This season, I am focused on stories with negative or neutral character arcs. Sometimes, finding out what a character doesn’t want is the first step to discovery. On the surface, Cathy Whitaker has a perfect life. However, it’s a shallow life. Cathy’s choices are symbolically represented by her husband, Frank, and her gardener, Raymond. The two male characters are interesting external representations of Cathy’s internal choices. There’s a small amount of exposition in Far From Heaven, but when it features, it’s done straightforwardly and with simplicity. -M

“The interesting events in Cathy’s arc happen side by side in the movie. She shows an interest in Raymond at the same time, she discovers Frank with another man. While Cathy is trying to maintain one life, she’s also growing in another part of her life.” - Melanie Hill

Related Story Nerd Episodes

The Accidental Tourist (Season 5, Episode 3)

Acquire the power to write a bestselling story at storynerd.ca/courses 

For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.

To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.