The Movie Story Checklist: If it’s missing these, we’re out!
If you’ve ever wondered what separates a great film story from a snoozefest, then you’ll have a good time reading this.
So, you’re watching a movie, popcorn in hand, ready for a cinematic masterpiece. The lights dim, the film starts rolling, and… 30 minutes in, you’re already checking your phone. Why?
Because the story just isn’t gripping enough. We’ve all been there, excited for a film, only to find ourselves zoning out halfway through.
But what separates the unforgettable movies from the ones we instantly regret wasting two hours on? It all comes down to storytelling.
A great film isn’t just about flashy explosions, big-name actors, or a billion-dollar budget. It’s about making us care, keeping us hooked, and leaving us with something to think about long after the credits roll.
A well-crafted story can turn a simple idea into a cultural phenomenon, while a weak one can sink even the most visually stunning blockbuster.
So, what exactly makes a film’s story go from ‘meh’ to ‘masterpiece’? Let’s break it down.
1. A Killer Hook
Every great film starts with an idea that instantly grabs your attention. Whether it’s a mind-bending concept like Us, a unique setting like Severance, or an intriguing mystery like Knives Out, the hook is what makes you lean in and say, “Okay, I’m interested.”
2. Characters you actually care about
If the characters are dull, the story won’t matter. A great protagonist should be relatable, flawed, and someone you want to root for (or against).
Think of how we love Iron Man, even though he’s a bit of a jerk, or how Walter White in Breaking Bad keeps us hooked despite making terrible choices. Give us characters with depth, not cardboard cutouts.
3. Conflict, conflict, and more conflict
A great story thrives on tension. If everything goes smoothly for the characters, what’s the point? Whether it’s survival, internal struggles, or just an absolute disaster, conflict is what keeps the audience engaged. The bigger the stakes, the more we care.
4. A strong emotional core
Even the most action-packed films need heart. The best stories make us feel something: joy, sadness, anger, or even existential dread.
Why does Toy Story 3 make grown adults cry? Because it’s about growing up, letting go, and moving on. If a film makes us connect emotionally, it’s done its job well.
5. A satisfying (or at least thought-provoking) ending
Nothing ruins a good movie like a weak ending. A good story should either tie up loose ends in a satisfying way or leave you with something to think about.
A bad ending? That’s like getting a delicious burger but realising there’s no bottom bun, just messy and disappointing.
6. Pacing that doesn’t feel like a snail race (or a sprint to the finish)
Ever watched a movie that felt like it dragged on forever? Or one that wrapped up so fast you barely processed what happened? A well-paced story knows when to slow down for emotional beats and when to speed up for excitement.
7. Unexpected twists and turns
A good story isn’t just predictable. Sure, we love a classic hero’s journey, but give us surprises! Think about how The Sixth Sense pulled the rug out from under us or how Parasite flipped genres halfway through. A well-placed twist can make a movie unforgettable.
8. Good dialogue (that doesn’t sound like a robot wrote it)
Ever cringed at a line of dialogue that felt like no human would ever say it? Great dialogue feels natural, serves the story, and makes characters come alive. Quentin Tarantino, Aaron Sorkin, and the Coen Brothers are masters of this art.
Curtain falls
A great story isn’t just about flashy effects or famous actors, it’s about making us care, keeping us invested, and leaving us with something memorable.
The best films don’t just entertain; they stay with us long after the credits roll.
And hey, if you ever decide to write a screenplay, just remember: make us care, keep us guessing, and please, give it a decent ending!
ALSO READ: This is why you should indulge in some film time more often
