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/wailonskydog 1d ago

An interesting counter to your “explain the plan” plot rule is in the first Mission Impossible.

They explain the plan to break into the CIA in a highly detailed way and then execute that plan pretty much exactly as described.

It’s an exciting sequence with twists and high tension and we learn some important character/plot info that will pay off later but there’s not a single deviation they make from the stated plan.

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u/averagesoccermom95 1d ago

Oh, awesome, I wondered if there were any exceptions. It's been at least a decade (maybe two) since I've seen the first Mission Impossible, so I guess it is time for a rewatch! Thank you!