Rod Serling: Character motivation

GITS reader David A sent me a link to an amazing set of videos, a sit-down conversation with TV and screenwriter Rod Serling. Most well-known for the long-running TV anthology series “The Twilight Zone” (148 episodes, 1959–1964), has over 70 writing credits including the screenplays for movies such as Seven Days in May and the original Planet of the Apes.

Last week and this, we’re featuring Serling’s thoughts on writing each day with short (1–2 minute) interview excerpts. Today Serling discusses the importance valid character motivation:

“The principal obligation you have as a writer is to go to a climax which interests and excites… to make an audience sit up and take notice of it. It must also be valid. It must take the various character traits of the individuals involved in your story, and make them do something or react to something as their nature dictates.”

Thanks to David for finding these fantastic videos.

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