Mastering Character Arcs: Unleashing Career Growth in Television

The Importance of Character Arcs in Television

Television has been a part of our lives for decades, and it has become an integral part of our daily routine. As viewers, we get hooked on a show because of its characters, the plot, and the storyline. But what makes a show great are the character arcs. The character arc is the journey that a character takes from the beginning of the show to its end. It is the character’s growth and development over time. Building character arcs in television is an art, and it requires skill, creativity, and attention to detail.

In this article, we will explore the importance of character arcs in television, the elements that make up a great character arc, and how to build a character arc that resonates with viewers.

Elements of a Great Character Arc

A great character arc is made up of several elements that work together to create a compelling story. These elements include:

1. The character’s backstory: A character’s backstory is crucial in building a great character arc. It provides context for the character’s actions and motivations, making them more relatable and understandable.
2. The character’s flaws: Flaws make characters more human and relatable. They also provide opportunities for growth and development.
3. The character’s goals: Goals give characters something to strive for, making their journey more meaningful and impactful.
4. The character’s obstacles: Obstacles create conflict and tension, making the character’s journey more challenging. Overcoming obstacles also allows the character to grow and develop.
5. The character’s transformation: The character’s transformation is the culmination of their journey. It is the moment when they overcome their flaws and achieve their goals, making them a better version of themselves.

Building a Compelling Character Arc

Building a compelling character arc requires a combination of creativity, skill, and attention to detail. Here are some steps to follow when building a character arc:

1. Start with the character’s backstory: The character’s backstory provides the foundation for their journey. It should be well-developed and provide context for the character’s actions and motivations.
2. Identify the character’s flaws: Flaws make characters more relatable and provide opportunities for growth and development. Identify the character’s flaws and use them to create obstacles that the character must overcome.
3. Define the character’s goals: Goals give characters something to strive for and make their journey more meaningful. Define the character’s goals and use them to create a roadmap for their journey.
4. Create obstacles: Obstacles create conflict and tension, making the character’s journey more challenging. Use the character’s flaws and goals to create obstacles that the character must overcome.
5. Show the character’s transformation: The character’s transformation is the culmination of their journey. It is the moment when they overcome their flaws and achieve their goals. Show the character’s transformation in a way that is meaningful and impactful.

Conclusion

Building character arcs in television is an essential skill for anyone pursuing a career in the industry. A great character arc creates an emotional connection between the viewer and the character, making the show more engaging and impactful. A great character arc is made up of several elements, including the character’s backstory, flaws, goals, obstacles, and transformation. To build a compelling character arc, you need to be creative, skilled, and attentive to detail.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in the film and television industry, consider taking the NYU Film and TV Industry Essentials online course and certificate program. This program offers a comprehensive overview of the industry and provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.