Which of the following is NOT a key component of storytelling principles?

In the context of storytelling principles, the key components generally include elements that drive the narrative forward and create engagement for the audience. People, place, and plot are foundational because they encapsulate characters, settings, and the sequence of events that make up a story.

People, or characters, are essential as they evoke emotions and establish connections with the audience. The place, or setting, provides context and influences the atmosphere of the story, impacting how viewers perceive the actions of the characters. The plot outlines the main events and structure, captivating the audience's interest and guiding them through the narrative arc.

Production design, while important in the filmmaking process for creating the visual look and feel of a story, is not a principle of storytelling itself. It pertains more to the technical and aesthetic choices made to support the narrative rather than the narrative components that define storytelling. Therefore, it stands apart from the core elements that directly represent the essence of storytelling.