Film Opening Project Character Development

At this point I want to talk about the development of characters. Specifically focusing on the development of our main character Paulie. While the project is a short film opening we still need the audience to become familiar with the character within the first minute or two of film.


We tried to make Paulie a confident and calm character. In the intro scene in the alley, there is no evidence of Paulie being anxious or uncertain. We make it seem like he has a established relationship with Mr. Clutch. The way Paulie talks with Mr. Clutch makes it clear that he has already established himself within this environment.


Paulie's character contrasts Jay's character in a way that hey seem to be opposites. This tension helps to develop between them on the car meet scene, and it provided a lot of the necessary character development we need.


I think a lot of the character development is actually during the stalling out part of the project. Paul is calm and annoyed, rather than panicking. His demonstrates that he's going to handle what has gone wrong without completely breaking down. It prepares viewers to engage with the character throughout the rest of the movie by showing failure and embarrassment.


The general focus of this development is on using action and dialog to define the character rather than by using explanation. It is important to remember that in a short film's opening, every line and reaction count. Paulie's confidence, humour, and reaction to embarrassment help to create a character that is better shaped to continue telling their story after the first few minutes.