The only problem is if you work in too many subplots then none of them have time to be developed appropriately. That’s when you start whipping in subplots to fill out your script. Usually, around 45-60 pages and then your story will run out of steam. The main plot will only get you so many pages in a script. Meandering subplots will slow the pace of your script to a crawl.An unfocused subplot will muddy your script.If a subplot doesn’t have meaning to your script, then cut it.Alternatively, a subplot can be the antithesis of your theme as a cautionary tale.A subplot should reflect or support the theme of your script.It will leave your script feeling muddied and confused. If you have a subplot that doesn’t do either of these, then throw it out. However, as the antithesis, your subplot can also show the dreaded results that lie in wait for our central character should they fail during their journey. By supporting the theme, it shows what our central character is trying to achieve and what they are fighting for. It’s what you are trying to say through the screenplay.Ī proper subplot should either support this theme or be the antithesis of it. When writing a script, the theme is the meaning of your story. MORE: 15 Reasons Your Story Sucks 2) Your subplot doesn’t ‘fit’ the story Make sure the subplot forces your supporting character to evolve past their internal and external conflicts.The supporting character needs to have a complete arc in their subplot.Avoid using subplots merely for big action moments, comedic beats, glory kills, or dazzling special effects.Subplots are the supporting characters own “mini hero’s journey.”.A subplot plot must reveal new and interesting aspects of the character’s personality.The supporting character should emerge from this subplot changed, both internally and externally. If your supporting characters do not meet a challenge and their mettle is not adequately tested, then this subplot has failed. Remember, a supporting character is on their own little hero’s journey as well. If the sole reason is just to create a “spectacle,” then your subplot has failed. This can be lots of fun but not if our supporting character doesn’t actually grow and change throughout this subplot. Hijinks abound during this subplot with big action scenes and the occasional comedy relief. Unfortunately, subplots can be used as the “side adventure” for a supporting character. Let’s look at a few hazards to avoid when using a subplot. Great subplots allow you to bring meat to your script, flush out your storyline, and reveal new aspects of your central and supporting character’s personality.Īll too often subplots are under-utilised or go way off the rails. They are the secret to making a truly compelling screenplay and can be the lifeblood of your act two. So, what is a subplot?Ī subplot is a secondary storyline which runs parallel to the main story. But misusing them can also be its downfall. 2).Subplots are key to making a killer script. a secondary or subordinate plot, as in a play, novel, or other literary work underplot. a subdivision of an experimental plot of land … New Collegiate Dictionary a subordinate plot in fiction or drama 2. Subplot - /ˈsʌbplɒt/ (say subplot) noun a secondary plot in a play, novel, etc., as distinct from the main plot. Subplot - sub|plot n a ↑plot (=set of events) that is connected with but less important than the main plot in a story, play etc ▪ the novel s romantic subplot … Dictionary of contemporary English b) A subdivision of a plot of land, especially one… … Wiktionary Subplot, a story line enclosed within the principal story to provide relief from the main plots tension, add character dimension, etc. Subplot - noun a) A plot within a story, subsidiary to the main plot. Subplot - A subplot, sometimes referred to as a B story or a C story and so on, is a secondary plot strand that is auxiliary to the main plot.Subplots may connect to main plots, in either time and place or in thematic significance. a secondary plot in a play, novel, etc … English World dictionary
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