How to Write a Villain: Traits, Motivation & Examples
The best villains are not terrifying because they are evil. They are terrifying because they believe they are right. Hannibal Lecter sees himself as intellectually superior. Thanos believes genocide is mercy. Walter White convinces himself every monstrous act is for his family long after that stops being true. Their conviction is what makes them dangerous.This guide breaks down what makes a good villain work, the different types of villains in screenwriting, and how to write a villain from the inside out — covering motivation, backstory, moral conviction, and the craft decisions that separate a memorable antagonist from a plot device.Continue…
