The Trailing 'Bye' in Movies and TV: Why Hang Up Without Saying Goodbye?

In the fast-paced, hyper-realistic world of movies and television, every second counts. Every line, every knock, every gaze, and even the way characters hang up the phone matters. This brings us to a peculiar and often debated scene: why do characters in movies and TV shows frequently hang up the phone without saying their goodbyes? This practice, while seemingly annoying, is rooted in the principles of storytelling and the practicalities of production.

Principles of Storytelling

Robert McKee, one of the most celebrated writing teachers, emphasizes the importance of every element in a story, including the mundane ones like knocking on a door. In his book Story, he famously states that if a character were to knock on a door, the door answering politely is a 'dead beat.' This is because the scene lacks insight and imagination, offering nothing new or meaningful about the characters involved.

In the context of phone calls, the scenario is no different. If two characters are on the phone and one of them hangs up without saying goodbye, this too is often seen as a 'dead beat' because it could be construed as routine or trivial. However, it is a strategic choice that serves a purpose in the narrative, which is to maintain a cinematic and narrative pace. When a character says 'goodbye' or 'bye,' it often seems like an expected and mundane line, sucking the energy out of the scene.

Practical Considerations in Filmmaking

The decision to have characters hang up without saying goodbye can also be attributed to the practicalities of filmmaking. Think about it: in an actual, real-world conversation over the phone, how many times do people actually say goodbye? Not many, as that's a polite courtesy that is often unwritten, especially in fast-paced, professional environments. In the world of movies and TV, every line has to be carefully selected and scrutinized for its impact on the story and the characters' development.

Furthermore, having characters say goodbye requires memorizing and rehearsing lines. Yet, this additional line also risks being edited out if it doesn't fit into the flow of the scene or if it moves the story forward in a way that is not as compelling or dramatic. This can pose a significant challenge for the actors, especially during on-set improvisation, where the lines are often fluid and spontaneous.

Character and Scene Impact

The method of hanging up without saying goodbye can serve to make the characters seem more sophisticated and professional, which adds depth to their personalities. For instance, the character hanging up without saying goodbye could be portrayed as dismissive, busy, or even indifferent, reflecting their work ethics or personality traits. Conversely, a character who says goodbye can look more considerate and empathetic. However, these nuanced portrayals are often achieved through other actions and dialogue rather than the trite goodbye line.

Another reason for this practice is the pacing of the story. If a character says goodbye, it gives the audience a sense of resolution that might have a detrimental impact on the film's overall rhythm. Maintaining a pace through unobtrusive line delivery keeps the audience engaged and entertained, contributing to a more satisfying viewing experience.

Conclusion

So, why do characters in movies and TV shows frequently hang up the phone without saying goodbye? It's a strategic storytelling choice that balances the need for character development, practical filmmaking logistics, and narrative pacing. This nod to the art of omission and implication can enrich the storytelling and enhance the viewing experience, much like the unspoken bonds and silent dialogues in complex narratives.

The next time you watch a movie or TV show, pay attention to how much characters say goodbye. You may be surprised at how infrequently they do it, and how that omission enriches the story.