Q&A: How Do You Find a Character’s Inner Flaw?

Original Post Date: June 28, 2012 - Robert McKee teaches how writers can use the principle of character dimensions to create contradictions and flaws.

[@PanosSavvidis]

I read the title and I thought, what an absurd question! In contradiction to this romantic notion that characters are alive and you have to let them write their story, the truth is that characters are note alive at all. They exist only in your imagination, so you can't find something in them or ask them to tell you what is their flaw. You just invent a flaw that fits the story. Then I started the video and listen to you saying that thing! Great teacher! Probably the best and more grounded out there.

[@ld_raine4247]

I've looked far and wide on the internet and youtube... This is by far the simplest explanation that is helpful. Thank you!

[@MahonMcCann]

A hugely valuable piece of advice. Every virtue pushed to its extreme becomes a vice; if you press the characters strength to its limit, does the power become a weakness?

[@spacechampi0n]

If you're starting for theme first (which i prefer) the flaw has to relate to that.

[@Stratword_]

Flawed characters are the most fun to read.

[@joakoespo2003]

Precious advice