Story vs Plot - Difference and Examples for Screenwriters

Ever wondered what makes a movie tick? Is it the gripping tale it tells or how that tale unfolds on screen? Well, you're not alone! Many budding screenwriters grapple with the concepts of story and plot. They might seem like two peas in a pod, but they're actually quite different.
In this guide, we will explore the definition of plot and story, how they differ, and different examples of story and plot.

Story vs Plot Definition

So, what is plot and story

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let's get our basics straight. Story and plot are like two sides of the same coin. They work together to create the magic we see on screen, but they each have their own special role to play.

PLOT DEFINITION

What is plot in cinema?

Think of plot as the roadmap of your movie. It's the sequence of events that happen on screen, the "what" that keeps viewers glued to their seats. Plot is all about action - what characters do, the challenges they face, and how they overcome (or don't overcome) these hurdles.

For example, in a heist movie, the plot might include planning the robbery, gathering the team, executing the plan, and dealing with unexpected hiccups along the way. It's the visible journey that unfolds before our eyes.

Plot is like a skeleton - it gives structure to your story. It's the "and then this happened, and then that happened" of your screenplay. Without a solid plot, your story might feel aimless or confusing.

STORY DEFINITION

What is story in cinema?

Now, let's talk about story. If plot is the skeleton, story is the heart and soul of your screenplay. It's the deeper meaning behind the events we see on screen. Story delves into the "why" - the motivations, emotions, and transformations that drive characters forward.

Story is about the internal journey. It's the growth, the lessons learned, the change in worldview. While plot focuses on external events, story zooms in on the impact these events have on characters.

Let's go back to our heist movie example. The story might explore themes of loyalty, redemption, or the consequences of greed. It might delve into why the characters decided to pull off the heist in the first place - maybe they're trying to save a loved one or escape a life of poverty.

What is the Difference Between Plot and Story

Difference Between Plot vs Story

Now that we've got our definitions down, let's highlight the key differences:

Aspect	Plot	Story
Focus	External events	Internal experiences and transformations
Emphasis	What happens	Why it matters
Sequence	Chronological	Emotional arc
Visibility	Visible on screen	Underlying current
Function	Provides structure	Provides substance

Example of plot vs story

The Shawshank Redemption • plot vs story examples

See the difference? The plot tells us what happened, but the story tells us why it matters and how it changed the characters.

Examples in Other movies

Let's look at a few more movies to drive the point home:

In each case, the plot gives us the events, while the story provides the meaning and emotional resonance.

Closing Thoughts

Plot is your movie's backbone - it's the sequence of events that keeps the audience engaged and moves the action forward. It's what happens on the surface, the visible journey your characters undertake.

Story, on the other hand, is the heart of your screenplay. It's the deeper meaning, the emotional journey, the "why" behind the "what". It's what makes your audience care about what's happening on screen.

As a screenwriter, you need both. A great plot without a compelling story might be exciting but ultimately forgettable. A powerful story without a well-structured plot might be meaningful but could lose your audience along the way.