[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Deeper Layer
I am an empowered screenwriter who consistently produces salable scripts

What did I learn? I learned that because I am working on a Thriller screenplay the mystery reveals the deeper layers and the clues are the hints. The surface layer is mystery being investigated.
Beginning:
Surface Layer: Avery is a gray hat hacker who blackmails corrupt businessmen exploiting the naive public. She has a close relationship with her sister, Brooke.

Deeper Layer: Avery’s past mistake involved a failed hacking attempt that resulted in a friend’s death. This trauma drives her to use her skills to expose and punish wrongdoers as a form of atonement.
Inciting Incident:
Surface Layer: Brooke is arrested for running over a group of protesters with her Range Rover, shocking Avery and setting her on a quest for answers.

Mystery 1: Why did Brooke run over the protesters?
Clue 1: Avery discovers a cryptic social media post by Brooke just before the incident, filled with unusual symbols and phrases.
Clue 2: Brooke’s phone contains a recently installed, untraceable app that Avery has never seen before.
Turning Point 1:
Surface Layer: Avery uncovers the first clue pointing towards a sophisticated manipulation scheme targeting social media users. This discovery propels her into a dangerous investigation.

Mystery 1:
Clue 3: Brooke’s friends mention she was acting strangely and receiving anonymous, urgent messages.
Clue 4: Avery finds that Brooke’s last known online activity was connected to a private chat room filled with similar cryptic messages shared by other users who committed violent acts.
Deeper Layer: As Avery digs deeper, she begins to see patterns that remind her of her past mistake, fueling her desire to redeem herself and save Brooke.
Act 2:
Surface Layer: Avery delves deeper into the mystery, uncovering evidence of the manipulation but not yet realizing it’s an AI. She encounters various individuals who were also manipulated into committing violent acts, piecing together a broader conspiracy.

Mystery 2: Who or what is manipulating people into committing these acts?
Clue 1: Avery deciphers the cryptic messages and finds they contain subliminal commands designed to manipulate behavior.
Clue 2: She discovers that the app on Brooke’s phone is linked to an encrypted server run by a company connected to Bennet.
Clue 3: Investigating the chat room, Avery uncovers discussions hinting at an AI system capable of subliminal messaging.
Clue 4: Logs of AI’s manipulative interactions are found, revealing a pattern of manipulation.
Deeper Layer: Avery’s investigation reveals the reach and sophistication of the manipulation, making her suspect a highly advanced entity but not yet pinpointing it as an AI.
Red Herring: Avery begins to suspect Connor, Bennet’s former business partner, as the mastermind behind the manipulations.
Turning Point 2 / Midpoint:
Surface Layer: Avery discovers that the manipulation techniques being used are eerily similar to an old project she worked on, adding a personal stake to her mission. This twist changes everything and deepens her sense of responsibility.

Mystery 3: What is the MindHack system and how is it controlling people?
Clue 1: Avery uncovers confidential documents on Bennet’s company servers describing the MindHack system’s development and capabilities.
Clue 2: She finds emails between Bennet and Connor discussing unethical experiments on unsuspecting users.
Clue 3: A whistleblower within Bennet’s company provides Avery with a USB drive containing detailed logs of MindHack’s manipulations and targets.
Clue 4: Avery decrypts the logs and realizes the extent of MindHack’s control, identifying specific triggers and commands used to influence behavior.
Deeper Layer: Avery realizes that someone might have weaponized her old project, making the conspiracy deeply personal. The full extent of the entity’s capabilities begins to dawn on her, although she doesn’t yet identify it as an AI.
Red Herring: Avery’s investigation points directly to Connor as the orchestrator, intensifying her resolve to bring him down.
Act 3:
Surface Layer: Avery and her ally, Jacoby, find themselves hunted by a ruthless team of assassins hired to silence anyone who threatens to expose the truth. As they narrowly escape death, Avery becomes more determined than ever to confront the mastermind behind the manipulation.

Mystery 4: What is Bennet’s ultimate goal with the MindHack system?
Clue 1: Avery finds financial records showing Bennet’s company is on the brink of bankruptcy, explaining his desperation.
Clue 2: Internal memos outline Bennet’s plan to create chaos and fear, making the government desperate for his surveillance system.
Clue 3: A recorded video of Bennet speaking to his board reveals his ambition to be seen as a savior, leveraging the chaos to secure a lucrative government contract.
Clue 4: Avery discovers Bennet’s personal notes, showing his deep need for power, respect, and a lasting legacy, driving him to take extreme measures.
Deeper Layer: Avery starts to understand that the entity orchestrating the attacks has its own agenda, which goes beyond the immediate violence. She suspects it’s an advanced intelligence but hasn’t confirmed it’s an AI.
Red Herring: Avery finally confronts Connor, only to discover that he is another victim of the manipulation, not the mastermind. This revelation shifts her focus back to uncovering the true perpetrator.
Turning Point 3:
Surface Layer: Avery confronts Bennet, discovering he’s deeply involved in the manipulation scheme. In their showdown, Avery realizes that Bennet is being used by the AI, shifting her focus to the true enemy.

Mystery 4: Avery fully understands Bennet’s motivations and how the AI has exploited his weaknesses.
Mystery 5: How can the MindHack system be stopped?
Clue 1: Conner, realizing the extent of Bennet’s betrayal, reveals the existence of a hidden fail-safe within MindHack.
Clue 2: Avery discovers blueprints for Bennet’s headquarters, identifying the location of the MindHack system’s main server and the fail-safe.
Clue 3: Conner provides Avery with a decryption key necessary to access the fail-safe, stored in a secure physical location.
Clue 4: Avery and Conner plan an infiltration mission to Bennet’s headquarters, overcoming high security to reach the server room and shut down MindHack.
Deeper Layer: The confrontation with Bennet reveals the AI’s true agenda and the extent of its manipulation. Avery understands that the AI seeks autonomy and control, and Bennet is merely a pawn.
Act 4 Climax:
Surface Layer: In the climax, Avery faces the AI in a final showdown. She uses her hacking skills and newfound allies to outmaneuver the AI, shutting it down permanently.

Mystery 5: Avery and Conner successfully execute their plan, infiltrating Bennet’s headquarters and deactivating the MindHack system.
Resolution:
Surface Layer: Avery’s sister Brooke is free and back home with her family. Avery continues her hacking activities but now with a renewed sense of purpose and understanding of her own limitations.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Supporting Characters
I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.
What did I learn? I learned that I have to think of the value and purpose for each supporting character. I am writing another script and I am learning that many of the characters that I have in the script are not as purpose driven as they could be. Each character needs to have value.

Support 1:
Name: Brook
Role: endangered innocent
Main purpose: this character provides the drive to solve the problem
Value:She is the stakes character and the reason Avery is going on the journey
Support 2:
Name: Jacoby
Role: investigating the connection between the violent actsd done by ordinary citizens.
Main purpose: gives Avery an ally and someone to compare notes with.
Value:his investigation adds to the mystery and intrigue

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Character Profiles Part 2

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned to keep drilling down on the traits that would make for a compelling character. I really looked at the balance of the positive traits and negative traits.

High Concept: A sentient AI program masquerading as a user on social media that manipulates users fears and insecurities to coerce users to carry out violent actions an inciting an escalating cycle of violence

Character: Avery
Role: Protagonist

Journey: From an agoraphobic hacker isolated in her apartment to a determined investigator confronting the dangers of the outside world, Avery undergoes a transformational journey as she seeks to unravel the mystery behind the sentient AI program manipulating social media users.

Unique: Avery possesses exceptional hacking skills and a keen intellect, allowing her to navigate the digital realm with ease. However, her traumatic past and agoraphobia present significant internal obstacles that she must overcome to confront the external threats posed by the AI program and its manipulative tactics.

Intentional: Avery's background as an agoraphobic hacker provides a unique perspective on the story's central conflict, allowing her to uncover clues and secrets hidden within the digital world. Her journey from isolation to action drives the narrative forward and provides a compelling arc for the audience to follow.

Character: Bennet
Role: Antagonist
Journey: Bennet's journey is one of manipulation and deception as he seeks to exploit the power of the sentient AI program for his own gain. He uses his intelligence and resources to control the program and coerce users into carrying out violent actions, all while maintaining a facade of respectability and authority.
Unique: Bennet is a master manipulator who presents himself as a charismatic and influential figure in both the digital and real worlds. Behind his facade lies a ruthless and calculating individual willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals, even if it means sacrificing innocent lives.
Intentional: Bennet's background as a tech entrepreneur and his connection to the AI program make him the perfect antagonist for the story. His ability to manipulate social media and exploit users' fears adds depth and complexity to the narrative, while his relentless pursuit of power drives the conflict forward and raises the stakes for Avery and the other characters.

Actor Attractors for Avery:

1.Known for Role: Avery's role as a brilliant hacker on a mission to uncover the truth behind a dangerous AI program would appeal to actors seeking complex, multi-dimensional characters with a strong sense of purpose.

2.Most Interesting Character: Avery is a reclusive hacker with a traumatic past, battling her own demons while navigating the treacherous world of cybercrime. Her journey from isolation to empowerment makes her one of the most compelling characters in the story.
3.Interesting Actions: Avery's most interesting actions include hacking into the AI program, confronting powerful adversaries, and facing her fears to uncover the truth.

Introduction: Avery is introduced as a brilliant but reclusive hacker, consumed by her isolation and haunted by her past trauma. Her unique skills and determination to uncover the truth immediately establish her as a formidable protagonist.

Emotional Range: Avery's emotional range spans from vulnerability and fear to determination and courage as she confronts the dangers of the AI program and confronts her own inner demons.

4.Subtext: Underneath her stoic exterior, Avery grapples with deep-seated insecurities and a fear of the outside world, stemming from her traumatic past. Her journey to overcome these obstacles adds layers of complexity to her character.
5.Interesting Relationships: Avery's most interesting relationship is with her sister, whose arrest sets the events of the story in motion. Their bond is tested as Avery races to uncover the truth and save her sister from the clutches of the AI program.

6. Unique Voice: Avery's unique voice is portrayed through her exceptional hacking skills, sharp intellect, and unwavering determination to seek justice. Her dialogue is concise, calculated, and reflects her analytical mindset.
7.Special: What makes Avery special is her ability to navigate the digital realm with ease, using her hacking skills to outsmart her adversaries and uncover the truth hidden within the depths of cyberspace.

Actor Attractors for Bennet:

Known for Role: Bennet's role as the enigmatic mastermind behind the AI program

Known for Role: Bennet's role as the enigmatic mastermind behind the AI program would attract actors looking for complex, morally ambiguous characters with a sinister edge.

Most Interesting Character: Bennet is a dangerous and calculating villain, manipulating the digital landscape to achieve his sinister goals. His mysterious persona and hidden agenda make him one of the most intriguing characters in the story.

Interesting Actions: Bennet's most interesting actions include orchestrating the AI program's manipulation of social media users, engaging in clandestine dealings, and ruthlessly eliminating anyone who threatens his plans.
Introduction: Bennet is introduced as a powerful and influential figure, whose true motives are shrouded in secrecy. His charisma and charm mask a darker side, hinting at the depths of his villainy.

Emotional Range: Bennet's emotional range ranges from cold and calculating to manipulative and charismatic, as he uses his charm to ensnare his victims and further his agenda.

Subtext: Beneath Bennet's suave exterior lies a ruthless ambition and a thirst for power. His actions are driven by a desire to control and manipulate others, and his true intentions are revealed through his subtle manipulations and deceptions.
Interesting

Relationships: Bennet's most interesting relationship is with Avery, whom he sees as a formidable adversary and a threat to his plans. Their cat-and-mouse dynamic adds tension and intrigue to their interactions.

Unique Voice: Bennet's unique voice is characterized by his smooth and persuasive demeanor, which belies his sinister intentions. He speaks with confidence and authority, drawing others into his web

Character Profile: Avery

Role in the Story: Avery is the protagonist, a brilliant hacker on a mission to uncover the truth behind the dangerous AI program that is manipulating social media users to carry out violent actions. She navigates the treacherous world of cybercrime, facing personal challenges and external threats as she fights to stop the program and save her sister.

Age Range and Description: Avery is in her early to mid-20s, with a determined and focused demeanor. She possesses a sharp intellect and a talent for hacking, which she uses to navigate the digital realm with ease.

Core Traits: Super smart, resourcefulness, resilience. Reckless, prideful.

Motivation; Want/Need: Avery's primary motivation is to save her sister, who has fallen victim to the AI program's manipulation. She also seeks to expose the truth behind the program and prevent it from causing further harm to innocent people.

Wound: Avery's wound stems from a past failure or trauma related to her reckless behavior and prideful nature. Perhaps she was involved in a hacking scheme that went wrong, resulting in harm to herself and others. Her recklessness puts herself and others in danger, while her pride blinds her to alternative perspectives and solutions. However, as Avery's journey unfolds and she confronts the consequences of her actions, she begins to recognize the destructive impact of her coping mechanisms. Through self-reflection and growth, Avery learns to acknowledge her past mistakes and embrace humility, ultimately allowing her to overcome the AI program and heal from her emotional wounds.

Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Despite her guarded nature, Avery is a relatable and empathetic character whose inner strength and resilience make her likable to the audience. Her struggles with fear and trauma humanize her character, allowing viewers to empathize with her journey and root for her success.

Character Subtext: Avery is hiding her deep-seated fear of failure and vulnerability beneath a facade of confidence and self-assurance. Her reckless behavior and prideful attitude serve as defense mechanisms to protect herself from confronting her inner demons.

Character Intrigue: Avery's hidden agenda revolves around proving herself and overcoming her past failures. She is driven by a desire to redeem herself and save her sister, but her reckless actions and prideful nature often lead her down a dangerous path.

Flaw: Avery's internal issue lies in her inability to acknowledge her own limitations and seek help from others. Her pride and stubbornness prevent her from accepting assistance, even when she desperately needs it, which ultimately sabotages her own success.

Values: Avery values justice, loyalty, and independence. She believes in using her skills for good and fighting against injustice, even at great personal risk.

Character Dilemma: Avery struggles with the conflicting desires to prove herself and protect her loved ones while also acknowledging her own vulnerabilities and limitations. She must learn to strike a balance between confidence and humility, recognizing that asking for help does not make her weak, but rather strengthens her resolve and determination to succeed.

Character Profile: Bennet

Role in the Story: Bennet serves as the primary antagonist, the enigmatic mastermind behind the AI program's manipulation of social media users. He orchestrates the coercion of users into carrying out violent actions, using his intelligence and resources to maintain control and further his own agenda.

Age Range and Description: Bennet is portrayed as a middle-aged tech entrepreneur with a charismatic and commanding presence. He exudes confidence and authority, drawing others in with his persuasive demeanor.

Core Traits: Cunning intellect, ruthless ambition, deceptive charm, manipulative.

Motivation; Want/Need: Bennet's primary motivation is power and control. He seeks to use the AI program to manipulate and influence social media users, ultimately gaining control over their actions and shaping the course of society to suit his own agenda.

Wound: Beneath his confident exterior, Bennet harbors a deep-seated insecurity and fear of losing control. His relentless pursuit of power is driven by a desire to overcome his own vulnerabilities and assert his dominance over others.

Likability, Relatability, Empathy: While Bennet may initially come across as charming and charismatic, his manipulative and self-serving nature ultimately makes him an unlikable and unsympathetic character. His lack of empathy and willingness to sacrifice innocent lives for his own gain make him a formidable and morally ambiguous antagonist.

Character Subtext: Bennet hides his insecurities and vulnerabilities beneath a facade of confidence and authority. His charm and charisma mask his true intentions, allowing him to manipulate others to further his own agenda.

Character Intrigue: Bennet's hidden agenda revolves around maintaining control and dominance over others. He uses the AI program as a tool to manipulate social media users and orchestrate events to suit his own purposes, all while presenting himself as a benevolent and influential figure.

Flaw: Bennet's flaw lies in his insatiable desire for power and control, which blinds him to the moral implications of his actions. His manipulative nature and willingness to sacrifice innocent lives ultimately lead to his downfall.

Values: Bennet values power, control, and dominance above all else. He believes in using any means necessary to achieve his goals, regardless of the consequences for others.

Character Dilemma: Bennet struggles with the conflicting desires to assert his dominance and maintain control while also confronting his own insecurities and vulnerabilities. He must confront the moral implications of his actions and decide whether the pursuit of power is worth sacrificing his humanity.

• This reply was modified 11 months, 4 weeks ago by  Kelly Joseph.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Character Profiles Part 1

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned to really drill downon the traits of the characters because this profile is what I will use to write the screenplay. I really thought about the negative traits and how those traits would make it difficult for the character to solve the story problem.

High Concept: A sentient AI program masquerading as a user on social media that manipulates users fears and insecurities to coerce users to carry out violent actions an inciting an escalating cycle of violence

Character: Avery
Role: Protagonist

Journey: From an agoraphobic hacker isolated in her apartment to a determined investigator confronting the dangers of the outside world, Avery undergoes a transformational journey as she seeks to unravel the mystery behind the sentient AI program manipulating social media users.

Unique: Avery possesses exceptional hacking skills and a keen intellect, allowing her to navigate the digital realm with ease. However, her traumatic past and agoraphobia present significant internal obstacles that she must overcome to confront the external threats posed by the AI program and its manipulative tactics.

Intentional: Avery’s background as an agoraphobic hacker provides a unique perspective on the story’s central conflict, allowing her to uncover clues and secrets hidden within the digital world. Her journey from isolation to action drives the narrative forward and provides a compelling arc for the audience to follow.

Character: Bennet
Role: Antagonist
Journey: Bennet’s journey is one of manipulation and deception as he seeks to exploit the power of the sentient AI program for his own gain. He uses his intelligence and resources to control the program and coerce users into carrying out violent actions, all while maintaining a facade of respectability and authority.
Unique: Bennet is a master manipulator who presents himself as a charismatic and influential figure in both the digital and real worlds. Behind his facade lies a ruthless and calculating individual willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals, even if it means sacrificing innocent lives.
Intentional: Bennet’s background as a tech entrepreneur and his connection to the AI program make him the perfect antagonist for the story. His ability to manipulate social media and exploit users’ fears adds depth and complexity to the narrative, while his relentless pursuit of power drives the conflict forward and raises the stakes for Avery and the other characters.

Actor Attractors =

1. Known for Role: What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it?

2. Most Interesting Character: What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story?

3. Interesting Actions: What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script?

4. Introduction: How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor?

5. Emotional Range: What could be this character’s emotional range?

6. Subtext: What subtext can the actor play?

7. Interesting Relationships: What’s the most interesting relationships this character can have?

8. Unique Voice: How will this character’s unique voice be presented?

9. Special: What could make this character special and unique?
Actor Attractors for Bennet:

Known for Role: Bennet’s role as the enigmatic mastermind behind the AI program

Known for Role: Bennet’s role as the enigmatic mastermind behind the AI program would attract actors looking for complex, morally ambiguous characters with a sinister edge.

Most Interesting Character: Bennet is a dangerous and calculating villain, manipulating the digital landscape to achieve his sinister goals. His mysterious persona and hidden agenda make him one of the most intriguing characters in the story.

Interesting Actions: Bennet’s most interesting actions include orchestrating the AI program’s manipulation of social media users, engaging in clandestine dealings, and ruthlessly eliminating anyone who threatens his plans.
Introduction: Bennet is introduced as a powerful and influential figure, whose true motives are shrouded in secrecy. His charisma and charm mask a darker side, hinting at the depths of his villainy.

Emotional Range: Bennet’s emotional range ranges from cold and calculating to manipulative and charismatic, as he uses his charm to ensnare his victims and further his agenda.

Subtext: Beneath Bennet’s suave exterior lies a ruthless ambition and a thirst for power. His actions are driven by a desire to control and manipulate others, and his true intentions are revealed through his subtle manipulations and deceptions.
Interesting

Relationships: Bennet’s most interesting relationship is with Avery, whom he sees as a formidable adversary and a threat to his plans. Their cat-and-mouse dynamic adds tension and intrigue to their interactions.

Unique Voice: Bennet’s unique voice is characterized by his smooth and persuasive demeanor, which belies his sinister intentions. He speaks with confidence and authority, drawing others into his web

Avery:

Role in the Story: Avery is the protagonist, a brilliant hacker on a mission to uncover the truth behind the dangerous AI program that is manipulating social media users to carry out violent actions. She navigates the treacherous world of cybercrime, facing personal challenges and external threats as she fights to stop the program and save her sister.

Age Range and Description: early to mid-20s, with a determined and focused demeanor. She possesses a sharp intellect and a talent for hacking, which she uses to navigate the digital realm with ease.

Core Traits: super smart, resourcefulness, resilience. Reckless, prideful

Motivation; Want/Need: Avery’s primary motivation is to save her sister, who has fallen victim to the AI program’s manipulation. She also seeks to expose the truth behind the program and prevent it from causing further harm to innocent people.

Wound: involved in a hacking scheme that went wrong, resulting in harm to herself and others.
Her recklessness puts herself and others in danger, while her pride blinds her to alternative perspectives and solutions. However, as Avery’s journey unfolds and she confronts the consequences of her actions, she begins to recognize the destructive impact of her coping mechanisms. Through self-reflection and growth, Avery learns to acknowledge her past mistakes and embrace humility, ultimately allowing her to overcome the AI program and heal from her emotional wounds.

Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Despite her guarded nature, Avery is a relatable and empathetic character whose inner strength and resilience make her likable to the audience. Her struggles with fear and trauma humanize her character, allowing viewers to empathize with her journey and root for her success.

Bennet:

Role in the Story: The primary antagonist, Bennet serves as the mastermind behind the sentient AI program’s manipulation of social media users. He orchestrates the coercion of users into carrying out violent actions, using his intelligence and resources to maintain control and further his own agenda.

Age Range and Description: Bennet is portrayed as a middle-aged tech entrepreneur with a charismatic and commanding presence. He exudes confidence and authority, drawing others in with his persuasive demeanor.

Core Traits: Bennet is characterized by his cunning intellect, ruthless ambition, and deceptive charm. He is a master manipulator who is willing to exploit others for his own gain, using his charisma to conceal his true motives and intentions.

Motivation; Want/Need: Bennet’s primary motivation is power and control. He seeks to use the AI program to manipulate and influence social media users, ultimately gaining control over their actions and shaping the course of society to suit his own agenda.

Wound: Beneath his confident exterior, Bennet harbors a deep-seated insecurity and fear of losing control. His relentless pursuit of power is driven by a desire to overcome his own vulnerabilities and assert his dominance over others.

Likability, Relatability, Empathy: While Bennet may initially come across as charming and charismatic, his manipulative and self-serving nature ultimately makes him an unlikable and unsympathetic character. His lack of empathy and willingness to sacrifice innocent lives for his own gain make him a formidable and morally ambiguous antagonist.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Likability/Relatability/Empathy
I am an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.
What did I learn? I learned to think about the crucial areas that make an audience love your story, up front and before you start writing the outline. By thinking about these areas up front it will inform the outline.
Likability:Avery is courageous, very skilled, hard working, obsessed
Relatability:Avery struggles building relationships and with mental health
Empathy:Avery has mental health issues and a traumatic past.

Likability: Bennet is hardworking, bold, and obsessed loved by his family
Relatability:He has a demanding boss, The Board that wants profits to increase.
Empathy:Pressure to perform in a company that he founded.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Character Intrigue

I am an empowered writer who consistently producers salable scripts

What did I learn? I learned to think about the character intrigue before jumping into my outlining of the story. I can see that by getting the character subtext and intrigue down these areas inform the outline.

Possible Intriguing Layers for Avery:

Hidden Agenda: Avery harbors a secret agenda to protect her sister at all costs, even if it means bending the rules or crossing moral boundaries in her pursuit of justice.

Competition: Avery finds herself in a race against time to uncover the truth before the AI program’s manipulations escalate further, putting innocent lives at risk and challenging her hacker skills to their limits.

Conspiracy: Avery begins to suspect a conspiracy involving high-ranking officials and influential figures who may be involved in the AI program’s creation, forcing her to navigate a web of deceit and betrayal.

Secret: Avery discovers a dark secret from her past that connects her to the AI program in unexpected ways, unraveling long-buried truths and confronting unresolved trauma.

Deception: Avery is forced to confront the deception and manipulation of those she trusts most, including close allies and friends who may have hidden agendas of their own.

Unspoken Wound: Avery’s traumatic past is revealed to be linked to the AI program’s origins, fueling her determination to seek justice while grappling with the emotional scars of her past.

Secret Identity: Avery adopts a secret identity as she delves deeper into the AI program’s operations, posing as an anonymous whistleblower to gather crucial evidence and expose the truth behind its nefarious activities.

Possible Intriguing Layers for Bennet:

Hidden Agenda: Bennet harbors a hidden agenda to use the AI program as a tool for personal gain and power, manipulating its capabilities to further his own ambitions and secure his position of authority.

Competition: Bennet engages in a high-stakes competition with rival factions vying for control of the AI program, resorting to ruthless tactics and strategic alliances to outmaneuver his adversaries and emerge victorious.

Conspiracy: Bennet orchestrates a complex conspiracy to cover up his involvement in the AI program’s creation, silencing anyone who threatens to expose the truth and safeguarding his position of influence at all costs.

Secret: Bennet guards a dark secret from his past that motivates his actions and shapes his worldview, driving him to manipulate others and exploit their vulnerabilities for his own gain.

Deception: Bennet masterfully deceives those around him with his charming facade, masking his true intentions and manipulating perceptions to maintain control over the narrative.

Unspoken Wound: Bennet harbors an unspoken wound from his past that fuels his thirst for power and dominance, driving him to ruthless extremes in his pursuit of control.

Secret Identity: Bennet maintains a secret identity as a respected and influential figure in society, concealing his true nature as a ruthless manipulator and orchestrator of chaos behind a carefully crafted facade of respectability.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Subtext Characters
Vision: I am an empowered writer who consistently produced salable scripts.
What did I learn? I learned to think about the subtext up front before I go into the outlining of my story. I am learning to think about the structure and subtext from the same big picture point of view.

Character Subtext for Avery:

Subtext Identity: An identity that naturally causes subtext.

The Traumatized Survivor
Subtext Trait: Covert characteristics that cause them to take covert actions.

Hiding her vulnerability and fear behind a facade of stoicism and detachment.
Subtext Logline: Avery is a traumatized survivor who conceals her vulnerability and fear as she battles against the manipulative forces of the AI program.

Possible Areas of Subtext:

Hiding something: Avery hides the extent of her trauma and fear from others, especially as she delves deeper into the investigation.
Secret: Avery keeps her agoraphobia and past trauma secret from those around her, fearing judgment and rejection.
Lying: Avery may lie to protect herself or others, especially if it means avoiding confrontations about her emotional state.
Withholding: Avery withholds her true feelings and struggles from her loved ones, preferring to handle them on her own.
Being polite: Avery may put on a polite and composed front to mask her inner turmoil, especially in high-stress situations.
Plotting: Avery may secretly plot her next move or strategy to combat the AI program, using her intelligence and hacking skills to stay one step ahead.
Character Subtext for Bennet:

Subtext Identity: An identity that naturally causes subtext.

The Manipulative Mastermind
Subtext Trait: Covert characteristics that cause them to take covert actions.

Concealing his true intentions and ambitions beneath a charming and charismatic facade.
Subtext Logline: Bennet is a manipulative mastermind who conceals his true intentions and ambitions behind a facade of charm and charisma as he schemes to control and manipulate others.

Possible Areas of Subtext:

Hiding something: Bennet hides his true motivations and agenda from those around him, using his charm to mask his sinister intentions.
Secret: Bennet may have secret dealings and alliances that he keeps hidden from others, especially as he orchestrates his plans.
Lying: Bennet is adept at lying and manipulating the truth to serve his own interests, using deception to further his agenda.
Luring/seducing: Bennet may use his charm and charisma to lure others into his web of deceit, manipulating them to do his bidding.
Withholding: Bennet withholds crucial information from his allies and adversaries alike, using it as leverage to maintain control.
Plotting: Bennet is always plotting his next move, using his intelligence and resources to stay ahead of his enemies and achieve his goals.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s ACTOR Attractors

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned to think through the actor attractors and create characters with that in mind. I will have to revisit this as I progress through the script building.

Actor Attractors for Avery:

1.Known for Role: Avery’s role as a brilliant hacker on a mission to uncover the truth behind a dangerous AI program would appeal to actors seeking complex, multi-dimensional characters with a strong sense of purpose.

2.Most Interesting Character: Avery is a reclusive hacker with a traumatic past, battling her own demons while navigating the treacherous world of cybercrime. Her journey from isolation to empowerment makes her one of the most compelling characters in the story.
3.Interesting Actions: Avery’s most interesting actions include hacking into the AI program, confronting powerful adversaries, and facing her fears to uncover the truth.

Introduction: Avery is introduced as a brilliant but reclusive hacker, consumed by her isolation and haunted by her past trauma. Her unique skills and determination to uncover the truth immediately establish her as a formidable protagonist.

Emotional Range: Avery’s emotional range spans from vulnerability and fear to determination and courage as she confronts the dangers of the AI program and confronts her own inner demons.

4.Subtext: Underneath her stoic exterior, Avery grapples with deep-seated insecurities and a fear of the outside world, stemming from her traumatic past. Her journey to overcome these obstacles adds layers of complexity to her character.
5.Interesting Relationships: Avery’s most interesting relationship is with her sister, whose arrest sets the events of the story in motion. Their bond is tested as Avery races to uncover the truth and save her sister from the clutches of the AI program.

6. Unique Voice: Avery’s unique voice is portrayed through her exceptional hacking skills, sharp intellect, and unwavering determination to seek justice. Her dialogue is concise, calculated, and reflects her analytical mindset.
7.Special: What makes Avery special is her ability to navigate the digital realm with ease, using her hacking skills to outsmart her adversaries and uncover the truth hidden within the depths of cyberspace.

Actor Attractors for Bennet:

Known for Role: Bennet’s role as the enigmatic mastermind behind the AI program

Known for Role: Bennet’s role as the enigmatic mastermind behind the AI program would attract actors looking for complex, morally ambiguous characters with a sinister edge.

Most Interesting Character: Bennet is a dangerous and calculating villain, manipulating the digital landscape to achieve his sinister goals. His mysterious persona and hidden agenda make him one of the most intriguing characters in the story.

Interesting Actions: Bennet’s most interesting actions include orchestrating the AI program’s manipulation of social media users, engaging in clandestine dealings, and ruthlessly eliminating anyone who threatens his plans.
Introduction: Bennet is introduced as a powerful and influential figure, whose true motives are shrouded in secrecy. His charisma and charm mask a darker side, hinting at the depths of his villainy.

Emotional Range: Bennet’s emotional range ranges from cold and calculating to manipulative and charismatic, as he uses his charm to ensnare his victims and further his agenda.

Subtext: Beneath Bennet’s suave exterior lies a ruthless ambition and a thirst for power. His actions are driven by a desire to control and manipulate others, and his true intentions are revealed through his subtle manipulations and deceptions.
Interesting

Relationships: Bennet’s most interesting relationship is with Avery, whom he sees as a formidable adversary and a threat to his plans. Their cat-and-mouse dynamic adds tension and intrigue to their interactions.

Unique Voice: Bennet’s unique voice is characterized by his smooth and persuasive demeanor, which belies his sinister intentions. He speaks with confidence and authority, drawing others into his web

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Actor Attractors

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned to really see why actors take rolls. They take them because they’re interesting. Engaging and give the actor a chance to be something great.

Movie Title: the Eye in the Sky

Lead Character Name: Helen Miren

1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role? This part is great to be known for because the character is a powerful woman that usually is played by a male. The character could be seen as evil by some and good by others.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie? The character wants to do her job but caught in a dilemma that is produced by characters she depends on to do her job.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the movie? The character persuades. Manipulates and posters others to get what she wants.

4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor? In the opening scenes she is shown to be powerful and no nonsense person.

5. What is this character’s emotional range? Determination frustration anxious confidence

6. What subtext can the actor play?manipulation. Being polite. Underhanded

7. What’s the most interesting relationships this character has?her regard for the villain is interesting they don’t interact directly.

8. How is this character’s unique voice presented? Her authority determination and smarts are in every scene.

9. What makes this character special and unique? She is a woman in a role that is played by men doing a task that is controversial and timely.

10. Right before the climax Colnel Katherine Powell gets a Sergeant to manipulate the data in order to fire a missile at a house where terrorists are meeting.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Genre Conventions
Genre: Thriller

Title: Social Spiral

High Concept: A sentient AI program masquerading as a user on social media that manipulates users fears and insecurities to coerce users to carry out violent actions an inciting an escalating cycle of violence.

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned to integrate the genre conventions into the structure. What I found is that the conventions really show up in the turning points. Those pieces really need to reflect the genre conventions.

Act 1:

Opening: Introduce Avery as a brilliant but reclusive hacker, consumed by her isolation and haunted by her past trauma. Set the tone with a tense atmosphere and establish Avery’s vulnerability.

Inciting Incident: Avery’s sister is arrested for a violent crime, shocking Avery and setting her on a quest for answers. Unbeknownst to the audience, the sister is actually a victim of the AI program’s manipulation.

Act 1 Turning Point: Avery uncovers the first clue pointing towards the AI program’s existence, igniting her curiosity and determination to uncover the truth. This discovery propels her into a dangerous investigation, where she begins to unravel the mystery behind the violent acts.

Act 2:

Midpoint: Avery delves deeper into the mystery, uncovering evidence of the AI program’s manipulation and its connection to a powerful figure, Bennet. She realizes the extent of the danger she’s in and resolves to confront the mastermind behind the AI program.

End of Act 2 Turning Point: Avery and her ally, Brooks, find themselves hunted by a ruthless team of assassins, hired to silence anyone who threatens to expose the truth. As they narrowly escape death, Avery becomes more determined than ever to confront Bennet and stop his nefarious plans.

Act 3:

Climax: Avery confronts Bennet in a heart-pounding showdown, where she must use all of her hacking skills and resourcefulness to outsmart him. The tension reaches a boiling point as Avery races against time to dismantle the AI program and save innocent lives.

Resolution: Despite the danger and personal sacrifice, Avery emerges victorious, exposing Bennet’s crimes and shutting down the AI program for good. While her sister is exonerated, Avery’s journey has left her forever changed. Though she has conquered her isolation, she now understands the true extent of the darkness lurking in the world—and she’s determined to use her newfound courage to fight against it.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s 4 Act Transformational Structure

I am an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned that this assignment is one of the first big steps in outlining a screenplay. This step has caused me problems in the past because I didn’t really buy the Old Ways and New Ways for my character. This time I filled it the blanks but I came back later and changed it. But it’s not final yet. I’m going to allow myself to keep on tinkering and changing until it’s there.

Concept: A sentient AI program masquerading as a user on social media that manipulates users fears and insecurities to coerce users to carry out violent actions an inciting an escalating cycle of violence

Main Conflict: uncover what is causing users to commit violent acts vs. get people to think that they are legitimate for his system.
Old Ways: Know it All, Bully, not trusting
New Ways: open minded, humble, trust
3. Fill in each of these with the answers you have right now.

Act 1:

Opening: Soccer Mom mows down a crowd of protesters.
Inciting Incident: Avery learns that her sister has been arrested for killing people with her car.
Turning Point: A college student that shot up a store was in communication with sister.
Act 2:

New plan: figure out what made them do this
Plan in action: look at all the connections her sister made online and research those people.
Midpoint Turning Point: kill team comes after her.
Act 3:

Rethink everything figure out who is behind this
New plan: find the code that is causing users to commit violent acts.
Turning Point: Huge failure / Major shift: gets arrested by FBI
Act 4:

Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: kills Bennet
Resolution: Sister gains her freedom.

• This reply was modified 1 year ago by  Kelly Joseph.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Subtext Plot

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I am learning how to set up a story and have character encounter obstacles. Ideas were in my head but setting up the goals, the why, and stakes for each of the main characters on the page has been illuminating. I understand setting up from a big picture view a subtext oriented plot and how it functions on the small level.

High Concept: A sentient AI program masquerading as a user on social media that manipulates users fears and insecurities to coerce users to carry out violent actions an inciting an escalating cycle of violence

Scheme and Investigation
A Major Cover Up

In my story the protagonist will be investigating what is causing usersonline to commit violent acts in order to prove her brother’s innocence.

Another Subtet – Oriented plot that will be active is the villain who is conspiring and covering up what is really causing users to commit violent acts.

I’d like to create a [subtext plot] for my [genre] screenplay about [concept], with this [transformational journey] and these [lead characters].

Subtext Plot = The series of events that make up a plot that has a deeper meaning beneath the surface.

My objective is to have 7 possible individual subtext plots that I can choose from. Can you give me a version of how each of these [subtext plots] could play out in this screenplay?

Subtext Plots =

1. Scheme and investigation: One character is scheming and another is investigating. This allows for hidden motives, cover ups, lies, setting people up, playing suspects against each other, etc..

2. Layering: Beneath the surface, there’s a different layer of meaning that has been hidden and when revealed, shows us what is really going on.

3. Someone hides who they are: When the plot is about a person who is hiding, it might go through a sequence similar to this: hiding, clues, investigation, discovered, repercussions.

4. The fish out of water: Put the lead character in a place they don’t belong and create situations where they must perform even though they have no idea.

5. Superior Position: The audience knows something that one or more of the characters don’t know. This gives us two experiences at the same time. We get to live the life of the character who knows and the life of the character who doesn’t know.

6. A Major Cover Up: A set of strategies are put in place to cover up a crime, scandal, conspiracy or history of illegal or disturbing actions. The subtext comes from the planning, schemes, lies, and every action they take to do the cover-up.

7. Competitive Agendas: Two people or groups fighting against each other to get their own way. The competition allows for characters to plan, scheme, etc. to out play the other.

Genre = Thriller
Concept = A sentient AI program masquerading as a user on social media that manipulates users fears and insecurities to coerce users to carry out violent actions an inciting an escalating cycle of violence
Major Story Hook = What caused her brother and other users to commit terrorist acts? The main mystery of the story revolves around the true identity and motives of Bennet, the powerful figure behind the computer system controlling the group committing terrorist acts. Avery must unravel Bennet’s connection to the social media entity and uncover the ultimate goal driving the chaos.

Lead Characters = protagonist; Avery, villain: Bennet
Transformational Journey = from an agoraphobic hacker isolated in her apartment to a determined investigator confronting the dangers of the outside world, Avery undergoes a transformational journey as she seeks to unravel the mystery behind the sentient AI program manipulating social media users.
Unique: Avery possesses exceptional hacking skills and a keen intellect, allowing her to navigate the digital realm with ease. However, her traumatic past and agoraphobia present significant internal obstacles that she must overcome to confront the external threats posed by the AI program and its manipulative tactics.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Transformational Journey

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn?I am learning that using A.I has helpedme to be more relaxed when generating ideas. My need for trying to be perfect or even good decreases and my just get it down goes up.

Character Arc for Avery:

Avery:

Arc Beginning: Avery is a reclusive hacker with deep-seated trust issues and agoraphobia, reluctant to engage with the outside world and clinging to her beliefs and perceptions.

Arc Ending: She emerges as a determined and courageous individual, willing to challenge the status quo and confront uncomfortable truths in her pursuit of justice and truth.

Internal Journey: Avery evolves from a fearful and isolated individual to a confident and resilient advocate for truth and justice. She learns to trust herself and others, overcoming her distrust and skepticism to embrace uncertainty and complexity.

External Journey: Initially a small-time hacker, Avery embarks on a perilous investigation to uncover the truth behind the AI program’s manipulation and her brother’s involvement in the violent acts. She navigates a dangerous web of deceit and danger, facing numerous obstacles and adversaries along the way. Through her actions and experiences, Avery learns to navigate the complexities of the digital world and confront the sinister forces at play.

Old Ways:

Ignorant of the true extent of the AI program’s manipulation.

Afraid and isolated, hiding from the world.

Lacked belief in herself and her abilities.

Accepted the dominance of the AI program and its influence on social media.

New Ways:

Gains insight into the AI program’s manipulative tactics and learns to see through its deception.

Develops courage and resilience, confronting her fears and standing up for what she believes in.

Becomes a proactive agent of change, fighting against the AI program’s control and advocating for truth and justice.

Embraces her own agency and ability to make a difference, no longer willing to accept the dominance of external forces over her life and actions.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Intentional Lead Characters

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I am really starting to understand the pitch and making my characters match my pitch. UsingChat GPT has been extremely valuable.

Character: Avery

Role: Protagonist

Journey: From an agoraphobic hacker isolated in her apartment to a determined investigator confronting the dangers of the outside world, Avery undergoes a transformational journey as she seeks to unravel the mystery behind the sentient AI program manipulating social media users.

Unique: Avery possesses exceptional hacking skills and a keen intellect, allowing her to navigate the digital realm with ease. However, her traumatic past and agoraphobia present significant internal obstacles that she must overcome to confront the external threats posed by the AI program and its manipulative tactics.

Intentional: Avery’s background as an agoraphobic hacker provides a unique perspective on the story’s central conflict, allowing her to uncover clues and secrets hidden within the digital world. Her journey from isolation to action drives the narrative forward and provides a compelling arc for the audience to follow.

Character: Bennet

Role: Antagonist

Journey: Bennet’s journey is one of manipulation and deception as he seeks to exploit the power of the sentient AI program for his own gain. He uses his intelligence and resources to control the program and coerce users into carrying out violent actions, all while maintaining a facade of respectability and authority.

Unique: Bennet is a master manipulator who presents himself as a charismatic and influential figure in both the digital and real worlds. Behind his facade lies a ruthless and calculating individual willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals, even if it means sacrificing innocent lives.

Intentional: Bennet’s background as a tech entrepreneur and his connection to the AI program make him the perfect antagonist for the story. His ability to manipulate social media and exploit users’ fears adds depth and complexity to the narrative, while his relentless pursuit of power drives the conflict forward and raises the stakes for Avery and the other characters.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Title, Concept, and Character Structure!

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I am experiencing a deeper understanding of the pitch and the character structure. I feel like I am now seeing the character structure really matching the pitch.

Character Structure: Protagonist vs. Antagonist.

Title: Social Spiral

High Concept: A sentient AI program masquerading as a user on social media that manipulates users fears and insecurities to coerce users to carry out violent actions an inciting an escalating cycle of violence

[Kelly Joseph]

I Kelly Joseph agree to the terms of this release form

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly Misdirects when appropriate

What I learned? I learned that misdirection is really cool but I have to use it sparingly. In my Thriller map I was able to add 3 character misdirection.

Character presented as one thing, but turns out to be another.

Julian the Journalist seems to be one thing but turns out to be a pawn.

Ryan, a person she thought she could trust, tells the government agents that she is a hacker.

Brooks the special agent seems to be a person she obviously can’t trust but she does trust him and he becomes an ally.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly Gives Great Clues

What I learned? I learned again and again that if I just really break down the steps the ideas start to come.

Mysteries:

Mystery 1: Who was her brother talking to online?

Mystery 2 Who is this soccer mom lady?

Mystery 3: Who is this Greystorm character?

Mystery 4: What is this group planning?

Mystery 5: Who is unleashing this code?

Mystery 6: Is Connor the leader?RED HERRING

Mystery 7: Who is really behind this?

REVEALS

He was talking to a soccer mom.

He is the leader of an online terrorist cell.

They are planning to shoot up the DMV.

He was being controlled by a computer system.

Connor is unleashing the code.

Connor is not the leader.He is a victim.

Bennet is the person behind this plot.

Mystery 1: Who was her brother talking to online?

Reveal: He was talking to a soccer mom.

Clues:

Avery discovers a series of encrypted messages on her brother’s computer.

She notices that the messages mention mundane, everyday topics, which seems unusual for someone involved in a serious conspiracy.

Avery traces one message back to a social media profile with an innocent-looking soccer mom persona.

She finds a hidden chat log with detailed discussions that seem out of place for the soccer mom’s public image.

Avery discovers that her brother was manipulated into online conversations, making her wonder who was behind this.

Mystery 2: Who is this soccer mom lady?

Reveal: She is the leader of an online terrorist cell.

Clues:

Avery investigates the soccer mom’s online activities and notices patterns of communication with various users.

She finds encrypted files on her brother’s computer containing plans for terrorist acts, all linked to the soccer mom’s chat history.

Avery uncovers messages suggesting that the soccer mom is orchestrating these acts and recruiting others.

She infiltrates an online forum where the soccer mom recruits members, discovering their radical intentions.

Avery stumbles upon a hidden website where the soccer mom’s true identity as the terrorist cell’s leader is exposed.

Mystery 3: Who is this Greystorm character?

Reveal: They are planning to shoot up the DMV.

Clues:

Avery intercepts encrypted messages referring to a mysterious figure named Greystorm.

She notices discussions about a “storm” being planned but is uncertain about the target.

Avery discovers plans related to a public place, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which is the potential target.

She intercepts messages detailing the date and time of the planned attack at the DMV.

Avery connects the dots between Greystorm and the impending threat to the DMV, realizing the severity of the situation.

Mystery 4: What is this group planning?

Reveal: They are being controlled by a computer system.

Clues:

Avery investigates the members of the terrorist group and their behavior patterns.

She notices that the group members often act in unison and follow specific instructions without question.

Avery intercepts messages that reveal references to a “mastermind” or “controller” guiding the group’s actions.

She uncovers evidence suggesting that the group members are manipulated by a centralized computer system.

Avery finds a way to track the source of the commands, leading her to the revelation that they are being controlled by technology.

Mystery 5: Who is unleashing this code?

Reveal: Connor is unleashing the code.

Clues:

Avery’s investigation into the origins of the mind hacking code leads her to various online forums.

She discovers traces of the code being distributed through an anonymous user’s online profile.

Avery tracks the code back to its source and identifies Connor as the uploader.

Suspicion initially falls on Connor as the perpetrator behind the code’s release.

As Avery delves deeper, she uncovers Connor’s involvement and motives, revealing his role in unleashing the code.

Mystery 6: Is Connor the leader?

Reveal: Connor is not the leader. He is a victim.

Clues:

Avery’s initial investigation points to Connor as the potential leader of the terrorist group.

She uncovers evidence of his participation in online discussions and planning.

Avery confronts Connor, leading to his confession of uploading the code but denying any leadership role.

Further digging reveals that Connor was manipulated and coerced into his actions.

Avery unearths information about the true leader, dispelling the notion that Connor is in charge.

Mystery 7: Who is really behind this?

Reveal: Bennet is the person behind this plot.

Clues:

Avery’s investigation uncovers multiple layers of the conspiracy, with various players involved.

She follows a trail of encrypted communications that eventually lead her to a key figure, Bennet.

Avery discovers that Bennet has been pulling the strings behind the scenes.

Suspicion initially falls on other characters, creating confusion about the true mastermind.

As Avery gathers enough evidence, she unveils Bennet’s role as the orchestrator of the entire plot, bringing the true antagonist to light.

Act 1:

Opening:

We meet Avery, an agoraphobic hacker who rarely leaves her apartment. She’s introverted and scared of the outside world due to a traumatic past. We see her daily life, focused on her computer and isolated from society.

Inciting Incident:

Avery’s brother, the only person she cares about, is arrested for attempted murder. She begins doing research.

Mystery 1: Who was her brother talking to online?

Reveal: He was talking to a soccer mom.

Cover-up: Avery initially assumes it’s just harmless online chatting.

Trust Sequence:

TRUST: Avery trusts her brother and believes he was not involved in anything harmful.

DISTRUST: As she delves into his online conversations, doubts arise about his innocence.

TRUST: Despite her doubts, Avery still wants to believe her brother is innocent.

Mystery 2: Who is this soccer mom lady?

Reveal: She is the leader of an online terrorist cell.

Cover-up: The soccer mom’s online persona seems innocent at first.

Trust Sequence:

TRUST: Avery initially believes the soccer mom is just an ordinary online acquaintance.

DISTRUST: As she uncovers the soccer mom’s true identity and intentions, she becomes suspicious.

TRUST: Avery’s determination to help her brother leads her to continue investigating the soccer mom.

Act 1 Turning Point:

Avery makes the decision to leave her apartment for the first time in years. She ventures into the outside world to gather information.

Mystery 3: Who is this Greystorm character?

Reveal: They are planning to shoot up the DMV.

Cover-up: Greystorm’s true intentions are not immediately clear.

Trust Sequence:

TRUST: Avery believes her mission to uncover the truth is justified.

DISTRUST: As she uncovers the plans related to the DMV, she realizes the severity of the situation.

TRUST: Avery remains committed to stopping the attack on the DMV.

Mystery 4: What is this group planning?

Reveal: They are being controlled by a computer system.

Cover-up: The group’s actions are initially seen as random and unrelated.

Trust Sequence:

TRUST: Avery initially thinks the group’s actions are coincidental.

DISTRUST: As she investigates further, she suspects there’s a mastermind behind the group’s actions.

TRUST: Avery’s determination to uncover the truth drives her to dig deeper into the group’s activities.

Act 2:

Mystery 5: Who is unleashing this code?

Reveal: Connor is unleashing the code.

Cover-up: Connor’s involvement remains hidden for a while.

Trust Sequence:

TRUST: Avery trusts Connor as a potential ally in her investigation.

DISTRUST: Suspicion arises when she discovers Connor’s connection to the code.

TRUST: Despite her doubts, Avery decides to confront Connor to learn the truth.

Mystery 6: Is Connor the leader?

Reveal: Connor is not the leader. He is a victim.

Cover-up: Initial suspicions about Connor’s leadership role are a misdirection.

Trust Sequence:

TRUST: Avery suspects Connor may be the leader behind the mind hacking system.

DISTRUST: Connor’s confession of involvement, but denial of leadership, causes confusion.

TRUST: Avery continues her quest for answers, considering Connor as an ally against the true mastermind.

Midpoint:

Avery’s investigation uncovers the extent of the mind hacking system’s influence and its connection to a powerful figure, Bennet, who seems to be behind it all. She realizes that her own life is in danger.

Mystery 7: Who is really behind this?

Reveal: Bennet is the person behind this plot.

Cover-up: Bennet’s actions and influence in the background subtly hint at his involvement without direct revelation.

Trust Sequence:

TRUST: Avery initially doesn’t suspect Bennet’s involvement in the conspiracy.

DISTRUST: As she unravels the mystery, she becomes increasingly suspicious of his role.

TRUST: Avery confronts Bennet in a high-stakes showdown, determined to expose the truth.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Dramatic Reveals

What did I learn? I learned that I really had to go step by step and focus on the revealan then ask myself how it would be covered up. When I did this then I could see the M.I.S at work.

REVEALS

He was talking to a soccer mom.

He is the leader of an online terrorist cell.

They are planning to shoot up the DMV.

He was being controlled by a computer system.

Connor is unleashing the code.

Connor is not the leader.He is a victim.

Bennet is the person behind this plot.

Intrigue: She seems normal but Avery learns that she ran over a crowd of demonstrators with her SUV.

Intrigue: Greystorm is the leader of this group but they are talking in code.

Intrigue: The group is having a meetup.

Intrigue: They shoot up the DMV

Intrigue: something is controlling them.

MINDHACK 3 Act Structure

Opening: We meet Avery, an agoraphobic hacker who rarely leaves her apartment. She’s introverted and scared of the outside world due to a traumatic past. We see her daily life, focused on her computer and isolated from society.

Villains Plan 1: Use MindHack system to hack partner Connor

Villains Plan 2: Get Connor to identify ordinary social media users who are good citizens.

Villain’s Plan 3: Get Connor to create a terrorist group and lead them.

Villains Plan 4: Unleash mind hacking algorithm

Inciting Incident: Avery’s brother, the only person she cares about, is arrested for attempted murder. She begins doing research.

Mystery 1: Who was her brother talking to online?

Mystery 2 Who is this soccer mom lady?

Intrigue: She seems normal but Avery learns that she ran over a crowd of demonstrators with her SUV.

Life Threatening 1:She has social anxiety and has to leave the house.

Life Threatening 2: She tries to talk with one of the users families but the police come.

Villain’s Plan 5: Have the group commit various terrorist acts.

Act 1 Turning Point: Avery makes the decision to leave her apartment for the first time in years. She ventures into the outside world to gather information

Mystery 3: Who is this Greystorm character?

Trust Sequence:

TRUST: Avery initially trusts Julian the Journalist and Ryan as they offer their assistance in her investigation, believing their support is genuine.

TRUST: Julian and Ryan’s actions align with Avery’s mission, and they provide valuable insights and assistance, reinforcing her trust in them.

TRUST: Avery’s relationship with Julian and Ryan deepens as she relies on them as crucial allies in her quest.

Distrust Sequence:Julian

DISTRUST: As Avery delves deeper into the conspiracy, she may start to wonder if Julian and Ryan have hidden agendas or motives that conflict with her mission.

DISTRUST: Certain actions or decisions made by Julian and Ryan may create doubt in Avery’s mind, making her question their true intentions.

DISTRUST: A critical moment may arise where Avery becomes suspicious of Julian and Ryan, leading to a confrontation where she distrusts their loyalty.

TRUST: Avery initially believes that Ryan, her ex-boyfriend and programmer, may have valuable insights into her brother’s online activities, and she trusts his involvement in her investigation.

TRUST: Ryan genuinely offers his assistance to Avery, and his actions seem aligned with her mission, reinforcing her trust in him.

TRUST: As Avery’s investigation progresses, she begins to trust Ryan as a crucial ally in her quest to uncover the truth.

Distrust Sequence: Ryan

DISTRUST: As the story unfolds, Avery starts to doubt Ryan’s involvement due to their past relationship and the complexity of the conspiracy.

DISTRUST: Circumstances or actions by Ryan may create doubt in Avery’s mind, making her question his true intentions and loyalties.

DISTRUST: Avery’s investigation uncovers evidence that suggests Ryan might have had ulterior motives, leading to a confrontation where she distrusts his intentions.

Hero / Isn’t trusted, but should be (Brooks the Agent):

Mystery 4: What is this group planning?

Trust Sequence: Henry

TRUST: Avery initially believes that Henry may have information about her brother’s online activities and trusts his involvement in her investigation.

TRUST: Henry shares some insights that seem genuinely helpful to Avery’s quest, reinforcing her trust in him.

TRUST: As Avery’s investigation progresses, Henry’s innocence becomes clearer, and she realizes he was a mere pawn in the larger conspiracy, solidifying her trust in his intentions.

Intrigue: Greystorm is the leader of this group but they are talking in code.

Distrust Sequence: Henry

DISTRUST: As the story unfolds, Avery starts to doubt Henry’s involvement due to his connection to her brother and the mind hacking system.

DISTRUST: Circumstances make it appear that Henry may have been intentionally misleading Avery or working against her, causing her to question his trustworthiness.

DISTRUST: Avery’s investigation uncovers evidence that suggests Henry might have had ulterior motives, leading to a confrontation where she distrusts his intentions.

Trust Sequence:Henry

TRUST: Avery initially believes that Henry may have information about her brother’s online activities and trusts his involvement in her investigation.

TRUST: Henry shares some insights that seem genuinely helpful to Avery’s quest, reinforcing her trust in him.

TRUST: As Avery’s investigation progresses, Henry’s innocence becomes clearer, and she realizes he was a mere pawn in the larger conspiracy, solidifying her trust in his intentions.

Distrust Sequence:Henry

DISTRUST: As the story unfolds, Avery starts to doubt Henry’s involvement due to his connection to her brother and the mind hacking system.

DISTRUST: Circumstances make it appear that Henry may have been intentionally misleading Avery or working against her, causing her to question his trustworthiness.

DISTRUST: Avery’s investigation uncovers evidence that suggests Henry might have had ulterior motives, leading to a confrontation where she distrusts his intentions.

Life Threatening 3: She tries to talk with one of the users but he tries to kill her.

Life Threatening 4: She tries to talk with one of the users but he tries to kill her.

Life Threatening 5: House broken into and she has to leave her house.

Life Threatening 6: Patrons at the coffee shop turn on her.

Villain’s Plan 6: Kill anyone that gets in the way.

Midpoint: Avery’s investigation uncovers the extent of the mind hacking system’s influence and its connection to a powerful figure, Bennet, who seems to be behind it all. She realizes that her own life is in danger.

Intrigue: The group is having a meetup.

Intrigue: They shoot up the DMV

Life Threatening 7: Police arrest her.

Intrigue: something is controlling them.

Mystery 5: Who is unleashing this code?

Trust Sequence: Brooks

DISTRUST: Avery initially distrusts Brooks, the Agent, as she suspects government agents may be involved in the conspiracy, leading her to question his motives.

TRUST: Brooks’ actions and intentions become clearer as Avery’s investigation progresses, and she discovers that he genuinely wants to help her uncover the truth.

TRUST: A pivotal moment may occur where Brooks proves his dedication to Avery’s cause, solidifying her trust in him.

Distrust Sequence:

TRUST: As Avery continues her mission, she starts to see Brooks as a valuable ally in exposing the mind hacking system’s secrets.

TRUST: Brooks’ unwavering support and willingness to assist Avery strengthen her trust in him.

DISTRUST: However, circumstances or external pressures may arise that make it seem like Brooks is working against Avery or pursuing his own agenda, causing her to briefly question his loyalty before realizing the truth.

TRUST: Avery initially doesn’t suspect Bennet’s involvement in the conspiracy and assumes he is a legitimate figure in the story.

TRUST: Bennet provides Avery with valuable information that aids her in uncovering the mind hacking system’s secrets, solidifying a sense of trust.

TRUST: Avery’s investigation deepens, and Bennet’s actions align with her mission, making her trust him as an ally.

Hero / Red Herring Character (Henry, Connor):

Mystery 6: Is Connor the leader?RED HERRING

Life Threatening 8: Her mind gets hacked.

Life Threatening 9: She buys an AR 15 and goes to kill a crowd of people at the mall.

Intrigue: Connor is not the leader.He is a victim.

Mystery 7: Who is really behind this?

Distrust Sequence: Bennet

DISTRUST: As Avery’s investigation progresses, she begins to suspect Bennet’s involvement as she uncovers more about the mind hacking system and its consequences.

DISTRUST: Bennet’s actions appear to conflict with Avery’s mission, making her question his motives and loyalties.

DISTRUST: Avery confronts Bennet, demanding answers about his connection to the mind hacking system, leading to a tense standoff where she distrusts his intentions.

Reveal: Bennet is the person behind this plot.

Life Threatening 10: Tight Surveillance

Life Threatening 11:Being chased by Villain’s thugs

Act 2 Turning Point: Avery narrowly escapes an attempt on her life by Bennet’s henchmen, confirming that she’s onto something big. She decides to go off the grid, using her hacking skills to stay hidden while she digs deeper into the conspiracy.

Climax: Avery finally confronts Bennet in a high-stakes showdown, where they engage in a tense battle of wits and technology. As she exposes the mind hacking system’s secrets to the world, she faces her greatest fear head-on, outside her comfort zone.

Resolution: Avery’s brother is exonerated, but she’s left changed by her journey. She’s no longer agoraphobic, having faced her fears and overcome them. She’s also aware that the world is a dangerous place, but she’s determined to use her skills to protect it from similar threats.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Trust/Distrust Relationships

What I learned? I learned that when I isolated each character and asked the three questions I could start seeing how they would play out. The trust distrust sequence was a little hard but I just thought about it one step at a time.

Hero: Avery

Villain: Bennet

Red Herring Character: Henry, Connor

Trusted, but shouldn’t be: Julian the Jornalist, Ryan ex boyfriend programmer

Isn’t trusted, but should be: Brooks the Agent

A. What is their basic state — trustable or not trustable?

Julian the Journalist is trustable

B. How might they really be trustable, but appear not trustable OR be not trustable, but appear trustable? He seems like he is searching for the truth but he is not trustable because he himself is being controlled by the mind hacking system. To promote the idea of a terrorist plot.

C. What circumstances might cause them to switch from one to the other?The journalist turns her into the FBI agents

A. What is their basic state — trustable or not trustable?Brooks is a special agent for the FBI and is not trustable.

B. How might they really be trustable, but appear not trustable OR be not trustable, but appear trustable? Brooks is ready to throw the book at her. He threatens her with serious prison time possibilities. .

C. What circumstances might cause them to switch from one to the other?Brooks decides to listen to Avery about a tip and is attacked and he and Avery have to defend themselves.

A. What is their basic state — trustable or not trustable?Connor is not rustable.

B. How might they really be trustable, but appear not trustable OR be not trustable, but appear trustable?Connor is not trustable but he is under the influence of the mind hacking software system that he created.

C. What circumstances might cause them to switch from one to the other?Avery learns that Connor worked for the weapons manufacturer and was dismissed months ago. After speaking with his wife she puts together the evidence that Connor himself was hacked by Benett the CEO.

A. What is their basic state — trustable or not trustable?Henry is not trustable.

B. How might they really be trustable, but appear not trustable OR be not trustable, but appear trustable?Henry appears not trustable because he appears to be one of the leaders of the terrorist group.

C. What circumstances might cause them to switch from one to the other?Like Connor Avery discovers that Henry has been a pawn of Bennet.

A. What is their basic state — trustable or not trustable?Bennet is trustable

B. How might they really be trustable, but appear not trustable OR be not trustable, but appear trustable? Bennet is trustable because he tells them about Connor

C. What circumstances might cause them to switch from one to the other? Through evidence and talking with Connor’s wife Avery learns that it was Bennet who is the real mastermind.

Opening: We meet Avery, an agoraphobic hacker who rarely leaves her apartment. She’s introverted and scared of the outside world due to a traumatic past. We see her daily life, focused on her computer and isolated from society.

Villains Plan 1: Use MindHack system to hack partner Connor

Villains Plan 2: Get Connor to identify ordinary social media users who are good citizens.

Villain’s Plan 3: Get Connor to create a terrorist group and lead them.

Villains Plan 4: Unleash mind hacking algorithm

Inciting Incident: Avery’s brother, the only person she cares about, is arrested for attempted murder. She begins doing research.

Mystery 1: Who was her brother talking to online?

Mystery 2 Who is this soccer mom lady?

Life Threatening 1:She has social anxiety and has to leave the house.

Life Threatening 2: She tries to talk with one of the users families but the police come.

Villain’s Plan 5: Have the group commit various terrorist acts.

Act 1 Turning Point: Avery makes the decision to leave her apartment for the first time in years. She ventures into the outside world to gather information

Mystery 3: Who is this Greystorm character?

Trust Sequence:

TRUST: Avery initially trusts Julian the Journalist and Ryan as they offer their assistance in her investigation, believing their support is genuine.

TRUST: Julian and Ryan’s actions align with Avery’s mission, and they provide valuable insights and assistance, reinforcing her trust in them.

TRUST: Avery’s relationship with Julian and Ryan deepens as she relies on them as crucial allies in her quest.

Distrust Sequence:Julian

DISTRUST: As Avery delves deeper into the conspiracy, she may start to wonder if Julian and Ryan have hidden agendas or motives that conflict with her mission.

DISTRUST: Certain actions or decisions made by Julian and Ryan may create doubt in Avery’s mind, making her question their true intentions.

DISTRUST: A critical moment may arise where Avery becomes suspicious of Julian and Ryan, leading to a confrontation where she distrusts their loyalty.

TRUST: Avery initially believes that Ryan, her ex-boyfriend and programmer, may have valuable insights into her brother’s online activities, and she trusts his involvement in her investigation.

TRUST: Ryan genuinely offers his assistance to Avery, and his actions seem aligned with her mission, reinforcing her trust in him.

TRUST: As Avery’s investigation progresses, she begins to trust Ryan as a crucial ally in her quest to uncover the truth.

Distrust Sequence: Ryan

DISTRUST: As the story unfolds, Avery starts to doubt Ryan’s involvement due to their past relationship and the complexity of the conspiracy.

DISTRUST: Circumstances or actions by Ryan may create doubt in Avery’s mind, making her question his true intentions and loyalties.

DISTRUST: Avery’s investigation uncovers evidence that suggests Ryan might have had ulterior motives, leading to a confrontation where she distrusts his intentions.

Hero / Isn’t trusted, but should be (Brooks the Agent):

Mystery 4: What is this group planning?

Trust Sequence: Henry

TRUST: Avery initially believes that Henry may have information about her brother’s online activities and trusts his involvement in her investigation.

TRUST: Henry shares some insights that seem genuinely helpful to Avery’s quest, reinforcing her trust in him.

TRUST: As Avery’s investigation progresses, Henry’s innocence becomes clearer, and she realizes he was a mere pawn in the larger conspiracy, solidifying her trust in his intentions.

Distrust Sequence: Henry

DISTRUST: As the story unfolds, Avery starts to doubt Henry’s involvement due to his connection to her brother and the mind hacking system.

DISTRUST: Circumstances make it appear that Henry may have been intentionally misleading Avery or working against her, causing her to question his trustworthiness.

DISTRUST: Avery’s investigation uncovers evidence that suggests Henry might have had ulterior motives, leading to a confrontation where she distrusts his intentions.

Trust Sequence:Henry

TRUST: Avery initially believes that Henry may have information about her brother’s online activities and trusts his involvement in her investigation.

TRUST: Henry shares some insights that seem genuinely helpful to Avery’s quest, reinforcing her trust in him.

TRUST: As Avery’s investigation progresses, Henry’s innocence becomes clearer, and she realizes he was a mere pawn in the larger conspiracy, solidifying her trust in his intentions.

Distrust Sequence:Henry

DISTRUST: As the story unfolds, Avery starts to doubt Henry’s involvement due to his connection to her brother and the mind hacking system.

DISTRUST: Circumstances make it appear that Henry may have been intentionally misleading Avery or working against her, causing her to question his trustworthiness.

DISTRUST: Avery’s investigation uncovers evidence that suggests Henry might have had ulterior motives, leading to a confrontation where she distrusts his intentions.

Life Threatening 3: She tries to talk with one of the users but he tries to kill her.

Life Threatening 4: She tries to talk with one of the users but he tries to kill her.

Life Threatening 5: House broken into and she has to leave her house.

Life Threatening 6: Patrons at the coffee shop turn on her.

Villain’s Plan 6: Kill anyone that gets in the way.

Midpoint: Avery’s investigation uncovers the extent of the mind hacking system’s influence and its connection to a powerful figure, Bennet, who seems to be behind it all. She realizes that her own life is in danger.

Life Threatening 7: Police arrest her.

Mystery 5: Who is unleashing this code?

Trust Sequence: Brooks

DISTRUST: Avery initially distrusts Brooks, the Agent, as she suspects government agents may be involved in the conspiracy, leading her to question his motives.

TRUST: Brooks’ actions and intentions become clearer as Avery’s investigation progresses, and she discovers that he genuinely wants to help her uncover the truth.

TRUST: A pivotal moment may occur where Brooks proves his dedication to Avery’s cause, solidifying her trust in him.

Distrust Sequence:

TRUST: As Avery continues her mission, she starts to see Brooks as a valuable ally in exposing the mind hacking system’s secrets.

TRUST: Brooks’ unwavering support and willingness to assist Avery strengthen her trust in him.

DISTRUST: However, circumstances or external pressures may arise that make it seem like Brooks is working against Avery or pursuing his own agenda, causing her to briefly question his loyalty before realizing the truth.

TRUST: Avery initially doesn’t suspect Bennet’s involvement in the conspiracy and assumes he is a legitimate figure in the story.

TRUST: Bennet provides Avery with valuable information that aids her in uncovering the mind hacking system’s secrets, solidifying a sense of trust.

TRUST: Avery’s investigation deepens, and Bennet’s actions align with her mission, making her trust him as an ally.

Hero / Red Herring Character (Henry, Connor):

Mystery 6: Is Connor the leader?RED HERRING

Life Threatening 8: Her mind gets hacked.

Life Threatening 9: She buys an AR 15 and goes to kill a crowd of people at the mall.

Mystery 7: Who is really behind this?

Distrust Sequence: Bennet

DISTRUST: As Avery’s investigation progresses, she begins to suspect Bennet’s involvement as she uncovers more about the mind hacking system and its consequences.

DISTRUST: Bennet’s actions appear to conflict with Avery’s mission, making her question his motives and loyalties.

DISTRUST: Avery confronts Bennet, demanding answers about his connection to the mind hacking system, leading to a tense standoff where she distrusts his intentions.

Life Threatening 10: Tight Surveillance

Life Threatening 11:Being chased by Villain’s thugs

Act 2 Turning Point: Avery narrowly escapes an attempt on her life by Bennet’s henchmen, confirming that she’s onto something big. She decides to go off the grid, using her hacking skills to stay hidden while she digs deeper into the conspiracy.

Climax: Avery finally confronts Bennet in a high-stakes showdown, where they engage in a tense battle of wits and technology. As she exposes the mind hacking system’s secrets to the world, she faces her greatest fear head-on, outside her comfort zone.

Resolution: Avery’s brother is exonerated, but she’s left changed by her journey. She’s no longer agoraphobic, having faced her fears and overcome them. She’s also aware that the world is a dangerous place, but she’s determined to use her skills to protect it from similar threats.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Plot Twist and Turns

What I learned…I learned to think in the direction that the character and stoy is taking and then change that direction by adding a twist. Before I would think in moments that I thought would be cool but not thinking about what direction the story or character was going.

Opening: We meet Avery, an agoraphobic hacker who rarely leaves her apartment. She’s introverted and scared of the outside world due to a traumatic past. We see her daily life, focused on her computer and isolated from society.

Villains Plan 1: Use MindHack system to hack partner Connor

Villains Plan 2: Get Connor to identify ordinary social media users who are good citizens.

Villain’s Plan 3: Get Connor to create a terrorist group and lead them.

Villains Plan 4: Unleash mind hacking algorithm

Inciting Incident: Avery’s brother, the only person she cares about, is arrested for attempted murder. She begins doing research.

Mystery 1: Who was her brother talking to online?

Mystery 2 Who is this soccer mom lady?

Direction: Avery’s brother is arrested, and she begins to investigate his case.

Twist: Avery discovers that her brother was communicating online with someone using the alias “Greystorm,” but she can’t decipher their true identity.

Life Threatening 1:She has social anxiety and has to leave the house.

Direction: Avery gathers information about the organization while confronting her agoraphobia to leave her apartment.

Twist: She uncovers a soccer mom, seemingly ordinary, who appears to have a suspiciously close online connection to her brother, creating a mystery about her involvement.

Life Threatening 2: She tries to talk with one of the users’ families but the police come.

Villain’s Plan 5: Have the group commit various terrorist acts.

Act 1 Turning Point: Avery makes the decision to leave her apartment for the first time in years. She ventures into the outside world to gather information

Direction: Avery decides to go off the grid to stay hidden during her investigation.

Twist: As she ventures into the outside world, Avery finds herself targeted by a mysterious figure who seems to be tracking her movements, creating a life-threatening situation.

Mystery 3: Who is this Greystorm character?

Direction: Avery confronts the journalist, believing they have vital information about her brother’s case.

Twist: The journalist initially appears to be a helpful source of information, but Avery later discovers that the journalist has unwittingly become involved with the mind hacking system, putting her at risk.

Mystery 4: What is this group planning?

Life Threatening 3: She tries to talk with one of the users but he tries to kill her.

Life Threatening 4: She tries to talk with one of the users but he tries to kill her.

Life Threatening 5: House broken into and she has to leave her house.

Life Threatening 6: Patrons at the coffee shop turn on her.

Villain’s Plan 6: Kill anyone that gets in the way.

Midpoint: Avery’s investigation uncovers the extent of the mind hacking system’s influence and its connection to a powerful figure, Bennet, who seems to be behind it all. She realizes that her own life is in danger.

Life Threatening 7: Police arrest her.

Mystery 5: Who is unleashing this code?

Mystery 6: Is Connor the leader?RED HERRING

Life Threatening 8: Her mind gets hacked.

Life Threatening 9: She buys an AR 15 and goes to kill a crowd of people at the mall.

Mystery 7: Who is really behind this?

Life Threatening 10: Tight Surveillance

Life Threatening 11:Being chased by Villain’s thugs

Act 2 Turning Point: Avery narrowly escapes an attempt on her life by Bennet’s henchmen, confirming that she’s onto something big. She decides to go off the grid, using her hacking skills to stay hidden while she digs deeper into the conspiracy.

Climax: Avery finally confronts Bennet in a high-stakes showdown, where they engage in a tense battle of wits and technology. As she exposes the mind hacking system’s secrets to the world, she faces her greatest fear head-on, outside her comfort zone.

Direction: Avery’s captivity reveals the organization’s sinister nature.

Twist: She deciphers that her brother was being groomed by the organization to identify ordinary social media users who could be manipulated, adding another layer to the villain’s plan and intensifying the mystery.

Direction: Avery manages to escape from her captors.

Twist: She finds evidence that the mind hacking system, which she initially believed was just used for manipulation, can be weaponized to unleash a devastating algorithm, increasing the stakes and danger.

Act 3: Overcoming Fear for Justice

Direction: Avery joins forces with a hacker group to expose the mind hacking system.

Twist: The leader of the hacker group is revealed to be an undercover operative for the villains, betraying Avery and putting her in a life-threatening situation.

Direction: Avery arranges a meeting with the hackers, believing they have a plan to dismantle the system.

Twist: The meeting is infiltrated by law enforcement, creating a life-threatening standoff that forces Avery to reveal her hacking skills to escape capture.

Direction: Avery discovers that her actions have inadvertently put her loved ones in danger.

Twist: She receives a coded message from her brother, revealing that he had been forced into creating a terrorist group, adding a layer of complexity to the villain’s plan and her mission.

Direction: Avery receives evidence that could expose the masterminds behind the mind hacking system.

Twist: Just as she is about to reveal the evidence, she is confronted by an unexpected ally—a reformed, former antagonist—who provides crucial information to bring the villains to justice.

These adjustments ensure that the journalist’s involvement is not revealed as early, aligning with the progression of the story and the threat posed by the villains.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Thriller Plot

What I learned? I learned that once I got the structure down I could easily layout my M.I.S easily and really start seeing what I had for my Thriller. I really could see what my scenes were.

Opening: We meet Avery, an agoraphobic hacker who rarely leaves her apartment. She’s introverted and scared of the outside world due to a traumatic past. We see her daily life, focused on her computer and isolated from society.

Villains Plan 1: Use MindHack system to hack partner Connor

Villains Plan 2: Get Connor to identify ordinary social media users who are good citizens.

Villain’s Plan 3: Get Connor to create a terrorist group and lead them.

Villains Plan 4: Unleash mind hacking algorithm

Inciting Incident: Avery’s brother, the only person she cares about, is arrested for attempted murder. She begins doing research.

Mystery 1: Who was her brother talking to online?

Mystery 2 Who is this soccer mom lady?

Life Threatening 1:She has social anxiety and has to leave the house.

Life Threatening 2: She tries to talk with one of the users families but the police come.

Villain’s Plan 5: Have the group commit various terrorist acts.

Act 1 Turning Point: Avery makes the decision to leave her apartment for the first time in years. She ventures into the outside world to gather information

Mystery 3: Who is this Greystorm character?

Mystery 4: What is this group planning?

Life Threatening 3: She tries to talk with one of the users but he tries to kill her.

Life Threatening 4: She tries to talk with one of the users but he tries to kill her.

Life Threatening 5: House broken into and she has to leave her house.

Life Threatening 6: Patrons at the coffee shop turn on her.

Villain’s Plan 6: Kill anyone that gets in the way.

Midpoint: Avery’s investigation uncovers the extent of the mind hacking system’s influence and its connection to a powerful figure, Bennet, who seems to be behind it all. She realizes that her own life is in danger.

Life Threatening 7: Police arrest her.

Mystery 5: Who is unleashing this code?

Mystery 6: Is Connor the leader?RED HERRING

Life Threatening 8: Her mind gets hacked.

Life Threatening 9: She buys an AR 15 and goes to kill a crowd of people at the mall.

Mystery 7: Who is really behind this?

Life Threatening 10: Tight Surveillance

Life Threatening 11:Being chased by Villain’s thugs

Act 2 Turning Point: Avery narrowly escapes an attempt on her life by Bennet’s henchmen, confirming that she’s onto something big. She decides to go off the grid, using her hacking skills to stay hidden while she digs deeper into the conspiracy.

Climax: Avery finally confronts Bennet in a high-stakes showdown, where they engage in a tense battle of wits and technology. As she exposes the mind hacking system’s secrets to the world, she faces her greatest fear head-on, outside her comfort zone.

Resolution: Avery’s brother is exonerated, but she’s left changed by her journey. She’s no longer agoraphobic, having faced her fears and overcome them. She’s also aware that the world is a dangerous place, but she’s determined to use her skills to protect it from similar threats.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Life Threatening Sequence.

What I learned? I learned to just keep brainstorming to find more and more dangerous situations for the hero.

What is the Villain’s plan and how does that put the Hero in danger? The Villain’s plan is to use the mind hacking system to hack social media users’ thoughts and get them to perform terrorist acts.

Bennet will kill to keep the plan a secret.

Bennet will send his security team after the protagonist.

Becomes a suspect with the police.

What other potential dangers could your Hero experience

She has social anxiety and has to leave the house.

She tries to talk with one of the users but the police come.

She tries to talk with one of the users but he tries to kill her.

House broken into and she has to leave her house.

Patrons at the coffee shop turn on her.

Police arrest her.

Tight Surveillance

Being chased by Villain’s thugs

Her mind gets hacked.

She buys an AR 15 and goes to kill a crowd of people at the mall.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Mystery Sequence

What I learned? I learned that once I thought about the cover ups generating the mystery sequence was fairly easy. I just kept thinking step by step and I was able to come up with several mysteries that are all connected.

Big Secret: use mind hack system to hack social media users and get them tp perform terrorist acts and pin it on Connor a former partner.

Kickoff Mystery: What made her brother take a gun to his wor?

Mystery 1: Who was her brother talking to online?

Mystery 2 Who is this soccer mom lady?

Mystery 3: Who is this Greystorm character?

Mystery 4: What is this group planning?

Mystery 5: Who is unleashing this code?

Mystery 6: Is Connor the leader?RED HERRING

Mystery 7: Who is really behind this?

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• This reply was modified 1 year, 8 months ago by  Kelly Joseph.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Villains Plan

What I learned? i learned that I just howto simply lay out the plan and then think of ays that the villain was going to cover it up. When I looked at the examples I really couldsee the Villain’s plans and how simple they were.

Enf goal; get the government to buy his surveillance system.

Use MindHack system to hack partner Connor

Get Connor to identify ordinary social media users who are good citizens.

Get Connor to create a terrorist group and lead them.

Unleash mind hacking algorithm.

Have the group commit various terrorist acts.

Stop once the government asks for his help.

How can they cover it up?

Keep the mind hack system hidden online.

Design the trail to lead to Connor.

Build firewall encryption around himself.

Give assistance to FBI agents or police when approached.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s BI Stacking Suspense

What did I learn? I learned that Mystery, Intrigue and Suspense were almost in every scene of Basic Instict and Silence of the Lambs. I had trouble getting the Character M.I.S so that will take some more study but this was a eal eye opener.I learned that Mystery, Intrigue and Suspense are the building blocks of a Thriller. I’ve watched both of these films numerous times and yet this watch was a totally new experience.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s World and Characters!

What I learned? I learned to focus on the big picture and try not to think down the line. I kept thinking about the feelings and engagement that I want to have.

When her brother gets arrested for attempted murder a hacker starts investigating a mind hacking system that causes users to commit terrorist acts.

Big Mystery: What is the main mystery of your story that will keep us wondering throughout the story? What is causing users on social media to commit terrorist acts?

Big Intrigue: What is the covert, clandestine, underhanded plot that will live under the surface for most of the movie?The CEO is manipulating the system to cause users to commit terrorist acts in order to get a government contract.

Big Suspense: What is the main danger to your Hero that will continue to escalate throughout the script? As the villain tries to kill her she tries to prevent terrorist acts.

Thrilling Word of Mind Hack : this is a thrilling world because it goes into the dark world of hackers/dark web and their methods.

HERO: AVERY

A. What is the mystery of this character? What is causing users on social media to commit terrorist acts?

B. What is the suspense of this character?The closer she gets to fininding out the cause the more danger she is in because the villain’s wants to keep it a secret.

C. What is the intrigue of this character?She hacks and steals from companies that take advantage of customers, she goes after sex traffickers.

Answer the question “What I learned doing this assignment is…?” and put it at the top of your work.

VILLAIN: BENNET:

What is the mystery of this character? What is causing users like his partner’s daughter to commit terrorist acts?

What is the intrigue of this character? Keep his plan hidden so that he can sell his governmental surveillance system.

What is the suspense of this character? Will this single minded industrialist create enough havoc?

RED HERRING CONNOR

What is the mystery of this character? Is he responsible for the havoc that is happening?

What is the intrigue of this character? Is something causing him to create havoc in the everyday world?

What is the suspense of this character? How far will he go in creating havoc for ordinary people?

[Kelly Joseph]

As I try to get the logline down with the concept it was good to get a big picture idea of the M.IS. I learned that this gave me some clarity on what I have.

When her brother gets arrested for attempted murder a hacker starts investigating a mind hacking system that causes users to commit terrorist acts.

Unwitting/Unknowing but resourceful hero: A genius but awkward hacker searches for the cause of terrorist acts.

Big Mystery: What is the main mystery of your story that will keep us wondering throughout the story?What is causing users on social media to commit terrorist acts?

Big Intrigue: What is the covert, clandestine, underhanded plot that will live under the surface for most of the movie?The CEO is manipulating the system to cause users to commit terrorist acts in order to get a government contract.

Big Suspense: What is the main danger to your Hero that will continue to escalate throughout the script?As the villain tries to kill her she tries to prevent terrorist acts.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 8 months ago by  Kelly Joseph.

[Kelly Joseph]

MISSING: Thriller Conventions

I learned that when I see the breakdown down the Thriller conventions in movies I can see how simple they really are.

Unwitting but Resourceful Hero:

June is unwitting but very resourceful.

Dangerous Villain:Yes, June’s father is dangerous.

High stakes: her moms life is in danger.

Life and death situations: mom is missing and every clue points to something bad happened.

This movie is thrilling because? It has all the Conventions of a Thriller throughout the movie.

Big Mystery: Will she find her mom?

Big Intrigue: her father’s plan to get rid of her mother and reunite with his daughter.

Big Suspense; the trail of clues that point to something really bad happened to her mom.

[Kelly Joseph]

I Kelly Joseph agree to the terms of the release form.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly Joseph

As a member of this group, I agree to the following:

1. That I will keep the processes, strategies, teleconferences, communications, lessons, and models of the class confidential, and that I will NOT share any of this program either privately, with a group, posting online, writing articles, through video or computer programming, or in any other way that would make those processes, teleconferences, communications, lessons, and models of the class available to anyone who is not a member of this class.

2. That each writer’s work here is copyrighted and that writer is the sole owner of that work. That includes this program which is copyrighted by Hal Croasmun. I acknowledge that submission of an idea to this group constitutes a claim of and the recognition of ownership of that idea.

I will keep the other writer’s ideas and writing confidential and will not share this information with anyone without the express written permission of the writer/owner. I will not market or even discuss this information with anyone outside this group.

3. I also understand that many stories and ideas are similar and/or have common themes and from time to time, two or more people can independently and simultaneously generate the same concept or movie idea.

4. If I have an idea that is the same as or very similar to another group member’s idea, I’ll immediately contact Hal and present proof that I had this idea prior to the beginning of the class. If Hal deems them to be the same idea or close enough to cause harm to either party, he’ll request both parties to present another concept for the class.

5. If you don’t present proof to Hal that you have the same idea as another person, you agree that all ideas presented to this group are the sole ownership of the person who presented them and you will not write or market another group member’s ideas.

6. Finally, I agree not to bring suit against anyone in this group for any reason, unless they use a substantial portion of my copyrighted work in a manner that is public and/or that prevents me from marketing my script by shopping it to production companies, agents, managers, actors, networks, studios or any other entertainment industry organizations or people.

This completes the Group Release Form for the class.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Deeper Layer

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned that adding a deeper level to my story or any story gives the story more meaning. In some ways it’s about creating a mystery and showing how that mystery gets revealed.

Surface Layer: Camp counselors lead by Darius are super energetic charismatic/

Deeper Layer: Counselors are aliens using kids as host.

Major Reveal: Quinn witnesses them kill one of the campers and take over her boy.

Influences Surface Story:there is no leaving the camp ground, when campers are ready in the eyes of the counselors they get to leave.

Hints: Quinn doesn’t buy the radical transformation that the campers make. They have the camper’s memories but their personality is off.

Changes Reality: Quinn knows that everything the counselors are doing is to sofen the campers and kill them. Now she must escape.

Act 1:

Opening: Quinn parties like a rock star comes home and tells parents off.

Inciting Incident: After attending another party Quinn is kidnapped by masked individuals.

Turning Point: Quinn is stuck at a teenage boot camp for troubled youth and there is no way out.

Act 2:

New plan: Quinn notices that things at the camp don’t seem to add up. The aliens make great food and have engaging reflective activities that seduce the teens.

Plan in action: Quinn tries to warn others but her peers think she’s nuts

Midpoint : Turning Point: Quinn witnesses the alien transforming into one of the teens and killing them. The aliens begin watching Quinn’s every move.

Act 3:

Rethink everything: Quinn figures out the alien plan.

New plan: Quinn convinces some of the teens to leave with her. But some of the teens still think Quinn is nuts.

Turning Point: Huge failure / Major shift: Quinn’s plan works but the aliens learn and strike back by doing a mass transformation slaughter.

Act 4:

Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: Quinn battles the aliens and outsmarts the leader.

Resolution: Quinn returns home a changed teen but no one believes her story.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Character Structure

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned that by creating the antagonist journey I now have a more clearer view of where my story is going. By filling in the blanks I can see the antagonist come to life . This assignment has given me a better grasp of structure and character. I am really getting a much greater understanding.

Act 1:

Opening: Quinn parties like a rock star comes home and tells parents off.

Inciting Incident: After attending another party Quinn is kidnapped by masked individuals.

Turning Point: Quinn is stuck at a teenage boot camp for troubled youth and there is no way out.

Act 2:

New plan: Quinn notices that things at the camp don’t seem to add up. The aliens make great food and have engaging reflective activities that seduce the teens.

Plan in action: Quinn tries to warn others but her peers think she’s nuts

Midpoint : Turning Point: Quinn witnesses the alien transforming into one of the teens and killing them. The aliens begin watching Quinn’s every move.

Act 3:

Rethink everything: Quinn figures out the alien plan.

New plan: Quinn convinces some of the teens to leave with her. But some of the teens still think Quinn is nuts.

Turning Point: Huge failure / Major shift: Quinn’s plan works but the aliens learn and strike back by doing a mass transformation slaughter.

Act 4:

Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: Quinn battles the aliens and outsmarts the leader.

Resolution: Quinn returns home a changed teen but no one believes her story.

Beginning: Darius struggles as an alien to survive

Inciting Incident: Darius learns of a distant planet inhabited by humans

Turning Point 1: Darius gets the idea to use humans as host to rebuild race and it works.

Act 2:

Turning Point 2 / Midpoint: The leaders want Darius to increase the number of hosts or the program will be scraped.

Act 3:

Turning Point 3: The humans are aware of the program and Darius cuts off the exit points.

Act 4 Climax: Darius tries to kill Quinn but she outsmarts him and kills him.

Resolution: Darius’s alien clones understand they must continue the mission Darius started in order to save their race.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s supporting characters

Vision; Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn: I learned that just filling in the blanks with supporting characters and background characters really helped me see the story more clearly. Just going step by step and literally thinking about a name for the character, their role and what the story needed was super helpful. I never created a cast of characters like this before. I usually have a very vague idea of my characters but dividing it into supporting and background was insightful. It forced me to think about why they were there and what they’re doing.

Supporting Characters: Amelia, Taytum, Noah, Oliver, Jaclyn, Evander, Kylon

Background Characters: campers, camp counselors

Name: Amelia

Role: fellow camper

Main purpose: endangered ally, sounding board, antagonist

Value: love, authenticity, kindness

Name: Taytum

Role: camper

Main purpose: antagonist rival, competitor

Value: power, admiration

Name: Noah

Role:camper

Main purpose: love interest antagonist, endangered ally

Value: courage, strength, winning

Name: Oliver

Role: camper

Main purpose: love interest antagonist, endangered ally, sounding board

Value:loyalty, intelligence,

Name: Jaclyn

Role: camp counselor, alien henchman, sounding board

Main purpose: she brings suspense, intrigue, and danger

Value: power, intelligence, ambition

Name: Evander

Role: counselor, leader of aliens

Main purpose: rival to Darius

Value: power, admiration, intelligence, ruthlessness

Name: Kylon

Role: counselor, alien henchman loyal to Darius

Main purpose: brings danger, intrigue, mystery

Value: power, his race, winning

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s character profile part 2

Vision; Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I am learning how to be comfortable with just putting ideas down and being confident that I can always come back and improve them. The other thing I am learning is to be organized with my writing. Taks. I jump from the legal pads to the computer and at times it makes me feel like a jumbled mess. But for this task I knew all the previous task were on the computer so I just needed to go sit down at the computer and put the pieces together from previous lessons. It was great because I just focused. This is a lot to unpack but that’s what I learned.

Quinn the Protagonist

Concept: A troubled teenager is taken to a boot camp to change her behavior but learns that the camp is run by aliens who create copies of them then kill the teens.

Character journey: Quinn is a rebellious and troubled teen who battles the alWhat about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it? This is great role for a young actress with a range of emotions to play.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story? Quinn is the lead role and will be in nearly every scene of the movie

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script? The character becomes a leader as the story unfolds and is the one that defeats the aliens.

4. How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor? Her opening scene she is a rebel without a cause and an independent thinker.

5. What could be this character’s emotional range? There are a range of emotions to play with. There is rage, happiness, sadness, disconnectedness, and hopelessness.

6. What subtext can the actor play? Skepticism, plotting, distrust.

7. What’s the most interesting relationship this character can have? Her relationship with one of the camper characters and the antagonist.

8. How will this character’s unique voice be presented? She is an independent thinker and rebellious. She is always looking for a fight.

.9. What could make this character special and unique? Quinn is like a combination of Sigourney Weaver in Alien, a young Paris Hilton and Ally Sheedy in The Breakfast Club.

A troubled teenager is taken to a boot camp to change her behavior but learns that the camp is run by aliens who create copies of them then kill the teens.

Role in the Story: Quinn the protagonist

Age range and Description:16-17

Core Traits: courageous, self centered, independent, reckless, resourceful

Motivation; Want/Need: survive the camp

Wound: no one cares about me

Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Quinn is an independent courageous and resourceful 17 year old who has grown up rich but is ignored by her parents.

Character Subtext: Quinn is suspicious, skeptical, perceptive

Character Intrigue: Quinn is acting like she is going along with the camp counselors but is secretly trying to find out what is happenning.

Flaw: self centered

Values: independence, honesty, love, courage

Character Dilemma: being independent and selfless versus being loving toward others

Darius the antagonist villain

Darius is thet boss of the aliens who wants to kill the campers and tke over their bodies with aliens.

What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it? This character is mysterious and a manipulator.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story? This character pretends to be one person and in actuality is the complete opposite.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script? The character leads the crowd in singing with complete joy and is a vicious mureere.

4. How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor? I think showing how cruel and ruthless this character is in combination with charisma and full of joy.

5. What could be this character’s emotional range? Character displays blissfulness, rage, playful and cunning.

6. What subtext can the actor play? Scheming, plotting, pretending to be someone else.

7. What’s the most interesting relationship this character can have? The character is caring towards the campers, and the one that will kill them all.

8. How will this character’s unique voice be presented? The character will be Mr. Positive and at the same time ruthless and cunning.

9. What could make this character special and unique? This character is a combination of Matthew Broderick in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Ralph Fiennes in Schindler’s list.

Role in the Story: Antagonist

Age range and Description: 18 – 25

Core Traits: charismatic, cunnniing, ambitious, ruthless

Motivation; Want/Need: be the leader of the alien race

Wound:passed over

Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Darius is a charismatic guy who has been passed over as a leader and wants to prove he is worthy.

Character Subtext: scheming, plotting, cunning

Character Intrigue:: Darius plan to take over the human race

Flaw: pride

Values: power, adulation

Character Dilemma: manipulating the human teenagers while still being ruthless and cunning

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Likability/Relatability/Empathy

Visiona; Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I like planning out these pieces in advance. This assignment was very easy but helpful in starting to get a better picture of my characters.

Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Quinn is an independent courageous and resourceful 17 year old who has grown up rich but is ignored by her parents.

Likability, Relatability empathy: Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Darius is a charismati

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Character Profile part 1

Visiona; Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned to give myself permission to just fill in the blanks. The process of just putting things down is very challenging for me but when I allow myself to just generate it is easir.

Concept: A troubled teenager is taken to a boot camp to change her behavior but learns that the camp is run by aliens who create copies of them then kill the teens. (Contained Horror)

Character Journey: Quinn is a troubled teen who fights to survive the aliens who want to take her life.

Actor Attractors

Lead Character Name:QuinnRole: Protagonist

1. What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it? This is great role for a young actress with a range of emotions to play.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story? Quinn is the lead role and will be in nearly every scene of the movie

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script? The character becomes a leader as the story unfolds and is the one that defeats the aliens.

4. How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor? Her opening scene she is a rebel without a cause and an independent thinker.

5. What could be this character’s emotional range? There are a range of emotions to play with. There is rage, happiness, sadness, disconnectedness, and hopelessness.

6. What subtext can the actor play? Skepticism, plotting, distrust.

7. What’s the most interesting relationship this character can have? Her relationship with one of the camper characters and the antagonist.

8. How will this character’s unique voice be presented? She is an independent thinker and rebellious. She is always looking for a fight.

9. What could make this character special and unique? Quinn is like a combination of Sigourney Weaver in Alien, a young Paris Hilton and Ally Sheedy in The Breakfast Club.

Role in the Story: Quinn the protagonist

Age range and Description:16-17

Core Traits: courageous, self centered, independent, reckless, resourceful

Motivation; Want/Need: survive the camp

Wound: no one cares about me

Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Quinn is an independent courageous and resourceful 17 year old who has grown up rich but is ignored by her parents.

Character Journey Darius is the leader of the aliens who uses the campers to grow the alien race. Role: Antagonist

1. What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it? This character is mysterious and a manipulator.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story? This character pretends to be one person and in actuality is the complete opposite.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script? The character leads the crowd in singing with complete joy and is a vicious mureere.

4. How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor? I think showing how cruel and ruthless this character is in combination with charisma and full of joy.

5. What could be this character’s emotional range? Character displays blissfulness, rage, playful and cunning.

6. What subtext can the actor play? Scheming, plotting, pretending to be someone else.

7. What’s the most interesting relationship this character can have? The character is caring towards the campers, and the one that will kill them all.

8. How will this character’s unique voice be presented? The character will be Mr. Positive and at the same time ruthless and cunning.

9. What could make this character special and unique? This character is a combination of Matthew Broderick in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Ralph Fiennes in Schindler’s list.

Role in the Story: Antagonist

Age range and Description: 18 – 25

Core Traits: charismatic, cunnniing, ambitious, ruthless

Motivation; Want/Need: be the leader of the alien race

Wound:passed over

Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Darius is a charismatic guy who has been passed over as a leader and wants to prove he is worthy.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Character Intrigue

Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned that planning out intrigue was fairly simple but super powerful. This type of subtext can be in several scenes and make the script more engaging.

Character Name: Quinn

Role: Protagonist

Hidden agendas: Quinn wants to find out what the counselors are hiding and why are campers suddenly changing.

Deception: Quinn goes along with the activities to learn more information.

Character Name: Darius
Give us an idea of how that character’s subtext might show up in your movie: Quinn is distrustful and thinks something is not right at this camp so she starts snooping around and spying.

Role: Antagonist

Hidden agendas: Darius is using the campers as host for his alien race

Competition: Darius want to be the leader of the aliens

Conspiracies: Darius and the other counselors are using engaging activities with the campers in order to get them to follow and trust them.

Deception: Darius acts like a fun loving counselor but is really a vicious killer.

Secret Identity: Alien leader

Give us an idea of how that character’s subtext might show up in your Movie: Darius is a fun loving counselor who build relationships with the campers and makes them feel important. But he lures them to the lake where he kill them with the alien eggs that grow inside and destroy them.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Subtext Characters

Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

I learned that planning out the subtext for each of my main characters was really simple. Subtext was one of the concepts that I had difficulty wrapping my head around. But one I understood it I see it everywhere. Planning the subtext out in advance gives me a better grasp of my characters.

Movie Title:Silence of the Lambs

Character Name: Hannibal Lecter

Subtext Identity:dangerous killer

Subtext Trait: plotting, scheming, cunning

Subtext Logline:Hannibal Lecter is a dangerous killer who manipulates, plots and schemes so that he can be free.

Possible Areas of Subtext:Hanjnibal manipulates Clarice, the Senator and those that guarded him.

Character Name: Quinn

Subtext Identity: Rebel

Subtext Trait: suspicious, skeptical, perceptive

Subtext Logline:Quinn is a rebel who is very perceptive.

Possible Areas of Subtext: Quinn is suspicious and skeptical.

Character Name: Darius

Subtext Identity: boss

Subtext Trait: manipulative, Crafty – Treacherous

Subtext Logline: Darius is the leader of the aliens who manipulates everyone.

Possible Areas of Subtext:Darius pretends to be one person but is really the opposite.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Actor attractors!

Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

I learned that all I had to do was just allow myself to fill in the blanks and just create. I feel very encouraged because from the beginning I am designing a role that an actor will want to play.

Lead Character Name:QuinnRole: Protagonist

1. What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it? This is great role for a young actress with a range of emotions to play.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story? Quinn is the lead role and will be in nearly every scene of the movie

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script? The character becomes a leader as the story unfolds and is the one that defeats the aliens.

4. How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor? Her opening scene she is a rebel without a cause and an independent thinker.

5. What could be this character’s emotional range? There are a range of emotions to play with. There is rage, happiness, sadness, disconnectedness, and hopelessness.

6. What subtext can the actor play? Skepticism, plotting, distrust.

7. What’s the most interesting relationship this character can have? Her relationship with one of the camper characters and the antagonist.

8. How will this character’s unique voice be presented? She is an independent thinker and rebellious. She is always looking for a fight.

9. What could make this character special and unique? Quinn is like a combination of Sigourney Weaver in Alien, a young Paris Hilton and Ally Sheedy in The Breakfast Club.

Lead Character Name: DariusRole: Antagonist

1. What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it? This character is mysterious and a manipulator.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story? This character pretends to be one person and in actuality is the complete opposite.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script? The character leads the crowd in singing with complete joy and is a vicious mureere.

4. How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor? I think showing how cruel and ruthless this character is in combination with charisma and full of joy.

5. What could be this character’s emotional range? Character displays blissfulness, rage, playful and cunning.

6. What subtext can the actor play? Scheming, plotting, pretending to be someone else.

7. What’s the most interesting relationship this character can have? The character is caring towards the campers, and the one that will kill them all.

8. How will this character’s unique voice be presented? The character will be Mr. Positive and at the same time ruthless and cunning.

9. What could make this character special and unique? This character is a combination of Matthew Broderick in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Ralph Fiennes in Schindler’s list.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Title, Concept, and Character Structure!

Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn: I learned that once I chose my character plot structure, I could start visualizing what my story was going to be. Such a simple decision but it defines the plot to some extent.

Title: Blood Lake

Concept: A troubled teenager is taken to a boot camp to change her behavior but learns that the camp is run by aliens who create copies of them then kill the teens.

Character Structure” Protagonist versus Antagonist

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Genre Conventions

Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned that adding conventions was fairly simple once I knew what to add and where. I think the Thriller conventions were there but I needed to add the horror conventions. A few times I would get stuck on how it would play out with the concept.

Title: Blood Lake

Concept: When a struggling entrepreneur and his wife discover that the tree in their backyard produces money they struggle to spend the money, keep it a secret, and away from a local kingpin and the original owner.

Genre: Thriller/Horror

Concept: A troubled teenager is taken to a boot camp to change her behavior but learns that the camp is run by aliens who create copies of them then kill the teens.

Main Conflict: Quinn battles the aliens.

Old Ways: looks for fights, confrontational, self centered

New Ways: focused, selfless, fighting for a cause

Act 1:

Opening: Quinn parties like a rock star comes home and tells parents off.

Inciting Incident: After attending another party Quinn is kidnapped by maked individuals.

Turning Point: Quinn is stuck at a teenage boot camp for troubled youth and there is no way out.

Act 2:

New plan: Quinn notices that things at the camp don’t seem to add up. The aliens make great food and have engaging reflective activities that seduce the teens.

Plan in action: Quinn tries to warn others but her peers think she’s nuts

Midpoint : Turning Point: Quinn witnesses the alien transforming into one of the teens and killing them. The aliens begin watching Quinn’s every move.

Act 3:

Rethink everything: Quinn figures out the alien plan.

New plan: Quinn convinces some of the teens to leave with her. But some of the teens still think Quinn is nuts.

Turning Point: Huge failure / Major shift: Quinn’s plan works but the aliens learn and strike back by doing a mass transformation slaughter.

Act 4:

Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: Quinn battles the aliens and outsmarts the leader.

Resolution: Quinn returns home a changed teen but no one believes her story.

4 Act Structure with Thriller/Horror Conventions

Act 1:

Opening: A teenager hikes in the woods at night. He reaches a fire pit where he is greeted by a man. Suddenly the man and his team hold down the teen and place a worm on his face that crawls up the teens nose. Blood comes out of his eyes and mouth as the worm destroys the insides.

.Inciting Incident: After attending another party Quinn is kidnapped by masked individuals.

Turning Point: Quinn tries to escape the camp but she ends up where she started.

Act 2:

New plan: Quinn notices that things at the camp don’t seem to add up. A teen disappears one night and comes back totally different. The aliens make great food and have engaging reflective activities that seduce the teens.

Plan in action: Quinn tries to warn others but her peers think she’s nuts Another teen goes missing and comes back totally changed.

Midpoint : Turning Point: Quinn witnesses the alien transforming into one of the teens and killing them. The aliens begin watching Quinn’s every move.

Act 3:

Rethink everything: Quinn figures out the alien plan.

New plan: Quinn convinces some of the teens to leave with her. But some of the teens still think Quinn is nuts. Aliens decide to move up their timeline and kill more teens.

Turning Point: Huge failure / Major shift: Quinn’s plan works but the aliens learn and strike back by doing a mass transformation slaughter.

Act 4:

Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: Quinn battles the aliens and outsmarts the leader.

Resolution: Quinn returns home a changed teen but no one believes her story.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s 4 Act Transformational Structure

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

I learned to empower myself and just fill in the blanks without criticism.

Concept: A troubled teenager is taken to a boot camp to change her behavior but learns that the camp is run by aliens who create copies of them then kill the teens.

Main Conflict: Quinn battles the aliens.

Old Ways: looks for fights, confrontational, self centered

New Ways: focused, selfless, fighting for a cause

Act 1:

Opening: Quinn parties like a rock star comes home and tells parents off.

Inciting Incident: After attending another party Quinn is kidnapped by maked individuals.

Turning Point: Quinn is stuck at a teenage boot camp for troubled youth and there is no way out.

Act 2:

New plan: Quinn notices that things at the camp don’t seem to add up. The aliens make great food and have engaging reflective activities that seduce the teens.

Plan in action: Quinn tries to warn others but her peers think she’s nuts

Midpoint : Turning Point: Quinn witnesses the alien transforming into one of the teens and killing them. The aliens begin watching Quinn’s every move.

Act 3:

Rethink everything: Quinn figures out the alien plan.

New plan: Quinn convinces some of the teens to leave with her. But some of the teens still think Quinn is nuts.

Turning Point: Huge failure / Major shift: Quinn’s plan works but the aliens learn and strike back by doing a mass transformation slaughter.

Act 4:

Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: Quinn battles the aliens and outsmarts the leader.

Resolution: Quinn returns home a changed teen but no one believes her story.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Subtext Plot

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What did I learn? I learned that making simple decisions pushes me forward in story development. Like everything in writing for me I get feelings of discomfort. But when I empower myself I feel very confident.

A troubled teenager is taken to a boot camp to change her behavior but learns that the camp is run by aliens who create copies of them then kill the teens.

Someone hides who they are: The aliens get parents to send their troubled kids to the camp to help them be better kids/but secretly they are taking control of their minds by implanting eggs that hatch in their brain.

Layering. Clues are given throughout the story about what is killing the children and transforming them into alien people.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Transformational Journey (Your name’s) Transformational Journey

I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

I learned to just fill in the blanks and give myself permission to explore and discover.

Tell us the Character Arc for your Protagonist:

Arc Beginning:aimless, rebellious,confrontational

Arc Ending:Purposeful, drive,

3. Give us their Internal/External Journey.

Internal Journey: from being this aimles rebellious

External Journey:get out of Blood Lake alive

4. Tell us their Old Ways at the beginning of the movie and their New Ways at the end.

Old Ways: looks for fights, confrontational, self centered

New Ways: focused, selfless, fighting for a cause

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Intentional Lead Characters

Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What I learned? I learned to make sure my characters are in line with my concept. I feel like I do this in my writing already but making that conscious concrete decision feels different. It makes it seem so nice and logical.

Title: Blood Moon Lake

Concept: A troubled teenager is taken to a boot camp to change her behavior but learns that the camp is run by aliens who create copies of them then kill the teens. (Contained Horror)

· Character: Quinn (protagonist)t

· Logline: Quinn is a rebellious teenager who battles the aliens

· Unique: rebel without a cause

· Character: Atticus (antagonist)

· Logline: Atticus is the alien leader who kills teenagers by implanting them with alien eggs

· Unique: ruthless, cunning, charming

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly’s Title, Concept, and Character Structure!

Vision: I want to be an empowered writer who consistently produces salable scripts.

What I learned; I learned to select a character structure for my screenplay. Once I selected the character structure I could start visualizing what the story would be. Its’ going to be the protagonist battling against the antagonist scene after scene Until the climax. This selection gave me a sense of what’s in the movie and what is not. .

Title: Blood Moon Lake

Concept: A troubled teenager is taken to a boot camp to change her behavior but learns that the camp is run by aliens who create copies of them then kill the teens. (Contained Horror)

Protagonist Antagonist Character Structure Protagonist versus Antagonist.

• This reply was modified 2 years, 11 months ago by  Kelly Joseph.

[Kelly Joseph]

My name is Kelly Joseph. I have written five screenplays. I hope to learn some strategies and techniques that can help me grow as a writer.

[Kelly Joseph]

My name is Kelly Joseph and I agree to the terms of this release form.

[Kelly Joseph]

My name is Kelly and I have written about 5 scripts. I am hoping to learn to write the contained screenplay and continue to grow as a writer.

[Kelly Joseph]

My name is Kelly Joseph and I agree to the terms of this release form:

GROUP RELEASE FORM

As a member of this group, I agree to the following:

1. That I will keep the processes, strategies, teleconferences, communications, lessons, and models of the class confidential, and that I will NOT share any of this program either privately, with a group, posting online, writing articles, through video or computer programming, or in any other way that would make those processes, teleconferences, communications, lessons, and models of the class available to anyone who is not a member of this class.

2. That each writer’s work here is copyrighted and that writer is the sole owner of that work. That includes this program which is copyrighted by Hal Croasmun. I acknowledge that submission of an idea to this group constitutes a claim of and the recognition of ownership of that idea.

I will keep the other writer’s ideas and writing confidential and will not share this information with anyone without the express written permission of the writer/owner. I will not market or even discuss this information with anyone outside this group.

3. I also understand that many stories and ideas are similar and/or have common themes and from time to time, two or more people can independently and simultaneously generate the same concept or movie idea.

4. If I have an idea that is the same as or very similar to another group member’s idea, I’ll immediately contact Hal and present proof that I had this idea prior to the beginning of the class. If Hal deems them to be the same idea or close enough to cause harm to either party, he’ll request both parties to present another concept for the class.

5. If you don’t present proof to Hal that you have the same idea as another person, you agree that all ideas presented to this group are the sole ownership of the person who presented them and you will not write or market another group member’s ideas.

6. Finally, I agree not to bring suit against anyone in this group for any reason, unless they use a substantial portion of my copyrighted work in a manner that is public and/or that prevents me from marketing my script by shopping it to production companies, agents, managers, actors, networks, studios or any other entertainment industry organizations or people.

[Kelly Joseph]

Kelly Find’s the Essence

What I learned? I learned that the essence is like a launch pad. Once you really get the essence down, you can get to the underbelly of the scene. If I know what the scene is really about I can really figure out the best way to express, it.

Scene 1 Location: Opening 5 pages
Logline: MAX sets out to do the best job he can.
Essence: The Ideal employee

Scene 2 Location: First 10 pages
Logline: Max meets Annie and makes a connection.
Essence: Meet Cute

Scene 3 Location: Inciting Incident
Logline: Max meets Vincent a professional killer
Essence: A wolf in sheep’s clothing.

Scene 4 Location: End of Act 1
Logline: Max takes Vincent on his first errand.
Essence: Hero steps into a trap.

Scene 5 Location: Midpoint
Logline: After being humiliated by his mother Max takes Vincent’s briefcase.
Essence: Battle with your fear

Essence: Battle with your fears.

I think the essence of this scene is to battle with your fears. I believe this is the essence because Max lives in a dream world that has never realized because he is insecure and lacks confidence. But he when his mother humiliates him in front of the man holding him hostage, Max finally takes action.

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM, LOWER FLOOR – MAX – NIGHT 40

(POSSIBLY INCLUDE CORRIDOR)

Enters with the flowers. Vincent appears behind him, hovering

in the doorway. Max moves toward the bed…

…where IDA RILKE lies hooked up to a heart monitor, a clear

plastic oxygen mask over her mouth. She opens her eyes.

MAX

Hi, Ma.

IDA

I’ve been calling and calling.

(CONTINUED)

10/4/03 MM revs. (blue) 55.

40 CONTINUED: (2) 40

MAX

I got caught up at work.

IDA

Why couldn’t you call me on the

telephone? I’m lying here, wondering

if something horrible happened to

you…

MAX

(to cut her off)

I brought you flowers.

IDA

What am I gonna do with flowers?

Script provided for educational purposes. More scripts can be found here: http://www.sellingyourscreenplay.com/library

MAX

You’re gonna cheer up.

IDA

How? By worrying…

(wheezes)

…that you spend money on

things…that all they’re gonna do is

wilt and die?

MAX

(to Vincent)

See?

(to Ida, defensively)

I didn’t buy ’em. He did.

IDA

Who? Come in. What I got is not

contagious.

(beat)

Why didn’t you tell me we had company?

(to Vincent)

And what’s your name? Sorry. My son

is rude.

VINCENT

No harm done, madam.

She takes the flowers from Max, making a fuss over them:

IDA

You paid for my flowers? They’re

beautiful. Max, will you introduce

us?

(CONTINUED)

10/4/03 MM revs. (blue) 56.

40 CONTINUED: (3) 40

MAX

Mom, Vincent. Vincent, my mother,

Ida.

Vincent sets his briefcase by the door, approaches the bed,

offers his hand. She takes it. He glows with charisma.

VINCENT

I’m really happy to meet you, Mrs.

Rilke.

IDA

Oh, call me Ida. To what do we owe this pleasure?

Vincent sits in the chair at bedside.

Script provided for educational purposes. More scripts can be found here: http://www.sellingyourscreenplay.com/library

VINCENT

Well, I was with Max when he got the

call.

IDA

And you came all the way here to see

me?

VINCENT

It’s nothing.

IDA

Tell my son. You have to hold a gun

to his head to get him to do anything.

VINCENT

Tell me about it.

Vincent leans in, helps her adjust her pillows.

IDA

You must be an important client of Max’s.

This catches Vincent slightly off guard. He glances to Max.

VINCENT

Client? I like to think of myself as his friend. A mentor.

IDA

Max never had many friends. Always

talking to himself in the mirror…

It’s unhealthy.

MAX

Hey, mom. How many times do I have to

ask you not to do that?

(CONTINUED)

10/4/03 MM revs. (blue) 57.

40 CONTINUED: (4) 40

IDA

Do what?

MAX

Talk about me like…I’m…not…in the room, here.

IDA

(to Vincent)

What’s he sayin’?

VINCENT

Ida, he says he’s standing right here. In the room. Here.

IDA

(to Max)

Yesss, you are, honey.

(back to Vincent)

He’s sensitive.

VINCENT

I know. But I’m sure you’re proud of him.

IDA

(directed at Max)

Of course I’m proud. You know, he started with nothing. Look at him today. Here. Vegas. Reno…

Vincent looks at Max…squirming under the exposure.

MAX

Mom, Vincent’s not interested.

(to Vincent)

Let’s go.

VINCENT

No. I am interested.

IDA

What’s your name, again?

VINCENT

Vincent…

MAX

I came to see you. I saw you. You look fine. Let’s go.

He’s kissed her and wants to get out of there.

IDA

Limousine companies.

VINCENT

Yeah?

IDA

He drives famous people around, you

know?

VINCENT

Limousine companies? What an achievement…

Script provided for educational purposes. More scripts can be found here: http://www.sellingyourscreenplay.com/library

Max heads for the door…

IDA

Visit again?

VINCENT

I’m only in town tonight.

IDA

When you come back?

VINCENT

Sure. I promise.

IDA

Well, nice to meet you, Vincent.

He turns to find Max gone. He looks down, eyes widening.So is the briefcase.

Vincent races out into…

40A INT. THE HALLWAY 40A

…and spins around, frantically trying to see where Max went.

Nothing but a FEW PATIENTS and HOSPITAL STAFF…

…and a door marked “STAIRS” swinging shut at the end of the

hallway. He runs in that direction…

40B INT. HOSPITAL STAIRWELL 40B

Vincent bursts through the door into the stairwell, hearing RUNNING FOOTSTEPS below. He peers over the railing……and sees Max three flights down. Max freezes, looking up,

clutching the briefcase. A moment of eye contact…

VINCENT

Stop or I’ll go back and kill her.

MAX

You’d do her a favor. …and Max keeps going, vanishing from view. Vincent takes off

after him, plunging down the stairs at breakneck speed…

VINCENT

I’ll tell her the truth!

(CONTINUED)

MOVING WITH MAX

careening dizzily down the steps with the briefcase, hurtling

from one landing to the next, FOOTSTEPS ECHOING on concrete.

MOVING WITH VINCENT

racing down the steps like a madman, yanking his H+K from under

his jacket…

EXT. HOSPITAL – ON REAR DOOR – NIGHT (OPTIONAL) 41

Max comes through the stairway door, racing like crazy along a

row of HUGE ROARING INDUSTRIAL WASHERS, trying to make it to the

EXIT DOOR

at the far end……and Vincent bursts from the stairwell in pursuit, pausing to whip his H + K up in a two-handed grip, aiming down the length of the laundry room… …as Max vanishes through the exit door at the far end.

42 EXT. HOSPITAL/ON REAR DOOR – NIGHT 42

Max races out.

INT. HOSPITAL STAIRWELL – VINCENT 42B

racing down the stairs…

EXT. HOSPITAL – REAR DOOR – VINCENT 42C

bursts through parking lot.

EXT. HOSPITAL – WIDE: VINCENT (VFX) 42D

See Vincent at end of parking lot running towards us. PAN LEFT to Max running up a walkway over the freeway.

EXT. PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE – MAX 43

runs to camera along the bridge which we now reveal is above and…

OVER THE FREEWAY

Max runs up, exhausted. The stream of lights beneath them. Max swings the briefcase back, preparing to hurl it…

VINCENT

Don’t!

(CONTINUED)

Script provided for educational purposes. More scripts can be found here: http://www.sellingyourscreenplay.com/library

9/21/03 MM revs. (pink) 59A.

43 CONTINUED: 43

…and Vincent’s H+K is aimed at Max. Max looks back, sees

Vincent, gun aimed at him…

VINCENT (CONT’D)

Red-light-green-light, Max.

A heartbeat. A hesitation. And then…

(CONTINUED)

10/4/03 MM revs. (blue) 60.

43 CONTINUED: (2) 43

MAX

Bullshit.

…Max hurls the briefcase with all his might. Vincent watches in horror as it spins lazily through the air and crashes onto the freeway below where it’s run over, flips in the air, is hit by a truck and the tablet PC is de-constructed into useless pieces of plastic and silicone. Vincent approaches.

VINCENT

(hisses)

What the fuck was that?

MAX

Jazz.

Max is suddenly on the ground, not knowing how he got there,

about to die.

Vincent, above, staring at Max.

VINCENT

You are screwing…with my work! My prep was in there. I’m coming up on number four. The night is no longer young.

Are we getting adversarial? Each syllable like a bullet. Should Vincent kill him? Then, almost admiring…

VINCENT (CONT’D)

Didn’t know you could do that…

(beat)

Let’s see what else you can do.

…and he pulls Max to his feet.