Movies Where The Subplot Was More Interesting Than The Main Plot

Often, when watching a movie, we find ourselves more engrossed in a side story than the main narrative. These subplots, sometimes richer and more compelling than the primary plot, leave us wondering what the film would have been like had they taken center stage. Let's delve into some cinematic examples where the subplot arguably outshone the main storyline, capturing our imaginations and sparking discussions about what could have been.

The Allure of the Subplot

Subplots serve as a critical element in storytelling, adding depth, complexity, and layers to a narrative. They can provide character development, introduce thematic elements, and offer contrast or commentary on the main plot. A well-crafted subplot enhances the overall viewing experience, making the story feel richer and more immersive. However, sometimes, a subplot's brilliance overshadows the main narrative, leaving the audience yearning for more of the sidelined story. This phenomenon raises the question: what makes a subplot so compelling that it eclipses the intended focus of the movie?

The Qualities of a Captivating Subplot

A subplot that steals the show often possesses several key qualities. Firstly, it usually features compelling characters whose motivations and struggles resonate deeply with the audience. These characters may be more relatable, intriguing, or morally complex than the main protagonists, making their journeys more captivating. Secondly, a standout subplot often explores themes or ideas that are more nuanced or thought-provoking than those presented in the primary plot. This can lead to a more intellectually stimulating and emotionally satisfying viewing experience. Thirdly, a subplot might offer a unique perspective on the world or events depicted in the film, providing a fresh and engaging angle that the main plot lacks. Finally, the narrative structure and pacing of the subplot can contribute to its allure. A subplot that is tightly written, suspenseful, or emotionally resonant can easily outshine a main plot that feels convoluted or predictable.

Movies Where the Subplot Shone Brighter

1. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind: The Heartbreak of Mary

While the central plot of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind revolves around Joel (Jim Carrey) and Clementine's (Kate Winslet) tumultuous relationship and their decision to erase each other from their memories, the subplot involving Mary (Kirsten Dunst) and Dr. Howard Mierzwiak (Tom Wilkinson) offers a poignant and complex exploration of love, memory, and ethical boundaries. Mary, a lab technician at Lacuna, the company that performs the memory-erasing procedure, is deeply infatuated with Dr. Mierzwiak. Her infatuation leads to a forbidden affair and, eventually, a devastating discovery: she herself had her memories of Dr. Mierzwiak erased after their relationship ended. This revelation throws Mary into a spiral of emotional turmoil, as she grapples with the ethical implications of Lacuna's technology and the pain of lost love. Mary's story is a compelling parallel to Joel and Clementine's, but it also stands alone as a powerful narrative about the human tendency to repeat mistakes and the enduring nature of memory, even when it is suppressed. The tragic irony of her situation, combined with Dunst's nuanced performance, makes Mary's subplot a standout element of the film, one that could easily have anchored a film of its own. The emotional depth and ethical questions raised in Mary's narrative provide a richer, more nuanced exploration of the film's themes compared to the central romance, making it a compelling candidate for a standalone focus.

2. Casablanca: Ilsa's Internal Conflict

Casablanca is a classic for a reason, but the love triangle between Rick (Humphrey Bogart), Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman), and Victor Laszlo (Paul Henreid) has a fascinating undercurrent in Ilsa's internal conflict. While the main plot focuses on Rick's sacrifice and the escape of Victor, a Czech Resistance leader, Ilsa's internal struggle between her love for Rick and her duty to Victor presents a more emotionally complex and morally ambiguous narrative. Ilsa's character is torn between two powerful loves and two conflicting loyalties. Her love for Rick is passionate and deeply rooted in a shared past, while her commitment to Victor is born out of admiration for his cause and a sense of responsibility. This internal conflict drives much of the film's emotional tension, as Ilsa navigates a treacherous landscape of love, duty, and war. A film centered on Ilsa's perspective could have delved deeper into her motivations, exploring the societal pressures and personal sacrifices faced by women during wartime. This shift in focus could have transformed Casablanca from a romantic drama into a powerful character study, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved classic.

3. Raiders of the Lost Ark: Sallah's Family and Life in Cairo

Raiders of the Lost Ark is an action-packed adventure film, but the subplot involving Sallah (John Rhys-Davies) and his family offers a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Cairo and the lives of those caught in the crossfire of the Nazi's quest for the Ark of the Covenant. Sallah, Indiana Jones's loyal friend and ally, is a charismatic character whose warmth and humor provide a welcome contrast to the film's high-stakes action. His family, while appearing briefly, hints at a rich and complex life beyond the main plot. A film focused on Sallah's experiences in Cairo could have explored the city's diverse culture, the political tensions of the time, and the challenges faced by ordinary people living under the shadow of war. This shift in focus would have allowed for a more nuanced and grounded narrative, adding depth and context to the adventure elements of the story. Imagine a film that interweaves Sallah's personal struggles with the larger historical events unfolding around him, creating a compelling portrait of a city and its people during a tumultuous period.

4. The Lord of the Rings: The Story of Eowyn

In The Lord of the Rings trilogy, the main focus is on Frodo's quest to destroy the One Ring, but the character of Éowyn (Miranda Otto) and her yearning for glory and purpose provide a compelling subplot that could have been the core of a powerful narrative. Éowyn, niece of King Théoden of Rohan, is a shieldmaiden who longs to fight for her people but is confined to domestic duties. Her frustration and ambition resonate deeply, making her a relatable and inspiring character. A film centered on Éowyn's journey could have explored the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society, the allure of war and heroism, and the importance of finding one's own path. Her confrontation with the Witch-king of Angmar, where she famously declares, "I am no man," is one of the most iconic moments in the trilogy, demonstrating her strength and determination. A standalone film could have delved deeper into Éowyn's inner world, her relationships with other characters, and her struggle to find her place in a world at war. This focus on Éowyn's perspective would have offered a fresh and feminist lens through which to view the epic events of The Lord of the Rings.

The Subplot's Enduring Appeal

These are just a few examples of movies where the subplot arguably held more potential than the main plot. The reasons for this phenomenon are varied, ranging from compelling characters and thought-provoking themes to unique perspectives and engaging narratives. Ultimately, the allure of the subplot lies in its ability to offer something different, something unexpected, and something that resonates deeply with the audience. When a subplot shines brighter than the main plot, it invites us to imagine alternative stories, to explore different possibilities, and to appreciate the richness and complexity of the cinematic world. The movies discussed highlight how a well-developed subplot can elevate a film, offering a richer, more nuanced narrative that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. These sidelined stories often provide fertile ground for exploring complex themes and characters, suggesting that sometimes, the most compelling stories are found not in the spotlight, but in the shadows.

By recognizing the potential within these subplots, filmmakers and audiences alike can appreciate the multifaceted nature of storytelling and the power of narratives that challenge our expectations and ignite our imaginations. The question of which subplots should have been the main focus is not just an exercise in "what if," but a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted narratives that dare to explore the less-traveled paths of cinematic storytelling.