Warm Up

What are dramatic need, point of view, and attitude?

Conflict

“The only thing that’s important is the story, and the story arises from the conflict between characters. And you can only evolve that by beginning with their needs and motives, and by bringing them together, and they will create the story for you.”

-- Frank Pierson

Conflict

Conflict

Conflict is creating the force of opposition between the characters and the actions that helps shape or motivate the plot.

Conflict should move the story forward and/or reveal something about the character.

Conflict

All drama is conflict.

Conflict creates tension, rhythm, suspense, and keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats.

Obstacles to Dramatic Need

You can create obstacles to the character’s dramatic need and the story becomes your character overcoming obstacles to achieve his or her dramatic need.

Put you character up a tree and throw rocks at him.

Opposing Points of View

You can have a character with the opposite point of view to create conflict.

Internal Conflict

Internal conflict occurs when the main character struggles within himself or herself.

The character is pulled by two courses of action or by differing emotions, which often leads to a dynamic change in the character.

Ex. Fear, doubt, love, perseverance.

External Conflict

External conflict is the force or forces that work outside the character.

Ex. Hazards of war, weather, physical terrain, temptations, and physical hardship.