Character Arc Types to Know for Intro to Screenwriting

Character arcs shape how protagonists evolve throughout a story. Understanding these arcs—like positive change, redemption, or tragedy—helps create compelling narratives. Each arc reveals unique journeys, driving character development and emotional impact, essential for effective screenwriting.

1. Positive Change Arc

   • The protagonist undergoes significant personal growth, often overcoming internal conflicts.
   • Typically involves a clear goal or desire that drives the character's journey.
   • The arc culminates in a resolution that reflects the character's newfound understanding or strength.

2. Negative Change Arc

   • The character experiences a decline or deterioration, often due to poor choices or external pressures.
   • This arc highlights the consequences of the character's actions, leading to a tragic or cautionary outcome.
   • The transformation is often irreversible, emphasizing the weight of the character's journey.

3. Flat Arc

   • The protagonist remains largely unchanged throughout the story, serving as a moral compass for others.
   • Their beliefs and values are tested, but they ultimately reaffirm their original stance.
   • This arc often focuses on the impact the character has on others rather than personal growth.

4. Redemption Arc

   • The character seeks to atone for past mistakes or wrongdoings, often facing significant obstacles.
   • This journey typically involves self-reflection and a desire to change for the better.
   • The arc concludes with the character achieving forgiveness or reconciliation, either with themselves or others.

5. Fall Arc

   • The protagonist starts from a position of power or success and gradually descends into failure or despair.
   • This arc often explores themes of hubris, moral decline, or the consequences of ambition.
   • The character's fall serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of excess or ethical compromise.

6. Coming-of-Age Arc

   • The character transitions from youth to adulthood, often facing challenges that test their identity and values.
   • This arc emphasizes self-discovery, personal responsibility, and the loss of innocence.
   • The resolution typically involves the character gaining a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world.

7. Transformation Arc

   • The character undergoes a profound change, often in response to a significant event or revelation.
   • This arc can involve physical, emotional, or psychological transformations that redefine the character.
   • The journey often reflects broader themes of change and adaptation in the face of adversity.

8. Disillusionment Arc

   • The protagonist experiences a loss of faith or belief in something they once held dear, often due to harsh realities.
   • This arc explores themes of betrayal, loss, and the struggle to find new meaning.
   • The character's journey often leads to a more nuanced understanding of the world, albeit with a sense of melancholy.

9. Growth Arc

   • The character evolves through experiences that challenge their beliefs, leading to personal development.
   • This arc often involves overcoming fears, insecurities, or limitations.
   • The resolution highlights the character's newfound confidence or wisdom, often inspiring others.

10. Tragic Arc

    • The protagonist is often a flawed character whose weaknesses lead to their downfall.
    • This arc emphasizes the inevitability of fate and the consequences of choices made.
    • The tragic outcome serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the human condition.