Developing an Elevator Story

One way of telling an elevator story that's easy to remember and simple to perform is the "Screenplay Method." Its unique name derives from the fact that any good story — a movie, play or book – generally has four key elements:

• Stage setting: What's the situation at the start?
• Conflict: What problems do the characters face?
• Resolution: How is the conflict or problem resolved?
• Outcome: How is life different as a result?

For example, in the film Saving Private Ryan, the stage setting is France during the Allied invasion of Europe. James Ryan, newly parachuted into combat, has just lost all three of his brothers. Government policy dictates that he return home, so a small platoon is assembled to find him (conflict).

Ultimately, the soldiers locate Private Ryan and save him (resolution). However, all but one member of the platoon is killed in the attempt (outcome).

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