CONFLICT
Welcome to Day 8 in our 12 Days Countdown of “Questions to ask about your character”!
Today’s focus is on conflict—one of the most exciting (and challenging) parts of any journey. Conflict drives stories, reveals hidden depths, and pushes characters (and us!) to grow. Every character has their own way of handling challenges, and understanding how your character deals with conflict can unlock powerful insights into their motivations and personality.
Some people avoid conflict at all costs, while others tackle it head-on, no matter the fallout. Characters in movies and TV shows often have extreme reactions—maybe they lash out in anger, retreat into silence, or bounce between the two depending on the situation.
💥 Exciting Idea: Think about how your favorite character handles conflict. Do they scream and shout? Plot revenge quietly? Do they freeze up or strategize their next move? Now, think about yourself. How do you respond when things don’t go according to plan?
📝 Action Step: Choose one recent conflict from your life. Write down how you reacted, why you think you reacted that way, and what emotions you felt. Now, flip the perspective—how would your character handle that same situation? What emotions would drive their choices?
🎭 Pro Tip for Character Development: Your own experiences can be a goldmine for building authentic, layered performances. Start by identifying your natural instincts during conflict. Then, think about how your character’s background might shape their approach. Maybe they explode with anger because they’ve always had to fight to be heard, or maybe they bottle everything up because they fear confrontation. Let your own emotional memory be the foundation, and then build from there.
By connecting your personal experiences to your character’s journey, you create performances that feel truthful and relatable. Conflict isn’t just about drama—it’s about human connection.