This is the section of your movie where we see
“the promise of the
premise”
that’s the “poster”
of the movie and the best part. At this point, we put plot on hold
and explore the new world the hero has entered (the
Antithesis
World). We are less
concerned with what happens just now as we are with the
“fun” of seeing what this new world is. Here
we’ll find “set pieces” and “trailer
moments,” and the coolest part of all is... the “fun
and games” is your pitch for the movie when it comes time to
sell it!
But this term has also led to confusion.
What’s “fun” about the series of bodies found in
this section of many murder mysteries and slasher flicks?
What’s “fun” about Russell Crowe in
Gladiator being given up for dead and learning the ropes
of Spartacus-like combat? While not every Fun and Games
section is purely fun, it does offer us a cool way to troubleshoot
the problem of figuring out what the poster of your movie is, if
you don’t know. Why?
Because the Fun and Games is your
pitch!
No, the movie is not where it’s set.
It’s not its “meaning.” It’s not how the
hero is “called to action.” And it’s not the big
slam-bang Finale — even though all these are
vital.
It’s the Fun and Games. That’s your movie. And if your Fun
and Games section isn’t solid, or isn’t
delivering on your premise, now’s the time to find
out.
