Intention and Obstacle - The two pillars of your script

In the world of screenwriting, two key concepts form the backbone of every compelling story: intention and obstacle. Grasping these elements can elevate a good script into something truly exceptional. Whether you are just starting out or have years of experience, understanding how intention guides your characters and how obstacles challenge them is crucial for building engaging narratives.

What is Intention?

At its heart, intention is simply what your characters want. It represents their goals and motivations, driving them forward in the storyline. When your character has a clear intention, it not only boosts the narrative but also fosters empathy among viewers. People feel more connected and supportive of a character when they understand what drives them.

Types of Intentions

Intentions can shape the characters and the overall plot in various interesting ways. Here are some common types:

Personal Intentions: These goals relate deeply to a character’s life. For instance, consider a character aiming to reconnect with their estranged sibling or pursuing a long-held dream of becoming a musician. A personal journey towards fulfilling such ambitions can resonate well with the audience.
Relational Intentions: Often, characters are motivated by their relationships. This could involve seeking genuine love, building a lifelong friendship, or even confronting a past betrayal. For example, in romantic comedies, characters often strive to win over someone special, presenting relatable struggles throughout their quest.
Societal Intentions: These plot points relate to broader issues, such as standing up against injustice or striving for positive societal change. Characters like Erin Brockovich, for example, target systemic problems while trying to make a difference, which may resonate with viewers who value social justice.
Survival Intentions: In high-pressure narratives, survival comes into play. Characters might be trying to escape a disaster or dealing with mental health challenges. The story of a character in a post-apocalyptic scenario, fighting to stay alive against overwhelming odds, powerfully showcases survival intentions.

By defining your character's intention clearly, you lay the groundwork for dynamic drama and conflict within your screenplay.

Close-up view of a notebook filled with screenplay notes — A writer's notebook with creative screenplay ideas.

The Role of Obstacles

After establishing your character's intention, the next vital aspect is the obstacle. An obstacle represents any force that hinders your character from reaching their goals. Obstacles not only generate tension but also reveal the depth of your characters’ journeys, showcasing their true nature.

Types of Obstacles

Obstacles can manifest in numerous forms. Here are a few to keep in mind when writing your screenplay:

External Obstacles: These are challenges from the outside world, such as antagonist actions, societal pressures, or physical barriers. For instance, imagine a character training for a marathon while contending with more experienced runners and harsh weather.
Internal Obstacles: Often, internal struggles can prove more challenging than external ones. These include a character grappling with insecurity, fear, or self-doubt. For example, a writer facing a crippling block or a soldier dealing with the psychological aftermath of war can bring significant emotional depth to a narrative.
Situational Obstacles: Unique circumstances can also create obstacles. This might involve catastrophic weather events, budget constraints, or time pressure. An engaging plot might revolve around a character racing against a hurricane to save their community from destruction.

Combining intentions and obstacles allows you to craft a richer narrative where characters develop, and audiences find themselves more invested in the outcome.

High angle view of a winding road through a dense forest — A winding road, symbolizing the obstacles faced in a journey.

Balancing Intention and Obstacle

The essence of storytelling lies in striking the right balance between intention and obstacle. A compelling character journey emerges when growth and resilience are illustrated through adversity. Ensure that the obstacles are significant enough to create tension, but not so overwhelming that they render the character's evolution impossible.

Understanding Your Audience

When creating your screenplay, keep your audience in mind. Film lovers appreciate layered storytelling, where intentions and obstacles are meaningfully intertwined. It's important to build relatable characters with clear desires and relevant challenges that provoke empathy.

Adding nuance to your characters can enhance your story. For example, a character overcoming an external obstacle might also wrestle with deep-seated fears that impact their decisions. Merging these factors leads to richer character arcs and more fulfilling narratives.

Wrapping Up

In essence, intention and obstacle serve as the two foundational pillars of your script. By establishing clear desires for your characters and presenting them with substantial obstacles, you pave the way for a captivating narrative that truly engages your audience. Balancing these components allows characters to grow and evolve naturally.

Keep refining your writing skills. Explore different intentions and obstacles and enjoy the storytelling journey. By embracing these integral aspects of screenwriting, you’ll create stories that resonate deeply with viewers.