Defining Conflict in Screen and Play Writing
Creating Script Movement Using Opposing Dramatic Forces
The most important force for generating movement in a screen/play script is conflict. Without conflict there is no drama and without conflict there is no opportunity for a resolution. For there must be conflict before there is resolution
Screenplay Terminology
Conflict could be defined as thus
- Opposition between two incompatible feelings
- A clash between two groups or individuals, society or environment
How this applies to screen/play writing is best illustrated when dividing conflict into two types, Inner Conflict and Outer Conflict.
Inner Conflict in Script Writing
Inner Conflict in Screen and Play Writing is a character’s internal dilemma. It is when a character has two deal with “two incompatible feelings” brought on by his/her circumstances. These could be moral or religious conflicts.
For example inner religious conflict occurs in Chariots of Fire devout missionary Eric cannot race his Olympic Qualifying Heat because it takes place on a Sunday. In Donnie Brasco undercover policeman Joe Pistone must struggles with the fact that his actions will potentially cause the death of gangster Donnie Brasco. The conflict occurs because Donnie and Joe have now become close friends.
Outer Conflict in Script Writing
Outer Conflict in a screenplay occurs when a character is put up against either other individuals or their own environment.
For Example in Heat Neil McCauley must try and operate as a high end bank robber whilst constantly under threat from Vincent Hanna. This would be an example of conflict with another individual.
In Erin Brockovich, Erin is brought into conflict with a society that undervalues women and is prejudice against “white trash”.
Popular Screenwriting author Syd Field divides this “Outer Conflict” into two further sub categories. These are “personal conflicts” and “Extra-Personal Conflicts”. Personal conflicts being clashes with other individuals and Extra Personal being clashes with a characters environment or society.
Combining Inner and Outer Conflict in Screen/Play Writing
Whilst inner and outer conflict seem to exist as separate entities the best screenplay will overlap the different types of conflict and interrelate them. For example a character because of his circumstances (outer conflict) might be forced to do something he finds morally questionable (inner conflict). A comedic example would be Mrs Doubtfire. Following a divorce, Robin Williams is not allowed to see his children (outer conflict) so he decides to pretend that he is a woman and become their nanny. Something that he knows is wrong (inner conflict) and will only end in tears.
How Does Conflict Drive a Plot in a Script?
Conflict drives a plot by forcing a character or group of characters to resolve the conflict. Whether they succeed or fail is up to the writer.
Other useful screenwriting articles the reader may be interested in are an Introduction to Screenwriting Books, How to Write a First Play and What is an Inciting Incident in Screenplay?
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