Dan Harmon's 8-Step Story Circle

Videos
Jun 26, 2020
In this video, Dan Harmon explains how he builds the stories for Rick and Morty episodes:
  1. Start with a relatable character;
  2. Give the character a need/wish;
  3. Going after that need/wish takes the character across a threshold (where the story changes direction);
  4. The characters have to go through a road of trials, searching for something;
  5. They find it, whether they like it or not;
  6. It kicks their ass;
  7. They return to their starting point;
  8. (having gone through some change)

Key Takeaways

  • Relatable Characters: Begin with characters that audiences can connect with, making their journey more engaging and meaningful.

  • Clear Motivations: Establish a need or wish for the character, driving the plot forward and adding depth to their journey.

  • Threshold Crossing: Introduce a pivotal moment where the character's quest takes a new direction, adding intrigue and complexity to the story.

  • Trials and Tribulations: The character must face challenges and obstacles, creating tension and development opportunities.

  • Transformation: After facing adversity, the character returns changed, providing a satisfying narrative arc that resonates with the audience.

Additional Insights

Dan Harmon's 8-step story circle is a fascinating framework that distills the essence of storytelling. It's like a recipe for crafting a narrative that consistently hooks and holds an audience's attention. Think of it as a storytelling GPS, guiding your characters through trials, tribulations, and transformations.

Picture Rick and Morty embarking on their insane adventures—each episode is a madcap journey through Harmon's story circle, leaving viewers both entertained and pondering life's bigger questions. The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity and universality. Whether you're scripting a sci-fi cartoon or writing a novel, these steps provide a sturdy structure to build upon.

And let's face it, we all love a character who gets their butt kicked and comes back stronger. It's the ultimate underdog story, and who doesn't root for the underdog?