Why the First Part of a Movie Often Stands Above the Second

Why is it that the initial segment of a movie frequently leaves a more profound impact on viewers than its subsequent parts? This phenomenon can be attributed to a combination of human psychology, narrative structure, and the ambitions of filmmakers. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons behind this common situation and provide some counterexamples to challenge this generalization.

Psychological and Narrative Factors

When a movie reaches its first climax, the director and main cast may feel satisfied and may not exert the same level of effort in the second half. Actors and actresses might also have other projects lined up. While not true in every case, this pattern occurs in many films.

This phenomenon is particularly noticeable in the following examples:

Batman: The Dark Knight - The second movie in the Batman trilogy, this film captivated audiences with its intense narrative and insightful character development. Interestingly, the first installment Batman Begins set the stage and formed the foundation for this follow-up, making the second part a natural continuation.

Captain America: Civil War - The second Captain America film further enriches the character's story, diving deep into his role and impact. While Civil War stands on its own, it ultimately provides a richer context to the narrative that began in The Winter Soldier.

Avengers: Endgame - This monumental film was designed as a finale to a decade-long story arc. While it successfully ties up numerous plot threads, many fans and critics argue that the bulk of this movie’s impact came from the earlier entries in the franchise.

Three Act Structure in Storytelling

Stories often follow a three-act structure. This narrative pattern involves posing a problem, complicating the problem, and resolving it. When a film excels in its first act, it sets up an engaging and intriguing story that captivates the audience. However, many scripts struggle with the middle act.

Consider an average screenplay of 120 pages. The opening act might take up only about 25 to 30 pages, while the resolution also requires about 25 pages. That leaves a hefty 70-page section in the middle, often referred to as the "slump." This part requires intense focus and creativity to bridge the setup and the resolution, making it incredibly challenging to maintain the audience's interest.

Professional writers often receive significant compensation for mastering the middle act. This section is where the real storytelling magic happens, as it transitions from the initial setup to the climactic resolution. Therefore, a well-executed first act, followed by a sprawling second act that might falter, is a common pattern in many films.

Conclusion: The First Act as the Keen Storytelling Core

In conclusion, the first part of a movie often stands above the second due to the complexities involved in narrative structure. While there are exceptions, the first part sets the stage, establishes the core of the story, and engages the audience, making it more impactful than the subsequent parts that might struggle with narrative cohesion. However, this is not a blanket rule, and there are many films where the second part or even the third part of the series bring unexpected depth and impact.