Learning the Curve.
The movie, “Boheimian Rhapsody,” that’s what comes to mind as I reflect on storytelling from real life experiences, hence (learning curve) that if we are willing to slow down, listen carefully and observe with understanding, we may grow. A recent experience with the iconic 70’s and 80’s rock band, “Queen,” ( I was never a fan) the movie, “Boheimian Rhapsody,” and the life of, “Freddy Mercury, (Rami Malek).” The DVD of the movie was hanging around the house for days, my kid rented it. I have to admit, for days I walked past the DVD……looked at the cover and snickered to myself, “I ain’t watching that movie, I don’t even like Queen. I think they suck.” When they came on the radio, I would actually turn the dial. No hard feelings, “Queen” wasn’t on my playlist, that’s all.
After several request to watch the movie, I caved, I know, I’m a looser. I noticed I was starting to feel that, “learning curve. ” Why don’t we listen better? Or just observe without judgement? And plain ole have a better appreciation for what is?
I CONCEDED TO WATCH A MOVIE I DID NOT WANT TO WATCH ABOUT A BAND I DID NOT LIKE.
The Power of good storytelling. Two hours and thirteen minutes later, I now liked, “Queen.” I actually got into their groove, it resonated. Learning their story, the band, the times, the music industry, moreover the main character, Freddie Mercury. There’s so much in this story. As a writer I ask myself, “What’s the plot,” “What’s this story about?” Is it a “rags to riches,” plot? I think the plot is, “Tragedy.” As to the story? I think it’s about, “Man against himself.”
Why, “Man against himself”? This is Freddie Mercury’s story, it’s his narrative. THE FOUR THROUGH-LINES. Main character is the FIRST through-line, it’s his story. His wife is the, SECOND through-line, that’s the, “impact character.” She, not for lack of her good looks, indirectly helped Freddie recognize that he was gay. The band, their agents and other characters are the THIRD through-line. These are the stories “over all characters.” These characters weave in and out of Freddie’s life, they affect his story as to how the writer will chooses to craft it. The FOURTH through-line is the, OVERALL story, the events, the things that happen, the locations, the action!
“Learning curve.” Good storytelling influences and inspires us in many positive ways. With that in mind, lets press on to hone our craft. Every story has the potential to be great, that’s where development comes in. Like the movie, “Boheimian Rhapsody,” has the power to change hearts and minds. It did mine, made me a fan of, “Queen”! Haha!