FTW pick a POV
Welcome to The Scribblers Toolbox, where we explore the world of screenwriting and delve into the essential elements of crafting a compelling screenplay. I'm Jesse Alexander, a screenwriter and your guide on this creative journey. Today, we're going to focus on characters and point of view, two crucial concepts that can make or break your story.
Grab a snack, get comfy, and let's dive in!
What are point-of-view characters, and why do they matter in screenwriting? A point of view character is the person through whose eyes we experience the story. They help us understand what's happening, how it affects the characters involved, and what the stakes are.
Your choice of point of view character can have a significant impact on the tone and focus of your story. It can shape the audience's emotional connection to the events and influence how they perceive the story's themes and messages.
For example, during my work on Lost, we had a large ensemble cast, and we chose to focus on different characters in different episodes to provide a more complete picture of the story. By exploring the perspectives of various characters, we were able to dig deeper into the show's themes and create a richer, more complex narrative.
When determining your story's point of view character, ask yourself who best serves the narrative and who can provide the most engaging and emotionally resonant perspective for the audience. Think about the story you want to tell and which character's journey best embodies the themes and ideas you're exploring.
On a scene-by-scene basis, it's also important to consider which character should take center stage. This decision should be based on whose perspective offers the most insight, tension, or emotional impact for the specific scene in question.
For example, during my time on Hannibal, we often shifted the point of view from one character to another, depending on the scene's focus and the story we were telling. This approach allowed us to explore different aspects of the characters and their relationships, creating a more nuanced and engaging narrative.
Next, let's talk about the importance of having an active, talented, and obstacle-ridden main character. An active main character is one who takes action and drives the story forward rather than simply reacting to events. This kind of character is essential for engaging storytelling because audiences are more likely to invest in a character who has agency and makes choices that shape the story.
Giving your main character a specific skill or talent is also crucial, as it helps to define them and set them apart from other characters. It also provides opportunities for interesting story beats and character development.
For example, consider the character of Walter White in Breaking Bad. Walter's talent for chemistry not only sets him apart from other characters but also plays a pivotal role in the story and his transformation.
Obstacles are another critical element in challenging and developing your main character. Obstacles force your character to adapt, grow, and make difficult choices, ultimately leading to a more dynamic and engaging character arc. These obstacles can take many forms, from physical barriers to emotional conflicts and moral dilemmas.
When working on Heroes, we made sure that our characters were always facing new and escalating obstacles. This allowed us to explore their strengths, weaknesses, and personal growth as they grappled with their newfound abilities and the consequences of their actions.
It's also crucial to develop distinct voices and perspectives for your point-of-view characters. This will not only help differentiate them from one another but also provide unique insights and emotional beats for your story.
In conclusion, understanding the point of view character in your story—and in each scene—is an essential part of crafting a compelling screenplay.
