Question:
How do I develop a character?
Arc of the Main Character
Quite simply, the main character of a screenplay is the person in it who changes the most—the person with the greatest arc. All stories have one main character. Know who yours is before you type FADE IN and you will save yourself much anxiety.
Know Your Characters
Writing a screenplay does not really start with FADE IN. It commences with getting to know your characters. Write out attributes as though your lead and supporting characters exist. And make up triumphs and tribulations they've each known prior—years prior—to the beginning of your story.
Arc
In movies, things happen and characters change. Otherwise, the audience will ask why a movie was made. (For most movies, someone asks that anyway.) Your leads and supporting characters should all have arcs—should all change or be changed in some obvious, fundamental way due to the “things happening” in the story.
Screen Writing Frequently Asked Questions
How do I follow screenplay format?
How do I dream up a movie idea?
How do I obtain representation?
Do I have to move to Hollywood?
How do I make a story believable?
How do I add direction to dialog?
How do I get input on my writing?
How do I stay focused on my writing?
What is important to remember regarding creativity?
How do I get into screenwriting?
Do I need to rewrite after my first draft?
What is the upside of the writer´s life?
How do I keep the audience´s attention?
What will I write for Hollywood?
What shows may educate me about screenwriting?
How do I write shots and camera angles into my scripts?
What is my role as a screenwriter?
What would I offer Hollywood as a screenwriter?
How do I use writing to get into acting?
How do I keep the reader reading?
How do I indicate voiceover, or off screen dialog?
Where can I see movies or shows made from good scripts?
How do I give copyright notice?
How do I keep readers interested?
What festivals should I attend?
Where else can I learn more about screenwriting?
Where can I find exposure for my writing?
An agent has asked me to write a "Blurp/Logline" about my screenplay. What is a Blurp/Logline?
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