Action Quote by Mel Brooks
“When I'm writing a script, I don't worry about plot as much as I do about people. I get to know the main characters - what they need, what they want, what they should do. That's what gets the story going. You can't just have action, you've got to find out what the characters want. And then they must grow, they must go somewhere.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Writing process discussion
The writer prioritizes character motivations over plot, believing authentic characters drive compelling stories.
In simple terms: Characters drive story
Key Takeaway
Focus on character needs and growth
Themes
writing
character development
storytelling
creativity
Mood
insightful
inspirational
Type
creative
instructional
When to use this quote
- screenplay writing
- novel drafting
- theatre production
- character workshops
Key Concepts
character motivation
narrative structure
empathy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance plot and character?
- What techniques reveal character desires?
A Different Perspective
Plot can dominate and dilute emotional impact
![“Comedy is lively, comedy is joy, and that's what keeps us [people] going, we've got to look forward to little, little happiness's. Little, little joys, and comedy is very, very important, it's a vital. We underestimate its value, but we should see more comedies. Comedy is life giving, it's…” quote by Mel Brooks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/936/mel-brooks-2308_believe_comedy-is-lively-comedy-is-joy-and-that_36043.jpg)
![“The audience. They see the name Mel Brooks, they want something really funny. They don't want to be moved; they don't want to be taught any lessons. [...] I get more letters for Twelve Chairs and Life Stinks than I get from any other movies, because people actually agree with the philosophy…” quote by Mel Brooks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/516/mel-brooks-2308_agree_the-audience-they-see-the-name-mel-brook_114482.jpg)
