Authors: David Remilekun Olaluwoye, Praise Motade Bickersteth
Abstract: This study investigated the application of Karpman's Drama Triangle in character development in films of the present times in Nigeria with Blood Sisters (2022) and Gangs of Lagos (2023) as the two films studied. New Nollywood has produced increasingly mature narratives that have created complex characters with psychologically motivated actions and relationships that revolve around conflict, making the Karpman Drama Triangle an apt device to analyse their character development. The study aimed to find out how the three roles (Victim, Rescuer, Persecutor) influence scriptwriting and character development in modern Nigerian storytelling. A qualitative approach was taken, and had thematic content analysis. The two films were intentionally chosen because they had a continuous conflict and a role shift in the main characters. It is found that the character of the lead actors can oscillate between the three roles in reaction to betrayal, violence, loyalty and survival, and that this is not just a function of individual psychology, but also a function of Nigerian cultural and social expectations. It concludes that the Drama Triangle, although from the Western context, is applicable in Nigerian narrative context and serves as an instrument for script writers, directors and film scholars to create psychologically realistic characters.
