Why Do Movie Titles Often Give Away the Plot or Ending?

Movie titles often spark curiosity, promising an intriguing journey that entices audiences to embark on a film’s storyline. However, there’s an interesting paradox in the way titles are crafted: while some choose to preserve the mystery, others intentionally reveal the plot, risking the potential for audience confusion. This article explores the reasoning behind such choices and examines the impact on the movie-going experience.

Intentional Plot Reveal: The Shawshank Redemption

One of the most celebrated examples of a film title that reveals more than it might initially seem is The Shawshank Redemption. The title doesn’t scream ‘prison drama’ or suggest a dark, mysterious plot. Instead, it presents an enigmatic title that hints at nothing of the narrative to come. This is perhaps why the title is so effective at maintaining the intrigue of the film. As viewers, we’re immediately curious to see how a man might spend his life in prison after being sentenced for a crime he did not commit.

Interestingly, the movie’s success in critics' and audiences' eyes often lies in its ability to surprise and move viewers. Despite the title’s simplicity, The Shawshank Redemption managed to gross over $72 million at the box office, showcasing the power of a well-crafted narrative over a misleading title. It’s a testament to how a film can transcend its title and stand on the merit of its storytelling.

Historical Context and Marketing:

In the past, when movies were distributed on VHS and other physical formats, the marketing strategies sometimes relied heavily on the synopsis on the back cover. These summaries often contained plot twists and important revelations that could significantly alter one’s perception of the film. In the days of VHS, the first two sentences of the synopsis frequently sufficed to give away the whole story, leading audiences to choose between viewing the film or moving on to another interest.

For example, consider the case of an 80s classic. The synopsis on the VHS cover would describe the detective’s journey, the twists, and even the ending, effectively ruining the experience for those who hadn’t seen the film. Often, the marketing strategy would be to read only a couple of sentences and make an informed decision. This practice became so common that it led to a partially effective marketing strategy: presenting a synopsis that was too revealing, causing potential viewers to lose interest prematurely.

columbo: The Plot Is Given Away, But the Journey Is Not

Mystery genres offer a unique challenge when it comes to titling films. In shows like Columbo, the storyline is built around the dilemma of uncovering the identity of the culprit. While viewers have a general idea of how the show will progress, the show's appeal lies in the method and the twists along the way. The plot is effectively given away in the knowing that the detective will solve the case, but the interest stems from the detailed examination of the clues and the psychological journey that unfolds. Each episode takes viewers through a meticulous investigation, revealing layers of complexity and ensuring that the outcome remains both surprising and satisfying.

Similarly, films with a known plot or ending don't necessarily dampen the impact of the story. For instance, in a thriller like Scream, the audience is aware that the final murder will be solved, but the tension comes from the way the murderer is outwitted by the protagonist. Understanding that the plot is ultimately solved doesn't detract from the thrilling experience of witnessing the journey toward that solution.

Conclusion

Though the debate over whether a movie title should reveal or obscure the plot continues, one thing is clear: a well-crafted title can pique interest, while an intentionally revealing title can also build anticipation through its simplicity. The success of titles like The Shawshank Redemption is a testament to the power of intrigue. Whether a title reveals the plot, as in the case of Columbo, or maintains a sense of mystery, as with The Shawshank Redemption, the key is to strike a balance between intrigue and clarity.

Ultimately, the choice of what to reveal in a movie title comes down to the storytelling and marketing strategy of the film. By understanding the impact of these choices, filmmakers can tailor their titles to better connect with their target audience and elevate the viewing experience.