Page 99 - Star Wars Insider (Special Edition 2019)

FOOTPRINTS IN THE SAND:

IMPRESSIONS OF

REY

opportunity to explore a monomyth fundamental traits established by
from its very beginnings. Rather more gradual development. No single
than following in the footsteps of trait is enough to make a character
these characters, we can walk beside interesting, but in combination they
them on their journey. can create compelling heroes such
As we navigate the shifting sands, as Rey.
character development will be our
magine Rey’s life story as footprints focus. This begins with the drawing-
across the Jakku desert. Over time, board stage, where a storyteller SHOW AND TELL
the elements have erased or blurred determines who each character
Iher earliest tracks and left behind is and what motivates them. These When introducing a character, the
only what we see in The Force Awakens. motivations do not need to be spelled storyteller has two devices at his
What comes after this brief glimpse out for the audience at the beginning or her disposal: showing the audience
lies beyond the rise of a dune—to be of a tale, but they must become events that reveal information about
discovered at a later time. Over the apparent along the way. Motivations the character and telling them pertinent

years, this occasional series of articles can change significantly during an facts. The latter is best used sparingly,
has evaluated the long, winding paths adventure, and pivotal moments and informs the well-known storyteller’s
of many characters. But as Rey, Finn, must be carefully deployed. While maxim: “Show, don’t tell.”
Poe Dameron, and Kylo Ren begin sudden shifts in a character’s Early on in The Force Awakens we
brand new adventures in a brand new heroic journey should be surprising, see Rey dragging her scavenged loot
trilogy, we are granted a fresh they must also be born out of the to and from her speeder. This shows

INSIDER 99

30/10/2018 12:28
SWI2019_098_103_Rey_part1.indd 99
SWI2019_098_103_Rey_part1.indd 99 30/10/2018 12:28