When it comes to storytelling mastery, few entities command as much respect as Pixar. The studio behind beloved films such as Toy Story, Inside Out, and Up has spent decades refining the art of emotional narrative. Consequently, the "Pixar 22 Rules" have become a foundational text for writers and creators across the globe, offering practical wisdom on how to craft compelling characters and satisfying stories.
Origins of the Rules
These guidelines did not emerge from a corporate memo or a public relations campaign. They originated from an internal email circulated among Pixar employees, specifically aimed at helping junior staff navigate the complex world of story development. While the exact author is often attributed to former story artist Emma Coats, the rules gained widespread fame after writer Akiva Schaffer popularized them. They represent a distillation of hard-earned experience, designed to prevent common pitfalls in character-driven narratives.
Core Philosophy: Character and Conflict
At the heart of the 22 rules is a fundamental belief that story is about people, not plots. Rule #4 reminds us, "Once upon a time there was ___. Every day, ___. One day ___. Because of that, ___. Because of that, ___. Until finally ___." This deceptively simple structure highlights the importance of cause and effect, ensuring that character actions drive the plot forward rather than random events.
Embracing the Antagonist
Understanding the opposition is crucial for tension, as emphasized in Rule #7: "Give your characters opposites. Nothing is more interesting than two opposites talking about or exploring the same issue." This isn't just about a villain in a cape; it applies to internal conflicts, differing philosophies between friends, or the struggle against an environment. The friction between opposing desires is what creates drama.
Practical Workflow and Editing
Creativity often hits walls, but the rules provide a path through the blockage. Rule #6 suggests, "You have to figure out what your character wants. Then keep him from getting it." This sharpens the central conflict instantly. Similarly, when a project feels stuck, Rule #11 advises, "You can make your characters want anything, so long as it is impossible for the same character to want it." This forces innovation and pushes the story into unexpected, interesting territory.
The Wisdom of Abandonment
One of the most difficult yet necessary rules is #14: "Why must you tell THIS story? What's the belief burning within you that your story feeds off of?" This question separates concept from core message. It prompts the creator to identify the essential truth of the piece. If that truth isn't vital, the story likely shouldn't be told, ensuring that only the most meaningful projects receive attention.
Comedy and Theme
Balancing humor with heart is a delicate task, and Rule #9 provides a guiding principle: "Discount the 1st thing that comes to mind. And the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th — get the obvious out of the way. Surprise yourself." This applies directly to comedy and plot twists. By rejecting the easy joke or the predictable resolution, creators open the door to authentic humor and genuine surprise that feels earned rather than forced.
Unity of Theme
A story’s coherence relies on a unifying thread, which Rule #17 addresses directly: "What is the essence of your story? Most likely that is the heart inside it that is timeless, the generic phrase behind the pretty words and clever pictures." This acts as a filter during the editing process. If a scene doesn't resonate with that core essence, no matter how visually impressive, it dilutes the overall impact of the work.
Finishing the Journey
Projects often stall because perfection is chased instead of completed. Rule #12 offers a powerful mindset shift: "Discount #8. Accept it, move on. The fact that it's not working tells the truth." This encourages pragmatism over pride. Furthermore, Rule #13 reminds us that "You don't actually have to win. Your audience won't remember if you lose the election, but they will remember if you wrote a moving farewell piece." The goal is to finish with integrity, leaving the audience with a lasting emotional impression.
