Quite often, stories that don’t work have more to teach us than the stories that do. Maybe Maria Semple’s novel (upon which this film is based), is simply one that’s challenging to adapt to the screen. Whatever the case, this move has missed the mark on some basic storytelling principles (it has too many backstory info dumps, a Deus Ex Machina, and weak narrative drive). If you want to understand the impact these things have on a story, and on the reader/viewer, this episode is for you! – V.
(The following summary was generated by AI.)
Unlocking the Secrets of Storytelling: A Deep Dive into ‘Where’d You Go, Bernadette’
As writers, we are constantly on the lookout for ways to improve our craft. One of the most effective methods is to analyze existing stories, understanding what works and what doesn’t. In our latest podcast episode, we took a closer look at the film adaptation of ‘Where’d You Go, Bernadette,’ directed by Richard Linklater and based on the novel by Maria Semple. Spoiler alert: The film offers a masterclass in what not to do with exposition and character development.
The story centers around Bernadette, an architect who has lost her creative spark and becomes a recluse. While the premise is intriguing, the film’s execution leaves much to be desired. One of the primary issues we discussed is the film’s disjointed point of view. The narrative jumps between multiple characters, including Bernadette, her husband, and her daughter Bea, which makes it challenging to connect emotionally with any of them. This fragmented storytelling approach keeps the audience at arm’s length, preventing us from truly empathizing with Bernadette.
Another significant flaw in the film is its over-reliance on exposition. Exposition is a necessary storytelling tool, but when overused, it can bog down the narrative and alienate the audience. ‘Where’d You Go, Bernadette’ is rife with exposition that adds little to the story and consumes precious screen time. For writers, this serves as a cautionary tale: Be mindful of how and when you use exposition in your work. It should serve to advance the plot or deepen character development, not merely fill gaps.
One of the most critical lessons we can take from this film is the importance of narrative drive. The story lacks tension and urgency, often resolving conflicts as soon as they arise. This lack of narrative drive makes it difficult for viewers to stay engaged. As writers, we must ensure that our stories maintain a sense of momentum, keeping readers invested in the outcome.
We also touched on the introduction of minor characters. In ‘Where’d You Go, Bernadette,’ two significant minor characters are introduced very late in the film, disrupting the narrative flow. For effective storytelling, it’s crucial to introduce all significant characters in the first half of your story, allowing the audience to become familiar with them and understand their roles in the plot.
Despite its flaws, the film does offer some valuable insights, particularly in its portrayal of female characters and their struggles. Bernadette’s journey, while not perfectly executed, highlights the challenges women face in balancing career, family, and personal fulfillment. However, the film’s failure to make her a relatable and empathetic character undermines its potential impact.
In conclusion, ‘Where’d You Go, Bernadette’ provides a wealth of lessons for writers. By understanding its shortcomings in point of view, exposition, narrative drive, and character introduction, we can avoid these pitfalls in our own work. Tune in to our latest podcast episode for a more in-depth analysis and actionable writing tips. Happy writing!