Character development time!!
Today in class, Mrs. Stoklosa showed us a past film opening as an example of ways to create a good film opening and then I realized something. I NEED TO DEVELOP MY MAIN CHARACTER!!! The more thought I put into the character, the more detail I can put into the film. So, without further ado, it is time to introduce my main character, Melissa.
Background:
Melissa is a Gen X baby, so she will be middle-aged during the time this film is taking place. She was an only child with two busy parents growing up, meaning she learned how to fend for herself. She is a first-generation citizen, coming from Hispanic heritage. Growing up independent, there were many nights Melissa would cook for herself, clean around the house, and do her own laundry; each skill she learned growing up she taught herself. Melissa is the first person in her family to graduate from college while she also took on a part-time job as a secretary at a local business. She met her ex-husband around the time she graduated from college. When she was younger, she felt her only purpose in life was to become a mother. Around 30, she gave birth to her son, Lucas. During his developmental years, the two were inseparable; but soon after the birth of Lucas, Melissa's husband left as he felt he wasn't ready to be a father. He first would visit from time to time, but as the years went by, he eventually disappeared entirely. From a young age, Melissa and Lucas did everything together. As hormones kicked in, the son started to drift away and the relationship faded. In the present time, their relationship is strained as the son is becoming more independent and falling into the "wrong crowd".
Motivation:
Melissa's motivation has always been her son. Everything she did throughout his entire life was for him. Even though they're not close anymore, the mom would do anything for him and still loves him with all her heart. She would go to any length in order to make sure her son is safe and happy, no matter what.
Challenging representation:
Melissa will challenge cliché roles women portray in film. Women are already underrepresented in Hollywood, making my character stand out already from other characters. My character also breaks the stereotype of a "stay at home mom" and the "homemaker". Melissa is a working mother who also has to take care of her son; with the father not around, she has to pick up the roles a stereotypical male would. She is a lot more independent and tougher than the way other women in film are portrayed.
Developing this character was super fun, as I feel that Hollywood should break the stereotype women portray!!!
Time to go back to the screenplay! Until next time,
Alexa