The Contour Guide, Step # 10
DEATH & REBIRTH (pages 75-85)
Another classic moment. Have your main character seemingly die and then be reborn. In many ways this is the ultimate moment in the arc of your protagonist; the moment when the skin of his or her old life is shed and your main character emerges newly formed, self-actualized, and ready to prove himself or herself to the world.
The death and rebirth can massaged in a variety of ways, and you can sometimes hand it to the character most closely associated with your protagonist’s highest aspirations. In romantic comedies, write this section so that it charts the death of the hoped for relationship followed by the realization of what’s needed to give it new hope.
- Elliot is fading, and E.T. “disconnects” himself from Elliot. Elliot’s vital signs improve and E.T. “dies.” Once Elliot heartbreakingly admits how little he now feels, E.T. is resurrected with the return of the spaceship to take him home. (E.T.: THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL)
- Annie believes that Sam is involved in a serious relationship and is giving him up, only to be called to action by Jonah’s letter asking her to meet at the Empire State Building. (SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE)
- Bob jumps into the water and is presumed blown to bits. (THE INCREDIBLES)
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