5.5 Subplot development
9 min read•august 21, 2024
Subplots are the secret sauce of great TV writing. They add depth, complexity, and richness to the main storyline, keeping viewers hooked and invested in the characters. From parallel plots to intersecting narratives, subplots serve multiple functions in enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Understanding different subplot types and their integration techniques is crucial for crafting engaging scripts. Whether it's developing character arcs, controlling pacing, or reinforcing themes, mastering subplots elevates TV writing from amateur to professional level. Let's dive into the world of subplot development and learn how to create compelling secondary narratives.
Types of subplots
- Subplots enrich TV narratives by adding depth and complexity to the main storyline
- Understanding different subplot types helps writers craft more engaging and multifaceted scripts
- Effective use of subplots distinguishes professional-level TV writing from amateur efforts
Main vs secondary subplots
Top images from around the web for Main vs secondary subplots
UJ005: Figure 2.3 | Plot points on a story arc. The User's J… | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Story arcs beyond TV [Thinking] View original
Is this image relevant?
UJ005: Figure 2.3 | Plot points on a story arc. The User's J… | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Story arcs beyond TV [Thinking] View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 2
Top images from around the web for Main vs secondary subplots
UJ005: Figure 2.3 | Plot points on a story arc. The User's J… | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Story arcs beyond TV [Thinking] View original
Is this image relevant?
UJ005: Figure 2.3 | Plot points on a story arc. The User's J… | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Story arcs beyond TV [Thinking] View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 2
- Main subplots closely relate to the primary storyline and significantly impact the overall narrative
- Secondary subplots provide additional layers of interest without directly affecting the main plot
- Main subplots often involve major characters (love interest of the protagonist)
- Secondary subplots frequently focus on supporting characters or minor conflicts (office rivalry)
- Balance between main and secondary subplots depends on the show's format and episode length
Parallel vs intersecting subplots
- Parallel subplots run alongside the main plot without directly interacting (character's personal life)
- Intersecting subplots eventually converge with the main storyline, influencing its outcome
- Parallel subplots offer contrast or commentary on the main plot themes
- Intersecting subplots create unexpected twists and increase narrative complexity
- Writers use both types to maintain viewer interest and create multi-episode story arcs
Character-driven vs plot-driven subplots
- Character-driven subplots focus on personal growth, relationships, or internal conflicts
- Plot-driven subplots emphasize external events, obstacles, or mysteries
- Character-driven subplots deepen audience connection with specific characters
- Plot-driven subplots often introduce new story elements or complications
- Balancing both types creates a well-rounded viewing experience
Functions of subplots
- Subplots serve multiple purposes in TV writing, enhancing the overall viewing experience
- Effective use of subplots distinguishes professional scripts from amateur efforts
- Understanding subplot functions helps writers create more engaging and layered narratives
Enhancing character depth
- Reveal hidden aspects of characters' personalities or backgrounds
- Provide opportunities for character growth outside the main storyline
- Showcase characters in different contexts or relationships
- Explore characters' motivations, fears, and desires in greater detail
- Create relatable moments that resonate with the audience (workplace struggles)
Pacing and tension control
- Break up intense main plot sequences with lighter or contrasting subplot scenes
- Build suspense by alternating between main plot and subplot developments
- Use subplots to control the overall rhythm and flow of an episode
- Create mini-cliffhangers within subplots to maintain viewer engagement
- Provide emotional breathers or comic relief through subplot interactions
Thematic reinforcement
- Echo or contrast main plot themes in subplot storylines
- Explore different facets of the show's central message or moral dilemma
- Use subplots to present alternative perspectives on the main conflict
- Reinforce the show's overall tone and atmosphere through subplot choices
- Create thematic unity across multiple storylines and character arcs
World-building opportunities
- Introduce new locations, characters, or cultural elements through subplots
- Expand the show's universe beyond the confines of the main storyline
- Provide context for the larger world in which the main plot takes place
- Explore societal issues or historical events relevant to the show's setting
- Set up future storylines or spin-off possibilities through world-building subplots
Subplot integration techniques
- Skillful integration of subplots into the main narrative is crucial for cohesive storytelling
- Effective subplot integration techniques enhance the overall viewing experience
- Mastering these techniques elevates the quality of TV scripts and series
Interweaving with main plot
- Establish clear connections between subplot events and main plot developments
- Use subplot revelations to influence characters' decisions in the main storyline
- Create moments of convergence where subplots directly impact the primary conflict
- Develop parallel themes or situations in subplots that mirror the main plot
- Utilize subplots to foreshadow or set up key events in the main narrative
Subplot pacing strategies
- Alternate between main plot and subplot scenes to maintain narrative momentum
- Introduce subplots gradually, allowing them to build over multiple episodes
- Align subplot climaxes with lulls in the main plot to maintain consistent tension
- Use subplots to fill gaps or downtime in the main storyline
- Vary the pacing of different subplots to create a dynamic viewing experience
Balancing multiple subplots
- Prioritize subplots based on their relevance to the main story and character arcs
- Limit the number of active subplots to avoid overwhelming the audience
- Ensure each subplot receives adequate screen time for development and
- Create interconnections between different subplots to enhance narrative cohesion
- Rotate focus on different subplots across episodes to maintain viewer interest
Character arcs in subplots
- Subplots provide valuable opportunities for character development and growth
- Well-crafted character arcs in subplots enhance the overall depth of the TV series
- Understanding how to utilize subplots for character development is essential for TV writers
Supporting character development
- Give secondary characters their own storylines to flesh out their personalities
- Use subplots to explore supporting characters' backstories and motivations
- Create opportunities for supporting characters to face challenges and grow
- Develop relationships between supporting characters through shared subplots
- Showcase hidden talents or unexpected sides of supporting characters
Protagonist growth through subplots
- Challenge the protagonist with personal conflicts separate from the main plot
- Explore the protagonist's vulnerabilities or flaws through subplot interactions
- Provide opportunities for the protagonist to learn valuable lessons
- Use subplots to test the protagonist's values or beliefs
- Develop the protagonist's relationships with other characters through subplots
Antagonist complexity via subplots
- Humanize antagonists by giving them relatable subplot storylines
- Explore the motivations and of antagonists through dedicated subplots
- Show different sides of antagonists in their personal or professional lives
- Create moral ambiguity by presenting antagonists in sympathetic subplot situations
- Use subplots to reveal the vulnerabilities or internal conflicts of antagonists
Subplot structure
- Effective subplot structure mirrors the main plot's narrative arc on a smaller scale
- Understanding subplot structure helps writers create compelling and satisfying secondary storylines
- Proper structuring of subplots ensures they contribute meaningfully to the overall narrative
Introduction and setup
- Introduce subplot elements early in the episode or story arc
- Establish clear goals or conflicts for the characters involved in the subplot
- Create intrigue or curiosity about the subplot's potential developments
- Connect the subplot to existing characters or situations in the main storyline
- Provide enough context for viewers to understand the subplot's significance
Development and complications
- Escalate the stakes or challenges within the subplot as the story progresses
- Introduce unexpected twists or obstacles to maintain viewer interest
- Deepen character relationships or conflicts through subplot interactions
- Reveal new information or insights that affect the characters' motivations
- Create moments of tension or suspense within the subplot narrative
Resolution and payoff
- Bring the subplot to a satisfying conclusion that ties into the overall story
- Resolve the central conflict or question posed by the subplot
- Demonstrate character growth or change resulting from subplot experiences
- Provide closure for subplot relationships or storylines
- Connect the subplot resolution to themes or events in the main plot
Common subplot pitfalls
- Awareness of common subplot mistakes helps TV writers avoid weakening their scripts
- Recognizing and addressing these pitfalls improves the overall quality of the narrative
- Understanding subplot pitfalls is crucial for creating engaging and cohesive TV episodes
Irrelevance to main story
- Subplots that fail to connect thematically or narratively to the main plot
- Introducing characters or situations that don't impact the primary storyline
- Spending too much time on subplots that don't advance the overall narrative
- Creating subplots that feel disconnected from the show's central premise
- Failing to integrate subplot resolutions into the main story's conclusion
Overshadowing the primary plot
- Allowing subplots to become more interesting or engaging than the main storyline
- Dedicating too much screen time to subplot development at the expense of the main plot
- Creating subplot conflicts that feel more urgent or important than the primary conflict
- Resolving subplots in a more satisfying way than the main plot
- Introducing too many subplots, diluting focus on the central narrative
Lack of resolution
- Abandoning subplots without providing closure or payoff
- Failing to address questions or conflicts raised in subplots
- Leaving subplot character arcs incomplete or unresolved
- Introducing subplot elements that don't contribute to the overall story
- Forgetting to connect subplot resolutions to the main narrative themes
Subplot in different TV formats
- Different TV formats require unique approaches to subplot development and integration
- Understanding how subplots function in various formats is essential for versatile TV writing
- Adapting subplot strategies to specific TV genres enhances the overall viewing experience
Subplots in procedurals
- Focus on case-of-the-week storylines with ongoing character development subplots
- Use personal life subplots to humanize detectives or professionals
- Incorporate departmental politics or career advancement subplots
- Develop romantic or friendship subplots between recurring characters
- Create season-long mystery subplots that complement individual episode cases
Subplots in serialized dramas
- Develop complex, multi-episode subplot arcs that interweave with the main storyline
- Use subplots to explore secondary characters' backstories and motivations
- Create subplots that gradually reveal key information about the central mystery
- Incorporate relationship subplots that evolve over the course of the series
- Develop subplots that explore the wider world or context of the main narrative
Subplots in sitcoms
- Create humorous B-plots that contrast with or complement the main storyline
- Develop recurring gags or situations as ongoing subplots
- Use subplots to showcase different character pairings and dynamics
- Incorporate workplace or family subplots that provide additional comedic opportunities
- Create subplots that explore characters' quirks or personal challenges
Writing techniques for subplots
- Mastering specific writing techniques enhances the quality and impact of subplots in TV scripts
- Effective subplot writing techniques contribute to a more engaging and layered narrative
- Understanding these techniques is crucial for aspiring TV writers to elevate their craft
Foreshadowing and plant/payoff
- Introduce subtle hints or clues in subplots that pay off later in the main story
- Use subplot events to set up future plot developments or character revelations
- Create recurring motifs or symbols within subplots that gain significance over time
- Plant seemingly insignificant details in subplots that become crucial to the main plot
- Develop subplot character traits or skills that become important in climactic moments
Subplot dialogue strategies
- Use dialogue in subplots to reveal character backstories or motivations
- Create distinct speech patterns or vocabulary for subplot-specific characters
- Incorporate and double meanings in subplot conversations
- Use subplot dialogue to provide exposition or world-building information
- Develop running jokes or catchphrases within subplot interactions
Visual storytelling in subplots
- Use visual cues or symbols to connect subplots to the main narrative
- Employ distinct color palettes or lighting for different subplots
- Create visual parallels between subplot and main plot scenes
- Use background details or set design to enhance subplot storytelling
- Incorporate visual motifs that evolve throughout the subplot's progression
Subplot analysis in popular TV shows
- Studying successful subplot implementation in popular shows provides valuable insights for TV writers
- Analyzing subplot trends across different series helps identify effective storytelling techniques
- Understanding how subplots contribute to a show's success is crucial for aspiring TV writers
Case studies of effective subplots
- Examine the "Barney's search for his father" subplot in ""
- Analyze the "Pam and Jim's romance" subplot in ""
- Explore the "Walter White's cancer diagnosis" subplot in ""
- Study the "Arya's assassin training" subplot in ""
- Investigate the "Eleven's origins" subplot in ""
Evolution of subplots across seasons
- Trace the development of long-running subplots throughout a series
- Analyze how subplots adapt to changing main plot dynamics
- Examine how character relationships in subplots evolve over multiple seasons
- Study the transformation of minor subplots into major storylines
- Investigate how writers maintain subplot continuity across season breaks
Impact on overall series narrative
- Evaluate how subplots contribute to the thematic depth of a series
- Analyze the role of subplots in maintaining viewer engagement between episodes
- Examine how subplots enhance character development and audience connection
- Study the use of subplots to expand the show's universe and mythology
- Investigate how subplots contribute to a series' rewatchability and fan theories
Key Terms to Review (22)
Backstory: Backstory refers to the history and background of a character or a narrative that provides context for their motivations, actions, and relationships within the story. This information can enrich the audience's understanding of characters and their interactions, influencing how they perceive the plot and its development.
Breaking bad: Breaking Bad refers to the narrative transition of a character from a morally upright individual to one who engages in illegal or unethical behavior, often resulting in severe consequences. This term encapsulates the complex character arcs and moral dilemmas faced by individuals, highlighting how circumstances can drive someone to embrace a darker path, particularly in serialized storytelling that emphasizes long-term character development and conflict.
Callback: A callback is a comedic device that refers to a moment, line, or situation introduced earlier in a script that is referenced later for humorous effect. This technique helps create continuity and layers of humor throughout a script by reminding the audience of a previous joke or situation, making the payoff stronger. Callbacks can also enhance character development and reinforce themes within a narrative.
Character Arc: A character arc is the transformation or inner journey of a character throughout a story, reflecting their growth, change, or decline as they face conflicts and challenges. This evolution is crucial in engaging audiences, as it helps develop the emotional depth of characters and the narrative itself.
Climax: The climax is the point in a story where tension reaches its highest peak, leading to a turning point in the narrative. It is a crucial moment that determines the outcome of the plot and resolves the central conflict, connecting directly to character arcs and themes. The climax often serves as the emotional and dramatic high point of the narrative, influencing how the story unfolds in subsequent events.
Comic relief subplot: A comic relief subplot is a secondary storyline within a narrative that introduces humor and light-hearted moments, often contrasting with the main serious plot. This element serves to alleviate tension and provide audiences with a break from the dramatic or intense scenes, enhancing overall emotional engagement by balancing heavier themes with comedic elements.
External Conflict: External conflict refers to the struggle between a character and an outside force, such as another character, society, nature, or a situation. It creates tension and drives the narrative forward by presenting obstacles that characters must confront. This type of conflict plays a crucial role in developing the plot and can significantly influence character development and audience engagement.
Foreshadowing: Foreshadowing is a narrative device used to give hints or clues about events that will occur later in the story. This technique builds anticipation and prepares the audience for future developments, enhancing their engagement and emotional investment in the narrative.
Game of Thrones: Game of Thrones is a fantasy television series based on George R.R. Martin's series of novels, A Song of Ice and Fire. The show is renowned for its complex ensemble cast, intricate plotlines, and deep subplots that intertwine the fates of multiple characters in a medieval-inspired world, while also presenting unique challenges in adapting the detailed source material for the screen.
How I Met Your Mother: 'How I Met Your Mother' is a popular sitcom that aired from 2005 to 2014, centering around Ted Mosby as he recounts to his children the story of how he met their mother. The series is notable for its ensemble cast and intricate subplot development, weaving together various character arcs and relationships that explore themes of love, friendship, and the journey to find happiness in life.
Inciting Incident: An inciting incident is a pivotal event that sets the story in motion, introducing the main conflict that propels the characters into action. It acts as a catalyst for change, altering the protagonist's world and prompting them to embark on their journey, ultimately influencing the structure and progression of the narrative.
Internal conflict: Internal conflict refers to the psychological struggle within a character, where they grapple with competing desires, beliefs, or emotions. This internal turmoil is crucial for character development and can drive the narrative by influencing decisions and actions that propel the story forward. It's often represented through a character's thoughts and feelings, revealing their vulnerabilities and complexities.
Motif: A motif is a recurring element, theme, or idea that has symbolic significance in a narrative. It serves to reinforce the central themes and messages of the story, creating connections between various plot points and character arcs. Motifs can manifest as repeated phrases, images, sounds, or symbols and play a crucial role in shaping the audience's understanding of the narrative and its subplots.
Pacing issues: Pacing issues refer to the rhythm and flow of a narrative, specifically how quickly or slowly events unfold in a story. Proper pacing is crucial for maintaining audience engagement, ensuring that scenes feel appropriately timed and contribute to the overall tension and development of both primary and secondary plots.
Parallel storytelling: Parallel storytelling is a narrative technique where two or more storylines are told simultaneously, often intersecting or mirroring each other in themes or character development. This technique allows for deeper exploration of characters and plot, as well as highlighting contrasts and connections between different narratives, enhancing the overall impact of the story.
Resolution: Resolution refers to the part of a story where the conflicts are resolved, and the plot reaches a conclusion. It’s a crucial element that ties together all the threads of the narrative, providing closure for both the audience and the characters involved. A strong resolution can also reflect character growth and emotional arcs, making it a vital component in various storytelling structures.
Romantic subplot: A romantic subplot is a secondary storyline that involves a romantic relationship between characters in a narrative, complementing and enhancing the main plot. These subplots often add emotional depth, character development, and thematic richness to the overall story, engaging the audience on multiple levels and creating tension or conflict that may impact the main storyline.
Stranger Things: Stranger Things is a popular Netflix series that combines elements of supernatural horror, science fiction, and nostalgia for the 1980s. It features a diverse group of characters, often working together to confront various otherworldly threats, which showcases the dynamics of ensemble casts. The show also weaves in subplots that deepen character development and relationships while integrating social media into its marketing strategy, creating a vibrant fan community.
Subtext: Subtext refers to the underlying meaning or themes that exist beneath the surface of dialogue and action in a narrative. It adds depth to character interactions and storytelling, allowing audiences to grasp the true intentions, emotions, and conflicts that may not be explicitly stated.
The Office: The Office is a mockumentary-style sitcom that revolves around the everyday lives of employees working at a mundane office. Its unique format combines humor with relatable workplace dynamics, character-driven storylines, and a strong ensemble cast, making it a standout in the genre and influencing future shows.
Thematic resonance: Thematic resonance refers to the way certain themes in a narrative echo or reinforce each other, creating a deeper emotional and intellectual connection for the audience. It occurs when the subplots and main plot of a story align with shared themes, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative. This interplay helps viewers relate to the characters and situations on multiple levels, enriching their experience and understanding of the story.
Tonal dissonance: Tonal dissonance refers to a clash or conflict between different tonal elements within a narrative, often creating an unsettling or jarring effect. This concept can arise when subplots introduce themes, moods, or tones that contradict the primary storyline, leading to a disjointed viewing experience. By incorporating tonal dissonance thoughtfully, writers can enhance emotional complexity, challenge audience expectations, and deepen character development.