ABSTRACT
The key to adapting successful screen characters lies in making them sympathetic, narrowing down their extensive backstory, describing them in a precise manner, and using action to reveal them in a visual 31manner. In addition, the successful adapter should be concerned with other issues, which we discuss in subsequent chapters. Character growth involves the change a screenplay’s character undergoes as a result of the story’s problem. It may be necessary, therefore, to change some aspect of the novel’s characterization of the protagonist to create a new starting point, which the character can evolve and change from.
Often, this change in starting point of the story can be achieved by changing the character’s goal. Finally, the successful adapter should be aware of the minor characters in the story. By combining characters and eliminating others, the writer can achieve greater economy. The story moves quicker and holds the attention of its audience better. Successful characterization can never guarantee a commercial success, but it’s an important first step. In the next chapters, we explore other important screenwriting steps—structure, social issue, and dialogue.
