The Dichotomy of Inner and Outer Conflict

It is often said that a story is nothing without conflict. But one of the most powerful, yet frequently overlooked aspects of storytelling is the dichotomy that exists between inner and outer conflict. In this blog post, we will delve into the dynamics of this dichotomy and explore the ways in which these two types of conflict can complement and contrast each other to create a more layered and complex narrative.

The Two Axes of Conflict

Conflict in a screenplay, like an invisible thread, weaves through every act, scene, and line of dialogue. To understand its intricate working, it can be helpful to think of it operating along two axes: external and internal, or as we prefer to call them, outer and inner conflict.

Outer conflict pertains to the tangible problems that characters face in their world. This is often the central plot of the story and involves a protagonist working against an antagonist or other external forces. Outer conflict may involve saving the world, solving a murder, or defeating a villain.

Inner conflict, on the other hand, is a struggle within the character’s mind. It could be a moral dilemma, an emotional issue, or a deep-seated fear or desire. This psychological battle forms the undercurrent of the protagonist’s journey, adding depth to their characterisation and emotional resonance to their arc.

Complementing Each Other: Inner and Outer Conflict in Cohesion

The magic of a well-crafted screenplay often lies in the interplay between these two types of conflict. The outer conflict provides the driving force of the plot, while the inner conflict ensures that the audience is emotionally invested in the protagonist’s journey.

One of the most effective ways to achieve this interplay is to use the outer conflict as a catalyst for the inner conflict. Consider, for instance, a character who is afraid of commitment being thrust into a situation where they must trust others to survive. The outer conflict (the survival situation) complements the inner conflict (the fear of commitment) by forcing the character to confront their fear.

To see this in action, look no further than the seminal TV series “Breaking Bad”. The protagonist, Walter White’s outer conflict is his terminal cancer and the financial hardship his family faces. His inner conflict is his pride and suppressed ambition. As the series progresses, his external struggles push his pride to the fore, leading him down a dark and destructive path.

Contrasting Each Other: Inner and Outer Conflict in Opposition

While complementing inner and outer conflicts can lead to a deeply resonant narrative, contrasting these conflicts can create a rich layer of dramatic irony and emotional complexity. Here, the protagonist is caught between their external goals and internal desires, leading to compelling drama.

A classic example of this is found in “Casablanca”. Rick Blaine’s outer conflict is the need to help his ex-lover and her husband escape the Nazis. His inner conflict, however, is his unrequited love for Ilsa, his ex-lover. Rick is torn between his duty and his heart, creating a captivating tension throughout the film.

The Right Balance

Regardless of whether you opt for complementary or contrasting conflicts, the key to effectively utilising the dichotomy between inner and outer conflict is balance. If the screenplay is too heavily skewed towards outer conflict, it risks becoming a hollow spectacle without emotional substance. Conversely, if it leans too heavily into inner conflict, it may feel static and navel-gazing.

Great screenwriters know how to strike this balance. They intertwine the inner and outer conflicts so that the resolution of one contributes to the resolution of the other, leading to a satisfying narrative arc that resonates on both an emotional and plot-driven level.

In Conclusion

The dichotomy of inner and outer conflict is a powerful tool in the screenwriter’s arsenal. Whether they are complementary or contrasting, these conflicts can add depth, complexity, and emotional resonance to your screenplay. As you craft your narrative, consider not only the physical obstacles your protagonist must overcome but also the emotional and psychological battles they must wage within themselves. The resulting interplay between these conflicts will give your story a depth and richness that engages your audience on multiple levels.

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