the first step: character or story?

[RylenolFlu]

So here's a question I've been pondering for quite some time. Usually when I begin an idea for a script I most always start by fleshing out a story and the characters sort of introduce themselves through the concept or genre. I'm curious to hear how others go about producing their ideas onto paper, do you start by fleshing out a protagonist or antagonist, or do the characters climb on board as you write out your story?

P.S. how do I get a cool custom avatar?

[krano]

the process always changes for me.

first script: story

second script: character

in each one, i became over-reliant on one aspect and had to scramble to fix the other. for my third script, i think i learned my lesson. i started out not only with fleshing out my characters, but also exploring the theme of the story, which will form the root of the structure eventually (hopefully).

i've pondered on the issue myself for sometime, and i've come to think of story being derived from character because their actions will drive the plot. i found that by starting a script with a structure in mind without character input, i ended up with lifeless characters. because essentially, that's what they are, just following a framework, not making their own decisions. i became an overbearing god.

but that's just me.

[Plot Device]

I start with a situation. And both character and story grow from that at about the same time.

[FinbarReilly]

PD, it's the same with me. I then usually build a plot off of that, and then create characters. Of course, the plot is always up for revision, usually because of something some asshole character has done ("But I would never do THAT!")...

FR

[Don Allen]

Like you guys, the story seems to come to life as you progress, but my starting point is always, as the Bard would say, "the rub". The paradox is where I start.

[clockwork]

Yeah. I start with a concept, hook, idea which then grows to include and eventually be led by character so that my initial, "It's an alien invasion story" becomes "It's a father/son story that takes place during..."

[LIVIN]

Niether a character nor a story live in a vacuum.

So, both, simultaneously.