There are many ways a story can move ahead, but it happens predominantly in two ways: either a character pushes the narrative forward, or the world (within the narrative) pushes a character back, and the character has to respond. In other words, a character either creates action or reacts to the action.Reactive characters, as the name suggests, fall into the second category. They are put in a situation where they have to face pressure, danger, conflict, dilemma, chaos, or any unexpected situation, and now they have to react to it by making decisions.They sound a lot like you and me. Don’t they? That’s because they are you and me. In fiction, they represent us, common folks. Like us, they adapt and respond. When they react, it’s not because they want to embark on some kind of grand mission; it’s simply because they must. It makes them honest and relatable. Their choices come from the situations that corner them, and, in fiction, they also give their character journey a grounded rhythm.When used well, reactive characters add insight to a narrative. They can be effectively used to reflect the story’s thematic elements, expose conflict, and demonstrate how outside factors can shape identity.Reactive Characters: Defined Against Proactive CharactersIt would be easier to understand reactive characters if we first understood proactive characters.Proactive characters decide what they want and then create momentum in that direction. It takes the (narrative) lead and creates movement, conflict, or action. It sets the story in motion and propels it...
Published By: NoFilmSchool - Tuesday, 9 December