Whether you write drama, action, comedy, or horror, script your next movie bad guy using the juicy traits of November Eve's number one villain - Michael Myers.
Snacks. Check. Cozy spot on the couch. Check. Big fluffy blanket. Check. Must be Friday – DVD night at my house. Tonight’s feature presentation – Halloween.
Okay, I know this movie has been around since last century and that I’ve literally seen it 50 times. However, there is just something about Michael Myers. Could it be that he’s the strong, silent type? Perhaps it’s the special way he handles cutlery.
Or maybe it’s because he’s the perfect movie villain, from his William Shatner mask to his grungy work boots.
No matter what genre you write, Michael Myers could be the model for your next movie bad guy. Why? Because Michael possesses the qualities of a delicious villain.
Michael Myers has no boundaries
All of us get peeved with our families. We slash their tires, flush their keys down the toilet, and spike their food with laxatives. At most, we go mildly postal. But, usually we stay within the narrow confines of socially accepted perimeters. That’s the problem with having a conscious.
That’s not the case with Mike. He’s CRAZY. If you’re his family, heaven forbid his sister, you’re taking a knife to the back.
He believes that his actions are justified
Yeah, he went homicidal when he was a youngster. What else would a card-carrying psychopath do? But, how dare Haddonfield put him in a mental institution. No cartoons…no bike riding…having to listen to Dr. Loomis rattle on and on.
Haddonfield had to pay.
Mike’s got special abilities and powers
This man can:
- Cut off heads with a single swipe
- Walk while you run and still catch you
- Manage to obtain food, clothing, and shelter with no job
- Resurrect from the dead whenever it’s time for sequel
He’s interesting
Have you ever met anyone like Mike? Chances are you wouldn’t be here to read this article if you had.
His backstory is compelling
Mike obviously has some serious childhood psychological issues.
He has an intriguing goal
Mike is dedicated to killing all of Haddonfield. Heck, he even started whacking folks on Elm Street.
Michael always helps the protagonist
Mike has a goal, but he also has a purpose. In all of his movies, some weak character becomes empowered by overcoming Mike’s attack. This “hero” is forced to face his most flawed trait and transform it into a skill to survive. The hero discovers wonderful abilities that they didn’t even know they had.
How much would you have to pay a therapist to do what Mike does for free?
Now, go write your own villain. Make him (or her) strong, determined, and nasty. As for me, I’m going to sit back and watch Mike for the 51st time.
