Creating Conflict in Screenplays: A Complete Guide

Creating conflict in screenplays is the key to crafting an engaging and emotionally compelling story. Without conflict, a screenplay lacks tension, stakes, and the emotional pull that keeps audiences invested. Whether it’s a hero struggling with personal demons, two characters clashing over opposing goals, or a protagonist battling external forces, conflict drives the narrative forward.

A well-structured screenplay relies on conflict to create suspense, test character resilience, and build momentum. Without it, the story becomes predictable and lacks depth. In this guide, we will explore how to create conflict in screenplays effectively, examining different types of conflict, proven storytelling techniques, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re writing a high-stakes action thriller, an intense drama, or a heartwarming romance, mastering conflict will elevate your script to the next level.

Why Conflict is Essential in Screenwriting

Conflict is the foundation of every compelling screenplay. It fuels the story, shapes character development, and keeps audiences emotionally engaged. Without conflict, a screenplay lacks tension, making it difficult to sustain interest. Whether it’s internal struggles, external obstacles, or interpersonal clashes, conflict creates the challenges that characters must overcome, making their journey more compelling.

1. Drives the Plot Forward

Conflict keeps the story moving by introducing obstacles that characters must navigate. Every scene in a screenplay should contribute to building, intensifying, or resolving conflict. When characters face struggles, they are forced to take action, leading to dramatic and engaging storytelling.

2. Develops Character Growth

A character’s arc is shaped by the conflicts they face. Overcoming obstacles forces them to evolve, revealing their strengths, weaknesses, and inner struggles. Without conflict, characters remain static and lack depth.

3. Creates Emotional Engagement

Audiences connect with stories that evoke emotions. Conflict generates suspense, excitement, frustration, and even heartbreak. When viewers are emotionally invested in a character’s struggles, they remain engaged until the resolution.

4. Builds Tension and Suspense

Tension is crucial for keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. Whether it’s a ticking clock, an unpredictable antagonist, or an internal moral dilemma, well-crafted conflict keeps viewers anticipating what happens next.

5. Raises the Stakes

A screenplay becomes more compelling when the stakes are high. If a character’s decisions and conflicts have real consequences, the audience becomes more invested in the outcome. Whether it’s life-or-death scenarios or personal dilemmas, stakes heighten the impact of conflict.

6. Makes Resolutions More Satisfying

A powerful resolution is only meaningful if it follows strong conflict. The greater the struggle, the more rewarding the payoff. If a protagonist wins too easily, the story feels shallow and unconvincing.

Types of Conflict in Screenplays

Creating conflict in screenplays is essential for storytelling because it drives the plot, deepens character development, and maintains audience engagement. Conflict can take many forms, but it generally falls into distinct categories that shape a screenplay’s structure and tone. Below are the main types of conflict in screenwriting, each adding depth and complexity to a story.

1. Internal Conflict (Character vs. Self)

Internal conflict occurs when a character struggles with personal dilemmas, emotions, or psychological battles. This type of conflict is often driven by guilt, fear, self-doubt, or moral dilemmas. It adds emotional depth and makes characters more relatable.

Example: In Joker (2019), Arthur Fleck battles with his deteriorating mental health and identity crisis, leading to his transformation.

2. External Conflict (Character vs. Outside Forces)

External conflict arises from outside elements that challenge the protagonist. It can come from other characters, society, nature, or even fate. External conflict often creates physical, social, or environmental obstacles.

a) Character vs. Character (Interpersonal Conflict)

This is one of the most common types of conflict in screenplays, where two or more characters have opposing goals, desires, or beliefs. It is often seen in hero-villain dynamics or rivalries.

Example: In The Dark Knight (2008), Batman and the Joker represent conflicting ideologies—order vs. chaos—driving the film’s tension.

b) Character vs. Society

When a protagonist battles against societal norms, rules, or oppression, it creates a strong thematic conflict. This type is common in dystopian and political dramas.

Example: In The Hunger Games (2012), Katniss Everdeen fights against a corrupt government that forces citizens into deadly competitions.

c) Character vs. Nature

In this type of conflict, the protagonist struggles against natural forces such as disasters, animals, or extreme environments. Survival stories often use this form of conflict.

Example: In The Revenant (2015), Hugh Glass fights to survive against the harsh wilderness and wild animals.

d) Character vs. Technology

This conflict occurs when characters face artificial intelligence, machines, or futuristic technology that threatens their existence or beliefs. It is common in sci-fi and cyber-thrillers.

Example: In The Matrix (1999), Neo battles an advanced artificial intelligence system that controls human perception.

e) Character vs. Supernatural/Fate

When a character is up against supernatural forces, destiny, or forces beyond human control, this type of conflict emerges. It is frequently used in horror, fantasy, and mythology-based films.

Example: In Doctor Strange (2016), Dr. Stephen Strange faces mystical forces that defy logic and reality.

3. Relational Conflict

Relational conflict revolves around emotional struggles between characters, such as family disputes, romantic challenges, or friendships tested by betrayal. Unlike direct confrontations, relational conflict often involves underlying tensions and unresolved emotions.

Example: In Marriage Story (2019), the central conflict is a couple navigating a painful divorce while still caring for their child.

Understanding and incorporating different types of conflict in screenplays enhances storytelling by adding depth, tension, and emotional impact. Whether internal or external, personal or societal, well-developed conflict ensures a screenplay remains engaging and memorable. By blending multiple conflict types, screenwriters can create multi-layered narratives that captivate audiences.

Techniques for Creating Conflict in Screenplays

Creating conflict in screenplays is essential for crafting a compelling story. Without conflict, a screenplay lacks momentum and emotional depth. To keep the audience engaged, writers must use a variety of techniques to introduce, sustain, and escalate conflict throughout the narrative. Below are some of the most effective techniques for creating conflict in screenplays.

1. Establishing High Stakes

The higher the stakes, the more intense the conflict. If the protagonist stands to lose something valuable—whether it’s their life, love, reputation, or dream—the audience becomes more invested in the outcome. High stakes create urgency and emotional weight in every decision and action.

Example: In Gladiator (2000), Maximus must fight for survival while seeking vengeance for his murdered family, making the stakes deeply personal and life-threatening.

2. Giving Characters Opposing Goals

When characters have conflicting desires or objectives, natural tension arises. The protagonist and antagonist should want opposing things, making their clash inevitable. Even allies can have opposing goals, leading to internal team conflict.

Example: In Captain America: Civil War (2016), Tony Stark and Steve Rogers both want to protect the world, but their opposing beliefs on government oversight lead to a deep conflict.

3. Creating Moral Dilemmas

A moral dilemma forces a character to choose between two difficult options, each with consequences. This type of conflict makes stories more complex and thought-provoking.

Example: In Breaking Bad (TV series), Walter White must choose between providing for his family through illegal means or maintaining his moral integrity.

4. Using Time Constraints

Adding a ticking clock creates pressure and increases the intensity of conflict. Whether it’s a bomb set to explode, a life-or-death decision, or a race against time, urgency keeps the audience on edge.

Example: In Speed (1994), the characters must prevent a bus from exploding by keeping its speed above 50 mph, maintaining constant tension.

5. Introducing Unexpected Obstacles

Characters should face continuous setbacks, whether from external forces or internal struggles. The harder the journey, the more satisfying the resolution.

Example: In The Martian (2015), Mark Watney faces multiple survival challenges, from food shortages to unexpected storms, making his survival uncertain.

6. Building Subtext in Dialogue

Conflict doesn’t always need to be direct. Subtle tension in conversations, unspoken words, and hidden emotions can create deeper, more realistic conflict between characters.

Example: In Inglourious Basterds (2009), the opening scene’s conversation between Hans Landa and the French farmer is filled with subtext, creating unbearable tension without physical confrontation.

7. Escalating Conflict Gradually

Conflict should intensify as the story progresses. Small disagreements can turn into major battles, leading to a climax where everything is on the line.

Example: In Jaws (1975), the initial sightings of the shark create minor conflicts, but as attacks increase, the town descends into chaos, culminating in a life-or-death showdown.

8. Adding Emotional Depth to Conflict

Conflict becomes more powerful when it is tied to deep emotions, such as love, betrayal, guilt, or regret. This makes confrontations more impactful.

Example: In The Godfather (1972), Michael Corleone’s internal struggle between family loyalty and morality adds complexity to his rise as the mafia leader.

Creating conflict in screenplays requires a combination of high stakes, character-driven obstacles, and escalating tension. By using these techniques, screenwriters can craft compelling stories that keep audiences engaged. Effective conflict ensures that every scene matters, every decision has consequences, and every moment builds toward a powerful resolution.

The Role of Character Development in Conflict

Creating conflict in screenplays is not just about external obstacles—it’s about how characters respond to challenges, evolve, and shape the story. Strong character development is essential for meaningful conflict because it adds depth, emotional weight, and realism to a screenplay. When characters have well-defined personalities, goals, and flaws, their struggles become more compelling. Below are key ways in which character development influences conflict in screenwriting.

1. Conflict Arises from Character Goals and Motivations

A well-developed character has clear goals and motivations that drive their actions. When these goals are threatened or challenged, conflict naturally emerges. The stronger the motivation, the more intense the conflict.

Example: In Rocky (1976), Rocky Balboa’s desire to prove himself in the boxing ring fuels his internal and external conflicts, making his journey emotionally gripping.

2. Internal Conflicts Shape Character Arcs

Internal struggles, such as self-doubt, fear, or past trauma, create rich storytelling opportunities. As characters battle their inner demons, they grow and change, making their journey more engaging.

Example: In Black Swan (2010), Nina’s psychological conflict between perfection and self-destruction leads to a gripping character arc.

3. Strong Characters Create Meaningful Interpersonal Conflict

Conflict between characters becomes more engaging when they have distinct personalities, values, and worldviews. When two strong-willed characters clash, their interactions become unpredictable and dynamic.

Example: In The Social Network (2010), the conflict between Mark Zuckerberg and Eduardo Saverin is compelling because their differing ambitions and perspectives create natural tension.

4. Character Flaws and Weaknesses Fuel Conflict

A character’s flaws—such as arrogance, insecurity, or impulsiveness—can lead to conflicts that feel organic. When a character’s own personality traits create obstacles, the story becomes more layered and realistic.

Example: In Breaking Bad (TV series), Walter White’s pride and hunger for power create conflicts that escalate throughout the series.

5. Conflict Tests and Transforms Characters

Conflict forces characters to make difficult choices, revealing their true nature. The way they handle obstacles determines their growth and transformation by the end of the screenplay.

Example: In The Lion King (1994), Simba’s internal and external conflicts push him to mature from a carefree cub into a responsible leader.

6. Relationships Evolve Through Conflict

Conflict is essential for deepening relationships between characters. Whether in friendships, romances, or rivalries, well-developed conflict adds authenticity and emotional depth.

Example: In Pride and Prejudice (2005), Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s initial conflicts and misunderstandings make their eventual relationship more meaningful.

Character development and conflict are inseparable in screenwriting. A compelling story is driven by characters with strong motivations, internal struggles, and evolving relationships. By creating multidimensional characters with personal stakes, flaws, and desires, screenwriters can craft conflicts that feel real, engaging, and emotionally impactful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating Conflict

Creating conflict in screenplays is essential for keeping audiences engaged, but not all conflict is effective. Poorly executed conflict can make a screenplay feel forced, repetitive, or unconvincing. To craft compelling and dynamic stories, screenwriters must avoid these common mistakes when introducing and developing conflict.

1. Creating Conflict Without Purpose

Conflict should serve the story, not exist just for the sake of adding drama. Random arguments, meaningless obstacles, or unnecessary fights weaken the narrative and distract from the main plot.

Example: A scene where two characters argue without any impact on the plot or their development feels forced and unimportant.

Solution: Every conflict should push the story forward, reveal something about the characters, or raise the stakes.

2. One-Dimensional Antagonists

A weak antagonist makes conflict predictable and shallow. If the villain has no clear motivations beyond being “evil,” their conflict with the protagonist lacks depth.

Example: A generic bad guy who wants to “destroy the world” without any personal reason or backstory feels unrealistic.

Solution: Give antagonists clear goals, motivations, and internal conflicts that make them compelling.

3. Overusing External Conflict Without Internal Conflict

External obstacles (such as fights, car chases, or disasters) create excitement, but without internal conflict, they lack emotional weight. A screenplay that focuses only on action without character depth becomes hollow.

Example: A protagonist constantly running from enemies without any personal struggles or emotional dilemmas feels flat.

Solution: Balance external and internal conflict to create a more engaging and layered story.

4. Resolving Conflict Too Easily

If problems are solved too quickly or conveniently, the story loses tension. Conflict should challenge characters and force them to struggle before they find a resolution.

Example: A hero who defeats the villain effortlessly or a couple who reconciles after a minor misunderstanding makes the conflict feel meaningless.

Solution: Ensure characters face real obstacles and make difficult choices before resolving conflicts.

5. Repetitive or Predictable Conflict

If characters face the same type of conflict repeatedly without escalation or variation, the story becomes monotonous. Predictable conflicts also make the audience lose interest.

Example: A hero escaping from danger in the same way multiple times makes the tension feel repetitive.

Solution: Introduce fresh obstacles, unexpected twists, and escalating stakes to keep the conflict dynamic.

6. Lack of Consequences

Conflict should have lasting consequences. If characters face challenges but everything returns to normal without any impact, the story feels weak and unconvincing.

Example: A character survives a major battle but acts as if nothing happened, with no emotional or physical consequences.

Solution: Show how conflict changes the character’s actions, relationships, or worldview.

7. Ignoring Subtext in Conflict

Not all conflict has to be explicit. If every argument or struggle is spelled out through direct dialogue, it can feel unnatural. Subtle tension and unspoken conflicts add realism and depth.

Example: Two characters who constantly explain their emotions instead of showing tension through body language or dialogue subtext.

Solution: Use subtext, body language, and indirect dialogue to create layers of conflict.

8. Forcing Conflict That Feels Unnatural

If characters act out of character just to create conflict, the story feels contrived. Forced misunderstandings or unnecessary drama weaken the screenplay.

Example: A character suddenly becomes aggressive or unreasonable just to create an argument, even when it doesn’t match their personality.

Solution: Ensure conflicts arise naturally from character motivations, personalities, and circumstances.

Creating conflict in screenplays requires careful planning and execution. By avoiding common mistakes such as purposeless conflict, weak antagonists, repetitive tension, and forced drama, screenwriters can craft engaging and meaningful stories. Effective conflict should feel organic, raise the stakes, and drive character development, ensuring that audiences stay invested from start to finish.

Examples of Effective Conflict in Popular Films

Creating conflict in screenplays is essential for crafting compelling stories. Some of the most memorable films use conflict to drive character development, build suspense, and keep audiences engaged. Below are examples of effective conflict in popular films, showcasing different types of tension and storytelling techniques.

1. Internal Conflict – Joker (2019)

Type of Conflict: Character vs. Self

Arthur Fleck struggles with mental illness, loneliness, and societal rejection. His transformation into the Joker is fueled by internal conflict as he battles his desire for acceptance while embracing chaos and violence.

Why It Works: The film deeply explores Arthur’s psyche, making his descent into madness emotionally gripping.

2. Interpersonal Conflict – The Dark Knight (2008)

Type of Conflict: Character vs. Character

The ideological clash between Batman and the Joker creates intense conflict. Batman represents order and justice, while the Joker embodies chaos and anarchy, testing Batman’s moral limits.

Why It Works: The conflict isn’t just physical—it’s psychological, forcing Batman to question his principles.

3. Societal Conflict – The Hunger Games (2012)

Type of Conflict: Character vs. Society

Katniss Everdeen fights against the oppressive government of Panem, which forces citizens into deadly competitions. Her defiance against the Capitol sparks a larger rebellion.

Why It Works: The stakes are high, and Katniss’s struggle is both personal and symbolic, representing the fight for freedom.

4. Survival Conflict – The Revenant (2015)

Type of Conflict: Character vs. Nature

Hugh Glass faces the brutal wilderness after being left for dead. He must survive extreme conditions, wild animals, and physical wounds to seek revenge.

Why It Works: The relentless struggle for survival keeps the tension high, making every moment feel intense and life-threatening.

5. Technological Conflict – The Matrix (1999)

Type of Conflict: Character vs. Technology

Neo discovers that his entire reality is controlled by artificial intelligence. He must fight against the machines while accepting his role as “The One.”

Why It Works: The film blends action with philosophical themes about free will, making the conflict both external and intellectual.

6. Moral Dilemma – Breaking Bad (TV Series)

Type of Conflict: Character vs. Self

Walter White’s transformation from a struggling chemistry teacher to a ruthless drug kingpin is driven by moral conflict. He justifies his crimes as a way to support his family, but his ego and greed take over.

Why It Works: Walter’s internal struggle keeps audiences invested, making him both a hero and a villain.

7. Relationship Conflict – Marriage Story (2019)

Type of Conflict: Character vs. Character

Charlie and Nicole navigate a painful divorce, balancing their personal emotions with legal battles and co-parenting challenges.

Why It Works: The emotional depth and realism of their conflicts make the story highly relatable and heartbreaking.

8. Psychological Conflict – Inception (2010)

Type of Conflict: Character vs. Self / Character vs. Reality

Dom Cobb struggles with guilt over his wife’s death while leading a high-stakes mission inside people’s dreams. His inner conflict manifests as hallucinations that threaten his success.

Why It Works: The film’s layered storytelling blends psychological depth with action, keeping the audience guessing.

These examples show how conflict in screenplays can take many forms—internal struggles, ideological clashes, societal oppression, or survival challenges. Effective conflict makes stories compelling, deepens character development, and keeps audiences emotionally invested. By studying these films, screenwriters can learn how to craft powerful, engaging conflicts that elevate their storytelling.

Conclusion

Creating conflict in screenplays is essential for crafting compelling, emotionally engaging stories. Without conflict, a screenplay lacks tension, stakes, and character growth. Effective conflict arises from well-developed characters with clear goals, motivations, and flaws. Whether it’s internal struggles, interpersonal clashes, or external obstacles, conflict should push the story forward and challenge the protagonist in meaningful ways.

To write powerful conflict, screenwriters must avoid common mistakes such as forced drama, repetitive tension, or one-dimensional antagonists. Instead, they should focus on high stakes, moral dilemmas, escalating challenges, and unpredictable twists. By studying successful films that master conflict—such as The Dark Knight, Inception, and The Hunger Games—writers can learn how to create dynamic, engaging stories that keep audiences invested.

In the end, conflict is the driving force behind every great screenplay. It tests characters, fuels drama, and ensures that every scene has purpose and emotional weight. By mastering the art of creating conflict in screenplays, writers can craft unforgettable stories that resonate with audiences and stand the test of time.