How to Create Subtext in Film: A Guide For Screenwriters

subtext in film

Subtext in film is the underlying meaning or message that is conveyed through the characters’ actions, dialogue, and visuals. It is everything that is not explicitly stated – but, rather, is inferred by the audience.

Imagine a film you’ve seen where every look, every pause, and every seemingly ordinary conversation is packed with hidden meaning and emotion.

This is the magic of subtext in film – a powerful narrative tool that adds depth to storytelling. Subtext mirrors the complexities of our everyday lives, capturing the unspoken emotions and subtleties that define our daily experiences.

In this article, we’ll explore what subtext in film is, why it’s important, the different types of subtext, and how to write it in your screenplays.

We’ll also look at why subtext is key to making characters and stories feel real, examine different types of subtext with great examples from classic films, and give you practical exercises to master this powerful storytelling technique.

Whether you’re a screenwriter or a film fan, understanding subtext will change how you write and watch films!

What is Subtext?

what is subtext in film

Subtext is the implied, unspoken meaning of a character’s words and actions in a story. In other words, subtext in film is everything that lies beneath what is said – and not said – in movie dialogue.

Using subtext will add depth to your storytelling. It allows audiences to infer deeper meanings and emotions that are not explicitly stated in the text of your screenplay.

Subtext makes for a great movie-viewing experience because it engages the audience and encourages them to ‘read between the lines’ of what is happening in the film.

Components of Subtext

So, now that we know what subtext is, let’s take a look at what it entails!

Text

dialogue in film

Text refers to what is explicitly said or shown in a story or screenplay. It is the surface-level dialogue or action that characters perform.

You can’t have subtext or context without the text. It is the essential layer for all the others. Text implies subtext and delivers context.

For example, in a scene where a character says, “I’m fine,” the text is the literal words spoken.

Context

Context is the situation or environment in which the text occursthe who, what, when, where, and how of the dialogue and story as a whole. It includes the background information, circumstances, and events leading up to the moment. It grounds the text and gives it stability.

Without context, the dialogue and story become vague, and it’s harder for the audience to interpret the writer’s meaning behind the words – or to become invested in the story.

For instance, if the character who says, “I’m fine,” is visibly upset and has just experienced a traumatic event, the context provides the information that influences how the actual words are interpreted by the audience. They understand that the words “I’m fine” have a double meaning in this context.

Subtext

people arguing

Subtext is the underlying meaning that is not directly stated but inferred. It is the hidden message or emotion beneath the text, and it is shaped by the context.

In dialogue, subtext is everything that isn’t explicitly said by the text, such as double-meanings, purposeful omissions, or meaning disguised as banter. In other words, it is what the character truly means when they speak the words. It is the true intent.

In the example of the character saying, “I’m fine,” the subtext might be that the character is actually struggling emotionally but does not want to admit it.

The audience understands this deeper meaning through the combination of the text and the context.

Why Is Subtext Important in Film?

Subtext is a powerful tool in film as it adds realism to characters and stories. It is the underlying core themes and emotional foundations of the dialogue or the story. It also deeply engages the audience and amplifies the emotional impact of scenes. Let’s go deeper into each of these aspects of subtext.

Depth and Realism

Subtext adds depth to characters and stories and makes them more interesting to watch. When characters say more than what they say, they become 3D and human.

For example, in When Harry Met Sally, Sally’s line, “I hate you, Harry. I really hate you.” has the subtext of love and acceptance (see clip below).

Her intent is exactly the opposite of the words. This extra layer of meaning allows the audience to see the complexity of her emotions and motivations and makes the story more believable.

Audience

Subtext engages the audience by making them active in the story. Instead of passively consuming information, the viewer has to read between the lines to understand what the characters are really saying and doing. This keeps the audience invested in the story as they work out the underlying messages and themes.

For example, in Jurassic Park, the surface story is about an amusement park with dinosaurs, but the subtext is about the protagonist’s fear of fatherhood and relationships.

When the audience works out this meaning beyond the obvious plot, the characters and story become more nuanced – leaving them to think about and discuss the details long after the film has finished.

Emotional Impact

Subtext can amplify the emotional impact of scenes and create memorable moments that stick with the audience. Filmmakers can create stronger feelings in the audience by implying rather than stating emotions directly.

For example, in The Godfather, the power dynamics, hidden agendas, and unspoken threats in the dialogue create tension and drama – making each scene more intense.

This subtlety allows the audience to feel the weight of each action and emotion – especially those that are repressed or hidden – and the stakes of the story for a more profound and lasting effect.

Hemingway’s Iceberg Theory

Hemingway’s Iceberg Theory

No discussion of subtext or great dialogue in a movie could leave out the Iceberg Theory!

Ernest Hemingway was a master of subtlety in his short stories. His “Iceberg Theory” or “theory of omission” is all about the power of suggestion over description.

He believed that the deeper meaning of a story should be below the surface – kind of like an iceberg that has only a small portion showing above water.

Hemingway believed that if you leave out certain details, the story would be stronger, and the reader would fill in the gaps – thus making it more relatable and personal for each person reading it.

Hills Like White Elephants

A great example of Hemingway’s use of subtext is his short story, “Hills Like White Elephants.”

In this story, a simple conversation between a man and a woman at a train station reveals a much deeper and more complicated issue.

The dialogue is about an “operation” the woman is thinking of having, and it’s implied to be an abortion.

Hemingway never uses the word “abortion,” but the subtext is clear through the characters’ word choices, actions, and the tension between them. This story illustrates subtext by showing how underlying issues are conveyed through unspoken tension – rather than through dialogue.

Types of Subtext

Subtext in film can be categorized into several types. These types include thematic subtext, dialogue subtext, imagery subtext, and action subtext.

Let’s discuss each of these and how they have been used to create subtext in dialogue.

Thematic Subtext

Thematic subtext involves underlying themes and messages that are not explicitly stated but that lie beneath the narrative. This type of subtext addresses broader concepts and ideas.

Example: The American Dream in The Godfather.

In The Godfather, the thematic subtext revolves around the American Dream.

The opening scene, a character declares, “I believe in America.” This sets the stage for a story that explores the pursuit of success and power in America – by any means necessary.

The Corleone family’s rise to power and the moral compromises they make reflect the darker side of the American Dream, highlighting literary themes of ambition, corruption, and loyalty.

Dialogue Subtext

Dialogue subtext refers to the unspoken meanings and emotions behind a character’s words. It allows characters to convey more than what they explicitly say.

Example: The Coin Toss Scene in No Country for Old Men.

In No Country for Old Men, the coin toss scene between Anton Chigurh and a gas station attendant is a masterclass in dialogue subtext.

When Chigurh asks, “What’s the most you’ve ever lost in a coin toss?”, the surface conversation is about the coin toss and an otherwise meaningless bet – but the subtext is about life and death.

The scene’s tension and the attendant’s initial obliviousness to – and the eventual recognition of – the stakes, highlight the randomness of fate and the cold, calculating nature of Chigurh.

Imagery Subtext

Imagery subtext uses visuals to convey deeper meanings and emotions. This can be done through lighting, camera angles and other visual techniques.

Example: Shadows and Light in Citizen Kane.

In Citizen Kane, the use of shadows and light is a great example of imagery subtext.

The film uses stark contrasts of light and dark to represent the duality of Charles Foster Kane.

For example, scenes where Kane is in shadow suggest his moral ambiguity and the hidden parts of his personality. The visual subtext represents the internal conflicts and themes of the story.

Action Subtext

Action subtext is the meaning behind characters’ actions and behavior. It allows filmmakers to convey ideas through what characters do, rather than what they say.

Example: Alan Grant’s Journey in Jurassic Park

In Jurassic Park, Alan Grant’s journey is his fear of fatherhood.

At first, Grant is uncomfortable around children and resistant to the idea of being a father.

But, as he protects and cares for the park owner’s grandchildren following the release of the dinosaurs, his actions show that he is coming to terms with the idea of being a father.

By the end of the film, Grant’s acceptance of fatherhood is subtly shown through his selfless actions and genuine care for the children.

How to Write Subtext in a Screenplay

Writing subtext in a screenplay means adding layers that go beyond the surface dialogue and action. It adds depth to the characters, the story, and the audience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do it.

Character Objectives

Write out what every character wants and why they might not want to say what it is directly. What are they afraid of? What holds them back from saying it? What are they hoping for through their words and actions?

Knowing your character’s desires, fears, and motivations is key to subtext!

For example, a character might want to say “I love you” to their significant other – but they are afraid of being rejected.

It’s often a better idea to show this through their actions and omissions – and not have them say it directly.

Foreshadowing and Irony

Use foreshadowing and dramatic irony to plant the seeds of subtext.

Foreshadowing hints at what’s to come in the story, and irony is the gap between what’s said and what’s meant. These can subtly prepare the audience for a later deeper meaning.

For example, a character could say something innocuous which could take on new meaning later in the story – like in Romeo and Juliet, where Juliet says of Romeo the first time she sees him, “If he be married, my grave is like to be my wedding bed.”

When she says this, it’s meant as an innocent quip, but it foreshadows her own death on her wedding day.

Layered Dialogue

dialogue in a screenplay

Write dialogue that hints at deeper meaning without saying it outright. This means writing lines that have a surface meaning and an underlying message.

For example, in The Godfather, when Don Corleone says, “I’m going to make him an offer he can’t refuse,” the intent is immediately clear – the so-called offer is actually a threat and one that carries life and death consequences for the target, should he fail to cooperate.

Visual Cues

Add visual elements that support the subtext. Visual cues like varied lighting and camera angles can convey deeper meaning.

For example, in The Sixth Sense, every time the color red appears on screen, it is an indicator that a ghost is present or is about to appear – it symbolizes death.

Examples of Great Subtext in Films

Here are two of my absolute favorite examples of subtext in movies. I often use these examples when I’m teaching screenwriting courses!

Crazy Stupid Love: The Boiler

Crazy Stupid Love, a film about the trials and tribulations of relationships, is full of subtext.

Cal, separated from his wife, Emily, and living alone, sneaks into her backyard at night to take care of the lawn. Unable to help himself, he watches her through the window. And when she goes off to make a phone call, he’s shocked that she’s calling him.

The dialogue that follows is about an imaginary problem with the boiler, and though he can see there’s no problem, he instructs her on how to fix it. The subtext is that they’re both still in love and miss the other, but it’s never explicitly said by either one.

Sideways: Pinot

In Sideways, Miles is a struggling writer and wine enthusiast on a trip to wine country with a friend. There, he meets Maya, and as they connect, she asks him why he’s always talking about Pinot?

The dialogue ends up being about much more than just a simple grape as both characters find themselves opening up to the other and connecting on a deeper level.

While on the surface, Miles is talking about his favorite wine, he is really talking about himself.

Subtext Exercises

Subtext will help you become a better storyteller. Here are some exercises to master subtext in your screenplays:

Write Scenes Without Dialogue

One way to focus on subtext is to write scenes that are dialogue-free. By removing dialogue, you force yourself to show meaning through action, expression, and environment.

Exercise:

Write a scene where two people fall in love without any dialogue. Show their growing affection through their actions, body language, and the environment. For example, instead of having one character say, “You look cold,” show them taking off their coat and draping it over the other person’s shoulders.

Use Imagery and Symbolism

Imagery and symbolism are great ways to embed subtext in your screenplay. Symbols can represent themes, emotions, or character traits without saying it out loud.

Exercise:

Make a list of symbols that could be used in your story. For example, a recurring image of a caged bird could represent a character’s feeling of being trapped, or the use of a specific color could imply a certain emotion. Write a scene where these symbols appear subtly and add layers to the story.

Try Different Techniques

Metaphors and allusions can add depth and complexity to your screenplay. These literary devices allow you to make comparisons and evoke associations that add to the subtext.

Exercise:

Write a scene with a metaphor or allusion. For example, compare a character’s struggle to a historical event or a well-known story – an allusion to “Pandora’s Box” could be a warning of what will happen if a character does something rash. This adds a layer of meaning that the audience will connect with.

Find Subtext in Everyday Life

Reflecting on real-life conversations can help you understand subtext better.

Exercise:

Reflect on a recent conversation where you or someone else didn’t say exactly what they meant. Write down the dialogue and then annotate it with the true feelings or intentions behind the words. This helps you practice identifying subtext in real-life interactions.

Opposite Dialogue

Writing scenes where characters say the opposite of what they mean can highlight subtext through contradiction. This exercise will help you avoid on-the-nose dialogue.

Exercise:

Write a scene where characters say the exact opposite of what they mean. For example, two characters who secretly love each other might pretend to hate each other. This exercise helps you practice creating subtext through contradiction and irony.

Subtext in Film Pin

Master the Art of Subtext

Subtext is one of the best tools a screenwriter can use. It adds depth to characters, makes plots more interesting, and keeps your audience hooked on the action. Mastering subtext helps you tell stories that viewers will remember.

A story without subtext is flat. Subtext allows the audience to reach their own conclusions and interpretations, rather than being told explicitly what the words mean. It is critical to good storytelling. It creates ulterior motives, powerful revelations, successful mysteries, unreliable narrators, blind characters, delicious irony, dry humor, and so much more.

If you’re looking to bring more depth to your writing or need help with your script, I’m here to guide you. Let’s work together to up your storytelling game! You can also sign up for my free 5-day screenwriting mini-course. You’ll learn all about how to start writing the screenplay you’ve always wanted to write!

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