week 8

How do films with multiple protagonist work?
Their progress toward a goal follows the same 4 part template. In some cases the protagonist have the exact same goal while in others the plot lines don't influence each other. The multiple plot lines may fit the 4 part mold but there is usually one or 2 main characters that are prominent in the film.

Tightening the Plot:
Thompson derives plot from the "ups and downs of character goals."
Fields uses, "spin the action in a new direction" or turning points.
The "dangling cause" leaves a scene with unresolved issues.
The "dialog hook", a line that connects to the next scene in an action heard or seen.
Appointments and deadlines like the ticking clock makes things seem urgent or impossible and helps the plot line.
A repeated object or line of dialog foreshadowing the plot in a film adds to the overall cohesiveness of a film.
Motifs are woven into the plot at different times to add tightness of texture to the film or they can become a signal for something to happen.

Classical narration can address the viewer in a very self conscious manner. It can be used to sharpen the suspence. The overtness can be obvious such as when someone winks at you in the film to share a secret. Or less self conscious as when the credits roll. Credits can be overt also appealing in their own right.