Action

What sorts of action are common in electronic narratives? Fights – Fistfights Battles – War films – Fantasy – Science Fiction Chases – Car chases Shootouts – Westerns Disasters Bombings

What is the role of action in electronic narratives? Plot turning point – The outcome of the action often has a significant effect over future actions and events Climaxes minor and major Conflict Infuse emotion/excitement – Some of the most stirring video is based on action Character development

The importance of action The importance of action varies widely according to genre and plot Action may not be very important (Sleepless in Seattle) or it may dominate the film/TV show/Videogame (Eagle Eye/X-Men)

Action video/film Many contemporary electronic narratives are driven by depictions of action – Popular with audiences – Blockbuster flicks High budget – Can be very successful at the box office

Examples Indiana Jones Mission Impossible Saving Private Ryan Dirty Harry Underworld: Rise of the Lycans Supernatural Dancing with the Stars Survivor 24 Lost Grand Theft Auto Street Fighter

Presenting action A significant part of the craft of electronic narrative production is involved with the craft of staging action – Special effects – Digital effects – Stunts – Camera/lighting/sound techniques, etc.

Concerns over action Does it fit with and support the overall narrative? – Critics often complain that too much focus on action undermines plot and/or character development Is it compelling in its own right? Is it plausible enough within the narrative frame? – Avoid leading audience to question what they see on the screen? Is it too intense for the intended audience?