Storytelling is at the heart of everything I do as a director and animator. Whether in film, games, or cinematics, a strong narrative is what makes an audience connect. Understanding the fundamental structures behind stories helps shape compelling projects, whether I’m directing a scene, crafting an emotional moment, or guiding an animated performance.

One of the most useful frameworks for storytelling comes from Christopher Booker’s book, “The Seven Basic Plots: Why We Tell Stories.” These seven storytelling structures have been used across centuries, from ancient myths to modern cinema. Whether you’re crafting a personal story or developing a character’s journey, these structures provide a solid foundation.

The 7 Basic Plots in Animation & Film

1. Overcoming the Monster

A character faces and ultimately defeats a powerful enemy or obstacle. This is the classic battle against an overwhelming force, seen in everything from Hercules’ Labors to action-packed boss fights in games.

🎬 Example: An underdog warrior trains relentlessly to defeat a seemingly invincible foe. The struggle tests their resilience and growth, culminating in an epic showdown.

2. Rags to Riches

A character rises from humble beginnings to success, often facing setbacks along the way. This arc is perfect for hero-driven stories, where growth and perseverance shape the protagonist.

🎬 Example: A struggling artist discovers their talent, works through hardship, and eventually creates something groundbreaking that changes their world.

3. The Quest

The protagonist embarks on a journey toward a specific goal, overcoming trials and forming key relationships along the way. Games and adventure films thrive on this structure, creating an engaging, step-by-step progression toward victory.

🎬 Example: A group of misfit explorers set out to retrieve a legendary artifact, facing internal conflicts and external threats that shape their journey.

4. Voyage and Return

A character travels to an unfamiliar world, learns from the experience, and returns changed. This plot often appears in fantasy, sci-fi, and even deeply personal storytelling, where discovery is the main theme.

🎬 Example: A young scientist gets transported to an alien planet, struggling to survive while uncovering new truths that change their perspective on Earth.

5. Comedy

More than just humor, comedy thrives on misunderstandings, absurd situations, and playful resolutions. Great comedic stories build on timing, pacing, and character-driven humor, all key to animation.

🎬 Example: A rookie space pilot constantly messes up simple tasks but accidentally saves the galaxy in a series of ridiculous, unexpected events.

6. Tragedy

Not all stories end on a high note. Tragedy focuses on a character’s downfall, either by fate or their own actions. In animation, tragedy can add depth and emotional weight, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

🎬 Example: A warrior blinded by revenge realizes too late that their pursuit of justice has made them the villain.

7. Rebirth

A story of redemption and transformation, where a character changes profoundly, usually after hitting their lowest point. This is a powerful arc for protagonists seeking purpose or struggling with inner demons.

🎬 Example: A washed-up fighter, haunted by past mistakes, finds a new purpose in training the next generation.

Applying These Plots to Animation Direction

As a director and animator, understanding these core story structures helps me shape performances, frame shots, and ensure that every sequence serves the narrative. Whether directing a cinematic for a game or developing an original short film, the foundation of great animation is always a great story.

Every project I take on is driven by clarity of storytelling and strong emotional beats—because when the audience feels something, the animation resonates far beyond the screen.

Let’s create something memorable.