Character Development Exercises in Screenwriting: A Deep Dive

Introduction:

Character development is the backbone of compelling storytelling in screenwriting. Understanding how to create multi-dimensional characters that resonate with your audience is key to the success of any script. In this article, we will explore various approaches to character development, including exercises used by professional screenwriters and the importance of certain aspects of character archetypes.

Approaches to Character Development: Two Perspectives

Some writers prefer a more structured approach to character development, writing detailed biographies of each character. While this can be an effective method, it is not the only approach. Other writers, such as the one quoted, prefer to have an outline or treatment and a clear understanding of the character's arc. This allows them to focus on the character's growth and development in the context of the story.

Let's delve deeper into these two perspectives and explore the methods used by successful screenwriters.

Structured Character Development

One common method is to write detailed biographies for each character. This includes information such as their favorite color, childhood pets, and other personal details. Proponents of this approach argue that it helps to flesh out the character and make them more relatable. However, as one writer noted, many characters already exist in their minds in a more complete state. Therefore, this method may not be necessary for everyone.

Many writers find that using a questionnaire or character sheet can be helpful. These tools often include questions like:

Who is this character? What is their favorite color, or what pet did they have growing up? What is their goal in the story? What are their wounds or problems? What do they need to overcome in themselves to achieve their goal?

These questions can help writers gain a deeper understanding of their characters and their motivations.

Outcome-Oriented Character Development

Other writers prefer to have a clear idea of the story's outcome and how characters will behave and grow in relation to that outcome. This approach allows them to focus on the character's arc and their journey towards the story's conclusion.

According to one expert, the most important aspects of character development are:

What does this person want What is this person's wound or problem What do they need to fix or overcome in themselves in order to reach their goal In general, what kind of person is this (kind, arrogant, depressed, damaged, carefree)

By focusing on these elements, writers can create more compelling and relatable characters. For example, a character who is damaged may have trouble trusting others, but through the course of the story, they may learn to open up and find love or friendship. Similarly, an arrogant character may start out condescending but ultimately learn humility.

The Importance of Character Archetypes

Understanding and utilizing character archetypes can also be a powerful tool in character development. Protagonists often fit into one of several archetypes, such as the hero, the anti-hero, or the everyman. Each archetype has a set of characteristics and behaviors that can be used as a foundation for creating a well-rounded character.

For example, the hero archetype is often depicted as someone who has a noble goal and faces challenges that test their strength and resolve. The anti-hero, on the other hand, may be flawed and have a more cynical outlook, but still find themselves drawn into a moral struggle. The everyman archetype is a regular person who is thrust into extraordinary circumstances.

By selecting an archetype that aligns with the character's goals and wounds, writers can create a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of their protagonist.

Conclusion

Character development is an essential aspect of screenwriting. While some writers prefer to gather detailed biographical information, others focus on the character's arc and goals. Ultimately, the most important elements are the character's desires, wounds, and what they need to overcome to achieve their goals.

Utilizing character archetypes can also be a powerful tool in creating compelling and relatable characters. By understanding these aspects, writers can bring their characters to life and create stories that resonate with their audience.

Keywords: character development, screenwriting exercises, protagonist archetype