"Look at the Coen brothers. All their minor characters are as interesting as their protagonists. If the smaller characters are well-written, the whole world of the film becomes enriched. It's not the size of the thing, but the detail"

Brendan Gleeson highlights the artistry behind character development in film, focusing on the works of the Coen brothers as a prime example. The Coen brothers are known for populating their films with distinct, memorable minor characters who often steal scenes and linger in the audience’s memory. Gleeson’s observation underlines the idea that a story’s richness doesn’t solely rely on its heroes or central figures. Instead, it’s the depth and vibrancy given to all players, regardless of their screen time, that creates a convincing and immersive cinematic world.

When every character is well-crafted, a movie transcends the binary of main roles versus background players. These smaller roles are more than just narrative devices—they are vital threads in the story’s tapestry. A gas station attendant, a bartender, or a nosy neighbor can, through unique quirks and humanizing details, reinforce the setting’s reality and deepen the narrative’s impact. The audience comes to believe in the world they’re presented with, not because the protagonist’s journey is compelling alone, but because the world they inhabit feels alive and populated by real people with their own motivations and histories.

Detail is the cornerstone of this process. It’s not about the amount of dialogue or screen time given, but the specificity and nuance embedded in each character. A throwaway line, a certain mannerism, or an unusual perspective can render a minor character unforgettable. Through these carefully drawn details, the film gains texture and authenticity, encouraging viewers to explore and register every corner of it rather than merely following a single plotline.

Gleeson’s point ultimately celebrates the power of attentive storytelling. He suggests that lasting cinematic worlds rely less on spectacle or scale, and more on the filmmakers’ dedication to honest, detailed observation—even, and especially, with characters who might otherwise fade into the background.