Why the Worst Movies Misfire and Fizzle

When I taught screenwriting, a common challenge was breaking down films to understand their core components. This often led to intriguing discussions on the difference between story and plot. While plot refers to the sequence of events that unfold in a movie, the story is the central message or theme that permeates these events. For aspiring filmmakers, grasping this distinction is crucial to crafting compelling narratives. However, not all films succeed in this regard, as evidenced by controversial entries like Pod People.

Pod People: A Case Study in Plot Confusion

Pod People, a film I screened during class, offers a stark example of a movie that fails to find cohesion in its plot. The film begins silently with an alien being chased and killed by a mob. This opening scene introduces a scenario with no direct connection to the remainder of the movie, making it all but clear that the plot is disjointed.

The movie then jumps to a different story: a meteorite hits Earth, releasing a radioactive red substance in a cave. Two aliens, one benignly named Trunky and the malevolent Evil Trunky, appear. Trunky hides in a room, using his trunk to suck up peanuts. Evil Trunky, with eyes that switch to high beams, causes people to disappear and kills two egg hunters. This sequence introduces the film's antagonists but provides no clear narrative thread to follow.

The film proceeds to introduce a group of young musicians who decide to go to a cabin in the woods to rehearse and party. However, as these characters become involved in the plot, nothing from the beginning scenes feels connected. The characters' deaths and the alien threat serve as disconnected plot points without a unifying story.

The Importance of Story in Screenwriting

These fragmented elements highlight the crucial role of story in understanding a film's purpose. A well-told story should provide a framework within which all events and characters play a role. In Pod People, no one could answer the question, "What is this a story about?" This lack of a coherent story detracts from the film's ability to engage and captivate its audience.

As we delved into the film's scenes, we attempted to articulate the story. Unfortunately, even after 25 minutes, no one had a clear idea of what the film was trying to convey. This prolonged period of uncertainty underscores the importance of having a well-defined story from the outset of filmmaking.

The Case of Snow Falling on Cedars

A similar case can be made for the film adaptation of Snow Falling on Cedars, which also struggled to find coherence. Based on the novel by David Guterson, the movie failed to capture the essence of the story, leading to a lackluster performance at the box office. When we analyzed the film, participants found it equally challenging to articulate a clear narrative.

It's not uncommon for adaptations to struggle in this regard. The screenplay often fails to capture the novel's depth and nuance, which can lead to a disjointed or incoherent final product.

The Role of Coherence in Filmmaking

Both Pod People and Snow Falling on Cedars serve as cautionary tales about the importance of maintaining coherence in the story. Coherence is vital because it provides a structure for the audience to follow and a reason to stay invested in the film's narrative. Without this narrative backbone, a movie can fall flat, losing its impact and failing to resonate with viewers.

As a screenwriter, it's imperative to keep the story at the forefront. The plot should serve the story, not the other way around. This means carefully crafting each scene to contribute to the overall narrative. Every character action, every piece of dialogue, and every visual cue should support the story's message and themes. When this alignment is achieved, the film has a strong foundation from which to draw its audience's attention.

For aspiring filmmakers, understanding and applying this principle is crucial. By focusing on the story rather than merely the events, you can create a more engaging and meaningful film that resonates with its audience long after the credits roll. Remember, a good story is the backbone of a great movie, and without it, even the most exciting plot may fail to deliver the desired impact.