Supa Story #4: Building Unforgettable Characters (1).

The Multi-Dimensional Character

The most compelling characters are multi-dimensional, meaning they contain layers and contradictions that make them feel real. Truby suggests moving beyond the “hero vs. villain” mindset, to developing characters with complex desires, moral conflicts, and distinct personalities.

Consider Black Panther’s T’Challa and Erik Killmonger. They both want the best for their people, but their ideals and methods vastly differ. These layered motivations and values make them relatable, even though they are at odds.

The Character Archetypes

Understanding key character types is essential to balancing your story. These archetypes help writers to best understand what their characters represent in their stories. These types support the main plot and introduce tension and contrast.

1. The Protagonist

• Who they are: The character the audience follows on the main journey.

• Essentials: They should have a strong desire and face obstacles that challenge them on every level. They’re the heartbeat of the story, so the stakes around their journey must be high.

• Example: In The Pursuit of Happyness, Chris Gardner’s desire to provide a better life for his son drives the narrative. His journey, challenges, and resilience make us root for him.

2. The Opponent

• Who they are: A character who stands in the protagonist’s way, creating the core conflict.

• Essentials: The opponent should challenge the protagonist’s goals directly or indirectly, often with their own compelling motivations.

• Example: In The Lion King, Scar opposes Simba, driven by his own thirst for power. His motivations and ruthless ambition add complexity to his character.

3. The Ally

• Who they are: A supporting character who helps the protagonist along on the journey.

• Essentials: Allies can provide comic relief, challenge the protagonist’s perspective, or guide them with advice or support.

• Example: Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings is more than a loyal friend; he provides strength, grounding, and encouragement to Frodo, especially when the journey gets tough.

4. The Fake-Ally Opponent

• Who they are: An opponent who pretends to be an ally. Uhmm…bad bad, huh?

• Essentials: They introduce suspense by betraying the protagonist’s trust or adding unforeseen conflict. This character type often pushes the protagonist toward critical growth.

• Example: In Frozen, Hans initially appears to be a charming ally to Anna, but his betrayal forces her to re-evaluate what true love and loyalty mean.

5. The Fake-Opponent Ally

• Who they are: An ally who initially appears to be against the protagonist.

• Essentials: These characters add layers of conflict and suspense. They may challenge the protagonist’s approach or values but ultimately become invaluable to their journey.

• Example: In Shrek, Donkey initially frustrates Shrek, but as their relationship deepens, he becomes Shrek’s most loyal friend and confidant.

Tip: Make Your Characters Work for the Plot

Each character, main or minor, should have a purpose tied to the protagonist’s journey. The clearer each character’s motivations and conflicts are, the more engaging the story becomes. Think of character types as tools in a writer’s toolkit — each with a specific function that adds to the story’s richness and intensity.

🎬 Take-Home Exercise: Crafting Your Character Types

1. Identify the Core Types: For your story, identify each of these character types (protagonist, opponent, ally, fake-ally opponent, fake-opponent ally). Write down a few sentences on who each character is and their role in the protagonist’s journey.

2. Map Motivations: For each character type, specify their motivations. Think beyond “good” and “evil” — dig into what each character wants and how it creates tension or harmony with the protagonist.

3. Add Depth with Contradictions: Add one trait that makes each character slightly contradictory. For example, a brave protagonist might be afraid of losing the people they love, or an opponent might have an unexpected soft spot.

4. Observe: Watch a favourite movie and identify these character types. Look at how each one supports or opposes the protagonist, and note any traits that make them memorable or surprising.

Next week, we’ll dive into character desires, weaknesses, and needs, exploring how these influence your characters’ journeys and the choices they make.

Keep writing, and as always, we’re here to help you bring your stories to life!

Yours-in-Storytelling,
Ayobola Eniola,
For Emerge Story Company.

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