Subverting expectations

Definition

Subverting expectations refers to the narrative technique of surprising the audience by delivering outcomes that differ significantly from what they anticipate. This approach often plays with established conventions and tropes, creating a more engaging and unpredictable experience that challenges viewers' assumptions about how a story should unfold.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subverting expectations can lead to heightened emotional engagement, as audiences are often more invested in stories that take unexpected turns.
2. This technique can be effectively used across various genres, from horror to comedy, allowing creators to redefine the boundaries of storytelling.
3. When done well, subverting expectations enhances the depth of characters and themes, making narratives richer and more thought-provoking.
4. A successful subversion may create a lasting impact on the audience, prompting them to reflect on their preconceived notions about the genre or story.
5. However, if expectations are subverted poorly or without adequate setup, it can lead to confusion or dissatisfaction among viewers.

Review Questions

• How does subverting expectations enhance the viewer's experience in a narrative?
  • Subverting expectations enhances the viewer's experience by introducing surprise elements that keep them engaged and invested in the story. When audiences encounter twists or outcomes they did not foresee, it creates a sense of excitement and unpredictability. This technique also encourages viewers to question their assumptions about character motivations and plot developments, deepening their connection to the narrative.
• Discuss the potential risks involved in subverting expectations within a story's structure.
  • The potential risks of subverting expectations include alienating the audience if the twist feels forced or unearned. If viewers feel that there wasn't enough foreshadowing or context leading up to the surprise, it can result in confusion or disappointment. Additionally, constantly trying to subvert expectations without a coherent narrative can undermine character development and thematic resonance, leaving audiences unsatisfied.
• Evaluate how subverting expectations might influence genre conventions and audience reception in film.
  • Subverting expectations can significantly influence genre conventions by challenging established norms and refreshing audience perceptions. When a film diverges from typical plot trajectories or character arcs, it encourages viewers to reconsider what is possible within that genre. This shift can lead to new trends in filmmaking, as audiences increasingly seek innovative storytelling methods. Ultimately, films that effectively subvert expectations often gain critical acclaim and foster discussions about storytelling techniques, leaving a lasting mark on both creators and viewers.

Related terms

Tropes: Commonly recurring themes or devices in storytelling that can become predictable over time, often serving as shortcuts for conveying meaning.

Foreshadowing: A literary device that hints at future events in a story, which can be used to either support or contradict audience expectations.

Plot twist: An unexpected development in a narrative that changes the direction of the story, often surprising the audience and altering their understanding of previous events.