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Make screenplay character development 100x easier with this #1 hack
via Script Reader Pro
Do you have an incredible idea for a script, but are unsure how to make the characters feel real? Do you often get the note back that your characters feel two-dimensional?
Here’s a simple screenplay character development hack that most aspiring writers don’t use, but will quickly elevate your characters above the norm. We consider it essential, in fact, as it will help you crack the motivations of your characters wide open.
So, let’s dive into the strategy you can use to write better screenplay characters that act and feel real.
The ultimate character hack.
The hack we recommend you use is called the Enneagram. Without going into a history lesson, the Enneagram is a personality-type grading system. Along the lines of Meyers-Briggs, or even—gulp—astrology.
We’re going to focus on screenplay character development in this post, but the Enneagram Insitute is the place to find out more about it.
The central conceit of the test is that there are nine basic types of people. Everyone who takes the test is assigned a “type” on a scale from one to nine, which are:
1. Reformer.
This personality type is purposeful, principled, always in control and something of a perfectionistic. Read more about the Reformer here.
2. Helper.
If your screenplay character is a generous, people-pleaser, they’re likely to be a Helper. Also, demonstrative and prone to being a tad possessive. Read more about the Helper here.
3. Achiever.
Does one of your characters always check their hair before leaving the house? Chances are they’re an image-conscious Achiever. They’re also very adaptive and driven. Read more about the Achiever here.
4. Individualist.
This character type is your screenplay’s sensitive, withdrawn type. Also self-absorbed, temperamental and fiercely individualistic. Read more about the Individualist here.