Chapter 5: Subplots

Subplots are storylines that interweave with the protagonist’s storyline, which is also known as the A-Story or through-line.

Subplots support the main plot, revolve around the supporting characters, and can add to the complications and rising conflict that our hero must overcome. They are often referred to as the B-Story, C-Story and so forth.

If a subplot can be cut from the story, and not affect the A-Story at all, then it’s time to either lose it, or make it count and tie it into the main character’s storyline.

Subplots should also have at least 3 beats – just like the main storyline – a beginning, middle and an end. Although the timespan of a subplot can be much shorter than the A-Story, spanning over just a few scenes or one or two acts.

Thematically, subplots should align with the A-Story. If a major theme in your A-Story is “Love wins in the end” then you don’t want a subplot with a theme of “Love never lasts.”

A subplot should also match the A-Story in tone and exist in the same reality. A gritty police drama with a subplot that suddenly jumps into a fantasy world of dragons could be jarring for the audience and lose its believability.

Of course, I’m sure you can find examples of movies where the “rules” of screenwriting were broken – and it worked! But for now, when learning the craft, learn the rules, practice the rules and stick with the rules. And once you’ve mastered them, you can get creative and start writing “outside of the box.”

In the movie Creed (2015), for example, the A-Story is Adonis’ journey to becoming a boxing champion. The B-Story is his relationship with Rocky, the C-Story his love relationship with Bianca, etc.