A Bittersweet Ending

While there is no "formula" for creating a bittersweet ending, I have noticed that many films with such endings use this technique: A major character accomplishes his or her Character Arc (his or her journey of character growth), but not his or her goal.

Li's goal is to forge a life with Yu, which can never happens due to his untimely death. Before he dies, however, he finally confesses his love and passion for Yu. This completes his Character Arc, for he has traveled from monastic detachment to acknowledging his love and passion.

Yu's goal is to build a future with Li, which doesn't come to pass. Before she loses him, however, she finds it within her to communicate her love.

Jen's intentions throughout the film are to keep the sword, called the "Green Destiny," to stay with her nomadic boyfriend Lo, and to continue to get whatever she wants. Her goal certainly isn't to jump off a mountain. But before she does, she bravely undergoes a spiritual and ethical transformation that requires her to sacrifice her life as an act of redemption.

Thus, all three of the major characters undergo a similar fate: They attain the difficult character growth they need, but they fail in their outward goals. Bittersweet endings give plots depth.



Creating Emotion in Games. The Craft and Art of Emotioneering
Creating Emotion in Games: The Craft and Art of Emotioneering
ISBN: 1592730078
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2003
Pages: 394

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