A List of Screenwriting Rules and How to Break Them

A List of Screenwriting Rules

1. Three-Act Structure

• Rule: A screenplay should have a clear beginning (setup), middle (confrontation), and end (resolution).
• How to Break It: Experiment withnon-linear storytelling, multiple timelines, or focus on character studies that might not have a traditional plot arc.
• Example:Pulp Fiction (1994)—Tarantino famously shuffles the timeline, presenting the story in a non-linear fashion.

2. Show, Don't Tell

• Rule: Use visuals and action to convey information, rather than relying on exposition or internal monologues.
• How to Break It: When done sparingly and strategically, internal monologues or voiceovers can offer unique insights into a character's mind or enhance thematic elements.
• Example:Goodfellas (1990)—Henry Hill's voiceover narration guides us through the story, providing context and his personal perspective. He tells us right away, he's always wanted to be a gangster.

3. Avoid Deus Ex Machina

• Rule: Don't resolve a conflict through an improbable or contrived plot device.
• How to Break It: If a deus ex machina is used with self-awareness, it can be humorous or even a commentary on storytelling itself.
• Example:Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)—The abrupt ending with the modern-day police is a deliberate and hilarious use of a deus ex machina. Or even in Apocalypto, the arrival of Europeans at the end feels inevitable, and is a good summation of the themes.

4. Every Scene Should Have Conflict

• Rule: Each scene should move the story forward by presenting an obstacle, challenge, or tension.
• How to Break It: Sometimes, quiet moments of reflection or connection can be just as powerful as conflict-driven scenes, especially in character-driven stories.
• Example:Before Sunrise (1995)—Much of the film is two characters simply walking and talking, but the emotional stakes and growing connection create a compelling narrative. And you;re falling in love along with them, so you want to conversation to keep going.

5. Don't Overuse Dialogue

• Rule: Film is a visual medium. Use dialogue sparingly and let actions and visuals carry the story.
• How to Break It: Dialogue-heavy films can work if the conversations are witty, insightful, or thematically relevant to the story.
• Example:The Social Network (2010)—The rapid-fire dialogue is a hallmark of Aaron Sorkin's style, and it perfectly captures the energy and intelligence of the characters.

6. Maintain a Consistent Tone

• Rule: The overall mood and style of your screenplay should remain consistent throughout.
• How to Break It: Shifts in tone can be jarring but effective if they serve a purpose, such as reflecting a character's changing circumstances or to subvert expectations.
• Example:Parasite (2019)—The film masterfully transitions from dark comedy to thriller, enhancing the impact of the social commentary.

• Rule: Characters should have a strong desire (goal) and a compelling reason (motivation) for pursuing it. This drives their actions and creates conflict.
• How to Break It: Characters without clear goals can be enigmatic or represent a specific theme. They can be driven by impulse or existential questions, adding depth to the narrative.
• Example:Lost in Translation (2003)—Bob and Charlotte wander through Tokyo without clear objectives, but their shared sense of isolation and longing creates a powerful emotional connection.

8. Plant and Payoff

• Rule: Introduce information or objects early in the story (plant) that become significant later (payoff), creating a sense of interconnectedness and surprise.
• How to Break It: I honestly think this is the one rule you should follow all the time. I have no idea how anyone has "broken" this one, but if you do, let me know.

9. Limit the Number of Main Characters

• Rule: Focus on a few well-developed characters rather than a large ensemble to avoid confusing the audience or diluting the emotional impact.
• How to Break It: Ensemble casts can work if each character has a distinct arc and contributes to the overall story. Strong relationships and interactions can create a rich tapestry of personalities.
• Example:Love Actually (2003)—This romantic comedy interweaves multiple love stories, each with its own set of characters, exploring different facets of love and relationships.

10. Start Late, Leave Early

• Rule: Jump into the action quickly (start late) and end the story before it drags on (finish early). This keeps the pacing tight and the audience engaged.
• How to Break It: Slow-burn stories can be captivating if they build tension and atmosphere effectively. Epilogues or extended endings can offer closure or explore the aftermath of events.
• Example:The Godfather (1972)—The film begins at the start of a wedding, a relatively early entry point into the story. But this extra time allows for a quick establishment of characters and relationships before delving into the complex family drama.