In any type of story you’re writing breathing life into your character is just as important as the plot of the story. Someone or something has to move the story forward. Below are just a few tips that have helped me along the way when I put pen to paper or fingers to the keyboard. As crazy as that may sound I’m sure you get where I’m coming from.

*Let The Characters Speak To You--Sometimes voices in our heads may seem weird, but when you’re coming up with characters for your story you need to let them tell you who they are, what they look like, where they live, where they are coming from and what they are trying to achieve.

*Detail Matters--Now I’m not saying you have to note every single mole or pimple on your character’s body, but it does help when you visualize what your characters look like and whether or not you want them to remain that way throughout. Giving physical, mental, and emotional attributes does give definition to your characters and their development.

*Good vs. Bad--A good question to ask yourself is which character (s) do you want to be the protagonist and antagonist (the good one or the bad one). Just because one may start off one way doesn’t mean that this character has to stay that way. Wouldn’t that make for a juicy twist?

*Use Resources--If you’re still struggling with the aspects of your characters either read a book or watch television. Notice how the writers developed their characters. You are sure to get an inspirational spark that could help you with what you’re looking for in terms of the characters in your story. Take a little bit from here and there and you’ll begin to build your thoughts more and more. Before you know it you’ll be back to writing again.

*Make Things Memorable--Keep your audience intrigued. Give them something that will make them want more. Make something about your character(s) so worthy that it will have people talking about them throughout their lifetime. Yes, i know that may sound a little far fetch. However, remember to give each of your characters their own identity. Don’t make them all the same. That will do nothing for your story, but make it one note and uninteresting. They don’t all have to be realistic, but do make them memorable.

I’m not telling you that these tips are concrete or will definitely get you to the red carpet because you got nominated for an award (although it could happen--anything is possible). I just wanted to share with you some of the things that have helped me and hopefully will help other writers. Good luck on what you’re trying to achieve!!!

 

#beentertainmentandproductions

#biancaemery

#awardwinningscreenwriterandplaywright

www.beentertainment.org