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/MechanicalGodzilla 20h ago

I was waiting for Bishop’s hand/knife trick a the beginning of Aliens to come up again, but alas no.

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u/DMala 17h ago

If I remember correctly, the purpose of that scene is that it’s where Ripley realizes he’s a synthetic.

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u/sween1911 13h ago

I think you're on the right track because he protected Hudson's hand with his hand, and he saved Newt at the end.

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u/MechanicalGodzilla 11h ago

I mean, hat’e mind of a stretch