Reset button technique

The reset button technique is a plot device that interrupts continuity in works of fiction. Simply put, use of a reset button device returns all characters and situations to the status quo they held before a major change of some sort was introduced. Often used in science-fiction television series, soap operas and comic books, the device allows elaborate and dramatic changes to characters and the fictional universe that might otherwise invalidate the premise of the show with respect to future continuity. Writers may, for example, use the technique to allow the audience to experience the death of the lead character, which traditionally would not be possible without effectively ending the work.

Related Topics:
Science-fiction - Television - Continuity

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Effective use of this device depends on the audience being unaware of the continuity status, or successful suspension of disbelief that continuity is or will be interrupted, and the eventual communication of the status of continuity to the audience. It is usually employed as a plot twist that effectively undoes all the happenings of the episode. Common uses of this technique draw liberally from science fiction and metaphysical ideas, perhaps attributing to its widespread use in those genres. Examples of the reset button technique include lucent dream sequences, alternate-history flashbacks, daydreams, time travel and hallucinations.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Continuity-wise, there are two types of television show: serial and episode-by-episode. In serial shows, each episode not only follows but builds on previous material, and so the RBT is not needed (although it can still be used). In episode-by-episode works, the RBT is necessary to eliminate dangling plot threads. Soap operas are almost universally serials; toons and sitcoms are almost universally episode-by-episode.

Related Topics:
Soap opera - Toon - Sitcom

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~