[GACHA TUTORIAL] How to write BACKSTORIES and GOOD CHARACTERS

Summary

The video addresses common issues in character development, particularly in the context of creating 'gotcha' videos. It contrasts flat and round characters, explaining how round characters have depth and evolve over time, making them more relatable and engaging. Using an example of a character named Susan, it illustrates the difference between flat and round character development. The video also offers practical tips on character design, the importance of backstories, and creating meaningful relationships and conflicts to drive the story forward, ultimately enhancing the quality of 'gotcha' videos.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video discusses 'Gancha Angstitis', a humorous term for the overuse of angst in character development.
• 📚 It introduces the concepts of 'flat' and 'round' characters, with round characters being more developed and dynamic.
• 🤔 The script challenges creators to avoid cliches and to write characters with depth and believable actions.
• 🎭 The example of Susan is used to illustrate the difference between flat and round characters, showing how the same life events can lead to different character portrayals.
• 💡 Round characters are recommended for main roles due to their ability to engage audiences with relatable motivations and reactions.
• 👗 Character design should support and reflect the character's traits and backstory, as demonstrated with Susan's materialistic tendencies.
• 🎨 The video advises against using non-human features in character design unless they are relevant to the character's story or world.
• 📉 It suggests that flat characters are useful for minor roles, as they are predictable and can drive the plot forward.
• 🔍 A character summary can help determine if a character is flat or round, with round characters requiring more than one sentence to describe.
• 📝 The importance of injecting round characters into a story to create complex relationships and deepen the plot is emphasized.
• 🛑 The video concludes with a reminder that characters should face conflicts and not always win, making them more relatable and human.

Q & A

What is 'gancha angstitis' mentioned in the script?

Gancha angstitis is a humorous term used in the script to describe a tendency among some creators to overuse angst and trauma in their character development, often resulting in clichéd and flat characters.

What are the two types of characters discussed in the video?

The two types of characters discussed are 'flat characters' and 'round characters'. Flat characters are two-dimensional with one or two notable traits, while round characters are fully realized, with depth and believable development over time.

According to Judy Bloom, what differentiates round characters from flat characters?

Judy Bloom explains that round characters come into conflict with other characters in believable ways, showing character development, whereas flat characters lack depth and usually have only one or two notable traits.

How does the script suggest developing a round character?

The script suggests developing a round character by giving them a complex personality, interesting story, and believable actions. This includes understanding their motivations, reactions, and morals, which makes their interactions more engaging.

What is the purpose of intentionally creating flat characters?

Intentionally created flat characters are useful for minor roles in a story. They are predictable and built on tropes or clichés, which helps to move the plot forward without requiring deep development.

How can character design support a character's traits and backstory?

Character design should complement the character's traits and backstory. For example, a materialistic character might wear the latest high fashion trends and designer items, which visually tells part of their story.

What should be considered when designing a character's appearance?

Factors such as climate, class, ethnicity, location, interests, occupation, and motive should be considered when designing a character's appearance to ensure it aligns with their personality and story.

Why is it advised to avoid giving characters non-human features that don't correlate with their story?

Non-human features like wings, demon tails, or animal ears should be avoided if they do not have a purpose or correlation to the character's story or the world they inhabit, as they can detract from the character's believability.

What is the importance of a character's goal in driving the story forward?

A character's goal is crucial as it provides motivation and drives the story forward. It should be supported by the character's backstory, morals, or relationships, and not be easily achieved to create conflict and development.

How can relationships between characters add depth to the plot?

Relationships between characters, especially round characters, can add depth to the plot by creating complex interactions and conflicts. These relationships can be used to further develop the main character and the story.

What does the script suggest as a method for creating an interesting story for characters?

The script suggests putting a regular character into irregular circumstances and giving them a goal that drives the story forward. This approach allows the character to face conflicts and develop through their experiences.