Dramatic need refers to what characters want or need that drives the plot. Point of view and attitude relate to the internal and external conflicts characters face. The document discusses how conflict between characters' needs, motives, and opposing points of view creates the story and keeps audiences engaged as characters overcome obstacles to achieve their dramatic needs. Conflict can be internal, like struggling with emotions, or external forces working against characters. Both types of conflict reveal character and move the story forward.

1.  What are dramatic need, point of view, and
attitude?

2. “The only thing that’s important is the story, and
the story arises from the conflict between
characters. And you can only evolve that by
beginning with their needs and motives, and by
bringing them together, and they will create the
story for you.”
-- Frank Pierson

4.  Conflict is creating the force of opposition
between the characters and the actions that
helps shape or motivate the plot.
 Conflict should move the story forward
and/or reveal something about the character.

5.  All drama is conflict.
 Conflict creates tension, rhythm, suspense,
and keeps the viewers on the edge of their
seats.

6.  You can create obstacles to the character’s
dramatic need and the story becomes your
character overcoming obstacles to achieve
his or her dramatic need.
 Put you character up a tree and throw rocks
at him.

7.  You can have a character with the opposite
point of view to create conflict.

8.  Internal conflict occurs when the main
character struggles within himself or herself.
 The character is pulled by two courses of
action or by differing emotions, which often
leads to a dynamic change in the character.
 Ex. Fear, doubt, love, perseverance.

9.  External conflict is the force or forces that
work outside the character.
 Ex. Hazards of war, weather, physical terrain,
temptations, and physical hardship.