These are some rules of storytelling by the famous movie production company Pixar:
#1: You admire a character for trying more than for their successes.
#2: You gotta keep in mind what’s interesting to you as an audience, not what’s fun to do as a writer. They can be v. different.
#3: Trying for theme is important, but you won’t see what the story is actually about til you’re at the end of it. Now rewrite.
#4: Once upon a time there was ___. Every day, ___. One day ___. Because of that, ___. Because of that, ___. Until finally ___.
#5: Simplify. Focus. Combine characters. Hop over detours. You’ll feel like you’re losing valuable stuff but it sets you free.
#6: What is your character good at, comfortable with? Throw the polar opposite at them. Challenge them. How do they deal?
#7: Come up with your ending before you figure out your middle. Seriously. Endings are hard, get yours working up front.
#8: Finish your story, let go even if it’s not perfect. In an ideal world you have both, but move on. Do better next time.
#9: When you’re stuck, make a list of what WOULDN’T happen next. Lots of times the material to get you unstuck will show up.
#10: Pull apart the stories you like. What you like in them is a part of you; you’ve got to recognize it before you can use it.
#11: Putting it on paper lets you start fixing it. If it stays in your head, a perfect idea, you’ll never share it with anyone.
#12: Discount the 1st thing that comes to mind. And the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th – get the obvious out of the way. Surprise yourself.
#13: Give your characters opinions. Passive/malleable might seem likable to you as you write, but it’s poison to the audience.
#14: Why must you tell THIS story? What’s the belief burning within you that your story feeds off of? That’s the heart of it.
#15: If you were your character, in this situation, how would you feel? Honesty lends credibility to unbelievable situations.
#16: What are the stakes? Give us reason to root for the character. What happens if they don’t succeed? Stack the odds against.
#17: No work is ever wasted. If it’s not working, let go and move on - it’ll come back around to be useful later.
#18: You have to know yourself: the difference between doing your best & fussing. Story is testing, not refining.
#19: Coincidences to get characters into trouble are great; coincidences to get them out of it are cheating.
#20: Exercise: take the building blocks of a movie you dislike. How d’you rearrange them into what you DO like?
#21: You gotta identify with your situation/characters, can’t just write ‘cool’. What would make YOU act that way?
#22: What’s the essence of your story? Most economical telling of it? If you know that, you can build out from there.
Positive Aspects
The title "The 22 Rules of Storytelling by Pixar" immediately captures attention by associating with Pixar's renowned storytelling prowess. It's succinct and indicates a structured guide, appealing to both aspiring writers and Pixar enthusiasts. The content is rich with practical advice, each rule offering a unique angle on crafting compelling narratives. The list format makes it easy to digest and reference, while the varied rules cover a broad spectrum of storytelling elements, from character development to plot structure.
Key Takeaways
- Character Depth Over Success: Characters are more relatable and admired for their efforts and struggles rather than their achievements.
- Audience Engagement: Keep the audience's interest at the forefront, distinguishing it from the writer's personal enjoyment.
- Streamlined Storytelling: Simplification and focus are crucial; combining elements and cutting detours can enhance the story's clarity.
- Challenge and Surprise: Challenge characters with their opposites and avoid the obvious to create engaging and unexpected narratives.
- Emotional Core: Identify the heart of the story and the stakes involved, ensuring there's a strong reason for the audience to care.
Additional Insights
Pixar's storytelling rules emphasize an understanding of both the audience and the characters. It's like being both a psychologist and a director—understanding motives, emotions, and the human condition while crafting a cinematic experience. One might recall Pixar's "Inside Out," where the inner workings of emotions are personified, illustrating these rules in action. The blend of personal connection and imaginative scenarios creates a tapestry that resonates with audiences, making storytelling not just an art but an experience.
