The Three Act Film Structure

Most of the films we see in today's society follow the three act film structure--that is, they feature an opening act which serves to provide introductory informations, a second act in which the film's main conflict arises, and a third act which features a climax followed by resolving action. Many of the big blockbusters that come out follow this three act structure, including James Cameron's "Avatar." The first act of Avatar provides all of the introductory information necessary for the film. We are introduced to the planet Pandora, as well as the protagonist Jake Sully, and other supporting characters. We also learn the details of the avatar process. The first act peaks as Jake Sully is discovered by the Na'vi people in the Pandora jungle and essentially becomes a part of their village. This plot point serves to bring the movie into the second act as we are introduced to the main conflict: Jake Sully must decide if his loyalty lies with the Na'vi people or with the imposing Americans. The second act develops as Jake becomes more and more understanding of the Na'vi people and their ways, learning to live the way they live. The second act ultimately peaks after the Americans have attacked the Na'vi village and Jake Sully decides that they need to bring all of the Na'vi people together to fight back. This brings about act three: the Na'vis battle against the Americans. The third act is much shorter than the second and peaks as the final showdown occurs. In the end, Jake Sully and the Na'vi defeat the antagonists. The film ends with the resolving action: the Na'vi get to keep their land, Jake Sully has found love, etc. The "happy ending" is a typical feature of the three act structure.