Characters

Characters are the most important part of any story, without them the tale would have no power. Therefore, it would be reasonable to assume that the foundation would be built on the characters themselves. Now what makes a memorable character? Is it their attire? Or perhaps it is the way they talk, such as an accent, or even personal catchphrases that distinguish them. The real basis for the perfect character is that the audience can relate to them, or gain an emotional understanding of their situation. Take Walter White for example: Here is a man in his fifties who is desperately bored with life, and despite him working two jobs is unable to make enough money to barely make ends meet. That is an extremely bare bones analysis of his character yet it is so powerful. How many people around the world work their tails off to make ends meet? Then add in that Walter is advanced in age and is ready for a change in life, mid-life crisis anyone? After this you can sprinkle on that he has a disabled son, stress with his wife, a nagging sister-in-law, then the poor guy gets cancer. Mr. White is one unfortunate guy. That is why his character is a stroke of genius. There are an insane amount of reasons why Walter would be stressed, depressed, and downright angry at his life. The writers of this show did a magnificent job of making him such a relatable, and emotionally familiar character. What family in America hasn't had to go through cancer with one of their members. How many married couples have troubles every year? Walter White is the poster child for the stressful American life, and that is why the American people love him. We want to see him rise up and show the world that he is something, and that he can provide for his family.