What Your Characters Want vs. What They Need 🤔

Discover the craft secret that separates forgettable characters from unforgettable ones.

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June 13, 2026 11:45am EDT

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THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WHAT YOUR CHARACTER WANTS AND WHAT THEY NEED

There’s a big difference between what a character wants and what they need within the story. It’s important for screenwriters to know the differences between the two because giving your characters multiple layers makes their character arcs better, and, as a result, improves the story as well.

Let’s break down what the difference is between want and need when it comes to characters in a story, using iconic characters like Indiana Jones, Marty McFly and Rocky as examples. It’s a fascinating and eye-opening subject that will make your writing easier, your scripts better, and your protagonists and antagonists much, much more dynamic and layered.

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What Your Characters Want vs. What They Need 🤔

Discover the craft secret that separates forgettable characters from unforgettable ones.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WHAT YOUR CHARACTER WANTS AND WHAT THEY NEED

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