Advice — howard gluss

Quirky or Plain Crazy - Where Do I Draw the Line for My Character?

Posted by Howard Gluss on

Lynn, a Writer/Producer from Palm Springs, CA Asks: In your book REEL PEOPLE you talk a lot about characters that seem to be quite disturbed. Can the theories of personality types apply to characters that are just quirky or eccentric rather than mentally ill? And are there specific personality types that are just plain funny? Dr. Howard Gluss Responds: Yes, Lynn, it is very valuable to note that the human psyche has many facets and a writer may not always be creating psychopathological characters. Not every movie has a knife-wielding mass murderer or egomaniac tyrant. As with most things in...

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Capturing the Reel Racist - A Debate

Posted by Howard Gluss on

A Reader Asks: I have read your book REEL PEOPLE on developing psychologically sound characters. I am working on a character who has to transition from being somewhat of a racist into being a full-blown racist with murderous intentions. Can you give me any insight into what personality type would act this way and what may cause this violent outburst? Can you recommend any films that I can look at? Joshua, New York City Writer/Director/Producer Dr. Howard Gluss Responds: A film that I have seen recently that you should study that depicts bigotry and specifically Anti-Semitism in a fascinating manner...

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The Writer's True Self and Success

Posted by Howard Gluss on

There is little doubt that your ability to communicate your inner world as a form of creative expression will be greatly enhanced by a strong sense of self -- a self which comes from an ability to discern who you are and who (for the sake of others) you try to be. First and foremost, your knowledge of who you are inspires your goals in life. Your dreams --your hopes and desires -- are what will give you the ability to manage the harsh anxieties and assimilate complex feelings as you mature and grow. What you want out of life...

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