Jessica Nile Brunelle
2 min readJan 22, 2024

💥 What Makes a Character as Volcanically Complex as Walter White? 💥

Walter White is a volcanic character due to his profound transformation from a mild-mannered chemistry teacher to a feared drug lord. This metamorphosis, fueled by deep internal conflicts and moral ambiguity, makes him a fascinating study in character development. How can you mold characters with similar complexity? Here are 10 ways:

  1. Gradual Transformation: Walter’s journey is a slow burn, not an overnight change. Develop a character arc that evolves gradually, yet profoundly.
  2. Moral Complexity: White blurs the lines between right and wrong. Infuse your characters with moral dilemmas that challenge them and the audience.
  3. Deep Internal Conflicts: Walter battles with his ego, fears, and desires. Create characters with rich inner lives and personal struggles.
  4. Power Dynamics: Walter’s rise to power is central to his character. Explore power dynamics and how they change your character.
  5. Dual Identities: Walter White and Heisenberg represent duality. Experiment with characters having dual aspects to their identity.
  6. Desperation and Motivation: Walter’s initial motivation is desperation. Give your character compelling reasons for their actions.
  7. Complex Relationships: Relationships in Walter’s life are intricate and evolving. Craft complex and dynamic relationships for your character.
  8. Intellectual Depth: Walter’s intelligence is a key trait. Equip your character with specific skills or knowledge that influence the plot.
  9. Unpredictability: Walter is unpredictable, keeping viewers on edge. Create unpredictable moments that surprise and intrigue your audience.
  10. Consequences of Actions: Walter faces the repercussions of his choices. Show how your character’s actions impact their world and themselves.

Crafting a character as volcanic as Walter White involves a deep dive into the complexities of human nature and morality. Use these elements to create characters that are multi-layered, compelling, and unforgettable.

#Screenwriting #CharacterDevelopment #WalterWhite #BreakingBad #WritingTips

Jessica Nile Brunelle

Screenwriting visceral character-driven dramas/dramedies about tragic and emotionally damaged characters who find peace and hope.