"What factors must be carefully considered to create a successful antagonist, and how important are they in the context of modern media and storytelling?"

How important is the inclusion of a strong antagonist in contemporary media and storytelling methods, and what factors must be carefully considered during their conceptualisation and creation?

Inspiration - Sonata Arctica

My character studies are heavily depended upon the research of archetypes, and one of the pieces of information I first unearthed is the use of a villain in narrative; a villain emphasises the traits of a hero through contrast.

My story idea for the character archetypes of Hunter and Prey originated from this song, which was my inspiration for the story based on the Salem witchhunts.

I feel that this would be a very appropriate story to tackle, as it deals with elements such as rallying, mob and mass hysteria, the desire of self preservation and the use of fear as a weapon. I also feel it's very important for the viewer to not only relate to the protagonist, but also the antagonist. Such a story would allow me to do so; the viewer can easily relate to both characters, understanding the antagonists motives.

I am not sure, however, if making the antagonist more complex, broken character who the viewer can relate to (Think Lotso from Toy Story 3). rather than a very steriotypical evil (Think malicifent, witch in disguise)would be more effective. Personally I believe the more complex characters more rewarding, but time and research will tell.

Without further adu, Sonata Arctica - Deathaura

Robot - Logic

Development of a thumbnail. Playing with the expression of a cold calculating personality through a robot for one of my story ideas.

Possible Villain Archetype Template

Just doodling on photoshop; One of my possible stories revolved around a hunter/prey character conflict, heavily influenced by Arthur Millers Crucible. Whilst sketching, I though perhaps I could take a futuristic twist on the old witch hunt.

If Willy Lomond were an octopus

...Then he'd look something like this.

Some doodles

Just a few doodles I did over the weekend, inspired by re-exploring my favourite cartoonists, and my discovery of Donald Soffritti. I had fun exploring these styles.

I watched Toy Story 3 again; it just reiterated how absolutely perfect it was - a truly rare flawless sequel of a sequel.

Could this be a possible ending? Dun dun dun.


Brian Morrice found a dead pigeon in his fireplace. I feel this picture portrays this joyous moment perfectly.



Also, we had bugs in the flat. Andy Rennie was round when it happened. Oh the peril!

Question

"What factors and elements must be carefully considered to create a successful antagonist, and how important are they in the context of modern media and storytelling?"