While writing and directing tend to get all the attention in Hollywood, developing a story is a crucial skill for anyone looking to work in film or TV. Whether you’re an actor, producer, or story editor, having the ability to suss out characters and motivations, brainstorm set pieces, and distill notes into cogent loglines and pitches is essential to your career. So how do you develop your ideas from seed to draft? Here are a few simple steps to help you along the way.
The first step is to identify (or create!) a hot spot in your idea. This could be a moment of conflict or emotion that has the potential to spark drama and tension in your character. Then, ask yourself: “How does this moment make my character feel?” This will give you the foundation of your emotional arc.
Once you’ve identified your hot spot and your emotional arc, it’s time to start exploring the external complications that will bring your protagonist to the climax of your story. This is where all the ‘yes, but’ and ‘no, but’ moments you built up throughout your rising action come to a head. The results will either reveal your protagonist’s true Want or force them to choose between it and their own Need.
Often, the best stories feature deep and believable characters that readers can empathize with. That’s why it’s so important to take the time to develop your characters from a very early stage in the development process.