Setup

Definition

In screenwriting, setup refers to the initial establishment of the characters, setting, and stakes in a story, laying the groundwork for the events to come. This part of the narrative is crucial as it creates context for the audience, introduces key elements that will be explored later, and builds anticipation for the unfolding plot. The setup is typically found in the first act of a three-act structure, where the foundation for the conflict is established.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The setup usually occupies the first 25% of a screenplay, introducing key characters and their motivations.
2. It establishes the world of the story, including its rules and limitations, to help audiences understand what’s at stake.
3. The setup introduces conflict but may not fully develop it until later; it sets up expectations for how that conflict will evolve.
4. Successful setups often include a hook or intriguing element that captures the audience's attention and encourages them to invest in the story.
5. Key details revealed during the setup can pay off later in the story, creating a cohesive narrative experience.

Review Questions

• How does the setup create anticipation for the audience within the three-act structure?
  • The setup creates anticipation by introducing essential characters, their goals, and the world they inhabit. It provides context and stakes, which engage the audience and make them curious about how these elements will unfold. This foundation allows viewers to invest emotionally in the characters’ journeys and prepares them for upcoming conflicts that will drive the plot forward.
• What role does character development during the setup play in shaping audience perceptions of protagonists and antagonists?
  • Character development during the setup is crucial as it establishes traits, motivations, and potential conflicts that define protagonists and antagonists. By presenting relatable qualities or compelling backstories, screenwriters can evoke empathy or disdain from the audience. This early insight helps viewers understand characters' actions and decisions throughout the story, making their arcs more impactful as events unfold.
• Evaluate how effective setups can influence narrative structure and thematic depth in storytelling.
  • Effective setups can significantly influence narrative structure by providing clear direction for character arcs and plot progression. They introduce themes early on, which can resonate throughout the story, allowing for deeper exploration of concepts such as love, betrayal, or redemption. A well-crafted setup lays a strong foundation for complex storytelling by ensuring that every plot point has relevance and meaning as it connects back to those initial themes and conflicts.

Related terms

Inciting Incident:

The event that triggers the main conflict of the story, propelling the protagonist into a new situation that challenges them.

Character Arc:

The transformation or inner journey of a character throughout the story, often beginning with their initial state established during the setup.

Theme:

The underlying message or central idea explored in a story, which can be hinted at during the setup to foreshadow future developments.