Complex family relationships require complex inhabitants. You cannot populate a drama with villains and saints. You need people whose flaws are the shadow side of their virtues.

Focus on small actions that only family members notice—a specific sigh, a look, or a tone of voice that instantly reverts a 40-year-old adult back into a defensive teenager.

Families know exactly where the emotional bruises are. A passive-aggressive comment about a career choice or a cooking method can carry the weight of a physical blow.