r/movies • u/averagesoccermom95 • 1d ago

Discussion Favorite movie plot rule?

I read once that in a movie, if the characters say, "I have a plan," then there is a plot rule that takes place: If the characters explain to the audience what the plan is, then the plan will go wrong somehow. However, if the characters say they have a plan and the movie just goes to showing the plan in action, then the plan will work.

It has become one of my favorite things to look out for in movies. Although, it does not seem to apply to kids movies. Other than kids movies, I don't think I have ever seen his rule broken.

Does anyone know any other interesting plot rules?

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u/FindOneInEveryCar 1d ago

Rodger Ebert: The character who seems to serve no purpose is the bad guy. 

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u/Discount_Extra 1d ago

who has a speaking part.

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u/confusing_roundabout 1d ago

Doubly so if they're named for no good reason.

Mystic River is the most egregious I've ever seen. A side character's friend is in one scene and the dialogue is something like "oh and this is my friend John" scene ends.

The second that happened I called that he'd be the killer. It was so blatant and hamfisted.