In the West, plot is commonly thought to revolve around conflict: a confrontation between two or more elements, in which one ultimately dominates the other. The standard three- and five-act plot structures—which permeate Western media—have conflict written into their very foundations. A “problem” appears near the end of the first act; and, in the second act, the conflict generated by this problem takes center stage. Conflict is used to create reader involvement even by many post-modern writers, whose work otherwise defies traditional structure.
The necessity of conflict is preached as a kind of dogma by contemporary writers’ workshops and Internet “guides” to writing. A plot without conflict is considered dull; some even go so far as to call it impossible. This has influenced not only fiction, but writing in general—arguably even philosophy. Yet, is there any truth to this belief? Does plot necessarily hinge on conflict? No. Such claims are a product of the West’s insularity. For countless centuries, Chinese and Japanese writers have used a plot structure that does not have conflict “built in”, so to speak. Rather, it relies on exposition and contrast to generate interest. This structure is known as kishōtenketsu.
Introducing the Clients From Hell video
It was a pleasure making this happen. Our cast and crew were phenomenal and we managed to put it all together with donated time, equipment, and coffee. A big thanks to everyone involved!
What do you think? Should we make another one? What would you like to see next? Let us know in the comments!
Cast
Adam Beauchesne [YouTube]
Jason Beaudoin [twitter] [IMDB]
Monica Hamburg [twitter] [Podcast] [blog]
Adam Boys [twitter]
William Reggler
Mattew Graham
Lisa Hughes [facebook]
Matt Hamilton [twitter]
Susan McCord [YouTube] [twitter] [site] [talk show]
Andy Yu [twitter] [facebook]
Sidika Larbes
Gracey Dove
Emilee Juliette [twitter]
Aaron McCallumCrew
Assistant Director: Megan Russell [twitter]
Director of Photography: Gregory Brown
First Camera Assistant: Jenn Rowe
Sound: Zach Cressman
Written + Directed + Edited by Bryce Bladon [twitter] [tumblr] [site]
Produced by TGK Films [YouTube] [facebook] [site]