How to Create a Memorable Villain

In this lecture from "Page to Picture," the focus is on writing compelling villains in film. Three distinct villain archetypes are explored: The Mirror, The Looming Threat, and The Villain Protagonist. Each archetype is defined by unique characteristics and methods of developing conflict with the hero.

1. The Mirror Villain

• Definition: These villains are the opposite of the hero, sharing certain traits, values, or methods.
• Examples: Magneto to Professor X, Kylo Ren to Rey, Voldemort to Harry Potter.
• Key Points:
  • K.M. Weiland's Insight: Mirror characters complement and highlight each other's traits, creating both external and internal conflict within the hero.
  • Example: In "The Dark Knight" by Jonathan and Christopher Nolan, the Joker acts as Batman's mirror.
    • Both are outsiders.
    • The Joker challenges Batman's sense of morality and purpose.
    • Forces Batman to confront his own rules, e.g., choosing between Harvey and Rachel.
  • Writing Tips:
    • Assign parallel traits to the hero and villain.
    • Determine how the villain challenges the hero's worldview.

2. The Looming Threat

• Definition: Villains whose threat is constant despite minimal presence in the story.
• Examples: The Eye of Sauron ("Lord of the Rings"), Zodiac Killer, It in "It Follows."
• Key Points:
  • Imagination is crucial as these villains are more felt than seen.
  • Example: "Seven" by Andrew Kevin Walker features John Doe as a looming threat.
    • He has minimal screen presence but impacts the story through his actions and mythology.
    • The villain's motivation is often ambiguous.
  • Writing Tips:
    • Keep the villain absent to some extent and focus on the aftermath of their actions.
    • Use eyewitness accounts and unclear motives to build their threat.
    • Makes audience part of the storytelling by activating their imagination.

3. The Villain Protagonist

• Definition: The protagonist possesses villainous traits.
• Examples: Alex in "A Clockwork Orange," Patrick Bateman in "American Psycho," Tony Montana in "Scarface."
• Key Points:
  • Example: Daniel Plainview in "There Will Be Blood."
    • Pursues wealth and power leading to his downfall.
    • Initially appears sympathetic due to familial desires.
    • His ambition leads him to villainy.
  • Writing Tips:
    • Provide a complete character arc balancing sympathy and villainy.
    • The protagonist should have goals, antagonists, and a character arc.
    • Fall arcs show a descent into immorality or madness.

Conclusion

• Villains can fit multiple archetypes or defy expectations.
• Important characteristics include creating internal and external conflict, building mythology, and balancing sympathetic traits.
• Suggestions for future villain types are encouraged.

Consider exploring your dark side and experimenting with different villain archetypes in your writing!