The MacGuffin—a term popularized by Alfred Hitchcock—refers to an object, device, or goal that drives the plot forward. Often, they don't have any real significance beyond being the thing ...

Through signature techniques like the “MacGuffin” plot device, point-of-view shots and symbolism, Hitchcock blurred the line between observer and participant, making viewers complicit in the ...

But a great adventure story usually revolves around the hero's need to beat the villain to the punch, whether it's to a world-ending MacGuffin, a sought-after treasure, or some other plot device ...