How to develop engaging characters for screen | National Centre for Writing | NCW

Screenwriting is all about character.

This is my conclusion from many years writing and editing scripts for feature films, television series and serials. However marvellous the story, if there's no compelling character at its heart it's not going to sing. I'm embarking on a new script at the moment, and I'm telling myself just what I tell my students. A strong character gives rise to their plot when they set out on a quest for something they want, long for, or need. This story couldn't happen to another person. It must fit the main character like a beautifully-made glove.