How to Write a TV Pilot in 30 Amazingly Simple Steps — Part 3

11- A key aspect of screenwriting: Character Flaw.

A “character flaw” is that imperfection your characters carry around with them. Sometimes the story revolves around this flaw, if the character corrects it he’ll have a happy ending, if he doesn’t he’ll be a tragic hero. The “flaw” allows the audience to identify with the character. It humanizes them. They can identify what needs to be corrected for the hero to triumph or fail.

The ‘character flaw’ it’s linked to the theme of the story.

In Rocky, one could argue that the titular character’s flaw was the lack of self-belief. He doubts he can win against the reigning champion. He has to believe in himself to make Apollo go the full 12 rounds. That’s why the ending is a victory, even though Rocky loses. He corrects his flaw, so he “won”. We want to see characters grow. For that, we must know what the characters must outgrow first.

Secondary characters have their flaws too, and the hero can learn from their failings to cope with them. In Lord of the Rings, it is after Boromir succumbs to the power of the ring, and is eventually killed, that Aragorn accepts his role as king.

Character flaws are essential for tragedy, and tragedy is a big part of the drama. Make your characters great but give…