How does Lynch make use of or subvert traditional narrative techniques to tell the story? – In order to make the surrealist elements of Mulholland Drive clear, David Lynch presents the film in a non-linear order, especially in the final act depicting the ‘real world’. The film uses many narrative devices, such as a McGuffin in the form of a blue box and key, which acts as the bridge between the unconscious mind and conscious one. Subplots are also present throughout the film such as the men in the diner coming face to face with the monster and Adam, the director, growing frustrated with Hollywood executives.