The Formula of a Treatment (Part 2/2): Example Treatment for Forrest Gump (1994)

In Part 1, we explored why writing a structured treatment is essential before diving into your screenplay. We looked at the difference between a treatment and a synopsis, how long it should be, and how to build it using the three-act structure. I even gave you a simple math formula for treatment writing:

T = (S × 3A) + D

Treatment = (Story × Three-Act Structure) + Descriptive Detail

Now in Part 2, let’s bring that theory to life with a real-world example — a treatment breakdown of Forrest Gump (1994), one of the most beloved screenplays in modern cinema.

WHY FORREST GUMP?

✅ It follows a clear three-act structure

✅ It blends character-driven narrative with historical context

✅ The story is emotional, visual, and linear — perfect for a treatment example

✅ It shows how a simple character arc can carry a deeply complex story

SCREENPLAY COMPOSITION BEFORE TREATMENT

Before you write a treatment, remember to build your Screenplay Composition:

✅ Who is your protagonist?

✅ What is their goal or desire?

✅ What conflict do they face?

✅ What emotional arc do they go through?

✅ What happens in each act?

Let’s answer those for Forrest Gump:

Protagonist: Forrest Gump, a kind-hearted man with a low IQ but unwavering sincerity.

Goal: To live life fully, guided by love (especially for Jenny) and simple values.

Conflict: The world underestimates him; he faces loss, rejection, and war.

Emotional arc: From innocent observer to emotionally awakened man who understands love and loss.

Structure: A classic three-act story.

ACT I – SETUP 

Forrest Gump sits on a bench, waiting for a bus. He tells his life story to strangers, beginning with his childhood in Alabama. Despite having a low IQ, Forrest's mother ensures he gets an education and teaches him life lessons ("Life is like a box of chocolates..."). Forrest wears leg braces and is bullied but discovers he can run fast — a skill that shapes his future.

He meets Jenny, the girl who will define much of his emotional journey. Jenny is wild and troubled, but Forrest loves her deeply. Their connection is strong, even as they grow apart. Forrest goes to college on a football scholarship because of his running.

The act ends with Forrest accidentally enlisting in the army, headed for Vietnam.

ACT II – CONFRONTATION 

In Vietnam, Forrest meets Bubba, who introduces him to the idea of a shrimping business. They become close friends. Tragically, Bubba dies in battle, and Forrest saves several men, including his commanding officer, Lieutenant Dan.

After returning home a hero, Forrest starts a journey through several accidental successes. He becomes a ping-pong champion, invests in Apple, and starts a shrimp business to honor Bubba. Lieutenant Dan joins him, regaining hope and peace.

Despite his success, Forrest is still lonely. He reconnects with Jenny briefly, but she leaves again. Forrest keeps writing her letters.

This act is filled with Forrest's quiet endurance and his ability to do the right thing while life unfolds unpredictably around him. He never actively seeks fame or glory — he simply follows the values his mother gave him.

ACT III – RESOLUTION 

Jenny returns, finally ready to stay. She introduces Forrest to his son — also named Forrest. Forrest is stunned but overjoyed.

Jenny is ill (suggested to be HIV/AIDS), and Forrest marries her. Shortly after, she dies.

The film ends with Forrest sending his son to school, echoing the beginning of the film. Forrest now watches his child board the bus, a symbol of time passing, life continuing, and emotional maturity coming full circle.

Forrest, once the boy in leg braces, now stands as a father — wiser, heartbroken, but full of love.

WHY THIS TREATMENT WORKS

✅ It follows the three-act structure: clear setup, escalating conflict, and emotional resolution

✅ It uses present-tense prose to describe scenes cinematically

✅ It communicates the protagonist's journey with clarity

✅ It offers enough character and world detail to show how the story will translate to screen

✅ It avoids dialogue and instead focuses on emotional and visual storytelling

FINAL THOUGHTS

A strong treatment doesn’t just retell the plot — it reveals the heart of the story in a compelling and structured way. Writing it before your script helps you see what works and what’s missing.

Forrest Gump is a perfect example of how powerful structure and simple storytelling can come together to create something unforgettable.

Use the formula. Write your treatment. Find your clarity — before you write FADE IN.