Pixar’s Rules for Storytelling 4 – Once upon a time there was ____. Every day, ____. Finally ____.

Yes, I am going to make a video for each of the Pixar’s 22 Rules for Storytelling (the full list can be found here). Be sure to subscribe to this channel to not miss any of the forthcoming videos. I plan to release one/week.

Rule #4: Once upon a time there was ___. Every day, ___. One day ___. Because of that, ___. Because of that, ___. Until finally ___.

This “rule” isn’t so much a rule as it is a template for storytelling. A simple and very effective template, I might add.

The most important element of this formula, I feel, is the repetition of the “Because of that” which speaks to the importance of constantly elevating stakes. Nothing is ever stagnant in an engaging story. Even if two characters are alone in a room, or if poo can’t fart, there should always be something imminent to further complicate matters, to stress every potential for conflict.

My immaturity is on full display with this writing lesson. Buckle in and prepare to hate me even more.