Narrative technique · used in 2 films
Dividing the film into three distinct parts or chapters that echo each other, so the pattern itself delivers the meaning or the twist.
Examples
Christopher Nolan · 2006
Nolan spells out the 3-part structure of a magic trick in Cutter's voiceover, and then follows it across the entire film. You are told how the trick works right at the beginning. The film's achievement is that it makes you forget you were told.
Where to see it: Cutter's opening narration: 'Every great magic trick consists of three parts...' The film tells you its structure upfront.
Yorgos Lanthimos · 2024
The stories are called "The Death of R.M.F.", "R.M.F. Is Flying" and "R.M.F. Eats a Sandwich". A man named R.M.F. appears in each. Lanthimos has said the initials do not refer to anything, so you are left to find your own meaning.
Where to see it: The three titled chapters: each one has its own plot, and a character named R.M.F. appears in all three.
Questions