Set Pieces, Part 3: Stakes

A series this week on set pieces: A scene or set of scenes with a big idea, feel and/or scope to them, oftentimes associated with major plot points, and always about entertainment.

Part 3: Stakes

Will Stone survive reentry?

Will Clarice prevail over Buffalo Bill?

Will Luke Skywalker successfully fire proton torpedoes into the tiny opening in the Death Star?

Stakes. The best set pieces have them. With these examples above, the stakes are huge. They can also be smaller, yet emotionally meaningful.

Will Gil’s son make the catch that wins the ball game?

Will Lester quit his job?

Will Fran leave Sheldrake for Baxter?

Takeaway: When you are working with a set piece, determine what stakes might be involved with it.

For Part 1: Spin the plot, go here.

For Part 2: Emotional Meaning, go here.

Tomorrow: More on set pieces.

What other set pieces can you think of that have stakes, big or small?