Without internal conflict, your character is just an action figure with no soul. Drama thrives on conflict, and internal struggles—whether it’s the pull between love and ambition, or freedom versus security—are at the core of that drama. These clashes of values reveal who your character truly is and drive your story, giving it depth and resonance.

Internal conflict forces your protagonist to confront tough choices, pushing them into a moment of crisis. It should never just be about what they do physically—it also needs to be about what’s at stake internally. The tension between opposing desires or values drives your character toward decisions that show what they really believe in (fun bonus points if it’s the opposite of what they say they believe in). External stakes alone fall flat if the internal battle doesn’t force the character to evolve—or fail to evolve—through their choices.

As a writer, you need to be clear about your character’s internal conflict even if your audience might not necessarily be fully aware of it.

Without further ado, here are 45 examples of Internal Conflict in film & TV:

But First -

1. Walter White in Breaking Bad (TV Series)

Moral Integrity/ Providing for his Family vs. Criminal Ambition

Walter grapples with his transformation from a humble high school chemistry teacher to a ruthless methamphetamine producer. He is torn between his initial goal of providing for his family after a cancer diagnosis and the allure of power and recognition in the criminal world which he did not receive in his day to day job as a high school chemistry teacher. His moral values clash with his actions as he justifies illegal activities for what he perceives as noble reasons.

2. Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars Prequel Trilogy (Films)

Jedi Duty vs. Fear of Loss

Anakin struggles between his loyalty to the Jedi Order, which promotes peace and selflessness, and his fear of losing those he loves, especially after premonitions of his wife's death. His desire to protect leads him to embrace the dark side, conflicting with his moral upbringing and resulting in his transformation into Darth Vader.

3. Don Draper in Mad Men (TV Series)

Authentic Self vs. Constructed Identity

Don wrestles with a stolen identity and a past filled with poverty and trauma. He feels constant dissatisfaction despite professional success, leading to infidelity and substance abuse. His internal battle revolves around his search for authenticity and happiness versus the facade he presents to the world.

4. Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (Films)

Willpower vs. Ring's Corruption

Frodo is burdened by the One Ring's corrupting power, which tempts him with visions of greatness while eroding his will. He struggles to maintain his integrity and sanity during his quest to destroy the Ring, fighting against its manipulative influence that seeks to consume him.

5. Tony Soprano in The Sopranos (TV Series)

Family Man vs. Mafia Boss

Tony deals with panic attacks and depression stemming from the stress of balancing his roles as a mafia boss and a family man. He is conflicted by the violent, unethical demands of his criminal life and his desire for genuine emotional connections and a normal family life.

6. Bruce Wayne/Batman in The Dark Knight Trilogy (Films)

Justice vs. Vengeance

Bruce is torn between his quest for justice as Batman and the ethical implications of his vigilantism. He grapples with the personal sacrifices he must make, including his own happiness and safety, and questions whether his actions make him no better than the criminals he fights.

7. Dexter Morgan in Dexter (TV Series)

Serial Killer Urges vs. Moral Code

Dexter is a forensic blood spatter analyst who is also a serial killer targeting other murderers. He struggles with his homicidal urges, referred to as his "Dark Passenger," while trying to maintain a facade of normalcy and adhere to a moral code instilled by his adoptive father.

8. Michael Corleone in The Godfather Trilogy (Films)

Moral Reluctance vs. Familial Duty

Michael transitions from a decorated war hero wanting nothing to do with his family's mafia dealings to becoming the ruthless head of the crime family. He is conflicted between his initial moral stance and the allure of power and duty to family, leading to actions that isolate him from loved ones.

9. Rick Grimes in The Walking Dead (TV Series)

Humanity vs. Survival Instincts

Rick struggles to uphold his moral values and humanity in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. He is torn between maintaining his ethical code and making brutal decisions necessary for the survival of his group, often questioning his own leadership and choices.

10. BoJack Horseman in BoJack Horseman (TV Series)

Desire for Redemption vs. Self-Destructive Behavior

BoJack, a former sitcom star, battles deep-seated depression, addiction, and feelings of worthlessness. He desires to be a better person but frequently sabotages his relationships and opportunities due to his inability to overcome his self-destructive habits.

11. Elsa in Frozen (Film)

Fear of Hurting Others vs. Embracing True Self

Elsa fears her own magical powers of ice and snow, worrying that she might harm others, especially her sister Anna. She struggles between isolating herself to protect those she loves and embracing her true self without fear.

12. Simba in The Lion King (Film)

Guilt and Shame vs. Responsibility as King

After believing he is responsible for his father's death, Simba grapples with guilt and shame. He is conflicted between his desire to escape his past and his rightful responsibility to return home and claim his place as king.

13. Jean Valjean in Les Misérables (Film)

Past Convict Identity vs. Quest for Redemption

Jean Valjean, a former convict, seeks redemption and struggles to leave his past behind. He is conflicted between revealing his true identity, which could lead to imprisonment, and maintaining his newfound moral integrity by saving others and taking responsibility for his actions.

14. Joel Barish in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (Film)

Erasing Painful Memories vs. Embracing Growth

*AKA one of my favorite movies of all time*

Joel debates whether to erase memories of his ex-girlfriend to alleviate his pain or to hold onto those memories as part of his personal growth. He struggles with the desire to avoid suffering and the understanding that pain is an integral part of love and life experiences.

15. Sarah Connor in Terminator 2: Judgment Day (Film)

Paranoia-Fueled Aggression vs. Maternal Protection

Sarah is torn between her maternal instincts to protect her son and her obsession with preventing a future apocalypse. Her intense focus leads to paranoia and questions about how far she should go, blurring the line between protector and aggressor.

16. John Nash in A Beautiful Mind (Film)

Reality vs. Schizophrenic Delusions

John battles schizophrenia, struggling to distinguish between reality and hallucinations. His internal conflict revolves around his desire to pursue his career and maintain relationships while managing his mental illness.

17. Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games Series (Films)

Symbol of Rebellion vs. Protecting Loved Ones

Katniss is torn between her role as the symbolic leader of a rebellion and her personal desire to protect her family and loved ones. She struggles with the expectations placed upon her and the moral implications of the violence she witnesses and participates in.

18. Andy Dufresne in The Shawshank Redemption (Film)

Hope vs. Despair in Imprisonment

Wrongfully convicted, Andy fights against despair and the dehumanizing effects of prison life. He grapples with maintaining hope and dignity in a situation designed to break his spirit.

19. Steve Rogers/Captain America in Captain America: Civil War (Film)

Government Control vs. Personal Freedom

Steve is conflicted over whether to comply with government oversight of superheroes (the Sokovia Accords) or to operate independently to do what he believes is right. His loyalty to his friend Bucky Barnes further complicates his decisions.

20. Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones (TV Series)

Self-Worth vs. Family Rejection

Tyrion struggles with his family's rejection and societal prejudice due to his dwarfism. He seeks recognition and respect while navigating morally complex situations, often torn between self-preservation and doing what is just.

21. Jesse Pinkman in Breaking Bad (TV Series)

Guilt Over Actions vs. Desire for Redemption

Jesse battles with guilt and remorse over his involvement in the drug trade, which leads to the harm and death of others. He struggles with his self-worth and the desire to break free from the destructive path he's on.

(Fun Fact: Aaron Paul once face-timed me OUT OF THE BLUE using my boyfriends phone after chatting with my him on set. I WAS IN MY BATHROBE with no makeup and completely shocked. He was a total sweetheart - asked about my day, the writers strike and how I was holding up. I told him I loved him as Jesse Pinkman. My honey, who was on the DGA Assistant Director track, had nothing but great things to say about him! Complete professional - warm, kind, considerate - went above and beyond. Yay Aaron Paul!)

22. Will Hunting in Good Will Hunting (Film)

Fear of Intimacy vs. Potential for Greatness

Will grapples with past traumas from an abusive childhood and fears of vulnerability. Despite his genius-level intellect, he avoids opportunities that could lead to success or intimacy, fearing failure and rejection.

23. Tony Stark/Iron Man in Avengers: Endgame (Film)

Personal Happiness vs. Ultimate Sacrifice

Tony faces the dilemma of risking his life to save the universe versus staying with his family. He struggles with the potential loss of his personal happiness for the greater good, ultimately deciding whether to make the ultimate sacrifice.

24. Eleanor Shellstrop in The Good Place (TV Series)

Selfishness vs. Desire to Improve

After realizing she's in the afterlife and was mistakenly placed in "The Good Place," Eleanor strives to become a better person. She grapples with her selfish tendencies and attempts to learn ethics to earn her spot genuinely.

25. Neo in The Matrix Trilogy (Films)

Ordinary Life vs. Destiny as "The One"

Neo is conflicted about accepting his role as "The One" prophesied to save humanity. He struggles with doubt, responsibility, and the sacrifices required to fulfill his destiny versus his own desires.

26. Gollum/Sméagol in The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (Films)

Sméagol's Humanity (Hobbitness?) vs. Gollum's Corruption

Gollum experiences a split personality between his former self, Sméagol, and the corrupted Gollum persona influenced by the One Ring. He vacillates between moments of kindness and malicious intent, battling internally for control.

27. Nina Sayers in Black Swan (Film)

Innocence (White Swan) vs. Dark Desires (Black Swan)

Nina strives for perfection as a ballerina, battling with her repressed emotions and desires. She experiences a psychological breakdown as she tries to embody both the innocent White Swan and the seductive Black Swan, leading to a loss of identity.

28. Bruce Banner/The Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (Films)

Rational Scientist vs. Uncontrollable Monster

Bruce struggles to control his anger, which triggers his transformation into the Hulk. He is conflicted between using his alter ego's immense strength for good and the fear of causing unintended destruction and harm.

29. Peter Parker/Spider-Man in Spider-Man 2 (Film)

Personal Life vs. Superhero Responsibilities

*Toby Maguire will always be my Spider Man*

Peter grapples with balancing his personal life—academic responsibilities, relationships, and financial struggles—with the obligations of being Spider-Man. He contemplates giving up his superhero identity to lead a normal life.

30. King George VI in The King's Speech (Film)

Self-Doubt vs. Royal Duty

King George VI battles a debilitating stammer and deep-seated insecurity about his ability to lead. He must overcome personal fears and self-doubt to inspire his nation during a time of crisis.

31. Logan/Wolverine in Logan (Film)

Isolation vs. Protecting Others

Logan deals with aging and the loss of his mutant abilities. He is torn between his desire to live in isolation and his sense of duty to protect a young mutant girl, confronting his own mortality and legacy.

32. Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver (Film)

Loneliness vs. Violent Redemption

Travis, a Vietnam War veteran, struggles with loneliness, insomnia, and a growing disgust with urban decay. His internal turmoil leads him to contemplate violent action as a misguided attempt to find purpose and cleanse society.

33. Michael Scott in The Office (TV Series)

Need for Acceptance vs. Lack of Social Awareness

Michael craves acceptance and friendship from his employees but often behaves inappropriately due to a lack of social awareness. He struggles with loneliness and the need to be liked, which conflicts with his role as a manager.

34. Jake LaMotta in Raging Bull (Film)

Jealous Rage vs. Need for Love

Jake is consumed by jealousy and rage, which fuels his boxing career but destroys his personal relationships. He battles self-destructive tendencies and an inability to express vulnerability or trust others.

35. Elizabeth Jennings in The Americans (TV Series)

Soviet Loyalty vs. Emotional Attachments

Elizabeth, a deep-cover KGB spy, is torn between her unwavering commitment to her homeland and her role as a mother and wife in the U.S. She struggles with the moral implications of her actions and the genuine relationships she forms.

36. Jack Shephard in Lost (TV Series)

Man of Science vs. Man of Faith

Jack struggles with his need to fix everything and his skepticism towards the island's mystical elements. He grapples with leadership pressures and the conflict between his rational mindset and emerging faith in the unknown.

37. Carrie Mathison in Homeland (TV Series)

Professional Duty vs. Mental Health

Carrie, a CIA officer with bipolar disorder, fights to manage her condition while preventing terrorist threats. She is torn between her personal well-being, professional duties, and the ethical ramifications of her actions.

38. Harvey Dent in The Dark Knight (Film)

Idealism vs. Desire for Revenge

Harvey transitions from Gotham's idealistic district attorney to the vengeful Two-Face after personal tragedy. He struggles with his belief in justice and order versus his desire for revenge, embodying the duality of good and evil.

39. Rick Blaine in Casablanca (Film)

Personal Love vs. Greater Good

Rick is torn between reigniting a past romance with Ilsa and helping her and her husband escape Nazi-occupied territory. His cynical exterior masks a deep sense of honor and sacrifice, leading to a difficult moral choice.

40. Dr. Gregory House in House M.D. (TV Series)

Cynicism vs. Hidden Empathy

House battles chronic pain and addiction to painkillers, which fuels his abrasive demeanor. He is conflicted between his nihilistic outlook and a buried desire to connect with others, often pushing people away while secretly craving understanding.

41. Sheldon Cooper in The Big Bang Theory (TV Series)

Comfort in Routine vs. Need for Social Connection

Sheldon struggles with social norms and emotional intimacy due to his rigid routines and difficulty understanding others' perspectives. He desires friendship and love but often resists changes that disrupt his comfort zone.

42. Sam Winchester in Supernatural (TV Series)

Destiny of Darkness vs. Striving for Normalcy

Sam grapples with a dark destiny tied to demonic forces and the expectation to continue his family's hunting legacy. He struggles between seeking a normal life and accepting his role in supernatural events, battling internal darkness.

43. Vito Corleone in The Godfather Part II (Film)

Family Prosperity vs. Moral Compromise

In his younger years, Vito faces moral dilemmas as he rises to power in the criminal underworld. He is conflicted between his illegal activities to provide for his family and the impact of those actions on his community and soul.

44. Maximus Decimus Meridius in Gladiator (Film)

Vengeance vs. Honor

Maximus seeks vengeance for his family's murder while grappling with his sense of honor and duty. He is torn between his role as a gladiator fighting for survival and his desire for justice against those who wronged him.

45. Nomi Marks in Sense8 (TV Series)

Individual Identity vs. Collective Connection

Nomi, a transgender woman, struggles with acceptance and her identity within her family and society. Additionally, she navigates the challenges of being psychically linked to others, balancing her individuality with the collective consciousness.

Internal conflict is a powerful tool in screenwriting, enabling the creation of characters that are authentic and deeply engaging. The examples provided highlight how internal struggles—when thoughtfully developed—can drive the plot forward, create tension, and facilitate significant character transformations. These conflicts often revolve around universal themes such as duty versus desire, fear versus courage, or identity versus expectation, which are fertile ground for storytelling.

45 Examples of Internal Conflict