21 Summarizing a Film Exhibit

The Plot Line or Story Arc

Our central goal when summarizing a film (or literary work) is to describe the narrative plot line or story arc—the events that make up the story.

There are six elements of a plot diagram or traditional story arc, and they often—but not always—occur in a specific order.

1. Exposition: The characters and setting are introduced—before the action begins.
2. Conflict: The problem in the story, usually established just after the exposition. Characters can experience external and/or internal conflict.
3. Rising action: The events and series of conflicts or crises that lead up to the climax, builds suspense and develops conflict.
4. Climax: The story’s turning point, conflict is resolved, and situation improves for the protagonist, the story’s most intense moment
5. Falling Action: The action of the story that follows the climax
6. Resolution and Denouement: The loose ends of the story are tied up, bringing the story to its end (denouement).

The following diagram provides a visual representation of the plot line or story arc.

Reference: Effective Paragraphing, Functions of Sources