonly referred to as the "False Goal". This is the goal that reflects what the protagonist wants and will follow this path through most of the script. This path will be fraught with complications and hardships provided by the antagonist, but the protagonist will push through them. By the end of the False Goal path, the protagonist is ready to give up as he or she experiences an Apparent Defeat.

The Apparent Defeat gives way to the Reversal which generally happens about 3/4 the way through the script. In the Reversal, the beaten-down protagonist has an epiphany usually provided by new information. Information that will give him or her the chance at victory over the antagonist and a chance a New Goal or....

Goal #2

Although in a weakened state, the protagonist musters new strength from the information discovered or provided and trudges forward toward the New Goal. The New Goal almost always turns out to be what the protagonist needs as opposed to what the protagonist wants, as with the False Goal.

Examples

The Return of the Jedi

Goal #1: For Luke to kill Darth Vader so he can cripple the death star.

Goal #2: For Luke to kill the Emperor.

Beverly Hills Cop

Goal #1: For Axel to seek out the killers of friend, Mikey.

Goal #2: For Axel to bring down Victor Maitland's illegal arms-smuggling syndicate.

Batman

Goal #1: For Batman to capture the Joker and turn him into the authorities.

Goal #2: For Batman to seek revenge upon the Joker for killing his parents.

The Lion King

Goal #1: For Simba to forget the past and live a carefree life.

Goal #2: For Simba to defeat Scar and take his place as king.

Mrs Doubtfire

Goal #1: For Daniel to become Mrs. Doubtfire so he can be near his children.

Goal #2: For Daniel to become a better husband for his wife.