How some films use genre elements to hook audiences, evolving into character dramas. Analysis of HUSTLERS, PIG, and POWER OF THE DOG. Discussion on inciting incidents, themes, and more. Exploring emotional depth, family dynamics, and genre transformations in films.
Films like 'Hustlers' use genre elements to lure audiences, transitioning into character-driven dramas.
'Pig' subverts revenge thriller expectations, focusing on themes of healing, forgiveness, and personal growth.
'Pig' challenges conventional storytelling by blending murder film elements with character exploration and thematic resonance.
'Power of the Dog' skillfully uses visual and narrative techniques to transition from Western genre to psychological drama.
'Pig' grounds outlandish plot points in strong character moments, showcasing the power of combining unexpected genre elements with well-developed characters.
'Power of the Dog' impresses with cinematic artistry, creating atmospheric tension and exploring themes of self-loathing and power dynamics.
Deep dives
Shift in Genre Expectations - Hustlers
The podcast initially sets the tone for a genre exploration focusing on drama in genre clothing. The discussion centers on films like 'Hustlers,' following characters in a crime backdrop. The narrative seemingly promises a traditional revenge thriller with elements of a heist film. However, as the plot unfolds, it transitions into a character-driven drama. Key scenes, like the one in a fine dining restaurant where emotional connections are highlighted, reveal a deeper exploration of relationships and grief, subverting the initial genre expectations.
Closure and Emotional Resolution - Pig
In 'Pig,' the revenge thriller setup creates a strong foundation. The protagonist's quest to recover his beloved pig initially follows a typical vengeance narrative. However, the film takes unexpected turns, steering towards closure and emotional resolution. Moments like Rob's poignant meal preparation for the villain and the final confession scene emphasize themes of grief and forgiveness, ultimately leading to a profound sense of closure and personal growth for the characters.
Revenge Expectations and Character Development - Pig
'Pig' skillfully plays with revenge genre conventions, maintaining tension and anticipation for violent encounters. Despite the setup for vengeance, the protagonist's character arc evolves from a potential violent path to one rooted in compassion and connection. The film subverts traditional revenge plots by prioritizing themes of healing, acceptance, and human connection over anticipated violent resolutions.
Genre Subversion Through Character Connection - Pig
'Pig' effectively subverts genre expectations by using the revenge thriller premise as a springboard for profound character exploration. The protagonist's journey from seeking vengeance to seeking closure and emotional resolution showcases a nuanced approach to storytelling. Through interpersonal connections, emotional depth, and unexpected plot developments, 'Pig' transcends traditional genre boundaries, delivering a compelling narrative centered on human connection and personal growth.
The Intricacies of Genre
Power of the Dog skillfully lures viewers with Western genre elements, only to subvert expectations by transitioning into a psychological drama. The initial genre trappings set up a promise that is ultimately resolved in a more character-driven narrative.
Character-Centric Storytelling
Pig stands out for grounding seemingly outlandish plot points within strong character moments and themes. It showcases how combining unexpected genre elements with well-developed characters can create a unique and engaging story.
Fresh Perspectives on Storytelling
Pig challenges traditional storytelling approaches by offering a murder film dressed up as an exploration of grief. Its unconventional approach to genre and plot progression sets it apart from standard narrative structures.
Cinematic Mastery in Power of the Dog
Power of the Dog impresses with its visual and sound language, creating evocative imagery and atmospheric tension. The film's use of visual foreshadowing and sophisticated storytelling techniques enhance its cinematic quality and narrative depth.
Exploring Contrasts in Characters and Themes
Power of the Dog cleverly contrasts the masculine dynamics of Phil and Peter, delving into themes of self-loathing and power struggles. The film's nuanced character exploration and thematic depth offer rich storytelling experiences for the audience.
Reflecting on the Genre and Character Balance
While Power of the Dog leans heavily on genre elements initially, it gradually shifts focus to character-driven narratives. The interplay between genre and character development highlights the film's ability to deliver emotional catharsis while maintaining a sense of surprise and depth in storytelling.
Lessons in Genre Expectations
The initial setup and genre trappings in Power of the Dog serve as a compelling hook for audience engagement, showcasing the importance of leveraging genre elements to establish storytelling promises. The film's gradual transition into character-driven narrative structures offers a fresh perspective on genre storytelling.
Subversion of Traditional Narratives
Pig challenges conventional storytelling norms by blending murder film elements with deeper character exploration and thematic resonance. This unexpected combination provides a unique storytelling experience that emphasizes character-driven plots over standard genre interactions.
Crafting Cinematic Tension Through Visual Language
Power of the Dog skillfully uses visual foreshadowing and masterful cinematography to create atmospheric tension and evoke emotional depth. The film's cinematic artistry enhances its storytelling impact and maintains a sense of intrigue throughout the narrative.
The Nuances of Character Evolution
Pig's character-driven approach delves into themes of grief and self-discovery, transcending genre expectations to offer a profound exploration of human emotions. By grounding its outlandish plot in relatable character moments, the film elevates the storytelling experience and invites deeper introspection into the complexities of its characters.
How can dramas use genre elements to hook their audiences?
Stu and Chas reunite with TV writer & director Kodie Bedford to look at how some films start out as genre but gradually become character dramas. Or, as Stu never said on the episode "Genre in the streets, Drama in the sheets".
Together, they break down HUSTLERS, PIG and POWER OF THE DOG, to see how these films use their genre trappings to hook their audience while ultimately delivering something else entirely. We discuss chapter breaks, inciting incidents, character questions, theme and MORE.
As always: SPOILERS ABOUND.
Audio quotations used for educational purposes only. Timestamps indicated below. Chapter markers included in the mp3.
Thanks to Chris Walker for editing this episode.
CHAPTERS
00:00:01 - Intro
00:00:56 - Drama in Genre Clothing
00:02:21 - Sam Elliot on Power of the Dog
00:03:19 - Lessons from Keeping Genre Fresh
00:08:14 - Hustlers
00:43:58 - Pig
01:16:24 - The Power of the Dog
01:55:02 - Key Learnings and Wrap Up
LINKS
Kodie Bedford: https://twitter.com/ms_kodie
Authentic Storytelling – Kodie Bedford: Breaking Down Characters And Worlds
Thanks to all our patrons, especially Lloyd, Eduardo, Jennifer, Leigh, Thomas, Garrett, Bjorn, Randy, Jesse, Sandra, Theis, Alex and Khrob. You rule!
Please considering rating or subscribing to us on Apple Podcasts or sharing us on the Social Medias! We like finding new listeners. We are @stuwillis and @chasffisher on twitter. And you can find @draft_zero on Instagram and Twitter.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
