Sometimes we learn more from our mistakes than our successes – that’s my story and I’m sticking to it this week! Narrative drive is an important storytelling principle to learn and this week’s movie is an example of poor story structure resulting in terrible narrative drive. A mystery writer should have control of the information. Valerie’s study of conflict triangles was more fruitful than my area of study this week. The conflict triangle is present and clear to see. -M
(The following summary was generated by AI.)
Unlocking the Secrets of Narrative Drive: A Deep Dive into “What Lies Beneath”
If you’re a writer striving to captivate your readers from the first page to the last, understanding narrative drive is essential. In our latest podcast episode, we dissect the 2000 film “What Lies Beneath,” directed by Robert Zemeckis and written by Clark Gregg, to explore how suspense and mystery can be effectively woven into your storytelling.
Narrative drive is the engine that propels a story forward, keeping readers hooked by creating curiosity and concern. In “What Lies Beneath,” we see a mix of red herrings, clues, and misdirections that initially seem to promise a gripping tale. The central dramatic question—will Claire find out who is haunting her?—sets the stage for a suspenseful journey. However, the film’s execution offers valuable lessons on what to do and what to avoid in your own writing.
One of the key takeaways from our analysis is the importance of managing information. As a writer, you control the flow of information, and this power can make or break your story. In “What Lies Beneath,” the filmmakers use a combination of suspense and mystery to engage the audience. For most of the first half, the audience knows only what Claire knows, creating a shared experience that enhances the suspense. However, the film also introduces several irrelevant misdirections and red herrings that can confuse and frustrate viewers.
For instance, the subplot involving Claire’s neighbors and their volatile relationship serves as a red herring that ultimately distracts from the main storyline. By the midpoint of the film, these red herrings are resolved, and the central dramatic question is answered, leaving the audience with a sense of anticlimax. This shift in focus highlights the importance of ensuring that all elements of your story are aligned with the central dramatic question.
Another crucial aspect of narrative drive is the emotional connection between the protagonist and the audience. In the case of “What Lies Beneath,” the first half of the film focuses heavily on creating curiosity through mystery, but it falls short in building a strong emotional connection with Claire. As writers, we must balance curiosity and concern to keep readers emotionally invested in the story.
We also delve into the concept of conflict triangles, which are essential for creating dynamic and engaging scenes. In “What Lies Beneath,” the main conflict triangle involves Claire, her husband Norman, and the ghost of Madison. Understanding the conflicting desires of these characters helps to create tension and drive the story forward.
By analyzing these elements, we aim to provide writers with practical insights and techniques to enhance their storytelling. Whether you’re crafting a novel, screenplay, or short story, mastering narrative drive can elevate your writing and keep your readers coming back for more.
Join us in this episode as we unpack the intricacies of narrative drive and learn how to apply these lessons to your own work. Happy writing!