In this video, we’ll explore how my Plotting Roadmap can be a game-changer for authors, filmmakers, and screenwriters.
I explain the basics of the roadmap and how it works to ensure your storyline is cohesive while striking the perfect balance between simplicity and complexity. I also introduce the concept of TRDs—plot twists, reversals, and moments of heightened danger. Finally, I explain how varying these elements controls the rhythm of your storytelling, whether in films, plays, or even memoirs.
Discover the power of the unexpected and tell gripping stories—whether written or visual—that readers won’t be able to look away from with the help of Jane’s Plotting Roadmap!
Jane Cleland here.
Does Jane’s Plotting Roadmap work for film, for filmmakers, screenwriters? And the answer is yes.
Jane’s Plotting Roadmap starts at the beginning of the story and gets to the end. That’s the main highway. There are two secondary roads as well: your subplots, two subplots. Generally, that’s what you want. Fewer than that, overly simplistic. More than that, confusing.
One of the subplots should relate to the nonfiction element of your movie in this case. The other, an interpersonal relationship. They all weave together and come together at the end to reach one satisfying conclusion.
I have what I call TRDs. A TRD is a plot twist, a plot reversal, or a moment of heightened danger. They all are under the broad umbrella of plot twists. A plot twist, as I’m using the term, is something that’s unexpected but not the opposite. A reversal? Unexpected and the opposite. And a moment of heightened danger could be physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual.
The more you have, the faster the pace. The fewer you have, the more leisurely the pace. There’s no right or wrong, but it has to do with the story you want to tell.
Can you see how this applies equally to films, to plays, and to movies? In my book, “Mastering Suspense Structure and Plot,” one of the case studies was a memoir because I wanted to show how you need the unexpected in order to propel your story forward.
And that’s true in film, it’s true in memoir, it’s true. It’s just a truism. And I think it’ll work beautifully for you.
I’d love to hear about your experience. Put it in the comment section. And any other questions, I’m delighted to hear about those as well.
And if this tip had value for you, would you like it, would you share it, would you subscribe to the channel? It helps us open up features that makes these videos even more valuable for you.
Thank you.
*Transcripts are software-generated. To report any transcription errors, please use my contact form!
