These rules define what makes a good, entertaining film for me. But they are more than that. They are principles of good storytelling:

  1. Make me think (motivation, character depth and development)
  2. Amaze me (surprising twists and interesting plot hooks)
  3. Touch me (empathy, honest emotions on a human level)

You can apply them on anything that transmits a message. I think they provide an underlying quality, also in design and writing. It’s really at the core of everything that moves us.

(Photo: Ding Yuin Shan)