When the protagonist’s plot fails at the last minute, but just when it seems that all hope is lost, it turns out that the failure of this plot was all part of the PLOTTIER PLOT OF SECONDARY CHARACTER, who knew all along that they couldn’t succeed unless Protagonist’s plan failed, or that this failure would open up an opportunity for an even greater success that they’d been cleverly working towards the entire time.
Often seen in heists and thrillers, but a surprising number of fantasy novels too, and even romances. I’m such a sucker for the secret mastermind reveal.
What about you, what’s your favorite trope?
The Genius Ditz Someone who comes across most of the time as a clueless dingbat, until their one area of expertise is needed, and they suddenly snap into a miraculous prodigy.
Any recommendations? I LOVE rewatching the My Cousin Vinny courtroom moment but I can’t think of a book like this.
Like Zach Galifiankis’ character in The Hangover?
Did he have skills? I saw a couple of those movies but don’t remember Alan being anything other than a mess.