Zeb Koenig Gives Tips for Writing More Compelling Characters
Characters are one of the most important components of a film of television show. After all, without characters, there are no individuals to drive the story and help the plot reach its conclusion. Zebulun Koenig acknowledges that the recent boom in content that prioritizes compelling characters has meant that creators have been working hard to ensure that characters in their work are fully fleshed out, relatable, and interesting. Still, Zeb Koenig recognizes that there are a lot of obstacles preventing even talented writers from creating interesting characters that are truly memorable in the eyes of the audience. Here, Zeb discusses a few tips that screenwriters can utilize to consistently create compelling characters.
Give Characters Identifiable Traits Without Being One Dimensional
Zeb Koenig notes that many popular characters have defining characteristics that set them apart from others. For example, Rocky Balboa, Koenig’s favorite fictional character, is defined by his perseverance and humility that guides him through some of his toughest moments. One obstacle for writing characters is that you want to make them compelling individuals with motivations, strengths, and weaknesses all their own- but you do not want to make them one dimensional in doing so. To avoid overly simplifying a character, Zeb Koenig recommends going into great detail during the character treatment portion of writing a screenplay. While you will want to have identifying details and traits for all of your characters, don’t forget that there can always be more than meets the eye. Writers whose characters eventually go on to show up in multiple titles will want to avoid “Flanderization” whenever possible. Flanderization is the single trait that a character is known for eventually eclipses all other characterization.
Provide Realistic Motives
Motives are a driving force for narratives, and writers will always want to ensure that the motives that they give their characters are realistic, grounded, and relevant to the story that is being told. Zebulun Koenig notes that the rise in character driven concepts has emphasized the importance of strong motives- especially for villains and other characters that contribute to the plot’s conflict. For example, Killmonger in Black Panther, was motivated by his desire to start a revolution that would use Wakanda’s resources to colonize oppressors. While many of us would not agree with his motives (after all, he is the villain), we are supposed to be able to see the many factors that eventually painted his point of view. This is important for any character, as realistic and interesting motives keep the story focused as it reaches its conclusion.
Do Not Skimp on Backstory
Backstories are a facet of stories that are often not given the attention it deserves. This is unfortunate, as Zebulun Koenig speaks to the multiple ways that compelling backstories contribute to memorable characters. The reasoning behind Zeb’s fascination with backstory is that our characters’ past notably impacts their future. We are all products of the experiences that paint our backstory and putting energy into developing strong ones for characters helps the viewers get the full picture of character’s viewpoints, motivations, and even trauma as they traverse the story. Zebulun Koenig acknowledges that many writers’ hesitation to put much energy into backstories stems from a lack of knowledge on how to reference a character’s past without detracting from the progression of the story. Commonly, this can be rectified by pacing yourself- you do not need to lay an entire backstory down at once, and writers get adept at including just enough to provide insight into the future of the character.
Focus on Relationships Between Characters
Only rarely does the narrative of a story only focus on one character. Instead, even plots primarily driven by one main character also include several supporting or side characters that contribute to the overall plot. Zeb Koenig cautions against funneling all your development into the main character, as this creates a situation where the rest of the cast suffers or is left with very little to do in the narrative. Instead, be sure to pay attention to the relationships between characters and how they progress or regress though your writing. For example, the relationships between friends, family, and significant others will likely include several ups and downs through the plot of the story. You want to ensure that these relationships feel full and lived in as you paint the world. Inside jokes, memories, compelling conversations, and several other components of interpersonal relationships in the real world can be added to fully flesh out the relationships that the characters have.
