Storytelling lessons from thrillers

There’s just the two of them and it’s raining and dark. They’re in shock. And the look they share is intense. It’s clear there’s a history here. And still very much a sizzle.

And this is in the opening episode.

There’s a new thrilling series in town. 

It starts with a sassy Bond like theme and keeps you guessing, wondering who the real baddies are.

“Liaison,” starring Vincent Cassel and Eva Green (the photo that accompanies this post), is a high stakes rollercoaster that explores how mistakes in our past can potentially mess up our future.

It has espionage, political intrigue, a passionate love story and multiple locations.

Thrillers use lots of storytelling devices to keep us watching and wanting to know the answer to a plotful of riddles.

There are red herrings.

Clues dropped like breadcrumbs.

Casual comments that later have huge significance.

And it uses something called the puzzle solution format.

The scene in the dark with the former lovers is just that.

The audience can see it’s significant.

They just don't know why.

Yet.

And even after 3 episodes you still don’t know.

When we layer information in an intriguing way, it engages our audience.

They get curious.

Want to know the answer.

How it all fits together. 

And what all the mystery is about.

Some of the best storytelling is set up like this.

Built in layers, it reveals itself bit by bit.

Now you might be thinking well this is great for a sexy, little thriller but I’m going to be doing a presentation about the bin collection system for the local council.

Or delivering the latest compliance update.

However, the same principles still apply.

You can give a few clues to what your presentation will cover at the beginning and introduce information little by little, with a few surprises thrown in.

It has the same effect.

People will be curious.

They’ll be looking out for the answers and wondering when these will appear.

And you’ll keep them guessing.

And listening.

✅ How can you add the element of surprise to your storytelling?

✅ What puzzle solution can you hint at to engage with your audience?

✅ Where can you use your creativity to add some energy to a presentation?