journey film definition

Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey: The Definitive Guide

Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey is a timeless blueprint that’s shaped storytelling across cultures and eras.

It’s a narrative pattern that guides our favorite heroes from humble beginnings to epic triumphs.

We’ll explore how this framework resonates in everything from ancient myths to modern blockbusters.

Get ready to uncover the stages that make characters’ adventures universally compelling.

Joseph campbells heros journey

Who was joseph campbell.

Joseph Campbell (March 26, 1904 – October 30, 1987) was an American mythologist, writer and lecturer, best known for his work in comparative mythology and comparative religion.

His work is vast, covering many aspects of the human experience.

He wrote and spoke about religion, mythology, paleontology, archaeology, literature, philosophy, anthropology, science, and psychology.

As a scholar he influenced a generation of modernist writers and thinkers.

Campbell’s work covers many different aspects of the human experience.

The Hero’s Journey: A Timeless Blueprint

The Hero’s Journey, conceptualized by Joseph Campbell, isn’t just a literary tool – it’s the backbone of countless storytelling traditions.

It has enabled writers and filmmakers to craft narratives that resonate deeply with audiences, regardless of cultural or temporal divides.

The familiarity of the journey’s pattern provides a comforting predictability that, paradoxically, allows for incredible creativity within its framework.

When we observe the Hero’s Journey in action, we can break down the narrative into several key stages.

Characters are first introduced in their ordinary world, then called to adventure and plunged into an entirely new and often hazardous domain.

The subsequent trials and revelations that they undergo help shape their character arcs and keep viewers and readers fully engaged.

Films like Star Wars and The Lord of the Rings have become timeless by employing this narrative structure.

In dissecting these iconic tales, one can clearly identify the crucial checkpoints of the Hero’s Journey such as the meeting with the mentor, the ordeal, and the eventual transformation.

Our connection to these films is no accident – the mastery of the journey’s blueprint in their storylines speaks directly to our collective unconscious.

This narrative device is also a critical tool for us in filmmaking.

Not only can it guide scriptwriting and character development, but it influences casting, cinematography, and editing too.

• Scriptwriting – aligning the plot to the stages of the journey ensures a solid narrative structure,
• Casting – selecting actors who can authentically embody the hero’s evolving persona,
• Cinematography and Editing – creating visuals and transitions that reflect the hero’s internal and external journeys.

By embracing the Hero’s Journey, we craft stories that are not only compelling but also strike the same mythic chords that have echoed throughout human history.

It’s our pathway to creating works that linger in hearts and memories long after the credits roll.

Understanding The Narrative Pattern

Understanding the narrative pattern of the Hero’s Journey helps us grasp why some stories stick with us long after the credits roll.

It’s not just about a sequence of events – it’s about a deep structure resonating with the human psyche.

The narrative unfolds typically across twelve stages, though some adaptations may vary.

These stages can be distilled into three distinct acts – the Departure, where the hero leaves the ordinary world; the Initiation, featuring trials and growth; and the Return, where the hero comes back transformed.

Each stage serves a unique purpose in forwarding the story and the character’s development.

Let’s look at a few:

• The Ordinary World – Here, the hero is introduced in their regular life.
• The Call to Adventure – Something disrupts the hero’s routine.
• Refusal of the Call – The hero hesitates to take on the challenge.
• Meeting the Mentor – Guidance is provided to the hero.
• Crossing the Threshold – The hero fully enters the new world of adventure.

Filmmakers apply these steps thoughtfully to produce unforgettable journeys.

For instance, films like The Matrix and Harry Potter thrive on this formula, ensuring audiences see parts of themselves in the heroes they admire.

By recognizing these patterns, we’re better positioned to construct our narratives or analyze those we find particularly compelling.

In doing so, we gain a clearer understanding of the magic woven into the fabric of classic and contemporary tales.

Uncovering The Stages Of The Hero’s Adventure

As we jump deeper into the heart of Joseph Campbell’s model, it’s essential to break down the Hero’s Journey into digestible segments.

These stages form a framework that artists have employed to craft some of the most compelling narratives in cinema.

Departure Act

The Departure Act marks the beginning of the Hero’s journey.

Here, call to adventure propels the protagonist into a world beyond their familiar boundaries.

• The Ordinary World – establishes the hero’s normal life,
• Call to Adventure – offers the initial spark for change,
• Refusal of the Call – highlights the hero’s reluctance,
• Meeting with the Mentor – provides guidance for the journey,
• Crossing the First Threshold – marks the hero’s commitment to the adventure.

Initiation Act

The Initiation Act, often the bulk of the journey, thrusts the hero into trials and tribulations.

Challenges faced here are pivotal for growth and transformation.

• Tests, Allies, and Enemies – reveals the complexities of the new world,
• Approach to the Inmost Cave – signifies preparation for the central ordeal,
• Ordeal – tests the hero’s resolve in a fierce confrontation,
• Reward – confers an achievement or object of great value.

From Ancient Myths To Modern Blockbusters: How The Hero’s Journey Resonates

When we jump into the motifs of ancient myths, we uncover the timeless structure of the Hero’s Journey that continues to echo through modern cinema.

Films such as Star Wars and The Lord of the Rings have their foundations steeped in the classic stages of Joseph Campbell’s narrative framework.

Our fascination with heroic tales is not merely a cultural coincidence.

Instead, it’s deeply rooted in our collective psyche – propelling narratives from mere stories to profound journeys that mirror our own lives.

Blockbusters continue to draw on the Hero’s Journey for a very compelling reason – the universality of its theme.

Whether it’s the longing for adventure or the ultimate triumph over adversities, these stories tap into a shared human experience.

While the settings and characters change, the core stages of the Hero’s Journey remain as relevant in today’s stories as they were centuries ago.

As storytellers, we find a powerful ally in this narrative arc:

• Character development that fosters an emotional connection with the audience,
• Plot progressions that feel both exciting and familiar.

Our ability to reinvent and reimagine these stages keeps the Hero’s Journey fresh yet recognizable.

Heroes may falter and stray, but their stories will always find resonance with us, making their final return something we can all aspire to.

The Hero’s Journey isn’t just a template for crafting narratives; it’s a master key.

It unlocks the doors for us to create compelling, deep, and wide-reaching stories that span cultures and time periods.

The Compelling Nature Of Characters’ Adventures

The allure of the Hero’s Journey isn’t just in its structure; it’s deeply embedded in the characters we meet and the adventures they embark upon.

These are not just mere escapades; they are reflections of our own life’s quests.

Through their trials and triumphs, we see parts of ourselves, making their journey our journey.

Characters crafted on the bones of the Hero’s Journey reveal much about human nature and our eternal quest for meaning.

Whether it’s Luke Skywalker wrestling with his destiny in Star Wars or Dorothy seeking her way home in The Wizard of Oz , the narrative digs deep into the psyche, revealing universal truths through personal trials.

By taking note of these pivotal elements –

• Transformation,
• Inner conflicts,
• Mentorship,
• Ultimate boon.

We grasp the essence of why these stories resonate with us so profoundly.

It’s not merely the victory of the heroes that we celebrate; it’s their entire journey, marked by growth, resilience, and the human spirit’s indefatigable quest for a better self.

The immersion into fantastical worlds, whether it’s the expansive universe of The Lord of the Rings or the intricate politics and family drama of Game of Thrones , invites us to lose ourselves in stories that feel both incredibly distant yet intensely personal.

In witnessing the characters’ adventures unfold, we’re reminded of our potential for greatness in the face of adversity.

We’re not just passive observers; we’re participants in an emotional odyssey, rooting for characters as they make difficult choices that will forever change their worlds and ours.

Their journey becomes a mirror, and in that mirror, we catch glimpses of who we are and who we might become.

Joseph Campbells Heros Journey – Wrap Up

We’ve explored the depths of Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey and discovered its timeless impact on storytelling.

This narrative structure isn’t just a tool for writers; it’s a lens through which we view our own lives.

Our fascination with these tales stems from their universal appeal—they echo the very essence of the human experience.

By identifying with the hero’s trials and transformations, we’re inspired to embark on our personal quests.

As storytellers, we wield the power to craft narratives that not only entertain but also enlighten, offering a reflection of our collective journey.

The Hero’s Journey continues to guide us, proving that at the heart of every great story lies the potential for connection and growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hero’s journey.

The Hero’s Journey is a narrative structure that outlines a hero’s adventure and transformation through a series of stages.

It is divided into three acts: Departure, Initiation, and Return.

How Does The Hero’s Journey Influence Storytelling?

The Hero’s Journey serves as a blueprint for storytelling, resonating with human emotions and creating cinematic experiences that stick with audiences across different cultures and time periods.

What Are The Three Acts Of The Hero’s Journey?

The three acts are Departure, where the hero leaves the ordinary world; Initiation, where the hero faces trials and gains wisdom; and Return, where the hero comes back, often with something beneficial for their community.

Why Do Stories Following The Hero’s Journey Resonate With Audiences?

These stories tap into our collective psyche and reflect shared human experiences, such as growth, resilience, and the quest for self-improvement, making them universally compelling.

What Makes A Character’s Development In The Hero’s Journey Impactful?

Character development is impactful because it showcases a transformation that includes overcoming inner conflicts, learning from mentors, and enduring trials, which mirrors our own life’s quests.

How Does The Hero’s Journey Impact The Audience?

The audience participates emotionally, rooting for the characters as they encounter hardships and make choices that lead to personal growth and transformation, reflecting our own potential for greatness.

Best Jump Scare Movies: 20 Super Jumpy Movies

Shooting In The Rain: The Filmmaker's Definitive Guide

Matt Crawford

Related posts, what is nonfiction writing facts and real-life tales, what is litotes definition & examples, what is intertextuality in film & literature ultimate guide [with examples], how to write a scene in a screenplay definition & examples [with tips & tutorials], what is prose the ultimate guide [with examples & tips], what is indirect characterization: the definitive guide, leave a reply cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Registration is closed.

Pin It on Pinterest

The 12 Best Movies That Follow the Hero's Journey

These movies use the monomyth to spectacular results.

Everyone who's interested in how stories are made is bound to have heard the term "the Hero's Journey." Also known as the monomyth, it's a story archetype coined and popularized by Joseph Campbell in the mid-1900s when he noticed that heroes in myths typically go through the same 17 stages in their journey, from the call to adventure that gets the character out of their comfort zone, to the freedom to live found at the end of the ordeals in their adventure.

This narrative template has served as the basis and inspiration of countless stories throughout history – including numerous outstanding films. From a grand fantastical story like Star Wars , to something more grounded in reality like O Brother, Where Art Thou? , these movies don't always follow every single one of the steps outlined by Campbell, but they stick to more than enough to call each of them a hero's journey . A tried-and-true way of telling successful stories that resonate with audiences of all ages and nationalities, movies that follow the Hero's Journey, if well-written, are always a delight like no other.

12 'Men in Black' (1997)

Barry sonnenfeld's campy sci-fi comedy.

One of the most iconic movies you may not know is based on Marvel comics , Men in Black is the story of a cop ( Will Smith ) who, after a chase with an otherworldly being, is recruited by an organization that monitors and polices alien activity on Earth. There's something for every sci-fi fan to enjoy in this movie, from visually stunning special effects to mind-blowing action and just the right amount of humor.

Men in Black follows the Hero's Journey nearly to a tee , from Agent J getting the call to join the mission of protecting the planet from alien threats and initially refusing the call, to him finally learning to master his two worlds and become the hero he was meant to be. The result is a thrilling sci-fi action adventure that doesn't get nearly enough praise nowadays, with a heroic protagonist that's a joy to follow through his journey.

Men In Black

Watch on Hulu

11 'O Brother, Where Art Thou?' (2000)

Joel and ethan coen's take on an old classic.

The Coen brothers are masters of making some of the most entertaining crime movies, and O Brother, Where Art Thou? is definitely one of their best. Loosely based on Homer 's The Odyssey , it's about three fugitives roaming the southern U.S. in search of treasure with the law hot on their heels. Unlike the Greek classic, however, the Coens' crime film has great Southern American music, traditional Western tropes, and stars George Clooney , Tim Blake Nelson , and John Turturro .

The characters in O Brother, Where Art Thou? encounter mentors, face challenges, and go through profound transformations , just like the heroes in the monomyth do. The ensuing adventure is as humorous as it is exciting, an offbeat adaptation of a massively important and influential classic. You can't go wrong with a well-written and well-directed Coen brothers movie, so O Brother should easily please all cinephiles' palates.

Rent on Apple TV

10 'Batman Begins' (2005)

Christopher nolan's reinvention of the caped crusader.

Movies with Hero's Journey archetypes are fun enough as they are, but mix those elements with a superhero origin story, and you get one of the best entries in the superhero genre . That's what Batman Begins is, as it reinvents the story of Bruce Wayne's ( Christian Bale ) origins as the vigilante hero Batman, by placing the character on a journey to become the guardian that his beloved Gotham City deserves.

Christopher Nolan's first installment in his Dark Knight Trilogy feels more like a character-driven thriller than a traditional superhero film, in the best sense possible. The director cleverly fits Bruce's process of becoming the Dark Knight into Campbell's monomyth , showing audiences how the hero is eventually able to master his new identity to save his city.

Batman Begins

Watch on Max

9 'The Matrix' (1999)

Lana and lilly wachowski's game-changing extravaganza.

When the Wachowskis released The Matrix before the turn of the century, the world was taken by storm, and the sci-fi genre in films would never be the same again. In the movie that cemented him as an action star, Keanu Reeves plays Neo, a man who joins a group of insurgents in their fight against the powerful computers who rule Earth. To this day, The Matrix still receives praise as one of the best sci-fi movies ever .

With its visual innovations, clever cinematography, and unique philosophical themes that have been endlessly analyzed throughout the years, The Matrix was unlike anything audiences had seen before at the time of its release . Perhaps one of the main reasons why its story clicked so well with viewers around the world was because it closely follows the stages of the Hero's Journey, as Neo goes from an average Joe to an all-powerful hero.

Neo (Keanu Reeves) believes that Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne), an elusive figure considered to be the most dangerous man alive, can answer his question -- What is the Matrix? Neo is contacted by Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss), a beautiful stranger who leads him into an underworld where he meets Morpheus. They fight a brutal battle for their lives against a cadre of viciously intelligent secret agents. It is a truth that could cost Neo something more precious than his life.

8 'Kung Fu Panda' (2008)

Mark osborne and john stevenson's martial arts adventure.

For those that think that family animated movies are exclusively for children, Kung Fu Panda is the perfect mind-changing watch. It follows Po ( Jack Black ), a lazy panda who dreams of being a kung fu hero, as he's thrust into a journey of discovering his destiny as the Chosen One. There are many examples of the Hero's Journey in movies that logically follow the same structure, but the creative things that Kung Fu Panda does with the archetype are entirely its own .

Just like all the compelling heroes of Campbell's model, Po is called to action, goes through several life-threatening ordeals with help from friends and allies, and finds that the power to be the guardian of the Valley of Peace comes from within. Sprinkled with hilarious humor, outstanding voice acting, and some of the best action in any animated film , it's undoubtedly one of DreamWorks Animation's best efforts.

Kung Fu Panda

7 'finding nemo' (2003), andrew stanton's love letter to fatherhood.

Hero's Journey movies are usually action-focused epics, and not often family-friendly stories about fish. That only makes Finding Nemo even more special. It's the story of Marlin ( Albert Brooks ), a timid clownfish who, after his son Nemo ( Alexander Gould in one of the best child voice performances in animated cinema) is kidnapped, sets out to find him against all the threats that the deep blue sea has to offer.

Though Finding Nemo isn't your typical kind of hero's journey, where the story is much more intimate and the biggest threats that the characters face are mostly internal, it very much follows the formula. What finds itself transformed in the end is the relationship between Marlin and Nemo, in one of the most touching endings of Pixar's filmography.

Finding Nemo

Watch on Disney+

6 'The Wizard of Oz' (1939)

Victor fleming's timeless musical classic.

An exciting adventure that uses both black-and-white and beautiful color , through a fantastical land that any movie fan would love to live in, The Wizard of Oz follows Dorothy ( Judy Garland ) in her journey through the magical land of Oz, searching for a mysterious wizard who can send her back home.

The movie was an absolute sensation when it came out, and even after more than three-quarters of a century, it's still remembered as one of the greatest American movie masterpieces. The stages of the monomyth are clear in The Wizard of Oz : the ordinary world is Kansas, Dorothy crosses a very literal threshold to a vastly different world, and her journey of transformation is full of faces both friendly and menacing.

The Wizard of Oz

5 'the lion king' (1994), roger allers and rob minkoff's twist on shakespeare.

1994's The Lion King is a movie that needs no introduction. Many would say that it's the best-animated movie to ever come out of Disney, and it's fully understandable, thanks to its timeless songs and the animated film's brilliant depiction of grief . It's the grand and epic story of Simba ( Matthew Broderick ), a lion cub prince who's tricked into exile by his uncle Scar ( Jeremy Irons ), who wishes to have the throne for himself.

The animation is majestic, with some really charming character designs, and the story is compelling from beginning to end. Its philosophical themes of identity and self-discovery are beautiful, and the way they're conveyed through a classic hero's journey structure in The Lion King is simply perfect . The film is in certain ways an adaptation of William Shakespeare 's Hamlet , but its fidelity to Campbell's monomyth is much more interesting to dissect.

The Lion King (1994)

4 'harry potter' saga (2001 - 2011), warner bros.' magical journey through hogwarts.

The Harry Potter series features not just one, but eight of the movies that best follow the Hero's Journey. From Chris Columbus 's Sorcerer's Stone to David Yates 's Deathly Hallows — Part 2 , the franchise follows the coming-of-age story of the titular character ( Daniel Radcliffe ) and his two best friends, as they grow to become key players in a war against an evil wizard.

Everyone has a different favorite installment in the series, but every Harry Potter movie plays an equally crucial role in the overarching narrative of the story, which very closely follows the monomyth . Not only that, but each film follows a smaller version of the general model as well. It's probably what makes these movies so easy to enjoy, since they so faithfully walk along the lines laid out by Campbell and so many filmmakers from before 2001.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Adaptation of the first of J.K. Rowling's popular children's novels about Harry Potter, a boy who learns on his eleventh birthday that he is the orphaned son of two powerful wizards and possesses unique magical powers of his own. He is summoned from his life as an unwanted child to become a student at Hogwarts, an English boarding school for wizards. There, he meets several friends who become his closest allies and help him discover the truth about his parents' mysterious deaths.

3 'The Lord of the Rings' Trilogy (2001 - 2003)

Peter jackson's walk to mordor.

There are countless things that make Peter Jackson 's The Lord of the Rings trilogy one of the best fantasy film franchises of all time, and one of the most important is the fact that all three installments in the trilogy truly feel like part of a greater whole, as they collaborate in telling the story of Frodo ( Elijah Wood ), the Fellowship of the Ring, and their efforts to destroy the greatest tool of an evil tyrant terrorizing Middle-earth.

Of course, the monomyth-following template was already there, set in stone by the legendary J.R.R. Tolkien when he wrote what's undoubtedly one of the best series of fantasy books in history. Even yet, the way Jackson and company built on top of that, telling a story that feels undeniably cinematic, is admirable beyond measure.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

2 'citizen kane' (1941), orson welles's groundbreaking masterpiece.

When Orson Welles made his passion project Citizen Kane , he probably had no idea that he was making what would in the future be referred to as the single greatest film of all time by thousands of people, as well as one of the most essential movies of the '40s . Inspired by magnate William Randolph Hearst , it's a character study about a group of reporters trying to decipher the last words of Charles Foster Kane (Welles), a powerful newspaper tycoon.

Citizen Kane is an entirely unique picture, and the way it's structured is just as well. Citizen Kane follows Campbell's monomyth formula in a very non-traditional way , which only makes it more of a groundbreaking story. There are plenty of good reasons for its fame, and that's certainly one of the biggest.

Citizen Kane

1 'star wars' (1977), george lucas's revolutionary space opera.

Perhaps no movie more famously follows the Hero's Journey archetype than Star Wars , with George Lucas having taken direct inspiration from Campbell . The hero in this particular story is Luke Skywalker ( Mark Hamill ), a young farm boy who's thrown into an adventure far greater than anything he'd encountered before, joining the Rebellion against the dictatorial Galactic Empire.

One of the best space operas of all time, Star Wars showcases what makes the monomyth such an effective way of telling stories and celebrating the art of storytelling itself. Luke is a deeply compelling hero, his journey is incredibly entertaining, and all the allies and villains that he encounters along the way are equally iconic. As far as modern myths go, Star Wars is certainly one of the best.

Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope

NEXT: Movies You Didn't Realize Were Based on Greek Mythology

Looking to publish? Meet your dream editor, designer and marketer on Reedsy.

Find the perfect editor for your next book

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy. Come meet them.

Guides • Perfecting your Craft

Last updated on Aug 10, 2023

The Hero's Journey: 12 Steps to a Classic Story Structure

The Hero's Journey is a timeless story structure which follows a protagonist on an unforeseen quest, where they face challenges, gain insights, and return home transformed. From Theseus and the Minotaur to The Lion King , so many narratives follow this pattern that it’s become ingrained into our cultural DNA. 

In this post, we'll show you how to make this classic plot structure work for you — and if you’re pressed for time, download our cheat sheet below for everything you need to know.

FREE RESOURCE

Hero's Journey Template

Plot your character's journey with our step-by-step template.

What is the Hero’s Journey?

The Hero's Journey, also known as the monomyth, is a story structure where a hero goes on a quest or adventure to achieve a goal, and has to overcome obstacles and fears, before ultimately returning home transformed.

This narrative arc has been present in various forms across cultures for centuries, if not longer, but gained popularity through Joseph Campbell's mythology book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces . While Campbell identified 17 story beats in his monomyth definition, this post will concentrate on a 12-step framework popularized in 2007 by screenwriter Christopher Vogler in his book The Writer’s Journey .

The 12 Steps of the Hero’s Journey

The Hero's Journey is a model for both plot points and character development : as the Hero traverses the world, they'll undergo inner and outer transformation at each stage of the journey. The 12 steps of the hero's journey are: 

• The Ordinary World. We meet our hero.
• Call to Adventure. Will they meet the challenge?
• Refusal of the Call. They resist the adventure.
• Meeting the Mentor. A teacher arrives.
• Crossing the First Threshold. The hero leaves their comfort zone.
• Tests, Allies, Enemies. Making friends and facing roadblocks.
• Approach to the Inmost Cave. Getting closer to our goal.
• Ordeal. The hero’s biggest test yet!
• Reward (Seizing the Sword). Light at the end of the tunnel
• The Road Back. We aren’t safe yet.
• Resurrection. The final hurdle is reached.
• Return with the Elixir. The hero heads home, triumphant.

Believe it or not, this story structure also applies across mediums and genres (and also works when your protagonist is an anti-hero! ). Let's dive into it.

1. Ordinary World

In which we meet our Hero.

The journey has yet to start. Before our Hero discovers a strange new world, we must first understand the status quo: their ordinary, mundane reality.

It’s up to this opening leg to set the stage, introducing the Hero to readers. Importantly, it lets readers identify with the Hero as a “normal” person in a “normal” setting, before the journey begins.

2. Call to Adventure

In which an adventure starts.

The call to adventure is all about booting the Hero out of their comfort zone. In this stage, they are generally confronted with a problem or challenge they can't ignore. This catalyst can take many forms, as Campbell points out in Hero with a Thousand Faces . The Hero can, for instance:

• Decide to go forth of their own volition;
• Theseus upon arriving in Athens.
• Be sent abroad by a benign or malignant agent;
• Odysseus setting off on his ship in The Odyssey .
• Stumble upon the adventure as a result of a mere blunder;
• Dorothy when she’s swept up in a tornado in The Wizard of Oz .
• Be casually strolling when some passing phenomenon catches the wandering eye and lures one away from the frequented paths of man.
• Elliot in E.T. upon discovering a lost alien in the tool shed.

The stakes of the adventure and the Hero's goals become clear. The only question: will he rise to the challenge?

3. Refusal of the Call

In which the Hero digs in their feet.

Great, so the Hero’s received their summons. Now they’re all set to be whisked off to defeat evil, right?

Not so fast. The Hero might first refuse the call to action. It’s risky and there are perils — like spiders, trolls, or perhaps a creepy uncle waiting back at Pride Rock . It’s enough to give anyone pause.

In Star Wars , for instance, Luke Skywalker initially refuses to join Obi-Wan on his mission to rescue the princess. It’s only when he discovers that his aunt and uncle have been killed by stormtroopers that he changes his mind.

4. Meeting the Mentor

In which the Hero acquires a personal trainer.

The Hero's decided to go on the adventure — but they’re not ready to spread their wings yet. They're much too inexperienced at this point and we don't want them to do a fabulous belly-flop off the cliff.

Enter the mentor: someone who helps the Hero, so that they don't make a total fool of themselves (or get themselves killed). The mentor provides practical training, profound wisdom, a kick up the posterior, or something abstract like grit and self-confidence.

Wise old wizards seem to like being mentors. But mentors take many forms, from witches to hermits and suburban karate instructors. They might literally give weapons to prepare for the trials ahead, like Q in the James Bond series. Or perhaps the mentor is an object, such as a map. In all cases, they prepare the Hero for the next step.

GET ACCOUNTABILITY

Meet writing coaches on Reedsy

Industry insiders can help you hone your craft, finish your draft, and get published.

5. Crossing the First Threshold

In which the Hero enters the other world in earnest.

Now the Hero is ready — and committed — to the journey. This marks the end of the Departure stage and is when the adventure really kicks into the next gear. As Vogler writes: “This is the moment that the balloon goes up, the ship sails, the romance begins, the wagon gets rolling.”

From this point on, there’s no turning back.

Like our Hero, you should think of this stage as a checkpoint for your story. Pause and re-assess your bearings before you continue into unfamiliar territory. Have you:

• Launched the central conflict? If not, here’s a post on types of conflict to help you out.
• Established the theme of your book? If not, check out this post that’s all about creating theme and motifs .
• Made headway into your character development? If not, this character profile template may be useful:

Reedsy’s Character Profile Template

A story is only as strong as its characters. Fill this out to develop yours.

6. Tests, Allies, Enemies

In which the Hero faces new challenges and gets a squad.

When we step into the Special World, we notice a definite shift. The Hero might be discombobulated by this unfamiliar reality and its new rules. This is generally one of the longest stages in the story , as our protagonist gets to grips with this new world.

This makes a prime hunting ground for the series of tests to pass! Luckily, there are many ways for the Hero to get into trouble:

• In Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle , Spencer, Bethany, “Fridge,” and Martha get off to a bad start when they bump into a herd of bloodthirsty hippos.
• In his first few months at Hogwarts, Harry Potter manages to fight a troll, almost fall from a broomstick and die, and get horribly lost in the Forbidden Forest.
• Marlin and Dory encounter three “reformed” sharks, get shocked by jellyfish, and are swallowed by a blue whale en route to finding Nemo.

This stage often expands the cast of characters. Once the protagonist is in the Special World, he will meet allies and enemies — or foes that turn out to be friends and vice versa. He will learn a new set of rules from them. Saloons and seedy bars are popular places for these transactions, as Vogler points out (so long as the Hero survives them).

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave

In which the Hero gets closer to his goal.

This isn’t a physical cave. Instead, the “inmost cave” refers to the most dangerous spot in the other realm — whether that’s the villain’s chambers, the lair of the fearsome dragon, or the Death Star. Almost always, it is where the ultimate goal of the quest is located.

Note that the protagonist hasn’t entered the Inmost Cave just yet. This stage is all about the approach to it. It covers all the prep work that's needed in order to defeat the villain.

In which the Hero faces his biggest test of all thus far.

Of all the tests the Hero has faced, none have made them hit rock bottom — until now. Vogler describes this phase as a “black moment.” Campbell refers to it as the “belly of the whale.” Both indicate some grim news for the Hero.

The protagonist must now confront their greatest fear. If they survive it, they will emerge transformed. This is a critical moment in the story, as Vogler explains that it will “inform every decision that the Hero makes from this point forward.”

The Ordeal is sometimes not the climax of the story. There’s more to come. But you can think of it as the main event of the second act — the one in which the Hero actually earns the title of “Hero.”

9. Reward (Seizing the Sword)

In which the Hero sees light at the end of the tunnel.

Our Hero’s been through a lot. However, the fruits of their labor are now at hand — if they can just reach out and grab them! The “reward” is the object or knowledge the Hero has fought throughout the entire journey to hold.

Once the protagonist has it in their possession, it generally has greater ramifications for the story. Vogler offers a few examples of it in action:

• Luke rescues Princess Leia and captures the plans of the Death Star — keys to defeating Darth Vader.
• Dorothy escapes from the Wicked Witch’s castle with the broomstick and the ruby slippers — keys to getting back home.

10. The Road Back

In which the light at the end of the tunnel might be a little further than the Hero thought.

The story's not over just yet, as this phase marks the beginning of Act Three. Now that he's seized the reward, the Hero tries to return to the Ordinary World, but more dangers (inconveniently) arise on the road back from the Inmost Cave.

More precisely, the Hero must deal with the consequences and aftermath of the previous act: the dragon, enraged by the Hero who’s just stolen a treasure from under his nose, starts the hunt. Or perhaps the opposing army gathers to pursue the Hero across a crowded battlefield. All further obstacles for the Hero, who must face them down before they can return home.

11. Resurrection

In which the last test is met.

Here is the true climax of the story. Everything that happened prior to this stage culminates in a crowning test for the Hero, as the Dark Side gets one last chance to triumph over the Hero.

Vogler refers to this as a “final exam” for the Hero — they must be “tested once more to see if they have really learned the lessons of the Ordeal.” It’s in this Final Battle that the protagonist goes through one more “resurrection.” As a result, this is where you’ll get most of your miraculous near-death escapes, à la James Bond's dashing deliverances. If the Hero survives, they can start looking forward to a sweet ending.

12. Return with the Elixir

In which our Hero has a triumphant homecoming.

Finally, the Hero gets to return home. However, they go back a different person than when they started out: they’ve grown and matured as a result of the journey they’ve taken.

But we’ve got to see them bring home the bacon, right? That’s why the protagonist must return with the “Elixir,” or the prize won during the journey, whether that’s an object or knowledge and insight gained.

Of course, it’s possible for a story to end on an Elixir-less note — but then the Hero would be doomed to repeat the entire adventure.

Examples of The Hero’s Journey in Action

To better understand this story template beyond the typical sword-and-sorcery genre, let's analyze three examples, from both screenplay and literature, and examine how they implement each of the twelve steps. 

The 1976 film Rocky is acclaimed as one of the most iconic sports films because of Stallone’s performance and the heroic journey his character embarks on.

• Ordinary World. Rocky Balboa is a mediocre boxer and loan collector — just doing his best to live day-to-day in a poor part of Philadelphia.
• Call to Adventure. Heavyweight champ Apollo Creed decides to make a big fight interesting by giving a no-name loser a chance to challenge him. That loser: Rocky Balboa.
• Refusal of the Call. Rocky says, “Thanks, but no thanks,” given that he has no trainer and is incredibly out of shape.
• Meeting the Mentor. In steps former boxer Mickey “Mighty Mick” Goldmill, who sees potential in Rocky and starts training him physically and mentally for the fight.
• Crossing the First Threshold. Rocky crosses the threshold of no return when he accepts the fight on live TV, and 一 in parallel 一 when he crosses the threshold into his love interest Adrian’s house and asks her out on a date.
• Tests, Allies, Enemies. Rocky continues to try and win Adrian over and maintains a dubious friendship with her brother, Paulie, who provides him with raw meat to train with.
• Approach to the Inmost Cave. The Inmost Cave in Rocky is Rocky’s own mind. He fears that he’ll never amount to anything — something that he reveals when he butts heads with his trainer, Mickey, in his apartment.
• Ordeal. The start of the training montage marks the beginning of Rocky’s Ordeal. He pushes through it until he glimpses hope ahead while running up the museum steps.
• Reward (Seizing the Sword). Rocky's reward is the restoration of his self-belief, as he recognizes he can try to “go the distance” with Apollo Creed and prove he's more than "just another bum from the neighborhood."
• The Road Back. On New Year's Day, the fight takes place. Rocky capitalizes on Creed's overconfidence to start strong, yet Apollo makes a comeback, resulting in a balanced match.
• Resurrection. The fight inflicts multiple injuries and pushes both men to the brink of exhaustion, with Rocky being knocked down numerous times. But he consistently rises to his feet, enduring through 15 grueling rounds.
• Return with the Elixir. Rocky loses the fight — but it doesn’t matter. He’s won back his confidence and he’s got Adrian, who tells him that she loves him.

Moving outside of the ring, let’s see how this story structure holds on a completely different planet and with a character in complete isolation. 

The Martian 

In Andy Weir’s self-published bestseller (better known for its big screen adaptation) we follow astronaut Mark Watney as he endures the challenges of surviving on Mars and working out a way to get back home.

• The Ordinary World. Botanist Mark and other astronauts are on a mission on Mars to study the planet and gather samples. They live harmoniously in a structure known as "the Hab.”
• Call to Adventure. The mission is scrapped due to a violent dust storm. As they rush to launch, Mark is flung out of sight and the team believes him to be dead. He is, however, very much alive — stranded on Mars with no way of communicating with anyone back home.
• Refusal of the Call. With limited supplies and grim odds of survival, Mark concludes that he will likely perish on the desolate planet.
• Meeting the Mentor. Thanks to his resourcefulness and scientific knowledge he starts to figure out how to survive until the next Mars mission arrives.
• Crossing the First Threshold. Mark crosses the mental threshold of even trying to survive 一 he successfully creates a greenhouse to cultivate a potato crop, creating a food supply that will last long enough.
• Tests, Allies, Enemies. Loneliness and other difficulties test his spirit, pushing him to establish contact with Earth and the people at NASA, who devise a plan to help.  
• Approach to the Inmost Cave. Mark faces starvation once again after an explosion destroys his potato crop.
• Ordeal. A NASA rocket destined to deliver supplies to Mark disintegrates after liftoff and all hope seems lost.
• Reward (Seizing the Sword). Mark’s efforts to survive are rewarded with a new possibility to leave the planet. His team 一 now aware that he’s alive 一 defies orders from NASA and heads back to Mars to rescue their comrade.
• The Road Back. Executing the new plan is immensely difficult 一 Mark has to travel far to locate the spaceship for his escape, and almost dies along the way.
• Resurrection. Mark is unable to get close enough to his teammates' ship but finds a way to propel himself in empty space towards them, and gets aboard safely.
• Return with the Elixir. Now a survival instructor for aspiring astronauts, Mark teaches students that space is indifferent and that survival hinges on solving one problem after another, as well as the importance of other people’s help.

Coming back to Earth, let’s now examine a heroine’s journey through the wilderness of the Pacific Crest Trail and her… humanity. 

The memoir Wild narrates the three-month-long hiking adventure of Cheryl Strayed across the Pacific coast, as she grapples with her turbulent past and rediscovers her inner strength.

• The Ordinary World. Cheryl shares her strong bond with her mother who was her strength during a tough childhood with an abusive father.
• Call to Adventure. As her mother succumbs to lung cancer, Cheryl faces the heart-wrenching reality to confront life's challenges on her own.
• Refusal of the Call. Cheryl spirals down into a destructive path of substance abuse and infidelity, which leads to hit rock bottom with a divorce and unwanted pregnancy. 
• Meeting the Mentor. Her best friend Lisa supports her during her darkest time. One day she notices the Pacific Trail guidebook, which gives her hope to find her way back to her inner strength.
• Crossing the First Threshold. She quits her job, sells her belongings, and visits her mother’s grave before traveling to Mojave, where the trek begins.
• Tests, Allies, Enemies. Cheryl is tested by her heavy bag, blisters, rattlesnakes, and exhaustion, but many strangers help her along the trail with a warm meal or hiking tips. 
• Approach to the Inmost Cave. As Cheryl goes through particularly tough and snowy parts of the trail her emotional baggage starts to catch up with her.  
• Ordeal. She inadvertently drops one of her shoes off a cliff, and the incident unearths the helplessness she's been evading since her mother's passing.
• Reward (Seizing the Sword). Cheryl soldiers on, trekking an impressive 50 miles in duct-taped sandals before finally securing a new pair of shoes. This small victory amplifies her self-confidence.
• The Road Back. On the last stretch, she battles thirst, sketchy hunters, and a storm, but more importantly, she revisits her most poignant and painful memories.
• Resurrection. Cheryl forgives herself for damaging her marriage and her sense of worth, owning up to her mistakes. A pivotal moment happens at Crater Lake, where she lets go of her frustration at her mother for passing away.
• Return with the Elixir. Cheryl reaches the Bridge of the Gods and completes the trail. She has found her inner strength and determination for life's next steps.

There are countless other stories that could align with this template, but it's not always the perfect fit. So, let's look into when authors should consider it or not.

When should writers use The Hero’s Journey?

The Hero’s Journey is just one way to outline a novel and dissect a plot. For more longstanding theories on the topic, you can go this way to read about the ever-popular Three-Act Structure or here to discover Dan Harmon's Story Circle and three more prevalent structures .

So when is it best to use the Hero’s Journey? There are a couple of circumstances which might make this a good choice.

When you need more specific story guidance than simple structures can offer

Simply put, the Hero’s Journey structure is far more detailed and closely defined than other story structure theories. If you want a fairly specific framework for your work than a thee-act structure, the Hero’s Journey can be a great place to start.

Of course, rules are made to be broken . There’s plenty of room to play within the confines of the Hero’s Journey, despite it appearing fairly prescriptive at first glance. Do you want to experiment with an abbreviated “Resurrection” stage, as J.K. Rowling did in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone? Are you more interested in exploring the journey of an anti-hero? It’s all possible.

Once you understand the basics of this universal story structure, you can use and bend it in ways that disrupt reader expectations.

Need more help developing your book? Try this template on for size:

Get our Book Development Template

Use this template to go from a vague idea to a solid plan for a first draft.

When your focus is on a single protagonist

No matter how sprawling or epic the world you’re writing is, if your story is, at its core, focused on a single character’s journey, then this is a good story structure for you. It’s kind of in the name! If you’re dealing with an entire ensemble, the Hero’s Journey may not give you the scope to explore all of your characters’ plots and subplot — a broader three-act structure may give you more freedom to weave a greater number story threads. ​​

Which story structure is right for you?

Take this quiz and we'll match your story to a structure in minutes!

Whether you're a reader or writer, we hope our guide has helped you understand this universal story arc. Want to know more about story structure? We explain 6 more in our guide — read on!

6 responses

PJ Reece says:

25/07/2018 – 19:41

Nice vid, good intro to story structure. Typically, though, the 'hero's journey' misses the all-important point of the Act II crisis. There, where the hero faces his/her/its existential crisis, they must DIE. The old character is largely destroyed -- which is the absolute pre-condition to 'waking up' to what must be done. It's not more clever thinking; it's not thinking at all. Its SEEING. So many writing texts miss this point. It's tantamount to a religions experience, and nobody grows up without it. STORY STRUCTURE TO DIE FOR examines this dramatic necessity.

↪️ C.T. Cheek replied:

13/11/2019 – 21:01

Okay, but wouldn't the Act II crisis find itself in the Ordeal? The Hero is tested and arguably looses his/her/its past-self for the new one. Typically, the Hero is not fully "reborn" until the Resurrection, in which they defeat the hypothetical dragon and overcome the conflict of the story. It's kind of this process of rebirth beginning in the earlier sections of the Hero's Journey and ending in the Resurrection and affirmed in the Return with the Elixir.

Lexi Mize says:

25/07/2018 – 22:33

Great article. Odd how one can take nearly every story and somewhat plug it into such a pattern.

Bailey Koch says:

11/06/2019 – 02:16

This was totally lit fam!!!!

↪️ Bailey Koch replied:

11/09/2019 – 03:46

where is my dad?

Frank says:

12/04/2020 – 12:40

Great article, thanks! :) But Vogler didn't expand Campbell's theory. Campbell had seventeen stages, not twelve.

Comments are currently closed.

Join a community of over 1 million authors

Reedsy is more than just a blog. Become a member today to discover how we can help you publish a beautiful book.

Bring your stories to life

Our free writing app lets you set writing goals and track your progress, so you can finally write that book!

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy. Come meet them.

Enter your email or get started with a social account:

• Screenwriting \e607
• Cinematography & Cameras \e605
• Directing \e606
• Editing & Post-Production \e602
• Documentary \e603
• Movies & TV \e60a
• Producing \e608
• Distribution & Marketing \e604
• Fundraising & Crowdfunding \e60f
• Festivals & Events \e611
• Sound & Music \e601
• Games & Transmedia \e60e
• Grants, Contests, & Awards \e60d
• Film School \e610
• Marketplace & Deals \e60b
• Off Topic \e609
• This Site \e600

What Are the Fundamentals of the Hero's Journey?

The hero's journey is complex, so what are the fundamentals you can use in your own writing .

If you've hung around enough writing chat rooms, aisles inside Barnes and Noble, or on Twitter, you know that at some point during the day, someone is going to talk about the hero's journey. That someone is Joseph Campbell . Just kidding. 

It's become this ubiquitous guide that people use to talk about what needs to happen to make their character arc in the story. 

We've seen it in Star Wars and Marvel and Batman...but have we really seen it ourselves? 

It feels like everyone talks about this thing, but sometimes seeing people do the hero's journey and actually doing it yourself looks very different.

Today, I want to go over the fundamental beats of the hero's journey and talk about how you can make sure you hit those notes in your script while giving yourself room to be inventive. 

Check out this video from Campfire Technology and let's talk after the jump. 

Hero's Journey Breakdown: Key Elements All Screenwriters Should Know

I'll be honest, there are days when I get sick of hearing about the hero's journey . It can feel limiting and drives me up a wall. But there are other days when I'm stuck in Act II, and I desperately want it to come back to the formula so I can write my way out. 

So what does the hero's journey represent? 

Basically, it takes the ordinary world of a character and turns it on their head. It takes us through some story beats  that help the character change. 

So what are the fundamentals? 

If you picked up A Hero with a Thousand Faces   by Joseph Campbell ,  you know that this is less a rule book and more a list of tropes that people expect to see or be subverted.

People want something familiar...but with a twist . 

So when we look at the fundamentals, it's more like us riffing on an outline or Save The Cat  to make sure the story we intend to tell winds up on the page. 

The most important elements are showing the ordinary world, then changing it, and then taking your character on a journey that births them into a new world that will never look the same.

You really want to concentrate on how the character at the center changes. What can you throw in their face that forces them to confront their biggest problems and biggest fears? 

All this guide is meant to do is get you to put your characters through the wringer.  

What are your favorite part of the hero's journey? 

Let us know in the comments. 

What's next?  Get our free screenwriting eBook ! 

So much of what we're talking about on No Film School when it comes to screenwriting is summarized in our new eBook. It also helps guide you through a 10-week writing plan that will get your script actually finished.

Source: Campfire Technology

• The Hero's Journey Explained ›

This is How You Don't Get a Job as an Assistant on 'Ghostbusters'

An anecdotal tale of hollywood lessons and folly..

Once, not long ago, in a time before filmmakers were stalled for work from the Big C, then stalled again once more for striking against The Man and their attempt to take our jobs more permanently with Artificial Intelligence, Jason Reitman was in pre-production for Ghostbusters: Afterlife.

It was early 2019. A simple time. I was a boy, desperate for work, not but a year-and-some-change in from moving to Los Angeles. Very broke. Very, very broke.

A good friend of mine was working consistently as a PA on big movies and connected me to a producer who knew some other producers who eventually got me an interview to be Jason Reitman's personal assistant on his upcoming revamp of his Dear Ol' Dad's beloved Ghostbuster franchise.

This was a huge break for me. Jason Reitman? The guy that directed the soundtrack of my angsty childhood ( Juno , but Thank You For Smoking is a good guess).

The interview was on the Sony lot, for crying out loud! Security let me in there! For an interview! On the Sony lot!

Well, as the headline suggests, I did not land the gig. And, now happily on a new career path, I'd like to use this outlet to help youngins like myself avoid the same mistakes.

Here is an experimental anecdote of failure. Enjoy....!

Editor's note: I have shamefully worked up the courage to write this in alignment with the release of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire to hide behind relevancy. Viewer Discretion Advised.

An Obvious But Important Lesson To Avoid Bombing an Interview

Interview With a Vampire

film-grab.com

Now, this is going to seem obvious. And, for all intents and purposes, it is. But I think it's important to put out there none-the-less. So here it goes.

For one, I went into the interview not knowing exactly what a personal assistant to talent does. From my perspective, it was something of a glorified PA. Not that this isn't somewhat true, but my previous experience as a below the line PA is a very different gig.

I wouldn't be running BNC cables through the woods or working anywhere near set—I'd be scheduling, managing paperwork, getting lunches, et cetera ad nauseam (see link above).

Another (much more embarrassing lesson), keep your personal life out of it. Yes, dear reader, this seems obvious. But I had a best friends wedding I was flying back for I was a groomsman in and girl I had a crush on said maybe to being my date. And of course this conflict was right around when they needed me to start.

Don't you see? There were stakes! Should I have earnestly mentioned the wedding conflict in an interview in hopes they would understand and still hire me when I openly told them I would more-or-less be unavailable?

Why Share This Embarrassing Tale? Publicly Online?

Batman getting back up in The Dark Knight Rises

To reiterate, this is fairly basic interview etiquette.

One reason I tell this tale is to highlight how finicky an interview for any job can be. What seems obvious to a more interview savvy candidate (with their life together) may be less obvious to an anxiety prone, emotional candidate. And that's okay! Sometimes we flop. Sometimes we fall, or whatever.

But that isn't the end. Like Alfred says.

I did not get that job and it was totally devastating. Really sucked—and sucked even more to be able to pinpoint some precise reasons why. But, hey. What a lesson. A lesson you can sometimes only really learn through brutal, clumsy experience.

Since then my career has taken a much more successful turn in post production, and honestly? Am all the better for it. As devastating as it was, I don't think I would have much liked or been very good as Jason Reitman's personal assistant. But there's always hope in this big scary industry, no matter how big and scary it can be.

So take that, Jason Reitman!

Editor's note: Jason Reitman had nothing to do with my failure to acquire the role of his personal assistant.

What Are The Best Martial Arts Movies of All Time?

What are the best action movies of all time, denis villeneuve sets the record straight on paul atreides as a messiah in 'dune 2', a complete list of hollywood slang, explaining the midpoint reversal in screenwriting, openai is meeting with hollywood studios and filmmakers, how to write a screenplay, how we shot a horror short on just one lens, how to write character development, create captivating character arcs in your screenplay.

• More from M-W
• To save this word, you'll need to log in. Log In

Definition of journey

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of journey  (Entry 2 of 2)

intransitive verb

transitive verb

Did you know?

The Latin adjective diurnus means “pertaining to a day, daily”; English diurnal stems ultimately from this word. When Latin developed into French, diurnus became a noun, jour, meaning simply “day” The medieval French derivative journee meant either “day” or “something done during the day,” such as work or travel. Middle English borrowed journee as journey in both senses, but only the sense “a day’s travel” survived into modern usage. In modern English, journey now refers to a trip without regard to the amount of time it takes. The verb journey developed from the noun and is first attested in the 14th century.

• peregrination
• peregrinate

Examples of journey in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'journey.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Noun and Verb

Middle English, from Anglo-French jurnee day, day's journey, from jur day, from Late Latin diurnum , from Latin, neuter of diurnus — see journal entry 1

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Articles Related to journey

8 Ways to Get Away From It All

Whether it's a jaunt or a junket, remember sunblock.

Dictionary Entries Near journey

journal voucher

journey-bated

Cite this Entry

“Journey.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/journey. Accessed 26 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of journey.

Kids Definition of journey  (Entry 2 of 2)

Middle English journey "a trip, travel," from early French journee "day's work, day's journey," from jour "day," derived from Latin diurnus "of a day, daily," from dies "day" — related to diary , journal

More from Merriam-Webster on journey

Nglish: Translation of journey for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of journey for Arabic Speakers

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Can you solve 4 words at once?

Word of the day.

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

8 grammar terms you used to know, but forgot, homophones, homographs, and homonyms, commonly misspelled words, how to use em dashes (—), en dashes (–) , and hyphens (-), absent letters that are heard anyway, popular in wordplay, the words of the week - mar. 22, 12 words for signs of spring, 9 superb owl words, 'gaslighting,' 'woke,' 'democracy,' and other top lookups, fan favorites: your most liked words of the day 2023, games & quizzes.

Exploring the 12 Stages of the Hero’s Journey Part 2: The Call to Adventure

We dive into this archetypal story concept according to Joseph Campbell's The Hero's Journey and Christopher Vogler's interpreted twelve stages of that journey within his book, The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers.

Welcome to Part 2 of our 12-part series ScreenCraft’s Exploring the 12 Stages of the Hero’s Journey , where we go into depth about each of the twelve stages and how your screenplays could benefit from them.

The first stage — The Ordinary World — happens to be one of the most essential elements of any story, even ones that don't follow the twelve-stage structure to a tee.

Showing your protagonist within their Ordinary World at the beginning of your story offers you the ability to showcase how much the core conflict they face rocks their world. And it allows you to foreshadow and create the necessary elements of empathy and catharsis that your story needs.

The next stage is the Call to Adventure .

Here we offer three reasons why that Call to Adventure means everything when you're trying to tell a great story.

1. Introduces the Core Concept of the Story

Concept is very crucial to the success of any story that you write. It will be the sole reason why anyone reads your story or watches your movie or television pilot. It represents the core of your story and affects each and every character that you create to live and breathe within that plot and narrative.

Conflict is everything to a great story. And the Call to Adventure represents that conflict and is what pushes that core conflict onto your protagonist.

Luke Skywalker is asked by Jedi Master Ben Kenobi to go with him to Alderaan to return the two droids to Princess Leia to help the Rebellion defeat the Empire.  

Sarah Connor is told by soldier-from-the-future Kyle Reese, "Come with me if you want to live," as they are pursued by a cyborg assassin that wants to kill her unborn child.  

Neo is asked by a computer hacker to take the blue pill or the red pill in order to either learn the truth about the world they live in or live in ignorance to the fact that the world is not what it seems. 

The Ghostbusters are called to investigate a supposed haunting at the New York Public Library, which leads to a threat that puts all of New York City in danger. 

Frodo is asked by the Middle-Earth wizard Gandalf to take a powerful Ring out of The Shire to save all of Middle-Earth.

These are all examples of the Call to Adventure. The protagonist is faced with a problem or conflict that rocks their Ordinary World, and they have to decide whether or not to answer that call.

And it even works with drama as well.

A film like The Big Chill offers a Call to Adventure to each of its main characters in the form of the death of their college friend and his eventual funeral that they all are asked to attend.

2. Defines the Genre of Your Story

The Call to Adventure can come in many forms — and it will usually define the genre that you're writing in, which is another vital aspect of your story.

Knowing your genre is important. That knowledge will allow you to use or avoid any given genre's cliches and tropes. It will help you develop the perfect context and narrative. The tone and atmosphere will be better defined when you know your genre as well. And the reader or audience will know what to expect when they know and understand what the central conflict (concept) of your story is.

And lastly, when you market your story for possible acquisition, the Call to Adventure for your protagonist will be the center of your logline that you pitch. And that pitch has to give the potential buyer a quick cue to what genre the story is.

3. Begins the Process of Character Development

Your protagonist's reaction to the Call of Adventure will offer you the chance to begin to showcase the character development within your story.

Their initial reaction will easily dictate the type of character that they are at the beginning of the story.

Luke Skywalker is longing for a little adventure when the story begins. But when he's given a chance to make a difference, he hesitates. He showcases loyalty to his Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru, despite just having asked them before the Call to Adventure to leave the farm to attend the Academy.

Sarah Connor is overwhelmed by her Call to Adventure. She can't believe that she's the savior of the future. To her, she's just a waitress. A nobody. And as she faces the conflict at hand, we begin to see her character development into the strong person Kyle Reese knows she'll become.

Neo takes the leap of faith by taking the pill that will awaken him to the truth, showing that he's someone willing to take a risk.

The way each of the three Ghostbusters reacts to the initial Call to Adventure defines the role they will play throughout the course of the story. But we quickly learn that Peter will become a believer, Ray may be scared of the mystical truth he believes in, and Egon, well, he'll handle everything he encounters with a scientific approach.

Frodo will go above and beyond to do the right thing, which is why Gandalf entrusted him with the Ring in the first place.

Read ScreenCraft's 5 Screenwriting Tricks to Conjure Better Character Depth !

Giving your story's protagonist a Call to Adventure introduces the core concept of your story, dictates the genre your story is being told in, and helps to begin the process of character development that every great story needs.

And remember...

"The Hero's Journey is a skeleton framework that should be fleshed out with the details of and surprises of the individual story. The structure should not call attention to itself, nor should it be followed too precisely. The order of the stages is only one of many possible variations. The stages can be deleted, added to, and drastically shuffled without losing any of their power." — Christopher Vogler, The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers

Joseph Campbell's 17-stage Monomyth was conceptualized over the course of Campbell's own text, The Hero with a Thousand Faces, and then later in the 1980s through two documentaries, one of which introduced the term The Hero's Journey .

The first documentary, 1987's The Hero's Journey: The World of Joseph Campbell , was released with an accompanying book entitled The Hero's Journey: Joseph Campbell on His Life and Work .

The second documentary was released in 1988 and consisted of Bill Moyers' series of interviews with Campbell, accompanied by the companion book The Power of Myth .

Christopher Vogler was a Hollywood development executive and screenwriter working for Disney when he took his passion for Joseph Campbell's story monolith and developed it into a seven-page company memo for the company's development department and incoming screenwriters.

The memo, entitled A Practical Guide to The Hero with a Thousand Faces , was later developed by Vogler into The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Storytellers and Screenwriters in 1992. He then elaborated on those concepts for the book The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure For Writers .

Christopher Vogler's approach to Campbell's structure broke the mythical story structure into twelve stages. We define the stages in our own simplified interpretations:

• The Ordinary World : We see the hero's normal life at the start of the story before the adventure begins.
• Call to Adventure : The hero is faced with an event, conflict, problem, or challenge that makes them begin their adventure.
• Refusal of the Call : The hero initially refuses the adventure because of hesitation, fears, insecurity, or any other number of issues.
• Meeting the Mentor : The hero encounters a mentor that can give them advice, wisdom, information, or items that ready them for the journey ahead.
• Crossing the Threshold : The hero leaves their ordinary world for the first time and crosses the threshold into adventure.
• Tests, Allies, and Enemies : The hero learns the rules of the new world and endures tests, meets friends, and comes face-to-face with enemies.
• The Approach : The initial plan to take on the central conflict begins, but setbacks occur that cause the hero to try a new approach or adopt new ideas.
• The Ordeal: Things go wrong and added conflict is introduced. The hero experiences more difficult hurdles and obstacles, some of which may lead to a life crisis.
• The Reward : After surviving The Ordeal, the hero seizes the sword — a reward that they've earned that allows them to take on the biggest conflict. It may be a physical item or piece of knowledge or wisdom that will help them persevere.
• The Road Back : The hero sees the light at the end of the tunnel, but they are about to face even more tests and challenges.
• The Resurrection : The climax. The hero faces a final test, using everything they have learned to take on the conflict once and for all.
• The Return : The hero brings their knowledge or the "elixir" back to the ordinary world.

Ken Miyamoto has worked in the film industry for nearly two decades, most notably as a studio liaison for Sony Studios and then as a script reader and story analyst for Sony Pictures.

He has many studio meetings under his belt as a produced screenwriter, meeting with the likes of Sony, Dreamworks, Universal, Disney, Warner Brothers, as well as many production and management companies. He has had a previous development deal with Lionsgate, as well as multiple writing assignments, including the produced miniseries  Blackout , starring Anne Heche, Sean Patrick Flanery, Billy Zane, James Brolin, Haylie Duff, Brian Bloom, Eric La Salle, and Bruce Boxleitner. Follow Ken on Twitter  @KenMovies

For all the latest ScreenCraft news and updates, follow us on  Twitter,   Facebook , and  Instagram .

Get Our Screenwriting Newsletter!

Get weekly writing inspiration delivered to your inbox - including industry news, popular articles, and more!

Facebook Comments

Free download.

Screenwriting Resources:

$ 15.00 $ 12.00 Add to cart

Popular Posts

Recent Posts

Next Related Post

Get Our Newsletter!

Developing your own script.

We'll send you a list of our free eCourses when you subscribe to our newsletter. No strings attached.

You Might Also Like

• Hidden Name
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Connect With Us

Writing competitions, success stories.

© 2024 ScreenCraft | An Industry Arts Company

Wait! Subscribe to get our free Newsletter

Join our community of over 100,000 screenwriters and get weekly inspiration delivered to your inbox.

Screenwriting Newsletter

Join our community of over 100,000 screenwriters and get weekly inspiration delivered to your inbox:

✓ Popular blog posts and industry news ✓ New ScreenCraft online events ✓ Screenplay competition announcements!

" * " indicates required fields

Exploring the Evolution of Film Movement: Insights and Best Practices

Silent film era, pioneers of silent film, techniques and innovations, iconic silent films, golden age of hollywood, studio system, popular genres, influential filmmakers, new hollywood, rise of auteur directors, blockbusters and franchises, social themes and experimentation, independent film movement, emergence of indie filmmaking, sundance film festival, notable indie films and directors, digital revolution, transition to digital, technology and visualization, streaming and the future of film.

Ever wondered how the film industry has evolved over the years? From the silent film era to the digital revolution, the world of cinema has seen remarkable changes, with various film movements shaping the way we experience movies today. In this blog, we'll explore the evolution of film movement and provide insights and best practices for each stage.

The silent film era marked the beginning of cinema, with films lacking synchronized soundtracks. Instead, they relied on live music and title cards to convey dialogue and express emotions. Let's look at the pioneers, techniques, and iconic films that defined this film movement.

Some of the early trailblazers in silent films include:

• Thomas Edison - inventor of the kinetoscope, a device that allowed a single viewer to watch a short film.
• Georges Méliès - a French filmmaker known for his innovative special effects and storytelling techniques, most notably in the 1902 film A Trip to the Moon .
• D.W. Griffith - an American director who is credited with pioneering many film techniques, such as cross-cutting and close-ups, in his controversial 1915 film The Birth of a Nation .
• Charlie Chaplin - a comedic actor and director who became a cultural icon with his character "The Tramp" in numerous films, including The Kid and Modern Times .

The silent film era saw the development of various filmmaking techniques that are still used today, such as:

• Editing - the process of assembling shots to create a cohesive story.
• Mise-en-scène - the arrangement of visual elements within a frame, including lighting, costumes, and set design.
• Camera movement and angles - used to create dynamic visuals and convey emotions or perspectives.
• Montage - a method of editing that combines a series of short shots to create a larger narrative or thematic concept.

Some of the most influential silent films that shaped this film movement include:

• The Great Train Robbery (1903) - directed by Edwin S. Porter, this film is considered the first narrative film and introduced basic editing techniques.
• Metropolis (1927) - directed by Fritz Lang, this German expressionist film is a landmark in science fiction and visual storytelling.
• The General (1926) - directed by and starring Buster Keaton, this comedy-action film showcased Keaton's physical comedy and innovative stunts.
• Nosferatu (1922) - directed by F.W. Murnau, this German expressionist horror film is an early example of the genre and has had a lasting impact on cinema.

Understanding the silent film era is essential for grasping the foundations of cinema and the film movement as a whole. In the next section, we'll dive into the Golden Age of Hollywood, a time when the film industry took center stage in American culture.

Following the silent film era, the Golden Age of Hollywood emerged, spanning from the late 1920s to the early 1960s. This period was marked by the rise of the studio system, popular genres, and influential filmmakers who left a lasting impact on the film movement. Let's explore these aspects further.

The studio system was a method of film production where major studios controlled every aspect of the filmmaking process, from scriptwriting to distribution. Some of the most prominent studios during this time included:

• Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) - known for producing lavish musicals and high-quality dramas.
• Warner Bros. - famous for their gritty crime dramas and introducing the first "talking" film, The Jazz Singer , in 1927.
• 20th Century Fox - recognized for their historical epics and adventure films.
• Paramount Pictures - associated with romantic comedies, sophisticated dramas, and the iconic director Alfred Hitchcock.

During the Golden Age, various film genres gained popularity and contributed to the evolving film movement. Some of the most popular genres included:

• Musicals - featuring song and dance numbers, often with elaborate production designs. Examples: Singin' in the Rain and An American in Paris .
• Film Noir - characterized by moody, atmospheric visuals and themes of crime, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. Examples: Double Indemnity and The Maltese Falcon .
• Westerns - set in the American frontier, often featuring cowboys, outlaws, and rugged landscapes. Examples: High Noon and Stagecoach .
• Screwball Comedies - showcasing witty banter, slapstick humor, and romantic entanglements. Examples: His Girl Friday and Bringing Up Baby .

Many talented directors emerged during the Golden Age, leaving their mark on the film movement and inspiring future generations of filmmakers. Some of these influential directors include:

• Orson Welles - best known for his groundbreaking film Citizen Kane (1941), which is often considered one of the greatest movies ever made. Welles was a master of storytelling and innovative camera techniques.
• John Ford - a prolific director known for his visually stunning westerns, such as The Searchers and The Grapes of Wrath . Ford's films often explored themes of family, community, and the American spirit.
• Alfred Hitchcock - the "Master of Suspense," Hitchcock directed numerous iconic films, including Psycho , Rear Window , and North by Northwest . His innovative storytelling techniques and use of suspense continue to influence filmmakers today.
• Billy Wilder - a versatile director and screenwriter known for his sharp wit and biting satire, exemplified in films like Some Like It Hot , Sunset Boulevard , and The Apartment .

The Golden Age of Hollywood was a defining era in the film movement, setting the stage for cinema as we know it today. As we move forward, we'll explore the New Hollywood movement, where a new generation of filmmakers challenged the traditional studio system and experimented with innovative storytelling techniques.

The New Hollywood movement, also known as the American New Wave, emerged in the 1960s and continued through the 1970s. This period marked a significant shift in the film movement, characterized by the rise of auteur directors, the advent of blockbuster films and franchises, and a focus on social themes and experimentation. Let's dive into each of these elements.

Auteur directors are filmmakers with a distinct personal style and creative vision, often writing, directing, and producing their own films. The New Hollywood movement saw the rise of several such directors who pushed the boundaries of storytelling and filmmaking techniques. Some notable auteurs of this era include:

• Francis Ford Coppola - celebrated for his epic crime dramas, such as The Godfather series and Apocalypse Now .
• Martin Scorsese - known for his gritty, character-driven films, like Taxi Driver , Raging Bull , and Goodfellas .
• Stanley Kubrick - a visionary filmmaker who tackled a wide range of genres, creating classics like 2001: A Space Odyssey , A Clockwork Orange , and The Shining .
• Steven Spielberg - a versatile director who has brought us beloved films such as Jaws , E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial , and Indiana Jones series.

The New Hollywood movement also marked the beginning of the blockbuster era. These big-budget, high-concept films attracted massive audiences and often led to successful film franchises. Some of the most iconic blockbusters and franchises from this period include:

• Star Wars - George Lucas's groundbreaking science fiction series that has captivated audiences for generations.
• Jaws - Steven Spielberg's thrilling shark attack film, often considered the first true summer blockbuster.
• Rocky - the inspiring underdog story of a small-time boxer, played by Sylvester Stallone, who gets the chance of a lifetime.
• Superman - Richard Donner's influential superhero film, which paved the way for countless comic book adaptations to come.

During the New Hollywood movement, filmmakers began to explore social issues and experiment with different narrative techniques. Films from this period often tackled political and cultural topics, while also pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Some examples of such films are:

• Easy Rider - Dennis Hopper's counterculture road movie that explores themes of freedom, rebellion, and the American Dream.
• Midnight Cowboy - John Schlesinger's gritty drama that addresses issues of loneliness, poverty, and homosexuality.
• Network - Sidney Lumet's dark satire on the television industry, corporate greed, and the pursuit of ratings at any cost.
• Chinatown - Roman Polanski's neo-noir mystery that delves into themes of power, corruption, and moral ambiguity.

The New Hollywood movement marked a pivotal time in the evolution of the film movement, giving rise to some of the most memorable and influential films in cinema history. Next, we'll explore the Independent Film Movement, which further challenged the norms of mainstream filmmaking and provided opportunities for diverse voices and stories to be heard.

The Independent Film Movement, which gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s, was a response to the increasing commercialization of Hollywood. Independent films—or "indie" films—often focus on character-driven stories, unique perspectives, and innovative storytelling techniques. Let's take a closer look at the emergence of indie filmmaking, the significance of the Sundance Film Festival, and some notable indie films and directors.

Indie films are typically produced outside of the major studio system, giving filmmakers more creative control and freedom to explore unconventional themes and ideas. As a result, indie films often tackle social issues, personal stories, and diverse perspectives that might not be as prevalent in mainstream cinema. Some key factors that contributed to the rise of indie filmmaking include:

• Lower production costs - advancements in technology and the availability of affordable equipment made it easier for filmmakers to produce high-quality films on a modest budget.
• Increased distribution channels - the rise of home video and cable television provided new platforms for indie films to reach wider audiences.
• Support from film festivals - events like the Sundance Film Festival helped to showcase and promote the work of independent filmmakers.

The Sundance Film Festival, held annually in Park City, Utah, has been a major driving force behind the Independent Film Movement. Founded by actor and director Robert Redford in 1981, the festival aims to celebrate and support independent filmmakers from around the world. Sundance has played a crucial role in launching the careers of numerous indie filmmakers, and many award-winning films have made their debut at the festival. Some notable films that premiered at Sundance include:

• Sex, Lies, and Videotape - Steven Soderbergh's groundbreaking drama that helped to kickstart the modern indie film movement.
• Reservoir Dogs - Quentin Tarantino's stylish crime thriller that put him on the map as a bold and innovative filmmaker.
• Little Miss Sunshine - a heartwarming and quirky family road trip film that became an indie sensation.
• Whiplash - Damien Chazelle's intense drama about a young jazz drummer and his demanding instructor, which went on to win multiple Academy Awards.

Over the years, the Independent Film Movement has given us some truly memorable films and introduced us to talented filmmakers with unique voices. Here are just a few examples of notable indie films and the directors behind them:

• Wes Anderson - known for his whimsical, visually distinctive films like The Royal Tenenbaums , Moonrise Kingdom , and The Grand Budapest Hotel .
• Sofia Coppola - acclaimed for her evocative, atmospheric films such as The Virgin Suicides , Lost in Translation , and Marie Antoinette .
• Richard Linklater - celebrated for his innovative storytelling techniques in films like Slacker , Dazed and Confused , and the Before trilogy.
• David O. Russell - recognized for his character-driven, emotionally resonant films like Three Kings , The Fighter , and Silver Linings Playbook .

The Independent Film Movement has had a lasting impact on the film movement, showcasing the power of storytelling and the importance of diverse voices in cinema. As we continue to explore the evolution of film, let's now turn our attention to the Digital Revolution, which has transformed the way movies are made, distributed, and consumed.

The Digital Revolution has undeniably changed the landscape of the film industry. From the way films are produced to how they are consumed, technology has played a significant role in shaping the future of cinema. In this section, we'll discuss the transition to digital filmmaking, the impact of technology on visualization, and the rise of streaming services.

One of the most significant changes in the film movement brought about by the Digital Revolution is the shift from traditional film to digital filmmaking. Digital cameras and editing software have made it more accessible for filmmakers to create and distribute their work. Some of the key advantages of digital filmmaking include:

• Cost-effectiveness - digital equipment is often more affordable than traditional film equipment, making it easier for independent filmmakers to produce their projects.
• Flexibility - digital files can be easily edited and manipulated, allowing filmmakers to experiment with different techniques and styles.
• Efficiency - digital technology streamlines the production process, as there is no need to develop film, and footage can be reviewed instantly on set.

Advancements in technology have also had a profound impact on the visual aspects of filmmaking. From CGI (computer-generated imagery) to motion capture technology, filmmakers now have a wide range of tools at their disposal to create stunning visuals and immersive worlds. Notable examples of films that have pushed the boundaries of technology and visualization include:

• Avatar - James Cameron's epic sci-fi adventure, which utilized groundbreaking 3D technology and motion capture techniques.
• The Lord of the Rings trilogy - Peter Jackson's adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved novels, which made extensive use of CGI and advanced makeup effects to bring Middle-earth to life.
• The Matrix - the Wachowski siblings' groundbreaking action film that employed innovative visual effects, such as "bullet time" slow motion.
• Gravity - Alfonso Cuarón's space thriller that utilized a combination of CGI and practical effects to create a realistic and immersive outer space environment.

Perhaps the most significant change brought about by the Digital Revolution is the way we consume film. The rise of streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu has dramatically altered the distribution landscape, making it easier than ever for audiences to access a diverse range of films and television shows. As streaming platforms continue to grow and expand their offerings, the future of film will likely be shaped by:

• Greater accessibility - streaming services make it possible for viewers to watch content from around the world, offering exposure to new voices and perspectives.
• Original content - platforms like Netflix and Amazon have started producing their own films, often giving creative freedom to filmmakers and attracting top talent.
• Changing distribution models - the traditional theatrical release model is evolving, with some films being released simultaneously in theaters and on streaming platforms, or even skipping theaters altogether.

As we look ahead, the Digital Revolution will continue to shape the film movement, offering exciting possibilities for both filmmakers and audiences alike. From the Silent Film Era to the rise of streaming services, the evolution of cinema is a fascinating journey marked by innovation, creativity, and a passion for storytelling.

If you enjoyed this blog post, be sure to check out the workshop ' 13 Film Movements That Shaped Cinema ' by Jessy Moussallem. This workshop will give you a comprehensive understanding of the significant film movements that have shaped the world of cinema, providing you with valuable insights and inspiration for your own filmmaking journey.

Live classes every day

Learn from industry-leading creators

Get useful feedback from experts and peers

Best deal of the year

* billed annually after the trial ends.

*Billed monthly after the trial ends.

• March 25, 2024 | ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ Showrunner Drops Hints For Each Season 5 Episode
• March 24, 2024 | Review: Action-Packed ‘Star Trek: Picard: Firewall’ Reveals Seven’s Compelling Quest For Identity
• March 22, 2024 | Podcast: All Access Digs Into Star Trek Business News And Reflects On The New William Shatner Documentary
• March 21, 2024 | Filming On The ‘Star Trek: Section 31’ Streaming Movie Has Wrapped
• March 21, 2024 | Check Out New Posters Celebrating The Final Season Of ‘Star Trek: Discovery’

‘Star Trek: Voyager’ Documentary Gives Production Update; Releases Sneak Peek Video

| August 29, 2021 | By: Brian Drew 72 comments so far

The Star Trek: Voyager documentary To the Journey was featured on a panel at this month’s 55-Year Mission Las Vegas Star Trek convention that included details on where they are in production and what they have planned. They also showed  a sneak peek, which is now available online.

To the Journey production continues

After wrapping up a record-breaking $1.2 million crowd-funding campaign earlier this year, the documentary team set up a new studio to shoot more interviews in June . At the Las Vegas panel, producer/director Dave Zappone said the team was still “deep in production,” but had already completed a number of interviews. He mentioned a couple of standouts, including one with Star Trek: Voyager co-creator Jeri Taylor (who was a surprise guest on the panel), thanking her and saying “She had us up to her home in northern California and our crew took over her house. It was a wonderful interview and you could not have been more gracious.” He also mentioned Robert Beltran’s interview, saying he sat down for them for two and half hours and it “really blew me away,” adding the actor “was just so open, he is just a wonderful, wonderful guy.”

A number of interviews with members of the cast were done in 2020 during a Voyager  reunion on Star Trek: The Cruise. This summer they have been bringing in more people who worked on the show, including guest stars and behind-the-scenes creatives. In Vegas, the team played the following video to the crowd that showcased some of the people who had dropped by the studio over the summer.

Behind the scenes, bloopers, HD, and more

Zappone assured the audience that the doc will not just be talking heads, mentioning that they are working their way through archives to find more footage shot contemporaneously with  Star Trek: Voyager in the ’90s. There is some particular material he was interested in, saying, “I am looking for the infamous blooper reel. We are looking everywhere for that.”

Voyager actor Garrett Wang has also been helping out with the doc and was part of the panel as well. He talked about how he and others are contributing their own footage:

I do have some footage from my own camera… So that’s the plan. It’s not just myself. There are other people that have documented their time on Voyager . That can definitely supplement this documentary.

The team is also planning on shooting footage on the Paramount lot with Garrett Wang giving a tour of where Voyager was shot and what it was like during that time. And with the team headed to the Destination Star Trek Germany convention to shoot more footage, including a Voyager reunion panel, Zappone revealed they are also going to take some time out to accept an invitation from the European Space Agency to visit their facilities and put Wang through some astronaut training.

One of the stretch goals for the crowd-funding was to help the team convert original Voyager footage into high-definition, and Zappone talked about how this was still a goal of the doc. “We are planning to upres—hopefully—the original 35 millimeter [film] like we did with What We Left Behind. ”

Garrett Wang, Jeri Taylor, Lolita Fatjo, and David Zappone at 55-Year Mission convention, Las Vegas, August 2021 (Photo: TrekMovie.com)

Why Voyager ?

To the Journey is the latest of a series of Star Trek documentaries produced by Zappone and his production company. He talked about how he has been surprised by the fan reaction so far:

Having done what we did with What We Left Behind and partnering with Ira [Steven Behr] who was an amazing collaborator, I knew the love for Deep Space Nine . I guess I didn’t realize it was just as great for Voyager . The fans are just as rabid, just as passionate. That is my pleasant surprise.

In 2020, right before the pandemic hit, the team was able to shoot footage of a  Voyager cast reunion on Star Trek: The Cruise, which Zappone said was crucial to the doc, adding, “If we didn’t have that, I honestly don’t think we would have a film.” He also talked about how they got a lot of great footage from fans on the cruise and promised that they will use as much as they can, saying, “the emotional reactions and the impact Voyager had [on the fans], it just blew me away.”

From To the Journey footage filmed on the 2020 Star Trek: The Cruise

When a fan asked what made  Voyager different, the answers revealed some variety in what the team was looking at in terms of some of the themes of the doc. Co-producers Lilita Fatjo (who also worked on Voyager) offered her personal take:

As the only female on stage, I honestly have to say it was because there was a female captain. I had the privilege of working with Michael [Piller], Jeri [Taylor], and Rick [Berman] for years. And being part of two shows that were created– Deep Space Nine and Voyager –and just watching them create these shows and characters was amazing, but I would have to say it was because of Captain Janeway.

Zappone added on to that:

It’s not just Captain Janeway, it’s the strong women in general. Roxann Dawson and of course Jeri Ryan, and Jennifer Lien was also strong. So not just the captain.

Garrett Wang said he felt the show stood out for having “amazing chemistry” amount the cast from the start, but he also talked about the diversity of the show being a key differentiator. He he took some pride in his own contribution, pointing out how after George Takei, there were no Asian-Americans on TNG or DS9 in the main cast:

One out of every five people in this world is Chinese—not Asian, Chinese—that’s a lot. There should be an Asian in every Star Trek. Voyager [had a] Native American first officer, Asian-American ops officer, African-American Vulcan.

Zappone noted something that came up in Garrett’s documentary interview which was how at the time of the show in the 1990s, he was the only Asian-American series regular on television. Wang also told a story of later meeting Lost star Daniel Dae Kim who thanked him, saying he’d “paved the way.”

Kate Mulgrew from To the Journey

Hoping for a theatrical event and streaming

It’s too early to talk about how the doc will be released, but Zappone did say that in addition to being distributed on Blu-ray he was hoping to follow the same route as What We Left Behind and do a short theatrical release with Fathom Events, which he noted had sold out 1,000 theaters. After that, he said he expected the doc to become available for streaming, but wasn’t sure which service might pick it up.

To keep updated on the project, visit voyagerdocumentary.com .

More from Vegas

We still have some more from the con, so stay tuned to TrekMovie for updates. And don’t forget to check out the coverage we’ve already posted .

Find more  news on Star Trek documentaries .

Related Articles

Books , Review , Star Trek: Picard , VOY

Review: Action-Packed ‘Star Trek: Picard: Firewall’ Reveals Seven’s Compelling Quest For Identity

Conventions/Events/Attractions , Trek Franchise

Creation Brings Back Regional Star Trek Conventions Starting In San Francisco This Weekend, Chicago In Fall

Comics , DS9 , VOY

All Eyes Are On Lieutenant Harry Kim In Preview Of ‘Star Trek’ #17

ENT , Interview , VOY

Exclusive: ‘Gremlins’ Star Zach Galligan On Being In ‘Star Trek: Voyager’ And In The Running For Trip On ‘Enterprise’

That trailer was edited horribly. Why is it that these fan efforts always have such clunky production values?

I thought it was fine. It certainly wasn’t horrible.

It was definitely an awful trailer. Just a bunch of people sitting down.

Nothing about it made me want to watch the final doc. Where are the clips of the cast speaking? Where are the behind-the-scenes clips from the 90s they talk about? Where is the moment where someone teases something slightly intriguing, or dare I say– provocative? A funny moment from an interview, a dramatic moment where someone reveals tension on the set, an uplifting or emotionally inspirational moment; something, anything, to fascinate me and make me wonder what cool new things i’ll learn about the making of the show.

The trailer to “What We Left Behind” was way more intriguing, including ALL of the things I just mentioned; I suspect that’s because Ira Behr was involved. Go watch it. Teri Farrell is moved to tears, Marc Alaimo gets angry, Alex Siddig is inspirational, Avery Brooks speaks of what the role meant to him; Rene Auberjonois and Colm Meaney describe how hard they worked, DeBoer notes her awe at joining the show, and Michael Dorn mysteriously notes that “only those involved know the facts.” A bit melodramatic? Sure. But that’s what makes you want to see it. Great trailer to a great documentary.

After this trailer, I suspect the Voyager documentary will be a lot like the show: a watered down version of better docs that came before.

I don’t get the sense this was intended as an official trailer, just a casual sneak peek. Hence the title of the video.

Well then this is the worst sneak peek i’ve ever seen! Should at least had some cast members actually saying something– ANYTHING. This makes me LESS interested, not more.

Yeah, it was pretty bad.

So excited for this doc! I was literally watching an episode of VOY when I saw this article. I’m really really hoping it gets a theatrical release like ‘WWLB’ did. And I really love the fact they brought in so many other actors from the other shows. WWLB was strictly a DS9 affair, which was understandable, but it is cool to hear from other Trek stars on their thoughts on the show.

This is probably the most attention VOY has had since it went off the air, especially with all the characters appearing (or starring) in the multiple new shows and now this doc. It’s great to see for both old and new fans of the show! And imagine how many plates they can sell when it arrives! ;)

But no Kes 🥺

There’s a non-zero chance she’s in a mental institution or under conservatorship.

Well, WWLB did not have Avery Brooks participating on camera, and they made do with archival footage and anecdotes from other people. It worked, though in there case he was offering notes behind the scenes.

I hope Lien is getting the help she needs, I’m sure the doc will be an honest and respectful take on her time with the show.

There’s plenty of archival footage of Lien if they can clear it – Studio/Network EPK material from her time on the series, Entertainment Tonight, There was an E! BTS special early in the shows run, might be some convention footage out there – so there’s material available – they sure have enough of a budget to get SOMETHING.

Given the state of her health, why is that a surprise? Other cast members wishing her well is more then sufficient participation for her in this endeavor.

They should produce a plate of Boimler holding the Tom Paris plate to mark the occasion!

LOL! What’s funny is I could see someone at least considering it.

Anyone think Chakotay would sign my bowl?

I only recognized 3 of the people in that video…I guess most were behind the scenes or buried in makeup/prosthetics on-screen? They could have flashed their names at least. I love voyager and am looking forward to the doc, but this wasn’t very inspiring.

I totally agree … to assume that after all these years, and with many wearing prosthetics that totally changed their ‘real’ identities was silly. Their character image and/or name would have been very helpful. I only recognized the main characters and not the rest. Too bad, they deserved to be called out – maybe the final cut will do that.

This is a “sneak peak,” and I’m hoping that means that even the part we saw isn’t finished yet. Putting the names and functions of the people on the bottom of the screen (e.g. “Jeri Taylor, Executive Producer, 1995 – 1998”) would help a lot.

It’s very clearly not finished. But as a marketing person myself, if you have nothing intriguing to show, don’t show anything. Clearly some of these interviews have happened already, so they couldn’t find one or two good lines from them to get people interested? Awful job here.

Umm…where are the VOY cast??

When all the DS9 people turned up, I starting hoping Marc Alaimo would randomly appear for no reason.

I loved Armin Shimmerman’s reaction. “Why am I here?”

I suspect a lot of the audience will be asking the same thing as they watch the documentary!

He probably said the same thing on Insurrection.

It’s not just Captain Janeway, it’s the strong women in general. Roxanne Dawson and of course Jeri Ryan, and Jennifer Lein was also strong. So not just the captain.

Mulgrew and Ryan were strong. Dawson was average. Lien was weak, as was Wang. (Plus: an “African-American Vulcan”? Really? The actor, sure. The *character* had no human ancestry.)

It’s this kind of commentary that makes me think less of VOY; I’m glad we had a female captain, but cast diversity is not enough to compensate for poor characterization and writing. It certainly doesn’t compensate for the “Hollywood Indian” trope.

I believe that you are being unnecessarily harsh and hyper critical. Sounds like you didn’t watch the series but are here to comment for no apparent reason at all. Its confusing, did you watch the series or not? Sounds like you couldn’t stand it, yet you are here.

It’s called “literary criticism” for a reason. Criticism is the point.

I loved Dawson and thought she was very strong. But yeah I loved them all. ;)

I loved her too. Very under rated as an actress. Her character kinda disappeared into the background when Jeri Ryan came on the scene – that happened to most of the cast though – not her fault at all, that was the writers.

Maybe I’m just biased but I always loved Dawson and how she portrayed B’Elanna. Even though Worf was the most popular Klingon character, I liked B’Elanna because she was anti-Work or even Anti-Spock and really tried to be closer to her human side even though her Klingon side was always just underneath the surface. She played between the line very well. But I always love when her temper comes out lol.

But it’s all just opinions. People will like or hate different characters so completely understandable not every character or actors on these shows are loved by everyone.

Yep, Dawson nailed it as B’Elanna. She almost gets zero credit. She is the forgotten Voyager character.

TNG had already featured a Black Romulan.

The lack of diversity we sometimes see in alien races in science fiction is the problem. If the human race is anything to go by, and since the humanoids in Star Trek are supposed to be all related (again going back to TNG) then we should see more variations of skin color, not fewer.

Sigh. I guess I didn’t make my point clearly enough. I don’t have a problem with darker-skinned Vulcans; it’s just that they’re not “African-American Vulcans.” Africa and the Americas are continents on *Earth*.

What did you expect? It was a TV series produced in Hollywood. More chances than not the Black actor cast was going to be African-American. You know, that Hollywood that is located in America on Earth.

Oh, I see what you mean now. You wanted at least one cast member to be non-American. Well, we almost had that with the original actor cast as Janeway (her name escapes me at the moment), so you can’t fault them for at least keeping that in mind. But Tim Russ had already been cast at that point, so why single him out?

I don’t think it makes much sense to think “less of VOY” because the cast, crew, and fans of the show highlight it’s diversity as a positive, memorable, defining element of the show. And no one is saying that it compensates for failures in other areas of the production. The question wasn’t, “what element of Voyager balances out all the other mistakes of the show?”

As for the “Hollywood Indian” trope, I don’t think that you can lay all the blame on the Voyager staff (maybe 10-25%). The did hire a “respected Native American consultant” for the show – it just happened that that consultant was a fake and was conning Hollywood at large.

The “respected consultant” may have contributed to the problem, but he didn’t create the character, and he didn’t cast a non-Native actor in the role.

So sorry you were triggered by the mention of diversity and that someone different then yourself enjoyed seeing themselves reflected on the screen. Find something from the 1950’s on youtube that only features straight white men and take long, deep breaths.

In point of fact, I support diversity on Star Trek. I submit to you that VOY was the *least* diverse cast, and that the focus on the captain (and her ethnically ambiguous first officer, portrayed in blackface by a non-Native actor) were a way to deflect attention from this shortcoming.

Every other iteration of Star Trek has had at least one non-American human character in the main cast:

TOS: Chekhov (Russia), Scott (UK), Sulu (Japanese/Filipino, until TVH unfortunately retconned his ancestry a bit). TNG/PIC: Picard (France), LaForge (likely West Africa, possibly Caribbean); Worf’s roots on Earth were in Belarus; Yar (Ukraine/Lithuania). It was also lightly implied that Troi’s human ancestry was Greek; Rios (Chile). DS9: Bashir (Sudan), Miles O’Brien (Ireland) and Keiko O’Brien (Japan) (both also on TNG), Worf ENT: Sato (Japanese, possibly Brazilian-Japanese), Reed (UK) DIS: Owosekun (Nigeria), Detmer (Germany), Georgiou (Malaysia), Landry (likely India), Rhys (likely Hong Kong, but who knows?), probably others that I’ve missed, since the line between lead and supporting characters has grown blurred.

VOY had…*maybe* Annika Hansen from one of the Scandinavian countries. And that’s it. (And even she didn’t come until the fourth season.)

Chakotay, who was so “diverse” that they couldn’t name his tribal affiliation, doesn’t count; he was a Hollywood composite from nowhere (and alternatively implied he was born in Central America and Arizona, so who knows). The “diverse” captain was from…Indiana. “Farm country,” as she told us. Right next door to Kirk’s old stomping grounds, and not that different from wine country; only agrarian types make good captains, I guess. B’Elanna Torres was implied to be Mexican-American, not Mexican. Kim, whose actor now lectures us “every Star Trek series must have a Chinese character,” was clearly Korean-American, not Korean.

(Oh: and why? In Wang’s book, it’s OK not to have had a single Turkish, Indonesian, Argentine, or Congolese character in all of Star Trek, but we *must* have a Chinese main character in *every* series? By his standards, even Georgiou doesn’t qualify; she’s Straits Chinese. This is selective outrage at its finest.)

Then there were the little details. I can’t think of any VOY recurring or minor human characters who were non-American. In the other series, we had Khan Singh; engineer Singh (both in TOS and TNG); Xu (implied to be Chinese); Anaya (implied to be Bolivian); Admiral Komack (implied Iranian); Admiral Nechayeva (possibly Serbian or Croat); Fleet Admiral Shanti (West Africa); Rostov (Russian); Benayoun (possibly French, possibly Israeli).

I’ll also note that in-universe, VOY didn’t feature a single crew member from an unfamiliar Federation species. TOS gave us Vulcans, TNG Klingons and Bajorans (Ro was the first), DS9 Trill, ENT Denobulans and Andorians. VOY served slopppy seconds, warmed-over Klingons and Vulcans we’d seen before: an utterly disappointing lack of vision and creativity. The buffoonish Neelix (“Jetrel” excepted) and bland Kes (the implications of her short lifespan never examined) hardly counteracted this.

In short, VOY was easily the least multinational crew, and cast, in the history of Star Trek. (And VOY and ENT were filmed at the apex of post-Cold War globalization in the real world; TOS might have had an excuse for this, but VOY has none.) Say what you will about Gene Roddenberry, but he had a global perspective, no doubt from his military and Pan Am days, that Jeri Taylor absolutely did not. The VOY writers’ room hastily cobbled together a milquetoast set of characters (there was too much Trek on at once, and the lack of focus showed) and delivered lackluster storytelling for its first three seasons. To this day, its writers hide behind the one solid casting choice, Mulgrew, to deflect attention away from this weakness.

*I’m* the one triggered by diversity because I’m not a VOY fan? I must have the name of your occulist.

Oh, and all the above is before we get to the fact there wasn’t a single gay character on VOY. On a series that wrapped in 2001, not in the 1960s.

I read all of that above and as a Turkish person I agree with you about the need of Star Trek to have a Turkish crew member. If my memory doesn’t play tricks on me I think there was at least one Starfleet starship named after a Turkish historical figure but I’ll have to check Memory Alpha for that.

The obvious choice would be Sabiha Gokcen.

(Dollars to donuts Mr. “1950s on Youtube” above has zero clue who she is, at least not without consulting the Google.)

Ignoring the bit about Wang, but in terms of playing women with fortitude and strength, all four actresses did that. Torres and Kes may have gotten shortchanged at times, but the characters were strong women, haphazardly written.

I thought Roxann was wonderful in the series and as a director too. She went on to direct ten episodes of Enterprise. She broke ground for female directors of Star Trek. There aren’t a whole lot of them. They should be celebrated.

Whatever the merits of her acting on VOY, I’ve enjoyed her directorial work on THE AMERICANS, and she’s clearly vastly expanded herself in her post-Star Trek director career.

I don’t understand why the new Trek shows aren’t using her as a director. She always does very solid work with her directing, elevating the written material visually.

I find that weird as well. Maybe she is too busy directing other shows? No idea. But I’d like to see her name appear again on a new Star Trek episode(s)

Are you both ignoring the red elephant in the room?

Which is???

That the Discovery Team fired a black writer who used the N-word only as a quote in a story. If they are so sensitive about such things, why should they hire an AllLivesMatter hashtagger?

And if Dawson thinks it is decent to twitter anti-BLM, she would think Discovery is a show to her taste?

Come on have we really come to that time where what people post on twitter became more important than their talents and skills? This is probably a rhetorical question as everyone probably knows the answer. You know Odradek, you may have a point, I feel like this over-sensitivity was why Nick Meyer refused or didn’t work in Discovery after the 1st season.

A discovery actor? a couple of Ds9 actors? TOS? in a voyager Doc I would rather hear from the crew and cast of voyager rather than listening to people who was not involved talk about what voyager meant to them.

George Takei actually had a Captain Sulu episode so it is germane to the topic.

Yeah Voyager was the last tine Takei officially played Sulu as well. Hard to believe that was nearly 25 years ago now.

Andrew Robinson actually directed two episodes on VOY, which I only found out after I asked myself what he was doing there, so at least he has a connection to the show.

My personal guess is they included him (I don´t know how many other directors will be in the documentary) because Garak is so well known an loved as a character.

I would Like to buy the ds9 doc in europe…. Gut where

Same here, buddy…

I thought we weren’t supposed to share the trailers as it was backers only? I don’t get how this is exclisive content when it is distributed a week later to everyone.

What’s the point in a trailer that’s for backers only? The backers are already probably planning to watch the thing. They need to build up hype for general audiences.

I like the fact that they’re not putting the main cast up front. They usually tend to tell their small stories in such interviews, but its the backstage people who can talk about the meat and bones of the show. Color me interested.

Obviously it’s not that way but watching this made me feel like “those DS9 actors are always up for an interview huh, no matter how small the link might be”

Hopefully this is better than the ds9 documentary, where 1. Way too much Behr, he is annoying especially his cheesy sunglasses, and facial hair 2. It was odd to see them criticizing certain aspects of the show, for instance one case was in the use of gay characters. When they say that I think should remember the context that there were only three or four gay characters on TV when ds9 started and about 6 or 7 when ds9 ended.

Context like that needs to be remembered when they make comments about things.

But for a series that is part of a forward-thinking franchise that celebrates diversity, it was a black mark. I’m glad they did Rejoined, and little things like the rest of the crew not batting an eye over the idea of two women dating was appreciated, but this has always been an area where the franchise actually fell behind the curve.

There’s also a moment a lot of people overlook, in the episode “Rules of Acquisition”: before anyone knows that Pel is actually a woman– when everyone believes Pel to be a man– Dax says “it’s obvious hw you feel about [Quark]” meaning Pel’s romantic interest. This says that Dax found nothing odd about a Ferengi man’s attraction to another Ferengi man.

It’s a nice moment BECAUSE it doesn’t get highlighted, if you ask me.

Now it’s possible Dax saw it as no big deal because she is, essentially, a transgender species that does not prescribe to strictly heteronormative relationships, but I choose to believe that outside of Ferenginar– within the Federation– LGBTQ people are not seen as abnormal (and are perhaps even the norm, considering how many different alien races are members) in the 24th century.

There was a scene in Captain’s Holiday that seemed to me more progressiv, when I first saw it, than it really was. I saw it in dubbed version. When the Risean woman hits on Picard, Picard says his Horg’ahn for is his friend Riker. Now the woman assumes that Picard and Riker were lovers and because of the way Picard addressed Riker ln my language she would indicate that Riker is a man and she had to assume they were both gay. I expected the typical nervous ” no, no not that king of friend…” routine from Picard and was pleasently surprised when he was all non chalant about it. I thought :” How cool in the future no one cares about it orfeels the need to set the record straight if you are gay or not. I was a little disappointed after I saw the original version with no indication she thought Picard was gay.

I think you might be mistaken, because Picard very much does respond with the nervous “no, not that kind of friend” an even if you read it otherwise, the intent of the scene is clearly to make the audience laugh at a gay panic joke.

Actually, the woman says, “someone you love”, and Picard says, “I wouldn’t go that far”.

…which to be fair, was the point of “Rules of Acquisition” but the reaction of Dax was not meant to be a joke.

Star Trek should always be ahead of the curve when it comes to diversity. It is a shame that in this instance they were not.

To be honest, I found his self-criticism quite impressive. Believe me, Behr knew the context.

And why does it matter HOW MANY gay characters there were on TV in 1993 or 1998? The fact is, there were openly gay characters on mainstream TV as early as the 60s and 70s, in shows that discussed the issues facing LGBTQ people in a frank and serious way. Why Trek felt– even well into the 1990s– that they couldn’t include an open character, or make an existing character (like Garak) gay, is to me, an embarrassment to the franchise. Clearly Behr agreed, and I think that’s a GOOD thing.

I also felt that not using the Trill as a trans allegory, despite the VERY obvious parallels, to be a huge oversight (and one they finally followed through on in DSC) .

By the way, I find it rather odd that in the same paragraph as you hit back against the criticism of not representing LGBTQ characters, you mock the “annoying” sunglasses and facial hair of Behr; you seem to have some kind of inherent bias against people who are different.

I plan to get this on dvd just like I did the DS9 documentary and I sure hope they will do one for Enterprise

Movie Reviews

Tv/streaming, collections, great movies, chaz's journal, contributors, the journey.

Now streaming on:

In 2004, two years before the St. Andrews Agreement, I visited a friend in Belfast. Changes were already apparent, if you knew what to look for. A Starbucks had opened, an encouraging sign that corporations were no longer shying away from a war zone. There were still echoes everywhere of the decades-long strife that had shattered the community. I took a "black cab tour," and the guide pointed out a pub where a bomb had gone off in the past, adding, almost casually, "My girlfriend's Da got his leg blown off there." It was such a clear example of the multi-generational aspect to The Troubles, to any civil war really, how grief and loss are passed down.

When Martin McGuinness died this past March, the tone of the obituaries spoke to the complexity of his legacy. The headlines were mostly variations of: "From IRA Terrorist/Commander to Peacemaker." Or "From Sinn Féin Leader to First Deputy Minister." The comments sections seethed with arguments. This was a man who started out as a kid throwing rocks at British soldiers, who ended up shaking hands with Queen Elizabeth, a surreal moment if ever there was one, as well as sharing political power with long-time rabblerouser Reverend Ian Paisley (the man who heckled Pope John Paul II in 1988 with the immortal words: “I denounce you, Anti-Christ!"). Paisley and McGuinness actually did become if not friends then allies in their roles as First Minister and deputy First Minister of the new power-sharing government, post the 2006 St. Andrews Agreement.

"The Journey," directed by Nick Hamm , written by Colin Bateman , announces at the outset, "This story imagines that journey" ("that journey" being how Paisley and McGuinness decided to bury the hatchet). It's a weird sentence and I got tripped up on it initially. Since the film is filled with real-life people (Gerry Adams, Tony Blair, Bertie Ahern, etc.), and since it takes place at a real-life event (the St. Andrews peace talks), veering off into a pretend-universe where Paisley and McGuinness are trapped together via circumstances beyond their control and HAVE to get along ... is a simplified grade-school version of political realities. It's " The Odd Couple " with Irish accents. There's a naivete at work in the concept: If only these men could bond about football, their wives, their kids ... if only these staunch enemies could see one another as people, then maybe the Catholics and Protestants will join hands in love and harmony!

Did Ian Paisley ( Timothy Spall ) and Martin McGuinness ( Colm Meaney ), as the film shows, go on a bizarre little road trip where they were forced to listen, grow, change? Of course not. Unfortunately for the film, the real-life version of how these two mortal enemies became so close that they were referred to in the press as "The Chuckle Brothers" is way more interesting than the "imagined" version presented in the film.

According to the film's imagined universe, in the middle of the peace talks, Ian Paisley had to fly back to Belfast for his Golden Anniversary wedding celebration. Martin McGuinness insists on accompanying Paisley. Tony Blair ( Toby Stephens ) and M15 chief Harry Patterson (the late John Hurt ) are thrown into a panic. McGuinness and Paisley MUST have their emotional "breakthrough" during their hour-long car ride to the airport, otherwise there will never be peace in Northern Ireland. Their solution to this is to deck the car with hidden cameras, and provide the fake chauffeur with a Bluetooth (through which they whisper suggestions to get the two scowling adversaries talking). Patterson, Blair, and a taciturn Gerry Adams ( Ian Beattie ) watch the entire thing unfold over video monitors from a command post at St. Andrews, as though it's Mission Control in Houston.

Paisley sits in outraged silence for the first portion of the drive, while McGuinness tries to make conversation. Then a series of phony events—a detour through a forest, a run-in with a deer, a confrontation at a gas station—transforms the two men, and they finally start talking. McGuinness and Paisley argue over familiar territory: Bloody  Sunday , the Enniskillen bombing, the hunger strike. Their views are so diametrically opposed that they basically live in alternate realities. They have fights, which include cliched lines like: "You are so defensive!" "Alright, walk away, walk away, that's what you do!" The moments where McGuinness gets the icily reserved Paisley to crack a smile are sitcom-phony, at best, and it's made even more egregious by Tony Blair and Gerry Adams gasping with excitement from afar that the Emotional Healing has begun.

In 2016, Spall played, back-to-back, two inflammatory and despised real-life men, Holocaust denier David Irving in " Denial " and now Paisley. Spall did so, in both cases, without pleading for any sympathy for the characters, suggesting the striations of fragility, narrowness, and rigidity in these men's emotional makeup. In "Denial," he is vigorous, staunchly upright. In "The Journey" he is believably decrepit and frail. His hatred of the man in the car with him—and all that that man represents—is so believable that it makes his rock-hard refusal to open up to McGuinness' joking comments understandable. His voice is a dead ringer for Paisley's booming religious-harangue tones. (After the doomed Anglo-Irish Agreement in 1985, Paisley addressed a crowd of protesters in Belfast, screaming, famously, "Margaret Thatcher tells us that that [the Irish] Republic should have some say in our province. We say NEVER! NEVER! NEVER! NEVER." Paisley's gigantic voice thunders "Never" over and over again in a kind of incantatory rhetoric, and Spall does not shy away from the intimidating size of Paisley's voice.) Meaney has a thankless role, the McGuinness of "The Journey" being the guy who has to persist in warming up Paisley, almost like a Life Coach, using his charm and humor.

The final exchange between Paisley and McGuinness, when they shake hands, is the best, but by then it's far too late. The plot-manipulations and artificial events stage-managed by Mission Control back in St. Andrews all serve to diminish the peace talks, the importance of tough compromise, and the reality of what is actually required of politicians when they decide to sit down at a table such as that one.

Sheila O'Malley

Sheila O'Malley received a BFA in Theatre from the University of Rhode Island and a Master's in Acting from the Actors Studio MFA Program. Read her answers to our Movie Love Questionnaire here .

Now playing

Brian Tallerico

Kiss the Future

Collin souter.

Amelia’s Children

Simon abrams.

Arthur the King

The New Look

Nandini balial, film credits.

The Journey (2017)

Rated PG-13 for thematic elements including violent images and language.

Timothy Spall as Ian Paisley

Colm Meaney as Martin McGuinness

Freddie Highmore as Jack

Toby Stephens as Tony Blair

John Hurt as Harry Patterson

Catherine McCormack as Kate Elgar

Ian McElhinney as Rory O'Suaird

Ian Beattie as Gerry Adams

Barry Ward as Ian Paisley, Jr.

Mark Lambert as Bertie Ahern

Daniel Portman as Frank

• Colin Bateman

Cinematographer

• Greg Gardiner
• Stephen Warbeck

Latest blog posts

Enter Regina Taylor's Black Album Mixtape Contest

The 10 Best Movies Made for Under $50,000

Doug Liman Never Does Things the Easy Way

Trapped in the System: Julio Torres on Problemista

• What to Watch Again and Again
• Rooting for the Underdogs
• Four Stars from Roger Ebert
• Directed by Women
• 100% Approval on Rotten Tomatoes
• Movies About Letting Go
• Very Dark Heroes
• Great Very Long Movies
• The Best Movies of All Time
• Adventures Films
• Rainy Day Movies
• Funniest Movies
• The 200+ Best Feel-Good Movies Of All Time
• Must-Sees from Decades Past
• Best Biopics About Real People
• Revenge Flicks
• Chick Flicks

The 95+ Best Movies With Journey in the Title

How many movies with journey in the title can you name? This list ranks the best movies with journey in the name, whether they're documentaries, dramas, horror movies, or any other genre of film. Do you have a favorite movie with journey in the title? Categorizing movies by words in their titles is kind of uncommon, but that's a big part of why this list is so fun to scroll through. There's probably one movie with journey in the title you think of right away, but you might be shocked to see how many others exist as well.

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

A heartwarming tale about the unwavering loyalty of pets, this 1993 film follows two dogs and a cat as they embark on a treacherous journey across the American wilderness to reunite with their family. With perseverance, courage, and friendship, these furry heroes navigate various challenges and form an unbreakable bond. This timeless classic is guaranteed to tug at the heartstrings of viewers of all ages.

• # 22 of 112 on The Greatest Movie Remakes Of All Time
• # 80 of 187 on The 180+ Top Kids Movies
• # 33 of 200 on The 195+ Greatest Adventure Movies

Journey to the Center of the Earth

Brendan Fraser leads a thrilling expedition in this modern adaptation of Jules Verne's timeless classic. Alongside a dedicated group of explorers, they embark on a perilous descent into the Earth's core, encountering wondrous sights and dangerous obstacles along the way. A perfect blend of action, suspense, and adventure makes this film a must-watch.

• # 15 of 158 on The Best Movies of 2008
• # 20 of 32 on Blockbusters With No Cultural Impact Whatsoever, Ranked
• # 27 of 79 on The Best Adventure Movies For Kids

Journey 2: The Mysterious Island

Get ready for a rollicking adventure in this 2012 sequel to the 2008 film. Join a young adventurer, his stepfather, and a helicopter pilot as they set out to find an elusive island rumored to be home to buried treasure, fantastical creatures, and more. Packed with stunning visuals and heart-pounding action sequences, this movie will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

• # 36 of 45 on The 40+ Best Family Sci-Fi Movies
• # 28 of 56 on The 50+ Best PG Adventure Movies For Families
• # 5 of 37 on The Best Movies About Finding Lost Worlds

This classic adaptation of Jules Verne's beloved novel takes viewers on a thrilling adventure deep beneath the Earth's surface. Starring James Mason, Pat Boone, and Arlene Dahl, the film whisks audiences away to an underground world filled with exotic creatures and dazzling landscapes. A visual masterpiece and true testament to the power of imagination.

• # 6 of 51 on The Greatest Classic Sci-Fi Movies
• # 20 of 42 on The Best Science Fiction Family Movies
• # 22 of 22 on The Most Unlikely Cartoons Based on Live-Action Movies

This rendition of Jules Verne's iconic novel stars Rick Schroder and offers a fresh perspective on the perilous descent to the Earth's core. The explorers encounter exceptional wonders and formidable challenges as they forge on, keeping viewers captivated throughout. Daring adventure and captivating visuals make this film an unforgettable experience.

The Incredible Journey

Based on the novel by Sheila Burnford, this 1963 film follows the harrowing adventure of two dogs and a cat as they navigate the Canadian wilderness in search of their family. Their perseverance, courage, and friendship keep them determined to overcome every obstacle that comes their way. A truly inspiring story that showcases the unswerving loyalty of pets.

• # 46 of 101 on The 100+ Best Movies For 3-Year-Old Toddlers
• # 28 of 81 on The 75+ Best Live Action Animal Movies
• # 26 of 46 on The Best 1960s Family Movies

Long Day's Journey Into Night

This adaptation of Eugene O'Neill's Pulitzer Prize-winning play delves into the turbulent relationships within a deeply troubled family. With powerful performances and an emotionally raw script, the characters' pain and turmoil are felt throughout the film. A thought-provoking and ultimately heart-wrenching experience that showcases the complexities of familial bonds.

Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey

In this sequel to the cult classic Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure , our lovable slackers embark on a new comedic quest as they attempt to win the Battle of the Bands. This zany film is loaded with laughs, surreal situations, and even a few moments of wisdom. It's an excellent follow-up for fans of the original and newcomers alike.

• # 534 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 388 of 702 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 70 of 168 on The Best '90s Comedy Movies, Ranked

Set in the world of championship show choirs, this drama follows a talented young singer as she navigates the cutthroat world of high-stakes competition. Along the way, she learns the importance of friendship, teamwork, and finding her own voice. A powerful reminder that sometimes the journey is more important than the destination.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Though not a traditional movie, this highly immersive theme park attraction offers fans of the beloved series a chance to become a part of the magic. As riders venture through Hogwarts Castle and its enchanted grounds, they experience unique sights, sounds, and even magical creatures from the Harry Potter universe. For fans young and old, it's an unforgettable part of the Wizarding World experience.

Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons

This 2013 Chinese action-comedy film delivers a fresh take on the classic tale of the Monkey King and his journey to the west. With engaging characters, memorable fight sequences, and a healthy dose of humor, it's an entertaining blend of spectacle and heart. Fans of the original story and newcomers alike will find plenty to enjoy in this wildly imaginative film.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

The first installment of Peter Jackson's acclaimed Hobbit trilogy introduces viewers to the incredible world of Middle-earth. As the young hobbit Bilbo Baggins sets off on an epic quest alongside a band of dwarves and the wise wizard Gandalf, they encounter legendary creatures, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling battles. This captivating film serves as both a prelude to The Lord of the Rings and a stand-alone tale of adventure.

• # 14 of 14 on 14 Great Movies With One WTF Subplot
• # 5 of 7 on Every 'Lord of the Rings' Movie, Ranked By True Tolkienites
• # 4 of 15 on 15 Of The Best Movie Riddles We Rediscovered In 2023

The Journey to Kafiristan

Based on a true story , this 2001 film explores the fascinating journey of two women, one a writer and the other a scientist, as they travel to the mysterious region of Kafiristan in 1939. Along the way, they face challenges both physical and emotional, ultimately discovering the transformative power of culture and human connection. A captivating exploration of identity, destiny, and the power of self-discovery.

Razzle Dazzle: A Journey into Dance

This Australian mockumentary shines a comedic light on the eccentric world of competitive dance. With a quirky cast of characters, hilarious situations, and surprising twists, it exposes the fierce rivalries that exist even in such a seemingly innocent pastime. A laugh-out-loud comedy that will leave viewers thoroughly entertained.

Dark Journey

Set against the backdrop of World War I, this 1937 film stars Vivien Leigh and Conrad Veidt as two undercover agents who fall in love despite being on opposing sides. The suspenseful and emotional narrative keeps viewers engaged as they grapple with love, betrayal, and loyalty. A must-watch for fans of espionage thrillers and classic cinema.

Journey for Margaret

This heartwarming film set during World War II focuses on a war correspondent who finds solace by helping two orphaned children find a new home. The emotional journey that unfolds showcases the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope during trying times. An uplifting, poignant story that resonates across generations.

Desperate Journey

This World War II drama focuses on a group of Allied pilots who must navigate enemy territory after their plane is shot down. With cunning and teamwork, they battle against numerous threats while attempting to complete their mission. A classic war film packed with suspense and moments of triumph, it's sure to leave viewers inspired.

Gallant Journey

Chronicling the life and work of aviation pioneer John Montgomery, this 1946 biographical drama captures the spirit of innovation and determination that fueled his groundbreaking achievements. Filled with flying contraptions, daring feats, and human camaraderie, Gallant Journey is an inspiring tale of perseverance and achievement against all odds.

Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World

In this animated sequel to Disney's classic Pocahontas , our heroine sails across the Atlantic to negotiate peace between her people and the English settlers. As she adjusts to a new culture and faces powerful adversaries, Pocahontas comes to realize that her journey is far from over. The film offers a fresh perspective on a beloved character while continuing the themes of unity and understanding.

Long Day's Journey into Night is a 1987 movie adaptation of Eugene O'Neill's renowned play. The film revolves around the Tyrone family, who gather together in their summer home and confront their past regrets, addiction, and strained relationships. Notable cast members include Jack Lemmon as James Tyrone, Kevin Spacey as Jamie Tyrone, and Bethel Leslie as Mary Tyrone. This emotionally charged drama delves into themes of familial dysfunction, the destructive power of addiction, and the search for redemption, leaving a lasting impact on both the genre and pop culture.

Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey

This inspiring documentary takes viewers behind the scenes of one of the most iconic children's television programs, Sesame Street , as it chronicles the life and career of puppeteer Kevin Clash. From a young age, Clash's passion for puppetry led him on an incredible journey, culminating in his role as the beloved character, Elmo. The film offers a heartwarming look at the man behind the magic, demonstrating the power of dreams and determination.

Winter Journey

Based on the novel by George Clare, this poignant drama follows a Holocaust survivor's return to Europe to confront the ghosts of his past. In doing so, he must face his own guilt and learn to accept the love and support of those around him. A deeply moving exploration of grief, redemption, and the power of human connection.

Journey To The Christmas Star

In this Norwegian holiday film, a brave young girl sets out on a quest to find the legendary Christmas Star, believed to grant wishes. Along the way, she encounters magical creatures, treacherous landscapes, and a heartwarming tale of hope and love. A delightful family film that will enchant viewers during the holiday season.

Semper Fi: One Marine's Journey

This powerful documentary follows the struggles and triumphs of Jeff Key, a gay U.S. Marine who served in Iraq before deciding to take a stand against the military's discriminatory policies. Through personal interviews, footage from his experiences overseas, and his journey into activism, Semper Fi delivers a moving portrait of one man's fight for justice and acceptance.

The Desire: A Journey of a Women

An impactful portrayal of a woman's self-discovery, this Indian film delves into the life of a talented artist who embarks on a journey to find her true identity and desires. Along the way, she encounters challenges, both personal and professional, that ultimately shape her into a stronger and more self-aware individual. A thought-provoking and empowering tale that transcends cultural boundaries.

Metal: A Headbanger's Journey

This Canadian documentary offers an in-depth look at the fascinating world of heavy metal music and its diverse fan base. Through candid interviews, live performances, and insightful commentary, the film explores the history, subgenres, and cultural impact of this often misunderstood musical genre. A must-watch for metal enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

A Personal Journey with Martin Scorsese Through American Movies

Renowned filmmaker Martin Scorsese narrates this engrossing documentary that delves into the world of American cinema. Providing his own insights, Scorsese pays homage to the films and filmmakers that have shaped and inspired his illustrious career. A captivating exploration of the art, history, and impact of American movies - a treat for film aficionados.

Journey Beyond Three Seas

This historical drama from the Soviet Union recounts the adventures of a 15th-century Afanasy Nikitin, a Russian merchant who journeys to India. The film explores his encounters with different cultures, religions, and natural wonders as he navigates this unfamiliar land. A visually stunning and enlightening depiction of cross-cultural exploration.

Love's Long Journey

The third installment of the beloved Love Comes Softly series, this heartwarming tale follows a newlywed couple as they embark on a perilous journey to start a new life on the Western frontier. Filled with triumphs and setbacks, the film is a touching testament to the resilience of human spirit and the power of love and faith.

The Journey

Set during the height of the Cold War, this tense 1959 drama stars Yul Brynner and Deborah Kerr as an American couple caught up in a political kidnapping. As they navigate a web of danger and deception, the film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. A gripping exploration of love, loyalty, and human connection during turbulent times.

• Entertainment
• Watchworthy

Look: There are hundred of thousands of movies out there for you to watch. All we're saying is that these are the ones you should put at the top of your list.

• Dictionaries home
• American English
• Collocations
• German-English
• Grammar home
• Practical English Usage
• Learn & Practise Grammar (Beta)
• Word Lists home
• My Word Lists
• Recent additions
• Resources home
• Text Checker

Definition of journey noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• They went on a long train journey across India.
• to begin/continue/complete a journey
• Many refugees made the journey alone.
• Did you have a good journey?
• the outward/return journey
• We broke our journey (= stopped for a short time) in Madrid.
• (British English) Don't use the car for short journeys.
• It's a day's journey by car.
• The average journey time is about 50 minutes.
• on a journey She took her sister with her to keep her company on the journey.
• journey from… Devizes is a two-hour journey from London.
• journey to… It is unclear why he embarked on his final journey to Vienna.
• (British English) I'm afraid you've had a wasted journey (= you cannot do what you have come to do) .
• (informal) Bye! Safe journey! (= used when somebody is beginning a journey)
• a business trip
• a five-minute trip by taxi
• a long and difficult journey across the mountains
• a tour of Bavaria
• the first expedition to the South Pole
• We went on an all-day excursion to the island.
• The children were on a day’s outing from school.
• We had a day out at the beach.
• a(n) foreign/​overseas trip/​journey/​tour/​expedition
• a bus/​coach/​train/​rail trip/​journey/​tour
• to go on a(n) trip/​journey/​tour/​expedition/​excursion/​outing/​day out
• to set out/​off on a(n) trip/​journey/​tour/​expedition/​excursion
• to make a(n) trip/​journey/​tour/​expedition/​excursion
• destination
• measures to cut the number of car journeys into the city
• He is planning a journey through Europe this summer.
• People were crammed onto ships for the dangerous journey across the Atlantic.
• Dawn was breaking as we set out on the last leg of our journey.
• Few people have made this journey and lived to tell the tale.
• He made the emotional journey back to the house he grew up in.
• He wrote a column chronicling his journeys around the Americas.
• Her search took her on an incredible journey across the world.
• The bus driver told us where to change buses for our onward journey.
• The bus journey from London to Athens took 60 hours.
• The journey continued in silence.
• The journey takes about five hours.
• They continued their journey on foot.
• They doubted that he would survive the journey to the nearest hospital.
• They were on a journey to the Far East.
• This is the story of the first astronauts and their journey into the unknown.
• take (somebody)
• be tired after a journey
• be tired from a journey
• a leg of a journey

Join our community to access the latest language learning and assessment tips from Oxford University Press!

• I was excited by the character's journey in the film.
• journey (from something) (to something) The book describes a spiritual journey from despair to happiness.

Other results

• Long Day's Journey into Night

Nearby words

Definition of 'journey'

Video: pronunciation of journey

journey in British English

Journey in american english, examples of 'journey' in a sentence journey, cobuild collocations journey, trends of journey.

View usage for: All Years Last 10 years Last 50 years Last 100 years Last 300 years

Browse alphabetically journey

• journalistic objectivity
• journalling
• journey alone
• journey north
• journey of self-discovery
• All ENGLISH words that begin with 'J'

Related terms of journey

• bus journey
• car journey
• sea journey
• bumpy journey
• coach journey
• View more related words

Quick word challenge

Quiz Review

Score: 0 / 5

Wordle Helper

Scrabble Tools

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of journey in English

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio

journey noun [C] ( TRIP )

• She gave the children some sweets to chew on during the long car journey.
• The journey was quite quick because the road was clear .
• I expect you'd like to rest after your long journey.
• We did the journey to Wales in five hours .
• The train journey took us through a valley past rolling hills .
• break-journey
• circumnavigation

journey noun [C] ( EXPERIENCES )

• advance the cause
• advancement
• formatively
• from A to B idiom
• progressive
• progressively
• punctuated equilibrium

journey noun [C] ( BOOK )

• absorptive capacity
• acquisition
• hit the books idiom
• mug (something) up
• non-academic
• recognition
• subspecialty
• swot up (something)
• uncredentialed
• around Robin Hood's barn idiom
• communication
• super-commuting
• transoceanic
• well travelled

journey | American Dictionary

Examples of journey, collocations with journey.

These are words often used in combination with journey .

Click on a collocation to see more examples of it.

Translations of journey

Get a quick, free translation!

Word of the Day

something dangerous or serious, such as an accident, that happens suddenly or unexpectedly and needs fast action in order to avoid harmful results

Paying attention and listening intently: talking about concentration

Learn more with +Plus

• Recent and Recommended {{#preferredDictionaries}} {{name}} {{/preferredDictionaries}}
• Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English English Learner’s Dictionary Essential British English Essential American English
• Grammar and thesaurus Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English Grammar Thesaurus
• Pronunciation British and American pronunciations with audio English Pronunciation
• English–Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Simplified)–English
• English–Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Traditional)–English
• English–Dutch Dutch–English
• English–French French–English
• English–German German–English
• English–Indonesian Indonesian–English
• English–Italian Italian–English
• English–Japanese Japanese–English
• English–Norwegian Norwegian–English
• English–Polish Polish–English
• English–Portuguese Portuguese–English
• English–Spanish Spanish–English
• English–Swedish Swedish–English
• Dictionary +Plus Word Lists
• journey (TRIP)
• journey (EXPERIENCES)
• journey (BOOK)
• Collocations
• Translations
• All translations

Add journey to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.