Uncover Hidden Information with These Fictional Devices

Uncover Hidden Information with These Fictional Devices

Have you ever read a book or watched a movie and wondered how the characters got the information they needed to solve a mystery? Sometimes, the answer lies in the fictional devices used by the author or director. These devices can provide valuable insights into the plot and characters while also entertaining the audience.

The MacGuffin

One of the most famous fictional devices is the MacGuffin. This is an object, idea, or goal that drives the plot forward but has little intrinsic value. In other words, it’s something that the characters want or need but doesn’t matter to the audience. The classic example of a MacGuffin is the Maltese Falcon from the Dashiell Hammett novel and subsequent movie. The characters are all after the statue, but the audience doesn’t care about it – we’re more interested in the chase.

The Red Herring

In contrast to the MacGuffin, the Red Herring is a false clue that leads the characters and audience astray. The purpose of the Red Herring is to create suspense and uncertainty and keep the mystery going. It can be a character, an object, or a piece of information that seems significant but turns out to be a dead end. The classic example of a Red Herring is the character of Arthur Leigh Allen in the movie Zodiac. The audience is led to believe he’s the killer, but it turns out he isn’t.

The Unreliable Narrator

The Unreliable Narrator is a character or voice in a story that can’t be trusted to tell the truth. This technique is often used to add complexity and ambiguity to the plot and to force the audience to question their assumptions. The Unreliable Narrator can be intentional or unintentional – they may be lying, mistaken, or simply deluded. One example of an Unreliable Narrator is the character of Nick Carraway in The Great Gatsby. He tells the story from his perspective, but his own biases and prejudices color his account.

The Twist Ending

Finally, the Twist Ending is a surprise revelation or resolution that upends the audience’s expectations. The Twist Ending often involves a major plot twist or character reveal that changes the meaning of the story. It can be controversial and divisive, as some audiences may feel cheated or misled. One example of a Twist Ending is M. Night Shyamalan’s movie The Sixth Sense. The audience is led to believe one thing throughout the movie, but the twist at the end changes everything.

Conclusion

Fictional devices can be powerful tools for writers and filmmakers to create suspense, surprise, and meaning in their stories. Whether it’s the MacGuffin, the Red Herring, the Unreliable Narrator, or the Twist Ending, these devices can add depth and complexity to the plot and characters. By uncovering the hidden information in these devices, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling.