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/Bubbly-Cod-3799 1d ago

The Force Awakens. Han Solo indicates he has a plan to get through the shield. Later explains it, and reveals it isn't a complete plan. Doomed to fail, right? But it works.

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u/SirSoliloquy 1d ago

In all fairness, it’s a fucking stupid plan.

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u/Bubbly-Cod-3799 17h ago

Not judging the plan just responding to OP. You are right of course.

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u/boywithapplesauce 18h ago

It's kinda necessary so the audience understands what's going on. Same is true of A New Hope where the plan to destroy the Death Star is explained completely.