A formulaic plot is a storyline that follows a predictable pattern or formula. It means that the plot is structured in a way that is commonly used and lacks originality or surprises. Full definition
Using a very basic formulaic plot of the misfits in school doing good for themselves (in as sanitized of a PG - 13 «Revenge of the Nerds» way it can), «The Internship» serves as a stepping stone from joke to joke and gag to gag. (fatguysatthemovies.com)
Unfortunately, it does suffer from a somewhat formulaic plot with a clearly mapped out finish. (parentpreviews.com)
Almost exclusively «Oscar bait» movies that appeal to the old rich white guys behind the academy of motion pictures, moving story, triumph against the odds, cliché cliché cliché, formulaic plot device, happy ending. (timeout.com)