A parental figure whose physical or emotional absence profoundly shapes the protagonist.
Wiki search
Character & Trope Terms Starting With A
The character & trope terms that begin with A, in alphabetical order.
1–19 of 19 entries
Definitions of Character & Trope Terms Starting With A
Open any entry for the full definition, where the term comes from and the films that show it best.
-
-
A parental figure archetype characterized by harmful and controlling behaviors.
-
A performer who embodies a character on screen through speech, movement and expression.
-
A female performer who interprets and enacts characters in film.
-
The adventurer archetype is a charismatic and daring hero who thrives on excitement, travels to exotic locations, and overcomes incredible odds through courage and resourcefulness.
-
An alien ambassador is an extraterrestrial representative who bridges interspecies diplomacy and cultural exchange in science fiction narratives.
-
The alien visitor is a foundational science fiction archetype whose arrival on Earth forces humanity to confront its own nature, exploring themes of fear, wonder, and our place in the cosmos.
-
An amnesiac hero is a protagonist who has lost their memory and must uncover their true identity and past, which often drives the central mystery of the plot.
-
An ancestor echo is a character whose life, choices, and destiny mirror those of a significant ancestor, often forcing them to confront or complete a legacy they inherited.
-
A character or force that impedes the protagonist’s objectives, creating dramatic conflict.
-
An antagonist arc is the developmental journey of a film's primary opposing force, which can add depth, complexity, and thematic resonance to the story.
-
An inanimate item given human traits or agency within a film’s narrative.
-
An anti-villain is an antagonist who possesses heroic goals, personality traits, or virtues, challenging the audience's moral judgment.
-
A central character who lacks traditional heroic qualities yet commands audience empathy.
-
The archaeologist archetype in film is a character who combines scholarly intellect with the rugged capabilities of an adventurer, unearthing ancient history while often battling sinister forces.
-
The archivist character is a cinematic archetype who delves into primary source materials to uncover a hidden truth, forgotten event, or conspiracy.
-
An aspirational hero is a protagonist who embodies idealized virtues such as unwavering morality, courage, and hope, inspiring others to be better.
-
A professional killer whose precision and detachment drive high‑stakes thrillers.
-
The Astronaut is a character archetype representing humanity's drive for exploration, scientific endeavor, and the profound isolation of space.
By category
Or Browse by Subject
Eight subject indexes, each with its own alphabetical list: filmmaking, genres and styles, characters, storytelling, industry, fandom, general terms and the rest.
