How to Create an Antagonist 

One of the most important roles in a script is the antagonist, which is simply someone who stands in opposition to the protagonist (i.e. the main character). But why are antagonists so important, and how do we craft good ones? 

All good scripts need something to propel the story forward  - and that propulsion is generally created by conflict between the protagonist and antagonist. Thus, a weak antagonist often equals a weak script. So, like protagonists, there are a few main components that go into crafting well-rounded antagonists...

1. He/she has a wound from the past
2. There is a subsequent flaw
3. There is an internal need which stems from the wound
   • (i.e. to understand they are loved, to forgive, etc.)
4. There is an opportunity to arc, though they may decline
5. He/she has a goal, causing them to come in direct conflict with the protagonist for good reason

Note: These are not components that make up all well-crafted antagonists. For instance, the Joker in The Dark Knight is 'pre-arched' negative with no chance to turn good, and the shark in Jaws has only two of the items on the list. However, the more you can incorporate, the more rounded and complex your antagonist can be!

To help flesh these components out, below are a couple notable antagonists with these traits...

Anakin Skywalker / Darth Vader (Star Wars)

1. His wound happens when his mother is captured by the Tusken Raiders and dies in Anakin's arms (Episode II)
2. His pain leads him to fear, causing him to live with anger and hatred
3. His internal need is to let go of his fear that he can't save the ones he loves
4. He ultimately decides to arc positive by letting go of his fear, anger, and hate (Episode VI)
5. His goal is to gain control by taking over the Empire, and this comes into direct conflict with the protagonist (Luke), who is trying to destroy the Sith and liberate the galaxy from the Empire's grip

Tai Lung (Kung Fu Panda) 

1. Blinded by pride, Master Shifu said it was Tai Lung's destiny to become the dragon warrior - but Master Oogway sensed darkness in the pupil, and denied Tai Lung from becoming the dragon warrior - making him feel like he could never make Shifu proud
2. His flaw is resentment and pride
3. His internal need is to forgive Shifu and let go of his pride
4. He almost decides to arc when Shifu apologizes to him, but he refuses to forgive and holds on to his resentment and pride
5. His goal is becoming the dragon warrior, which is thwarted when Po receives the title and attempts to stop Tai Lung in a duel

So, let's look at your antagonist...

1. Does he/she have a past wound? (abandoned as a child, witnessed a tragedy?)
2. Is there a flaw because of the wound? (jealousy, anger?)
3. What is his/her internal need? (forgive, become humble?)
4. Is there an opportunity to arc?
5. What is his/her goal? And does it come into direct conflict with the protagonist for good reason?

What kind of villains are you making? Any more tips on how to make better bad guys? Share in the comments below! And be sure to check back again soon for more insights on how to up your writing game!