Late on a Thursday night, a few weeks ago, I searched the free movie listings on my TV. I was too restless to sleep with thoughts of my growing “to do” list cluttering my mind. After scrolling through a few dozen choices, I came across a bright-eyed, furry, four-legged movie icon of the 1970s—Benji. I knew about Benji who brought mixed breed dogs, or mutts, if you will, into the limelight when canine stardom had been relegated to classy thoroughbreds like Lassie, a female Collie or Rin Tin Tin, a male German Shepherd. Higgins a/k/a Benji was found by animal trainer Frank Inn at a Burbank, California animal shelter. Online articles describe him as a terrier mix or a cocker spaniel, poodle, and schnauzer all rolled into one very sharp little guy, who was practically off the charts in cuteness. He captured the eye of the camera along with the hearts of moviegoers.
I thought I’d get a little dose of “Benji” and see what all the hype was about from a movie released in October, 1974. I figured it would be a little dated. But, hoping for the best, I settled in. From the opening shot, I was hooked and totally immersed in the world of Benji!! Even weeks later, I can’t shake the little dog that exhibited traits of never giving up, paying attention to details, and, most of all, loyalty! Like a super sleuth, he pieced together the plot clues and saved the day for the two children in danger. Now I know it’s a movie, and, as in all screen stories, we, the audience, need to suspend disbelief. But, I really felt like this dog commandeered his scenes. Online articles claim that Higgins a/k/a Benji had a remarkable ability to learn new and complicated routines and actually improvised with the actors!
And what I’ve learned from “Benji” is something that many writers may disagree with, but I’m starting to believe: There’s only one main character in a story.
Years ago, when studying screenwriting in Act One: Writing for Hollywood, I developed a buddy film about a leprechaun and a stockbroker. I considered them equally as the main characters. And then both a colleague and mentor asked the same question: Who’s the main character? I struggled with this one because I held onto the belief that, especially in a buddy film, two characters can share the top spot.
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The central character is the catalyst for all the happenings in a film or novel, like a thread that holds the fabric together. And in the case of Benji, the camera followed him during long sequences of his daily routine. When the lens was not focused on Benji, we’d see events from his POV. And the result? Mesmerizing! I felt more engaged because I wanted Benji to triumph and be the hero who saves the day! So, I liken the main character to a hero, even if an anti-hero. There’s something about the character and we become the cheerleaders while reading the pages of a novel or watching the scenes in a movie.
Now, I’ll look back at my body of work and consider who the main characters are, the Benji moments that keep the story and images in my head and heart days after the experience. Isn’t that what we want to create? Memorable moments? If you haven’t seen Benji, and I mean the original one, I recommend a watch. Truth be told, it was one of Alfred Hitchcock’s favorite films. Yes, the master of suspense with credits like “Psycho” and “The Birds” was a fan of “Benji.”
Meanwhile, consider rereading your body of work and reexamining the champions. Do they rise to the occasion? Do you cheer them on? And if you feel inclined, use “Benji” as your benchmark! Happy writing!!