Lesson 1: Characters That Sell Scripts

[William Whalen]

William Whelan – Actor attractors for Café Society

Vision: To write a screenplay which will become a successful movie.

What I learned from doing this assignment is to develop a character which will attract major actors in the industry.

ACTOR ATTRACTORS Template

Movie Title: Café Society

Lead Character Name: Bobby Dorfman

1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role?

The script is written by Woody Allen and the lead character is multi-dimensional with dialogue that is replete with subtext and double entendre.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie?

Bobby Dorfman has a significant transformation going from naïve putz wanting to be part of the Hollywood scene to a savvy, wordily night club owner in New York City.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the movie?

Bobby decides to leave his father’s jewelry business in New York City and move to Los Angeles. When things don’t work out for him in LA both career-wise and romantically he returns to New York city and when his brother is arrested, he takes over control of the nightclub.

4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor?

He is introduced as a naïve wannabe who wishes to change his life for something better.

5. What is this character’s emotional range?

Externally the character is stoic showing limited emotion on the surface while internally he experiences a wide range of emotions.

6. What subtext can the actor play?

The role is loaded with subtext since the character has many instances where he is a naïve player to what is transpiring in the story, however the audience is aware of what is actually happening.

7. What’s the most interesting relationships this character has?

The relationship with Vonnie his first and true love and with his uncle Phil.

8. How is this character’s unique voice presented?

The character’s voice is presented in three ways: the voice over, the understated, non-judgmental attitude of Bobby Dorfman and the subtext of his dialogue.

9. What makes this character special and unique?

Bobby Dorfman is an honest, genuine person in a world of selfish, corrupt, and deceitful people.

10. (Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.)

When Bobby Dorfman sees the framed Rudolph Valentino letter in Phil’s office, he realizes Vonnie is having an affair with Phil. He accepts the realization with equanimity and understanding of human nature and does not fly into a jealous rage.

[Pamela Rice]

One-Sentence Vision: I will turn my ideas into produced movies and live a happy, successful life as a writer and industry professional.
What I learned from doing this assignment: I’ve seen ZOMBIELAND before, but saw it in a whole new light as I watched for the Actor Attractors.
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ZOMBIELAND (Dark Comedy/Horror)
Lead Character Name: COLUMBUS (Jesse Eisenberg)

1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role?
This character undergoes a transformation that would take some acting chops to pull it off. He goes from a naïve, cautious nerd who hides behind his rules to a courageous zombie hunter that saves the girl he loves (Wichita).

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie?
Since he’s the narrator, we get to see things from his unique, witty perspective. We learn about his rules in a comedic way. In the midst of a zombie apocalypse, he’s polite to a fault, and a hopeless romantic.

3. What are the most interesting actions this Lead takes in the movie?
He kills Zombie Bill Murray, he overcomes his fear of clowns and saves Wichita in the finale, he sprays Tallahassee with perfume (knowing he will kick his ass), then apologizes.

4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor?
He’s not the biggest A-List star, but he’s the lead in this movie. We start with his humorous account of the current Zombie sitch, along with his Rules. He’s a skinny nerd who defends himself against his next-door neighbor zombie, then apologizes for smashing her foot in the door.

5. What is this character’s emotional range?
Frightened nerd to courageous hero.

6. What subtext can the actor play?
He shows off in front of Tallahassee (Woody) when he can. He inflates his sexual experience, does stretching exercises before they storm the Twinkie truck, etc.

7. What’s the most interesting relationships this character has?
With Tallahassee, who becomes more like a big brother as time goes on. With Wichita, who slowly falls for a guy who’s got no game.

8. How is this character’s unique voice presented?
Through polite, intelligent, and witty dialogue.

9. What makes this character special and unique?
He’s a polite, skinny nerd who thrives in a Zombie Apocolypse.

10. (Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.) The finale scene shows his emotional range (overcomes fear of clowns, shows up as a Hero), the impressive depth of his relationship with Tallahassee (who sets himself up as a human sacrifice so that Columbus can save his girl), and his love for Wichita and Little Rock.
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Lead Character Name: TALLAHASSEE (Woody Harrelson)

1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role?
He’s unusual: a bad-ass redneck Zombie Killer with a penchant for Twinkies.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie?
He’s larger than life — crusty on the surface, with depth that we uncover layer by layer.

3. What are the most interesting actions this Lead takes in the movie?
He’s an expert Zombie killer. He’s on a mission to find the last remaining Twinkies. He sacrifices himself in the finale so that Columbus can save the girls.

4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor?
He shows up larger than life, we see his bad-ass truck and boots first. Tough guy with a gun who ends up giving his “prey” a ride. He’s an angry guy who hints at something beneath the surface.

5. What is this character’s emotional range?
From “take-no-prisoners” tough guy to someone who is struggling with the loss of his child.

6. What subtext can the actor play?
He pretends to be tough but shows compassion in his actions.

7. What’s the most interesting relationships this character has?
With Columbus, who gets on his nerves, but develops brotherly feelings towards him. With young Little Rock, whom he teaches a thing or 2 (like a father).

8. How is this character’s unique voice presented?
Through graphic insults, salty language and humor.

9. What makes this character special and unique?
He’s the John Wick of the Zombie Apocolypse. He acts tough as nails, but inside: he’s as soft as the Twinkies he so desperately seeks.

10. (Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANtuiVojT2U
Tallahassee draws the attention of the zombies so that Columbus can save the girls. He’s a sitting duck inside the snack stand, but do 100 zombies really stand a chance against a bad-ass like Tallahassee?

• This reply was modified 1 year, 5 months ago by  Pamela Rice.
• This reply was modified 1 year, 5 months ago by  Pamela Rice.

[John P. Hallar]

Subject Line: John P. Hallar’s Actor attractors for The Quartet.

My vision: To be a successful, highly sought after, highly paid writer who has had multiple movies produced and optioned.

What I learned from doing this assignment is: How to build roles into a script that actors would like and how to think about how the actors see a script/role.

Lead Character Name: Jean Horton

1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role?

a. This role provides the opportunity for an actor to showcase a complex and layered character, portraying a renowned opera singer navigating the challenges of aging, ego, and redemption. It offers a chance to explore the emotional depth and resilience of a character with a rich history in the world of music.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie?

a. Jean Horton is intriguing because of her status as a once-famous opera singer who must confront her past, pride, and relationships in a retirement home setting. Her journey from a place of reluctance to embracing her love for music again adds depth and complexity to the character.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the movie?

a. Jean’s decision to join a group of retired musicians to perform again, despite her initial reservations, is a compelling action. Her interactions with fellow residents, especially those with whom she shares a complex history, add layers to her character.

4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor?

a. Jean is introduced as a once-celebrated opera diva who now resides in a retirement home. Her introduction involves a mix of pride, vulnerability, and a guarded demeanor, setting the stage for an actor to explore a character with a rich backstory and internal conflicts.

5. What is this character’s emotional range?

a. Jean experiences a wide emotional range, from pride and reluctance to vulnerability and redemption. The character goes through moments of reflection, regret, and ultimately finds a renewed sense of purpose, allowing an actor to showcase a broad emotional spectrum.

6. What subtext can the actor play?

a. Jean’s subtext involves navigating her complex relationships, reconciling with past mistakes, and rediscovering her passion for music. The actor can play the internal struggle between maintaining a facade of pride and confronting the vulnerability that comes with aging.

7. What’s the most interesting relationship this character has?

a. Jean’s relationship with her fellow musicians, especially her tumultuous history with some of them, adds intrigue. The dynamics of reconciliation, forgiveness, and camaraderie offer rich material for an actor to explore.

8. How is this character’s unique voice presented?

a. Jean’s unique voice is presented through her interactions, both spoken and musical. The character’s vocal prowess, coupled with the emotional nuances she brings to her performances, showcases a distinct and memorable voice.

9. What makes this character special and unique?

a. Jean Horton stands out as a character due to her iconic past, the challenges she faces in the present, and the journey of self-discovery she undergoes. Her ability to confront personal demons and find redemption makes her special and relatable.

10. Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.

a. In a pivotal scene, Jean reluctantly agrees to participate in a reunion performance with her fellow musicians. As she steps onto the stage, her internal struggle is palpable. However, as the music begins and she embraces the joy of singing again, her emotional journey becomes a powerful and captivating moment that showcases the actor’s ability to convey depth and authenticity.

Lead Character Name: Reggie Paget

1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role?

a. This role provides an actor with the opportunity to portray a seasoned and charming opera singer who brings wit, humor, and a touch of roguish charm to the ensemble. Reggie Paget’s character allows an actor to explore the dynamics of a musician navigating the challenges of aging with grace and a sense of humor.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie?

a. Reggie Paget is fascinating due to his charismatic personality and his ability to bring levity to the group. His past relationships with other characters, especially Jean Horton, add layers to his character, making him a bridge between the various personalities in the retirement home.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the movie?

a. Reggie’s decision to organize and participate in the reunion performance is a pivotal action. His interactions with other residents, offering support and comic relief, contribute to the group dynamics. Additionally, Reggie’s moments of vulnerability add depth to his character.

4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor?

a. Reggie is introduced as a charismatic and witty former opera singer who has a natural ability to connect with people. His charm, humor, and interactions with fellow residents create an appealing and memorable introduction for an actor.

5. What is this character’s emotional range?

a. Reggie exhibits a wide emotional range, from his humorous and lighthearted moments to more introspective and poignant scenes. The character experiences moments of joy, camaraderie, and vulnerability, showcasing a diverse emotional spectrum.

6. What subtext can the actor play?

a. Reggie’s subtext involves navigating complex relationships with fellow musicians, especially Jean Horton. The actor can play the nuances of Reggie’s past, his role as a peacemaker, and the deeper emotions beneath his cheerful exterior.

7. What’s the most interesting relationships this character has?

a. Reggie’s relationship with Jean Horton is particularly interesting due to their shared history. The dynamics of forgiveness, camaraderie, and understanding add depth to their interactions. Additionally, Reggie’s friendships with other residents contribute to the ensemble’s dynamics.

8. How is this character’s unique voice presented?

a. Reggie’s unique voice is presented through his witty and charming dialogue, as well as his vocal performances. The character’s ability to use humor as a coping mechanism and a source of connection gives Reggie a distinct and memorable voice.

9. What makes this character special and unique?

a. Reggie Paget stands out for his ability to bring joy and laughter to the group, balancing the emotional weight of the story. His charm, resilience, and the way he navigates his relationships make him special and endearing.

10. Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.

a. In a scene where tensions rise among the musicians, Reggie diffuses the situation with a well-timed joke and a heartfelt speech about the power of music to heal. This moment showcases the actor’s ability to balance humor and depth, making Reggie a character that resonates with the audience.

[Andre]

Subject Line: Andre’s Actor attractors for The Devil’s Advocate.

My one-sentence vision for my success from this program.

To learn how to write the
best script(s) of my life, so far, by dramatically improving the quality of my
writing in the genres of Action, Erotica, and Horror; while having both the
Financial and Time resources to travel the world doing so, with colleagues /
friends /peers, (the few that I have).

What I learned from doing this assignment is…

<b style=”font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; color: var(–bb-body-text-color);”>9 Actor Attractors (Must be, Needed to be in any Leading Role).

1. Actor notoriety-Wants to be known for this part.<b style=”font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; color: var(–bb-body-text-color);”>

2. Character that is most interesting in movie.

3. Takes most interesting actions in the story.

4. Outstanding Introduction.

5. Range of emotions the actor can play.

6. Subtext the actor can play.

7. Relationships that are interesting.

8. Unique Voice expressed through dialogue and action.

9. Something truly special about this Character.

Actor Attractors Template, with the exception to number 11.

Movie Title: “The Devil’s Advocate”.

Lead Character Name:

a. Kevin Lomax- Keanu Reeves.

b. Mary Ann Lomax- Charlize Theron.

c. John Milton- Al Pacino.

Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role?

a. Leading Protagonist Male. A good-looking self-indulgent and successful lawyer who always wins. Beautiful wife.

b. Leading Protagonist Lady. A strong-willed yet submissive small-town wife who moves to New York with her successful trial attorney husband.

c. Leading Antagonist Male. He’s the devil. A sadistic wealthy owner of a scrupulous law firm. Beds sexy females.

What makes this Character one of the most interesting Characters in the movie?

a. Character arc from successfully naïve trial lawyer to learning who he truly is, which is the devil’s son.

b. Character arc from naïve wife of successfully naive lawyer who moves into New York high-rise apartment, with the ability to decorate and money is no issue. Is now part of New York elite desperate lonely housewives club who gets dicked-downed-laid by her husband’s boss, the devil. Enjoys it! Then resents it! and commits suicide after learning who her husband works for.

c. Cunning, scheming, wise, wily, wealthy, owner of New York law firm whom is the devil.

What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the movie?

a. Stiff. High stakes successful wealthy NY trial lawyer who gets to have sex with Charlize Theron’s character, moves into penthouse but rarely sees it because he is constantly in demand for his elite law firm’s guilty yet wealthy clients.

b. Transparent. Wife of trial lawyer who gets recruited and promoted to elite NY law firm owned by the devil. Commits suicide after fraternizing with and learning who her husband works for.

c. Sly. Plays people like cheap instruments, including having them killed, speaking multiple languages to dissuade subway and redirect assailant to go home where his wife/girlfriend is fraternizing with another man.

How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor?

a. My credit card was denied, unable to see the character introductions.

b. My credit card was denied, unable to see the character introductions.

c. My credit card was denied, unable to see the character introductions.

What is this Character’s emotional range?

a. Pretentious opportunistic single-minded choir-boy who learns he is the devil’s son.

Emotional range from 0 to 100 to -100.

b. Wholesome to troublesome prim Innocent naïve housewife married to successful trial attorney to a woman who moves to New York, lives the opulent elitist pampered lifestyle only to suicide herself because of her experiences.

Emotional range, from 100 to -100 to 0 (flatline).

c. Superstitious. Predatorial. Steely. Small somewhat meek law firm owner, to Satan himself.

Emotional range, either a perfect -100 or +100, depends on how one wants to view the inverted scale.

What subtext can the actor play?

a. Weak-willed. Vain. Prideful. Unawares, he is the devil’s son. Destined to run the firm, created by the devil, and make devil babies.

b. Vulnerable. She is innocence in hell. She is married to Satan’s son.

c. Venomous. Unhealthy. Never let them see you coming. Wise as a serpent, subjectively peaceful as a horned dove.

What’s the most interesting relationships this character has?

a. Relationships include being married to loyal housewife, to defending guilty child molesters, murderers.

b. Is loyal housewife who engages in sex with the husband’s boo who turns out to be the devil.

c. Is able to be multiple people to fit the agenda, from law firm owner to media reporter, to subway rider to the devil himself.

How is this character’s unique voice presented?

a. Charming, clean, elitist, almost church-boy innocent.

b. Wholesome, innocent, virgin-esc.

c. Dirty old man with lots of wealth, resources, power, street smart with access to penthouse apartment home.

What makes this character special and unique?

a. Leading Protagonist Male. A good-looking self-indulgent and successful lawyer who always wins. Beautiful wife. Is the Devil’s son.

b. Leading Protagonist Lady. A strong-willed yet submissive feminine.

c. He’s the devil. Is able to be multiple people to fit the agenda, from law firm owner to media reporter, to subway rider to the devil himself. Fits into modern society.

APT28 is shelved.

OmegaMan, my cc is not working. I am unable to rent movies at the moment. The closest movie I would reference would be Apollo 13, but that movie is not free of charge via Youtube. There are no other movies that come close to Action, landing on the moon, regarding Apollo 14. Sadly at this point, I question if the landing was a hoax, considering noone has been there since. The landing being a hoax is a perspective I take in developing this concept of Apollo 14. Many things do not add up!

(Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.)

https://youtu.be/X1Hzn1ko7WE?si=t2_ozfCZ30Q6SN-E

https://youtu.be/x8Fof-v90p0?si=gljuWZX2QDjkJitI

https://youtu.be/q5HFx1VA9F8?si=zJ_asku4AAh1gXeI

https://youtu.be/j6wWGtQjsq0?si=IY7rX3MXhusu7Aya

• This reply was modified 1 year, 5 months ago by  Andre Howard. Reason: Added scenes,(Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.)
• This reply was modified 1 year, 5 months ago by  Andre Howard. Reason: APT28 and OmegaMan

[Margaret Doner]

MODULE 3: Lesson 1: Roles that Attract Actors

Margaret Doner

My vision: I find the time to create well-written scripts that will sell and be produced.

What I learned: To think of ways to attract star actors and actresses

Blade Runner 1982

Protagonist: Harrison Ford Character: Rick Deckard

1. What about role would cause actor to want to be known for it: The movie at the time was extremely unusual and the director was Ridley Scott. The setting was NEO-NOIR, dark, futuristic and everything about it pushed the envelope at the time. When Harrison got there, however, he argued a lot with Ridley and hated playing almost every scene soaking wet! In time Harrison came to love the film. It is indeed a classic.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the story? Harrison is caught in a brutal job of terminating replicants who come onto Earth; and he falls in love with one.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the script? Falls in love with a replicant he is duty bound to kill.

4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor? The role is very deep and dark and disturbed. There were hints at a subtext that in fact Harrison’s character could be a replicant.

5. What is this character’s emotional range? He is tough and unfeeling in a brutal futuristic world; and yet he begins to feel something for the replicants who become aware of their termination date and cannot escape it.

6. The subtext the character plays? I think the subtext is the relationship between the humans and the replicants. As the replicants become self-aware they resent the humans and seek to kill them. The empathetic nature in Rick Deckard grows by the end of the film.

7. What the most interesting relationship the character has? With Sean Young’s character, who is a replicant unaware that she is a replicant and all her memories were implants. He falls in love with her.

8. What gives the character a unique voice? Not sure. The only thing besides his job is his ability to begin to “feel” for the replicants dilemma.

9. What makes the character special or unique? I think just the setting itself and the character’s job and conflicts within the job.

[Margaret Doner]

Blade Runner | IMDb

imdb.com

▶️ Blade Runner

Watch Trailer | 1:02

[Vernall Ritchey]

Assignment : Module 3: Lesson 1

Vision: I want to write a smart, well-written, and blockbuster script which I can then produce and direct.

What I learned from doing this assignment is: how important it is to write characters that are attractive to actors.

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Actor attractors for (The Exorcist).

Movie Title: The Exorcist

Lead Character Name: Ellen Burstyn (Chris MacNeil)

1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role? Based on a successful book. One of the most mysterious and frightening aspects of any movie at that time. The role was in demand by many.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie? Her ability to be loving and nurturing to hysterical and frightened was spot on. Although terrified in the beginning she calmed herself when she realized that only a priest performing an exorcism could help.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the movie? While Regan is possessed and thrashing around, the priests are taken aback and scared, but at this point, Ellen Burstyn (Chris MacNeil) remains calm and helpful.

4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor? She is introduced as a busy actress who is devoted to single parenting her daughter whom she shows much love and affection for.

5. What is this character’s emotional range? Goes from loving, and nurturing to terrified.

6. What subtext can the actor play? Remaining calm and frantic at the same time shown by her constant smoking and drinking while at the bottom of the stairs and outside the door.

7. What is the most interesting relationship this character has? Her loving relationship with her daughter Regan who is possessed by a demon.

8. How is this character’s unique voice presented? Her love and nurturing for her daughter Regan despite being equally terrified of her and for her.

9. What makes this character special and unique? Her ability to be afraid, loving, and caring at the same time. Sensing no matter how demonic her daughter is, she will always be with her.

10. (Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.) Chris finds Regan plunging a crucifix violently into her vagina. When Chris tries to stop her, Regan assaults her with impossible strength, and the furniture around the room starts to move on its own. As Chris watches in horror, her daughter’s head turns completely around backward.

Lead Character Name: Jason Miller (Father Karras)

1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role? Based on a successful book. One of the most mysterious and frightening aspects of any movie at that time. The role was in demand by many.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie? A genuinely nice person/priest who is determined to exorcise Regan.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the movie? Performs an exorcism.

4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor? A priest who must exorcise a demonic entity from a teenage girl.

5. What is this character’s emotional range? Goes from believing in God almighty to doubting his faith. Just as much as he believes in God, he equally disbelieves in the devil and demonic possession/exorcism.

6. What subtext can the actor play? Remaining calm and frantic at the same time and showing renewed relentlessness in his faith in God.

7. What is the most interesting relationship this character has? His relationship with God is his reason for living.

8. How is this character’s unique voice presented? His belief in Catholicism he knows to be the true answer to defeating the demonic presence in Regan.

9. What makes this character special and unique? His ability to outsmart a demon who knows his uttermost fears and who tries to use them against him.

10. (Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.) Regan begins to talk to Karras in the voice of his mother, and he starts to break down – he strangles her.