Action stories

Disciplines > Storytelling > Plots > Classic story types > Action stories

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Action stories are characterized by non-stop action and the general expenditure of energy. The characters are often relatively non-complex with clear divisions between good guys and bad guys (and gals, of course).

The two basic actions are fighting (including fist-fighting, martial arts, gunfights and wholesale warfare) and chasing (including on foot, in cars or other vehicles).

These formats make war, crime, rescue and escape stories classic action vehicles.

Example

James Bond
Enter The Dragon (and other Kung-fu movies)
The Terminator

Discussion

Action stories provide thrills and excitement through the danger presented to the main character during the action. The simple good/bad divisions reassures us that, despite dangers, we know who our friends are and that good will eventually prevail.

Whilst action stories can be enjoyable, they are often not intellectually stimulating. The limited fight/chase alternatives also means they can ultimately be boring, thus lacking in value. Compensation for this may be created by adding elements of mystery, romance and so on.