Early 'Want vs. Need' Integration: Workflow Insights?

Posted by Nina Kowalski in Story & Concept Development 0 views · 3 replies

Hey everyone, Nina here. I've been wrestling with a new feature concept, a historical drama, and I'm really trying to dig deep into my protagonist's motivations from the get-go. I've always understood the 'want vs. need' dynamic, but typically it solidifies for me during the revision stages, after I've got a full draft to react to. This current project, however, feels like it could benefit from a more front-loaded approach.

For those of you who actively integrate the 'want vs. need' framework much earlier in your screenwriting process, what does your personal workflow look like? Do you create detailed 'want' and 'need' charts or breakdowns during your outlining phase, before you even start drafting scenes? Or is it a more fluid, organic process that still happens pre-draft, perhaps through character journaling or extensive beat sheets? Any insights into your successful methods would be greatly appreciated!

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