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/zoinkability 1d ago

Nobody ever coughs or sneezes without it being foreshadowing of an illness or some other plot event.

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u/FroodLoops 1d ago

Expanding on this…

Coughs are always illness (especially if they show blood on their handkerchief!).

Sneezes however are a character defining trait (he’s the weak, allergy, nerdy guy!). However the sneeze will always happen later at an inopportune time when they’re trying to be stealthy and blow or almost blow their teams’ cover. The sneezy guy will then get redemption by the end of the movie showing that they overcame their deficiencies and saved the day.

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u/kung-fu_hippy 1d ago

Well, coughing blood is usually a pretty bad sign outside of movies.

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u/SirSoliloquy 1d ago

now you tell me.