The terms subplots and B-plots are used often interchangeably and essentially amount to the same thing; less important plots in your main story. The differences tend to be purely academic, since both relate to secondary and tertiary storylines in your script. However, the nuances that separate them can better round out your story.
Subplots tend to occupy less story real estate and intersect the main theme of the story than B-plots. They are therefore more connected to the main plot. B-plots must also intersect the main plot, but they’re more stories within the main stories that can better function as self-contained units than subplots.
Subplots often involve the main character (such as a love interest) whereas the B-plots can often be the story of a supporting characters relating to the main character.
Subplots generally explore alternative, and often opposing, aspects of the central theme to give the main story a well-rounded appeal. They can also deepen characterization by exploring the characters’ flaws, desires, vulnerabilities and fears.
Most stories can really only support 3 subplots or B and C plots. Anymore, causes the story to become too dense. Ultimately, they must all converge with the main plot to deliver a satisfying resolution. B and C plots can reach a conclusion in their own right and don’t necessarily need to converge with the main story as neatly as subplots.
Both must occur concurrently with the main story and enhance it in some way. There is no point in having unrelated secondary storylines in your script which will only distract and confuse the audience.
Posted on February 25, 2012
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