macguffin

• Сюжетный приём в кино или повествовании, который служит для запуска или развития сюжета, часто являясь объектом поиска, при этом его конкретная природа менее важна, чем его функция.

A plot device in film or storytelling that serves to initiate or drive the narrative, often by being the object of pursuit, while its specific nature is less important than its function.

имя собственное

1. Plot device in storytellingC1formal

   An object, goal, or element in a story that serves as a primary motivator for the characters and drives the plot forward, though its specific nature is often unimportant.

   Макгаффин

   • The briefcase in 'Pulp Fiction' is a classic MacGuffin.
   • In many spy thrillers, the stolen documents are just a MacGuffin.
   • The director used the mysterious artifact as a MacGuffin to propel the adventure.