Screenwriting : Story goal vs the protagonist’s want by Michael Khamis

A “Goal” and a “Want” are different. A goal may be to get my wife back because I want to be part of a family and feel loved.

I think a story goal may be better explained (in my mind) as a theme (I am not sure of the idea of a story goal).

Hope this helps.

Hi Craig, thanks for your response. Well when I'm referring to the story goal, I mean the thing that the protagonist is trying to achieve during the story. For example, in Gladiator. Maximus wants to avenge the death of his wife and child by killing the evil emperor. So I'm wondering if the want is something that he's wanted before the inciting incident.

Not in that example or in say Star Wars. I think you can set them up. In “finding memo” we see his dad is super protective of him. The first time Nemo leaves his sight, Nemo is taken. We know what he will do, because he was well established.

You have character 'wants' and character 'needs' and the two are not often the same. The goal is the want that drives the story forward; the need has more to do with the character arc.

Those all make sense. I thank you all for the replies.

Michael Khamis craft questions like this are great.

Having everyone throwing in their ideas and opinions helps us all. If you have more, please ask.

I think people sometimes don’t ask for fear of being talked down too. My mind is always expanded by the opinions and views of others.

I think the shortest version is that the desire/goal is what drives the story. The plot of the story is focused on the hero’s desire (save the princess, kill the dragon). The need is what the hero must fulfill within himself (usually overcoming his weaknesses, help him grow)

I like that explanation. What was throwing me off is this book I’m reading. When it refers to the character’s want i was unsure if it meant his want that he develops at the first plot point or his want at the beginning of the story due to his “lie” that he believes as a part of his back story.

Personally, I think the character's 'want' ought to be defined in the first scene or very shortly thereafter. The 'need' will become evident as the story unfolds before the audience's eyes.

Introduce the character early and the conflict they must resolve.

That’s the problem Micheal. You are trying understand someone else’s concepts. Whoever tells you art is formula and engineering is selling you something. Have faith in your own ability to tell story. Your comments show insight. Trust yourself.

All your early work will be bad. Everyone’s is. But you can only learn to run by walking first. You’ve got this.

Thank you Craig. That’s very encouraging. Everyone’s comments here are making things clearer.