Conflict is the driving force behind any compelling story. It keeps readers engaged, characters evolving, and narratives unforgettable. Whether you’re crafting a novel, screenplay, or TV series, adding layers of conflict will elevate your storytelling. Here, we explore 20 ways to add conflict, with examples from iconic films to inspire your writing.
1. Create Characters That Clash
Conflict arises when characters’ goals or values collide. This can happen due to differing worldviews, moral stances, or personalities. For instance, in The Dark Knight (2008), Batman’s moral code clashes with the Joker’s anarchic worldview, creating electrifying tension that keeps viewers hooked. Similarly, in Captain America: Civil War (2016), the ideological clash between Steve Rogers and Tony Stark adds depth and emotional stakes to the story.
2. Give the Antagonist the Same Goal as the MC (Main Character)
When the protagonist and antagonist strive for the same goal, the stakes intensify as their motivations and methods come into conflict. In The Lion King (1994), Simba and Scar both aim to rule the Pride Lands, but Scar’s ruthless ambition contrasts sharply with Simba’s sense of responsibility and justice. This shared goal sets up a powerful narrative dynamic.
3. Throw More Obstacles at the MC Than They Can Handle
Overwhelming the protagonist with challenges keeps the audience invested in their journey. In The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), Frodo faces relentless challenges, from the Ringwraiths hunting him to the treacherous journey through Moria. These obstacles test his resolve and highlight his growth as a character.
4. Lull the Audience Into a False Sense of Security
Surprise the audience with sudden conflict by making them believe everything is fine. In Psycho (1960), Marion Crane’s storyline lulls viewers into thinking she’s the main character—until the infamous shower scene changes everything. This technique shocks and engages the audience, leaving them eager to see what happens next.
5. Withhold Vital Info from the Main Character
Keeping the protagonist in the dark about critical details heightens suspense and adds intrigue. In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002), Harry’s ignorance about the diary’s true nature and connection to Tom Riddle creates tension as he pieces the mystery together.
6. Arouse Suspicion in a Close Companion
Introducing doubt in a trusted relationship adds emotional conflict. In Frozen (2013), Anna begins to question Hans’ motives, leading to a shocking reveal that he’s not the hero she thought he was. This twist deepens the narrative and raises the stakes.
7. Give the MC a Terrible Secret
When a protagonist hides a dark truth, it creates internal and external conflict. In Black Swan (2010), Nina’s obsessive drive for perfection and the secrets she keeps about her deteriorating mental state lead to her tragic downfall. Secrets add layers to the character and propel the plot forward.
8. Move the Scene to a Dangerous Setting
Setting can amplify tension and conflict. In Titanic (1997), the sinking ship’s peril intensifies the drama between Jack and Rose, forcing them to confront life-and-death decisions while their love story unfolds.
9. Make the Main Character Grieve
The loss adds emotional depth and vulnerability to a character. In Up (2009), Carl’s grief for Ellie motivates his journey to fulfill their shared dream, while his emotional struggles create heartfelt tension that resonates with viewers.
10. Introduce a Stubborn Character
Conflict often arises when a character’s stubbornness clashes with others. In Shrek (2001), Donkey’s persistence and chatter contrast with Shrek’s reluctance and solitude, creating comedic and emotional tension that drives the story forward.
11. Make the Main Character Obsessed With Something
Obsession drives irrational choices and conflict. In The Social Network (2010), Mark Zuckerberg’s obsession with success and recognition strains his relationships and fuels the dramatic tension in the story.
12. Create a Power Struggle to add conflict to your screenplay
Power dynamics often lead to tension and conflict. In Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (1980), Luke’s struggle against Darth Vader’s dominance creates high-stakes moments that propel the narrative toward its climax.
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13. Introduce a False Protagonist
Misleading the audience about the protagonist creates unexpected conflict. In Scream (1996), Drew Barrymore’s character seems central to the story, but her shocking death early on flips expectations and sets the tone for the rest of the film.
14. Create Barriers in a Relationship
External and internal barriers to relationships add emotional depth. In Romeo + Juliet (1996), the feud between their families acts as an external barrier, while their secret love creates internal conflict as they struggle to be together.
15. Give the Main Character Attitude
A protagonist’s arrogance or flaws can spark conflict with others. Tony Stark’s brashness and ego in Iron Man (2008) create tension with his allies, particularly Pepper Potts and Rhodey, making his character arc more compelling.
16. Treat the Main Character Unjustly
Unfair treatment builds sympathy for the protagonist and heightens emotional stakes. In The Pursuit of Happyness (2006), Chris Gardner’s struggles with homelessness and systemic barriers make his eventual triumph all the more satisfying.
17. Create Impossible Odds
When the odds seem insurmountable, audiences root for the MC to overcome them. In Mad Max: Fury Road (2015), Furiosa’s fight for survival and redemption against overwhelming enemies exemplifies this.
18. Give Characters Hidden Agendas
Secrets and ulterior motives create mistrust and tension. In Knives Out (2019), nearly every character has a hidden agenda, creating a web of suspicion and intrigue that drives the plot forward.
19. Use Public Humiliation to add conflict in your screenplay
Embarrassment and shame can be powerful sources of conflict. In Mean Girls (2004), Cady’s secrets being exposed at the Spring Fling lead to chaos within the group and personal growth for the characters.
20. Add a Surprising Ally for the Antagonist
A betrayal or unexpected alliance adds complexity to the story. In The Dark Knight Rises (2012), Miranda Tate’s reveal as Talia al Ghul shocks Bruce Wayne and shifts the dynamics of the conflict.
Conflict is the lifeblood of storytelling, and these techniques to add conflict to your screenplay can help you create narratives that resonate with your audience. Drawing inspiration from films and experimenting with different types of conflict, you can craft stories that captivate and endure.
