What is the role of the unlikeable protagonist?

Unlikeable protagonists have justified motivations for overcoming a high stakes obstacle. During their journey, they should experience a character arc. If the protagonist is lacking in these crucial elements, the viewer will lose interest.

What are unlikeable character flaws?

Flaws add necessary depth and realism that help viewers empathize. For example, they can come in the form of limitations, negative character traits, addictions or moral shortcomings.

How do character motivations come into effect?

Character motivation is the reason behind a character's behavior or actions. Therefore, if the audience can understand why a protagonist chooses to do bad things, then they're much more inclined to side with them.

Why are high stakes important?

High stakes add another layer of purpose to the protagonist's actions. Given that, something has to be pushing them to make these decisions that ultimately label them as antiheroes.

How do you make an unlikeable protagonist relatable?

Audiences are able to identify with dynamic characters and that includes their flaws too. In the end, these characters are just trying to do what's right for them. Truly, that's something most people can relate to.

What redeeming qualities do antiheroes have?

Just like with overly perfect characters, overly evil characters won't stick. While on their journey they're likely to show some side of themselves that we deem acceptable.

Writing The Unlikeable Protagonist: How to Craft a Great Antihero

Table of ContentsThe Role of the Unlikeable ProtagonistUnlikeable Character FlawsMotivations of the Unlikeable ProtagonistDexterBreaking BadHigh Stakes for Unlikeable ProtagonistsBarryBetter Call SaulAntihero Relatability and ContextThe Social NetworkI, TonyaThe Wolf of Wall StreetRedeeming Qualities in Unlikeable Protagonists: Clutching at StrawsRick and MortyThe SopranosThe Handmaid’s TaleCrafting an Unlikeable ProtagonistIn Summary The Role of the Unlikeable Protagonist ‘Unlikeable protagonist‘ sounds like an oxymoron. However, they’re a common occurrence in all forms of storytelling. The antihero protagonist is an increasingly prominent presence in drama, particularly

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