Plot twist
A
plot twist is a change ("twist") in the direction or expected outcome of the
plot of a
film or
novel. It is a common practice in narration used to keep the interest of an audience, usually surprising them with a revelation. Some "twists" can be predicted and are preempted by numerous hints whereas others are a complete shock - most are somewhere in the middle with some people foreseeing them and others not.
Revealing the existence of a plot twist may be enough to
spoil a movie for some, as the time spent watching would be used to "search" for the twist itself, as opposed to simply enjoying the presentation.
A device used to undermine the expectations of the audience is the
false protagonist. It involves presenting a character at the start of the film as the main character, but then disposing of this character, usually killing them.
The plot twist is also common in some films. Many directors, such as the late
Stanley Kubrick (in
Full Metal Jacket and slightly in
The Shining) and
M. Night Shyamalan (
The Sixth Sense,
Signs, etc) use plot twists in their films, and is an effective technique when it comes to surprising and winning over the audience.
The plot twist is widely used in adult-oriented animated series like
The Simpsons, and was used mockingly during the final episode of
Drawn Together's first season, where every 5 minutes a plot twist was announced with a screen showing this phrase.
When a plot twist happens towards or at the end of a story, especially if it changes one's view of the previous action, it's known as a
twist ending.
*
Twist ending
