[Vernall Ritchey]

ASSIGNMENT: Module 4: Lesson 2
Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment is: how great my characters are coming together.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Deeper Layer

Deeper Layers:
Plot Layers:
1. Kyla’s Past: There could be a deeper secret in Kyla’s past that makes her susceptible to demonic possession. Perhaps she dabbled in the occult or has a hidden lineage connected to demonic entities.
2. The Demon’s Identity: What is the Demon’s true nature and origin? Is it a singular entity or a fragment of something larger? Is there a reason it chose Kyla?
3. The Significance of the Exorcism Attempt: Was the initial attempt to exorcise Father Gill a setup by the Demon to manipulate Kyla? Did it serve another purpose?
4. The Crucifix: Is there a reason the crucifix seems to have no effect on Kyla? Could it be a fake or hold some hidden meaning?
5. The True Goal of the Demon: Is the Demon’s ultimate goal simply to possess a human or is there a larger plan in motion? Does it want to escape its current form or influence the world in some way?
Character Layers:
Kyla
1. Hidden Doubts: Kyla may have doubts about her faith or calling that the Demon exploits. Perhaps she feels a lack of control in her own life, making possession seem appealing.
2. Inner Conflict: Even as the Demon takes hold, there could be a flicker of Kyla’s true self fighting back. This internal struggle could be a source of suspense.
3. Redemption Arc (Even in Embrace the Darkness Ending): Even if Kyla succumbs, there could be a moment of self-awareness or sacrifice that hints at a potential for redemption, even in the afterlife.
4. Connection to Father Gill: Explore a deeper connection between Kyla and Father Gill. Perhaps they share a hidden past or a spiritual bond that becomes a weapon against the Demon.
5. Trigger for Possession: What specific event or weakness allowed the Demon to fully possess Kyla? Was it a moment of despair, anger, or a specific action?
Demon
1. Vulnerability: Is there something the Demon fears or is susceptible to? A holy object, a prayer, or a specific type of person (like a pure soul)?
2. Weakness of the Vessel: Does Kyla’s weakening faith or humanity somehow weaken the Demon’s power? Is there a risk of the Demon being trapped if fully expelled?
3. History with Exorcists: The Demon’s past defeat by an exorcist could be a source of motivation for revenge. This could tie into the significance of the exorcism attempt.
4. True Form: Does the Demon have a true form beyond its possession of Kyla? Is it something monstrous or something more deceptive?
5. Cost of Possession: Is there a cost to the Demon for possessing Kyla? Does it drain its power or limit its abilities in some way?
These are just a few ideas to get you started. By exploring these deeper layers, you can add complexity to your characters and plot, creating a more surprising and engaging story.

Deeper Layers:
Plot Layers:
1. Kyla’s Past Trauma: Perhaps Kyla’s vulnerability stems from a past trauma that the demon exploits. This trauma could be related to the church, faith, or a personal experience that makes her susceptible to the demon’s influence.
2. The Demon’s Origin: What is the origin story of the Demon? Is there a reason it targets Kyla specifically? Is there a weakness the exorcists can exploit based on the Demon’s past?
3. Hidden Motive for Father Gill: Is Father Gill aware of something about Kyla’s past or the demonic entity? Does he have a hidden motive for wanting the exorcism performed?
4. The Power Source: Is there a physical object or location that fuels the Demon’s power? Is there a reason the attempted exorcism on Father Gill failed?
5. Higher Stakes: Are there greater consequences if Kyla succumbs to the darkness? Does the demonic possession have implications beyond Father Gill and Kyla?
Character Layers:
Kyla:
1. Hidden Doubts About Faith: Maybe Kyla already harbored doubts about her faith before the possession began. The demon amplifies these doubts, fueling her transformation.
2. Internal Conflict: Even as the demon takes hold, a sliver of Kyla fights back. This internal struggle creates a moral complexity to her character.
3. Connection to the Church: Does Kyla have a deeper connection to the church beyond becoming a nun? Is there a family history or past experience that colors her motivations?
4. Redemption Arc (Even in Darkness): Even if Kyla embraces her demonic side, is there a chance for redemption or a way to use her power for good?
5. Trigger for Transformation: What specific event or trigger caused Kyla’s initial possession? Understanding this could be key to understanding her vulnerability.
Demon:
1. Fear of Something Else: Perhaps the Demon is afraid of something greater than the priests or even God. This fear could be a weakness that the priests exploit.
2. Vulnerability to Faith: Is the Demon susceptible to genuine acts of faith or displays of compassion? This vulnerability could create an opening for Kyla to fight back.
3. More Than Malevolent: Is there a reason for the Demon’s malice? Is it simply evil, or is there a tragic backstory that motivates its actions?
4. Limited Possession: Can the Demon only possess one person at a time? Is there a way to transfer the possession to another host?
5. Symbiotic Relationship: Does the Demon need Kyla as much as Kyla needs the Demon? Is there a way to disrupt this symbiotic connection?

Deeper Layers:
Plot Layers:
1. The Relic: The amulet/cross/religious symbol Father Gill possesses weakens Kyla and could be the key to her exorcism or even her possession.
2. Kyla’s Past: Kyla’s vulnerability to possession stems from a traumatic event in her past that the demon exploits.
3. The Demon’s Origin: The demon is revealed to be a fragment of a more powerful entity, and defeating Kyla only weakens but doesn’t destroy it.
4. Hidden Messages: Unexplained symbols or messages left by Kyla foreshadow the demonic possession.
5. Higher Purpose: The attempted exorcism was orchestrated by a higher power to test Kyla’s faith and expose the true enemy.
Character Layers:
Kyla:
1. Hidden Motive: Kyla isn’t becoming a nun out of piety, but to get closer to the church’s relics to further her demonic goals.
2. Internal Conflict: A sliver of Kyla’s humanity remains trapped within her, battling the demon for control.
3. Redemption Arc: Despite succumbing to the demon, a selfless act by Kyla to protect Father Gill weakens the demon’s hold.
4. Angelic Legacy: A shocking twist reveals Kyla is not demonic but a fallen angel, twisted by past events.
5. Unreliable Narrator: The entire story is from Kyla’s perspective, making the audience question the truth of everything they see.
Demon:
1. Fear of Something Else: The demon fears a higher power and the exorcism is a desperate attempt to escape a coming threat.
2. Weakness: The demon has a specific weakness besides holy objects, exploitable by Father Moore or Lyle.
3. Symbiote: The demon and Kyla are not in a traditional possession, but a symbiotic link, benefiting each other.
4. Broken Promise: The demon was once an angel who broke a vow to God, leading to its fall and current form.
5. Not So Evil: The demon’s motivations are not purely malicious, but driven by a desire for survival or a twisted sense of justice.

[Vernall Ritchey]

ASSIGNMENT: Module 4: Lesson 1
Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment is: how clear the story is becoming.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Character Structure

KYLA
Beginning:
• Kyla is introduced as a dedicated, attentive, and compassionate caregiver for Father Gill, a bedridden priest.
• Kyla is a soon-to-be nun, devout in her faith, committed to becoming a nun, who shows a genuine interest in Father Gill’s well-being.
• Kyla exhibits unwavering faith and a nurturing demeanor towards Father Gill.
• Kyla feels a sense of calling to become a nun and her caregiving role seems like an extension of her piety.
Inciting Incident:
• Kyla unwittingly encounters the Demon’s presence, unknowingly triggering the possession process, and setting the stage for its influence. It triggers a crisis of faith and vulnerability, which begins to erode her faith and sanity. (This has already happened before the movie begins).
Turning Point 1:
• The attempted exorcism of Father Gill fails, hinting at a deeper mystery/darkness that sets the stage for the revelation of Kyla’s true nature.
• Unexplained events or subtle changes in Kyla’s behavior begin to plant seeds of doubt about her true nature.
• The flicker of malice in her eyes, an unusual reaction to holy objects, and an unsettling shift in her demeanor.
• The Demon’s influence begins subtly, planting seeds of doubt and fear in Kyla’s mind as unexplained phenomena begin to occur around Kyla, hinting at a deeper malevolent force at play, all of which creates a growing sense of unease.
Midpoint:
• As the Demon’s influence intensifies, Kyla’s behavior changes. She experiences increased fear and confusion as the Demon’s influence strengthens, pushing her further from her faith and sanity, leading to a decline in her mental state. She experiences fear and exhibits a growing darkness within.
• The Demon exploits Kyla’s vulnerability, manipulating her and causing her to unknowingly harm Father Gill.
• As Kyla’s demonic nature takes hold, she starts to torment Father Gill, both physically and psychologically.
• (This may not be explicitly shown) Kyla’s faith and sanity deteriorate as the Demon’s influence strengthens.
• Kyla’s internal conflict intensifies. This internal conflict is portrayed through her actions, internal monologues, and struggles with religious faith shown as she wrestles with her faith and her newfound demonic urges.
• Kyla fully embraces her demonic identity, the demon within.
Turning Point 2: (Act 3)
• Kyla’s true demonic nature is revealed. The revelation of Kyla’s demonic identity is a horrifying and major turning point.
• This could be a physical transformation, a moment of possession, or a shocking event.
• The Demon fully possesses Kyla, robbing her of control and turning her into a vessel for its malice. She is a puppet for the evil entity. (This point may be shown through a physical manifestation or a horrific act by Kyla). (This twist reveals the true enemy).
• The audience’s perception of Kyla is shattered, and the story takes on a new horror as they realize the true enemy. The audience’s perception of Kyla shifts from protagonist to antagonist.
Dilemma:
• Kyla faces the dilemma of surrendering to the darkness and fulfilling her demonic potential or clinging to her humanity and faith, even if it means sacrificing her power.
• Even within the possession, there may be a flicker of Kyla’s true self struggling to fight back. This could create an internal conflict as she grapples with the demonic influence.
Major Conflict:
• The major conflict becomes Kyla’s internal battle between good and evil. The battle between her demonic identity and any lingering shred of humanity she may possess.
• Internal struggle (brief) followed by the external conflict of being a pawn in the Demon’s game.
• Externally, she may grapple with how to maintain her facade as a caregiver while succumbing to her demonic urges.
• She faces external forces who may try to expose or exorcise her.
• This conflict can be both physical and psychological, showcasing the torment of being trapped between two identities.
• The exorcism is a terrifying ordeal for Kyla’s possessed self. She will experience immense physical and emotional pain as the priests attempt to sever the Demon’s hold.
• She must choose between succumbing to darkness or fighting for redemption.
Ending:
• Kyla loses control of her body and becomes a vessel for the Demon.
• Fight for Redemption: Father Gill is saved. With the help of Father Moore, Father Lyle, and Father Gill, Kyla finds redemption for her actions. Kyla regains control and expels the demon from her body – then, in a terrifying climax . . .
• Embrace the Darkness: Kyla succumbs to evil and unleashes her full demonic power. She vanquishes Father Lyle who stands in her way. The world is left a darker place due to Kyla’s demonic transformation.
 

Kyla (Demonic):
• Beginning: Kyla is, possessed by the Demon.
• Turning Point 1: Father Lyle suspects Kyla’s possession.
• Midpoint: The Demon’s influence strengthens, pushing Kyla further towards madness and darkness.
• Turning Point 2: The Demon uses Kyla to confront and potentially harm Father Gill, Father Moore, and Father Lyle.
• Dilemma: None, Kyla is no longer in control.
• Major Conflict: The final confrontation with Father Moore, Father Gill, and Father Lyle.
• Ending: The Demon’s hold over Kyla is broken, leaving her traumatized and nearly destroyed, but not deceased.
 
Demon:
• Beginning: The Demon exists as a powerful, malevolent entity. (It has a past defeat, perhaps by a past encounter with an exorcist that fuels its desire for revenge.) It seeks to possess a human host and spread chaos, darkness, and suffering. It may have suffered a defeat in the past, fueling its desire for revenge.
• Turning Point 1: The Demon encounters Kyla, a vulnerable soon-to-be nun, and recognizes her potential as a vessel and begins to subtly manipulate and ultimately possess her.
• Midpoint: Kyla’s descent into darkness accelerates as the Demon exerts greater control/influence over Kyla, successfully manipulating her thoughts and actions, eroding her faith, and pushing her toward darkness, and further towards possession. (This strengthens the Demon’s hold on her and paves the way for full possession.)
• Turning Point 2: The Demon fully possesses Kyla, taking complete control of her body and unleashing its full power as he uses her as a vessel to wreak havoc, sow discord, and destruction. This marks the Demon’s true victory and the beginning of its reign of terror.
• Dilemma: None, the Demon thrives on manipulating, tormenting, and creating dilemmas for others. However, the Demon may face a dilemma if it underestimates the power of Father Moore and Father Lyle’s faith and the bond between Kyla and Father Gill. This leads to a miscalculation or a temporary setback.
• Major Conflict: The ultimate conflict is the final confrontation with Father Moore, Father Lyle, and a weakened Father Gill, where the Demon fights to maintain control of Kyla. The exorcism attempt by Father Moore, Father Gill, and Father Lyle. The Demon fights to maintain control of Kyla and achieve its ultimate goals. The Demon will use all its power and Kyla’s body to resist and potentially harm them.
• Ending: The Demon’s hold over Kyla is weakened/broken, but it’s clear that it’s not banished/destroyed as it retakes hold of Kyla.

[Vernall Ritchey]

ASSIGNMENT: Module 4: Lesson 1
Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment is: how clear the story is becoming.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Character Structure

KYLA
Beginning:
• Kyla is introduced as a dedicated, attentive, and compassionate caregiver for Father Gill, a bedridden priest.
• Kyla is a soon-to-be nun, devout in her faith, committed to becoming a nun, who shows a genuine interest in Father Gill’s well-being.
• Kyla exhibits unwavering faith and a nurturing demeanor towards Father Gill.
• Kyla feels a sense of calling to become a nun and her caregiving role seems like an extension of her piety.
Inciting Incident:
• Kyla unwittingly encounters the Demon’s presence, unknowingly triggering the possession process, and setting the stage for its influence. It triggers a crisis of faith and vulnerability, which begins to erode her faith and sanity. (This has already happened before the movie begins).
Turning Point 1:
• The attempted exorcism of Father Gill fails, hinting at a deeper mystery/darkness that sets the stage for the revelation of Kyla’s true nature.
• Unexplained events or subtle changes in Kyla’s behavior begin to plant seeds of doubt about her true nature.
• The flicker of malice in her eyes, an unusual reaction to holy objects, and an unsettling shift in her demeanor.
• The Demon’s influence begins subtly, planting seeds of doubt and fear in Kyla’s mind as unexplained phenomena begin to occur around Kyla, hinting at a deeper malevolent force at play, all of which creates a growing sense of unease.
Midpoint:
• As the Demon’s influence intensifies, Kyla’s behavior changes. She experiences increased fear and confusion as the Demon’s influence strengthens, pushing her further from her faith and sanity, leading to a decline in her mental state. She experiences fear and exhibits a growing darkness within.
• The Demon exploits Kyla’s vulnerability, manipulating her and causing her to unknowingly harm Father Gill.
• As Kyla’s demonic nature takes hold, she starts to torment Father Gill, both physically and psychologically.
• (This may not be explicitly shown) Kyla’s faith and sanity deteriorate as the Demon’s influence strengthens.
• Kyla’s internal conflict intensifies. This internal conflict is portrayed through her actions, internal monologues, and struggles with religious faith shown as she wrestles with her faith and her newfound demonic urges.
• Kyla fully embraces her demonic identity, the demon within.
Turning Point 2: (Act 3)
• Kyla’s true demonic nature is revealed. The revelation of Kyla’s demonic identity is a horrifying and major turning point.
• This could be a physical transformation, a moment of possession, or a shocking event.
• The Demon fully possesses Kyla, robbing her of control and turning her into a vessel for its malice. She is a puppet for the evil entity. (This point may be shown through a physical manifestation or a horrific act by Kyla). (This twist reveals the true enemy).
• The audience’s perception of Kyla is shattered, and the story takes on a new horror as they realize the true enemy. The audience’s perception of Kyla shifts from protagonist to antagonist.
Dilemma:
• Kyla faces the dilemma of surrendering to the darkness and fulfilling her demonic potential or clinging to her humanity and faith, even if it means sacrificing her power.
• Even within the possession, there may be a flicker of Kyla’s true self struggling to fight back. This could create an internal conflict as she grapples with the demonic influence.
Major Conflict:
• The major conflict becomes Kyla’s internal battle between good and evil. The battle between her demonic identity and any lingering shred of humanity she may possess.
• Internal struggle (brief) followed by the external conflict of being a pawn in the Demon’s game.
• Externally, she may grapple with how to maintain her facade as a caregiver while succumbing to her demonic urges.
• She faces external forces who may try to expose or exorcise her.
• This conflict can be both physical and psychological, showcasing the torment of being trapped between two identities.
• The exorcism is a terrifying ordeal for Kyla’s possessed self. She will experience immense physical and emotional pain as the priests attempt to sever the Demon’s hold.
• She must choose between succumbing to darkness or fighting for redemption.
Ending:
• Kyla loses control of her body and becomes a vessel for the Demon.
• Fight for Redemption: Father Gill is saved. With the help of Father Moore, Father Lyle, and Father Gill, Kyla finds redemption for her actions. Kyla regains control and expels the demon from her body – then, in a terrifying climax . . .
• Embrace the Darkness: Kyla succumbs to evil and unleashes her full demonic power. She vanquishes Father Lyle who stands in her way. The world is left a darker place due to Kyla’s demonic transformation.
 

Kyla (Demonic):
• Beginning: Kyla is, possessed by the Demon.
• Turning Point 1: Father Lyle suspects Kyla’s possession.
• Midpoint: The Demon’s influence strengthens, pushing Kyla further towards madness and darkness.
• Turning Point 2: The Demon uses Kyla to confront and potentially harm Father Gill, Father Moore, and Father Lyle.
• Dilemma: None, Kyla is no longer in control.
• Major Conflict: The final confrontation with Father Moore, Father Gill, and Father Lyle.
• Ending: The Demon’s hold over Kyla is broken, leaving her traumatized and nearly destroyed, but not deceased.
 
Demon:
• Beginning: The Demon exists as a powerful, malevolent entity. (It has a past defeat, perhaps by a past encounter with an exorcist that fuels its desire for revenge.) It seeks to possess a human host and spread chaos, darkness, and suffering. It may have suffered a defeat in the past, fueling its desire for revenge.
• Turning Point 1: The Demon encounters Kyla, a vulnerable soon-to-be nun, and recognizes her potential as a vessel and begins to subtly manipulate and ultimately possess her.
• Midpoint: Kyla’s descent into darkness accelerates as the Demon exerts greater control/influence over Kyla, successfully manipulating her thoughts and actions, eroding her faith, and pushing her toward darkness, and further towards possession. (This strengthens the Demon’s hold on her and paves the way for full possession.)
• Turning Point 2: The Demon fully possesses Kyla, taking complete control of her body and unleashing its full power as he uses her as a vessel to wreak havoc, sow discord, and destruction. This marks the Demon’s true victory and the beginning of its reign of terror.
• Dilemma: None, the Demon thrives on manipulating, tormenting, and creating dilemmas for others. However, the Demon may face a dilemma if it underestimates the power of Father Moore and Father Lyle’s faith and the bond between Kyla and Father Gill. This leads to a miscalculation or a temporary setback.
• Major Conflict: The ultimate conflict is the final confrontation with Father Moore, Father Lyle, and a weakened Father Gill, where the Demon fights to maintain control of Kyla. The exorcism attempt by Father Moore, Father Gill, and Father Lyle. The Demon fights to maintain control of Kyla and achieve its ultimate goals. The Demon will use all its power and Kyla’s body to resist and potentially harm them.
• Ending: The Demon’s hold over Kyla is weakened/broken, but it’s clear that it’s not banished/destroyed as it retakes hold of Kyla.

[Vernall Ritchey]

ASSIGNMENT: Module 3: Lesson 8
Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment is: the importance of incorporating great supporting character profiles that are flushed out.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Supporting Characters
High Concept: Kyla an attentive caregiver and soon-to-be nun attempts to exorcise a demon in Father Gill a bedridden priest, but the exorcism fails as it becomes clear that the real battle lies not in his exorcism but in hers. She is the true demonic entity.
Support 1:
• Name: Detective Rivers
• Role: Rookie Detective
• Main purpose: To investigate Kyla’s 911 call from the Convalescent Home
• Value: Confronts a demonic Kyla and starts a brutal and deadly confrontation
Support 2:
• Name: Mr. Weller
• Role: New Churchgoer
• Main purpose: Talking points that allow for Kyla’s background to be introduced and to show how much she is loved and appreciated by the congregation.
• Value: The conversation brings about background information about Kyla’s upcoming ceremony and her being a caregiver for Father Gill; as well as introduce Father Moore and Father Lyle’s character.
Support 3:
• Name: Mrs. Weller
• Role: New Churchgoer
• Main purpose: Talking points that allow for Kyla’s background to be introduced and to show how much she is loved and appreciated by the congregation.
• Value: The conversation brings about background information about Kyla’s upcoming ceremony and her being a caregiver for Father Gill; as well as introduce Father Moore and Father Lyle’s character.
Background 1:
• Name: 911 Operator
• Role: 911 Operator
• Main purpose: To move the story forward by dispatching Officer Rivers to the house to investigate the distress call.
• Value: Increases suspense when Officer Rivers arrives at the house not knowing he is about to be confronted with a demonic presence.
Background 2:
• Name: Churchgoers
• Role: Churchgoers
• Main purpose: To show the church congregation in session.
• Value: The backbone of the movie shows all characters’ journeys beginning with the church.

[Vernall Ritchey]

ASSIGNMENT: Module 3: Lesson 7
Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment is: all the many intricacies involved with making a great character profile.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Character Profiles Part 2
Kyla
1. Role in the Story: Protagonist/Antagonist
2. Age range and Description: Mid-20s to early 30s, an attentive and seemingly compassionate caregiver with an unsettling aura.
3. Core Traits: Compassionate, Troubled, Dual-natured, Manipulative.
4. Motivation; Want/Need:
• Want: To care for and save Father Gill.
• Need: To confront and overcome her demonic nature.
5. Wound: Deep-seated trauma from a past event that made her vulnerable to demonic possession.
6. Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Initially likable due to her caring nature, but gradually reveals a more sinister side.
7. Character Subtext: Hiding her demonic identity and the guilt associated with her dark impulses.
8. Character Intrigue: Her hidden agenda to maintain her human facade while grappling with her demonic urges.
9. Flaw: Inability to fully control her demonic nature, leading to self-sabotage.
10. Values: Believes in the sanctity of her role as a caregiver and her religious vows.
11. Character Dilemma: Torn between her desire to help others and the demonic impulses that drive her to harm.
Father Gill
1. Role in the Story: Victim/Secondary Protagonist
2. Age range and Description: Late 50s to early 60s, a bedridden priest with a strong yet weary faith.
3. Core Traits: Faithful, Vulnerable, Wise, Determined.
4. Motivation; Want/Need:
• Want: To rid himself of the demonic presence.
• Need: To find peace and redemption.
5. Wound: Guilt over past mistakes that he believes led to his possession.
6. Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Highly relatable due to his vulnerability and strong faith.
7. Character Subtext: Hiding the depth of his fear and doubts about his faith.
8. Character Intrigue: His hidden knowledge of Kyla’s true nature and the internal battle to maintain his faith.
9. Flaw: His rigid adherence to faith blinds him to unconventional solutions.
10. Values: Deeply values faith, redemption, and the power of exorcism.
11. Character Dilemma: Struggles between maintaining his faith and confronting the demonic reality he faces.
The Demon
1. Role in the Story: Antagonist
2. Age range and Description: Ageless, malevolent force with a deceptive and manipulative presence.
3. Core Traits: Malicious, Cunning, Deceptive, Persistent.
4. Motivation; Want/Need:
• Want: To fully possess Kyla and spread its influence.
• Need: To exploit human weaknesses to maintain control.
5. Wound: Driven by an ancient, unresolved vendetta against humanity.
6. Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Lacks empathy, creating a stark contrast with the human characters.
7. Character Subtext: Hiding its true power and origins, playing a long game of manipulation.
8. Character Intrigue: Its ultimate plan and true extent of its influence are slowly revealed.
9. Flaw: Overconfidence in its control over Kyla.
10. Values: Destruction, chaos, and domination.
11. Character Dilemma: Balancing the need to maintain subtlety while pushing Kyla towards complete possession.
Father Moore
1. Role in the Story: Mentor/Guide
2. Age range and Description: Late 40s to early 50s, a seasoned exorcist with a stern demeanor and deep knowledge of demonic forces.
3. Core Traits: Experienced, Disciplined, Skeptical, Compassionate.
4. Motivation; Want/Need:
• Want: To assist in exorcising the demon from Father Gill and later Kyla.
• Need: To overcome his skepticism and trust in unconventional methods.
5. Wound: Haunted by a failed exorcism in his past that led to tragedy.
6. Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Respectable due to his dedication, though his stern nature can be off-putting.
7. Character Subtext: Hides his fear of failure and the guilt from past mistakes.
8. Character Intrigue: His internal struggle with faith and the methods he uses in exorcism.
9. Flaw: His rigidity and skepticism can blind him to the truth.
10. Values: Strongly values faith, discipline, and the sanctity of exorcism.
11. Character Dilemma: Torn between his tried-and-true methods and the need to embrace new approaches to deal with Kyla’s unique case.
Father Lyle
1. Role in the Story: Support/Secondary Mentor
2. Age range and Description: Early 40s, a compassionate and open-minded priest, less experienced than Father Moore but with a deep intuition.
3. Core Traits: Compassionate, Intuitive, Supportive, Open-minded.
4. Motivation; Want/Need:
• Want: To support Father Moore and help Kyla.
• Need: To trust his intuition and voice his insights.
5. Wound: Struggles with self-doubt due to his lack of experience.
6. Likability, Relatability, Empathy: Highly likable and empathetic due to his compassionate nature.
7. Character Subtext: Hides his feelings of inadequacy and desire to prove himself.
8. Character Intrigue: His intuitive insights often reveal deeper truths, creating tension with Father Moore’s methods.
9. Flaw: His self-doubt can lead to hesitation at critical moments.
10. Values: Values compassion, intuition, and the power of faith.
11. Character Dilemma: Balances his need to follow Father Moore’s lead with his intuitive insights that sometimes contradict Moore’s approach.

[Vernall Ritchey]

ASSIGNMENT: Module 3: Lesson 6
Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment is: all the many intricacies involved with making a great character profile.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Character Profiles Part 1
High Concept: Kyla an attentive caregiver and soon-to-be nun attempts to exorcise a demon in Father Gill a bedridden priest, but the exorcism fails as it becomes clear that the real battle lies not in his exorcism but in hers. She is the true demonic entity.

Kyla – This character’s journey: From a caring caregiver to a demonic force, her journey involves confronting her darkness, and doubts and ultimately choosing between good and evil.

Kyla – Actor Attractors:
• Known for Role: This role offers a unique opportunity for an actor to delve into the complexities of a character undergoing a profound transformation from compassionate caregiver to terrifying demonic entity.
• Most Interesting Character: Kyla is compelling because she grapples with her identity as a caregiver and soon-to-be nun while being consumed by her demonic nature, resulting in a riveting internal conflict.
• Interesting Actions: Kyla’s most interesting actions could include performing exorcisms, manipulating others to conceal her true nature, and unleashing her demonic powers in terrifying displays of violence.
• Introduction: Introduce Kyla as a dedicated and compassionate caregiver, highlighting her nurturing demeanor and unwavering faith, before gradually revealing the darker aspects of her character as the story progresses.
• Emotional Range: Kyla’s emotional range spans from empathy and compassion to fear, paranoia, and ultimately, sadistic delight as she embraces her demonic identity.
• Subtext: The actor can convey Kyla’s inner turmoil and struggle for control beneath her outward facade of serenity, as well as the seductive allure of her demonic nature.
• Interesting Relationships: Kyla’s most interesting relationships could be with Father Gill, where she struggles with conflicting feelings of compassion and manipulation, and with the Demon, where she grapples with her demonic urges.
• Unique Voice: Kyla’s unique voice could be presented as calm and soothing, masking the darkness lurking within her, before gradually descending into a chilling and seductive tone as her demonic nature takes hold.
• Special: What makes Kyla special is her dual nature as both caregiver and demon, allowing the actor to explore the complexities of good and evil within the same character.

1. Role in the story:
• Protagonist and antagonist; a seemingly devoted caregiver and soon-to-be nun who turns out to be the true demonic entity.
2. Age range and description:
• Late 20s, appears innocent and caring on the surface.
3. Core Traits:
• Compassionate, dedicated, religious on the surface, but harbors a dark and demonic side.
4. Motivation; Want/Need:
• Want: To exorcise the demon from Father Gill.
• Need: Uncover her own demonic identity and confront her internal battle.
5. Wound:
• Deep-seated fear of demonic possession, stemming from her traumatic past.
6. Likability/Relatability/Empathy:
• Likability: Kyla initially presents as highly likable. She’s a compassionate caregiver, dedicated to her faith, and possesses a gentle demeanor. This facade makes her possession all the more shocking and unsettling. As the truth unravels, her likability diminishes, replaced by a sense of unease and creeping dread.
• Relatability: Audiences may initially relate to Kyla’s desire to help others and her dedication to her spiritual path. However, her internal struggle against the demon and the potential darkness lurking within might resonate with anyone who has grappled with personal demons or moral ambiguity.
• Empathy: While Kyla appears empathetic towards Father Gill initially and while she’s In distress as she is terrified of demonic presence. Less so when her true motives are increasingly questionable. As the story progresses, audiences may struggle to find empathy for her as she loses control and the demonic entity takes hold. However, a flicker of vulnerability in her moments of resistance could offer a glimpse of the person she once was, sparking a sliver of empathy for her plight.

• Likability: Kyla is initially portrayed as highly likable. She is presented as a compassionate caregiver, dedicated to her faith and Father Gill’s well-being. Her attentiveness, gentle demeanor, and unwavering faith in God can evoke sympathy and admiration from the audience.
• Relatability: Kyla’s internal struggle against the demon can be relatable for viewers who have faced inner demons or battles with temptation. Her initial denial, fear, and attempts to control the darkness can resonate with human experiences of grappling with negative impulses or hidden desires.
• Empathy: As the story progresses and Kyla’s true nature is revealed, the audience’s empathy may shift. However, her vulnerability and the internal conflict between her faith and demonic nature can still elicit a sense of empathy for her plight. The audience may even feel conflicted, torn between their initial positive impression and the horrifying reality of her true nature.
Father Gill – This character’s journey: From a victim of possession to a survivor fighting against demonic forces.

Father Gill – Actor Attractors:
• Known for Role: This role offers the opportunity for an actor to portray the vulnerability and terror of a seemingly possessed priest, while gradually revealing the character’s true nature as the story unfolds, creating layers of complexity and intrigue.
• Most Interesting Character: Father Gill is fascinating because he appears to be the victim of demonic possession, eliciting sympathy and fear from the audience, while ultimately serving as a red herring that obscures Kyla’s true role as the possessed individual.
• Interesting Actions: Father Gill’s most interesting actions could include exhibiting signs of possession, such as speaking in tongues, levitating, and displaying supernatural strength, as well as moments of vulnerability and confusion as he struggles to understand his predicament.
• Introduction: Introduce Father Gill as a respected and beloved priest, his presence commanding reverence and trust, before gradually introducing hints of his supposed possession through subtle hints and eerie encounters.
• Emotional Range: Father Gill’s emotional range spans from initial confusion and fear to desperation and despair as he grapples with the apparent demonic forces tormenting him, before ultimately realizing the true nature of the threat.
• Subtext: The actor can convey Father Gill’s inner turmoil and sense of betrayal as he confronts the horrifying truth of his situation, as well as the existential dread of being manipulated by unseen forces beyond his comprehension.
• Interesting Relationships: Father Gill’s most interesting relationship is with Kyla, where he serves as both victim and unwitting accomplice in her campaign of terror, highlighting the tragic irony of his unwitting involvement in her descent into darkness.
• Unique Voice: Father Gill’s unique voice could be presented as initially calm and soothing, reflecting his role as a trusted spiritual leader, before gradually becoming more frantic and desperate as he struggles to maintain his sanity in the face of overwhelming evil.
• Special: What makes Father Gill special is his role as a tragic figure caught in the crossfire of supernatural forces beyond his control, allowing the actor to explore themes of faith, doubt, and the corrupting influence of darkness.

1. Role in the story:
• Victim and source of demonic possession.
2. Age range and description:
• Elderly, frail, bedridden priest.
3. Core Traits:
• Weak, devout, initially trusting of Kyla.
4. Motivation; Want/Need:
• Want: To be free from demonic possession.
• Need: Survival against Kyla’s increasingly sinister actions.
5. Wound:
• Physical and spiritual vulnerability due to illness and possession.
6. Likability/Relatability/Empathy:
• Likability: Father Gill is portrayed as a kind and wise figure, despite his physical limitations. Even through his fear and vulnerability, his faith remains strong. This makes him an easy character to root for and sympathize with.
• Relatability: Audiences may connect with Father Gill’s fear of the unknown and his struggle to maintain faith in the face of terrifying circumstances. His dependence on Kyla and his vulnerability also evoke a sense of protectiveness.
• Empathy: As a bedridden stroke victim, Father Gill is the main catalyst for empathy in the story. He is innocent and helpless against Kyla’s deception and the demonic forces threatening him. The audience’s fear and concern for him drive the narrative and fuel the tension.

• Likability: Father Gill is presented as a kind and wise mentor, a man weakened by illness but still clinging to his faith and humanity. His vulnerability and dependence on Kyla’s care can evoke sympathy and protectiveness from the audience.
• Relatability: The audience may find Father Gill relatable in his fear of the unknown and his struggle to maintain his faith in the face of a seemingly demonic threat. His helplessness and dependence on others can resonate with viewers who have faced similar situations of vulnerability or dependence.
• Empathy: As the story unfolds, the audience’s empathy for Father Gill may deepen as they witness him being manipulated and even endangered by Kyla. His fear, confusion, and potential spiritual torment can elicit strong emotional responses from viewers.

• Likability: Father Gill is immediately endearing. Despite his physical limitations, he retains a gentle spirit, radiating warmth and faith. His vulnerability makes him a sympathetic figure, and his trust in Kyla endears him to the audience. However, his role in the story is primarily to serve as a catalyst for Kyla’s internal struggle. His likability remains constant, acting as a counterpoint to Kyla’s descent into darkness.
• Relatability: Father Gill’s struggle with illness and his dependence on Kyla’s care are relatable to anyone who has experienced vulnerability or relied on others for support. His faith and his gentle demeanor further endear him to the audience, making them easily connect with his plight and root for his safety.
• Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Gill is central to the story’s emotional impact. His vulnerability, his trust in Kyla, and his fear of the unknown make him a powerful figure of sympathy. The horror of Kyla’s possession is amplified by the contrast between her actions and Father Gill’s innocence. The audience will feel deeply for him and fear the threat she poses to his soul.

• Likability: Father Gill, despite his physical limitations, manages to be highly likable. His gentle spirit, despite the circumstances, his vulnerability, and his trust in Kyla (initially) make him a sympathetic figure. The audience will naturally root for his safety and protection.
• Relatability: Father Gill’s vulnerability and dependence on Kyla’s care are relatable to anyone who has experienced physical limitations or relied on others for support. His gentle disposition and faith further endear him to the audience, making them connect with his plight and fear for his safety.
• Empathy: Father Gill’s role as the potential target of Kyla’s possession and his innocence in the face of evil draw strong empathy from the audience. Witnessing Kyla’s descent into madness and his realization of her true nature evoke a chilling understanding of his situation. The audience will feel deeply for him and fear for his safety as the story unfolds.

• Likability: Despite his limited physical presence, Father Gill is a very likable character. His vulnerability and dependence on Kyla make him a sympathetic figure. The audience will root for his safety and feel protective of him as Kyla’s true nature becomes clear.
• Relatability: Many viewers can relate to Father Gill’s experience of illness and dependence on others. His gentle spirit and unwavering faith further endear him to the audience, making them easily connect with his vulnerability and fear.
• Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Gill is crucial to the story’s emotional impact. His witnessing of Kyla’s descent into madness and the revelation of her true nature will evoke a strong sense of horror and empathy. His awareness of the situation adds a layer of tragedy and reinforces the audience’s desire to see him protected.

• Likability: Despite his physical limitations and fear, Father Gill retains a quiet strength and dignity. His vulnerability makes him a sympathetic figure, and his unwavering faith in God inspires admiration. The contrast between his gentle demeanor and Kyla’s growing darkness further enhances his likability.
• Relatability: Father Gill’s dependence on Kyla’s care and his reliance on his faith in the face of danger can resonate with anyone who has faced vulnerability or found strength in their beliefs. His witness to Kyla’s descent into madness adds a layer of horror and tragedy to his character.
• Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Gill is crucial to the emotional impact of the story. His fear, his confusion, and his eventual understanding of Kyla’s true nature all contribute to a powerful sense of connection and concern for his well-being. Witnessing his suffering at the hands of Kyla’s demonic possession can be both terrifying and heartbreaking.

Father Moore – This character’s journey: From a supportive ally to a key figure in the battle against the demonic entity.

Father Moore – Actor Attractors:
• Known for Role: This role offers the opportunity for an actor to portray the archetypal figure of the wise and seasoned exorcist, showcasing their gravitas and authority as a spiritual warrior battling the forces of darkness.
• Most Interesting Character: Father Moore is intriguing because he serves as a mentor and guide for Kyla, offering wisdom and guidance in her struggle against the demonic forces threatening to consume her.
• Interesting Actions: Father Moore’s most interesting actions could include performing exorcisms, deciphering ancient texts and arcane rituals, and mentoring Kyla in the ways of spiritual warfare.
• Introduction: Introduce Father Moore as a seasoned and stoic exorcist, his presence commanding respect and authority, as he imparts his knowledge and experience to Kyla in her quest for redemption.
• Emotional Range: Father Moore’s emotional range spans from stoic resolve and unwavering faith to moments of doubt and vulnerability, as he confronts the horrors of the supernatural realm.
• Subtext: The actor can convey Father Moore’s inner struggles and doubts beneath his outward facade of strength and conviction, as well as the weight of responsibility he carries as a guardian of humanity against the forces of darkness.
• Interesting Relationships: Father Moore’s most interesting relationship is with Kyla, where he serves as both mentor and confidant, guiding her on her journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.
• Unique Voice: Father Moore’s unique voice could be presented as deep and resonant, echoing with the authority of centuries-old wisdom and the solemnity of sacred rites, instilling confidence and reassurance in those who seek his counsel.
• Special: What makes Father Moore special is his role as a bastion of light in the face of encroaching darkness, offering hope and salvation to those who walk the path of righteousness alongside him.

1. Role in the story:
• Supportive figure and ally to Kyla.
2. Age range and description:
• Middle-aged, experienced priest.
3. Core Traits:
• Wise, supportive, driven by faith.
4. Motivation; Want/Need:
• Want: To assist Kyla in the exorcism.
• Need: To confront and overcome the demonic presence.
5. Wound:
• A past failure in dealing with demonic forces, haunting him.
6. Likability/Relatability/Empathy:
• Likability: Initially, Father Moore is highly likable. His compassion, dedication to Sister Kyla, and unwavering faith in God make him appear trustworthy and supportive. This likability strengthens as he bravely confronts the supernatural occurrences, showcasing his commitment to protecting the innocent. However, as the story progresses, and he witnesses the full extent of Kyla’s possession, his likability takes a subtle hit. The trauma and fear visibly affect him, and his unwavering demeanor cracks at times, revealing a vulnerable human beneath the priestly vestments. This shift keeps him relatable but adds a layer of complexity that makes him even more captivating.
• Relatability: Father Moore’s initial calm and composed demeanor is relatable to anyone who has faced fear or uncertainty. His reliance on faith and ritual provides a familiar anchoring point for viewers, especially those with religious backgrounds. As the story progresses, and his fear becomes more apparent, he becomes even more relatable. His emotional journey mirrors the audience’s own as they face the horror of Kyla’s possession.
• Empathy: Father Moore evokes strong empathy. His vulnerability, his unwavering faith in spite of fear, and his determination to protect Father Gill make him a sympathetic figure. The audience will root for him to overcome his fear and ultimately help defeat Kyla. His potential connection with the demon adds a further layer of intrigue and empathy, raising questions about the nature of good and evil within him.

• Likability: Initially very likable. His compassion for Kyla and unwavering faith in God make him a comforting and supportive presence. However, his likability wanes as the supernatural events escalate. His fear and vulnerability become more apparent, shaking his initial composure. This shift in his demeanor adds depth and complexity to his character, keeping the audience invested in his journey.
• Relatability: Many viewers can relate to Father Moore’s struggles with faith and doubt in the face of the unknown. His fear and vulnerability are relatable emotions, especially in a situation involving demonic forces. His reliance on religious rituals and symbols provides a sense of hope and grounding, further connecting him to the audience.
• Empathy: The audience will feel empathy for Father Moore’s emotional and spiritual turmoil. Witnessing his fear and confusion as he confronts the darkness will evoke compassion. His connection to Kyla and his desperation to save Father Gill will further solidify the audience’s emotional investment in his character.

• Likability: Father Moore initially exudes a quiet charisma. His compassion and dedication to his faith are evident in his interactions with Kyla and Father Gill. He serves as a voice of reason and calm amidst the escalating supernatural events. However, as the demonic presence intensifies, his own fear and vulnerability become apparent. This vulnerability can make him both endearing and relatable, but also adds a layer of tension to his interactions with Kyla.
• Relatability: Father Moore’s initial skepticism and eventual acceptance of the supernatural can resonate with viewers who question their own beliefs in the face of the unknown. His reliance on faith and ritual in the face of fear is also relatable to those who find solace in their spiritual beliefs.
• Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Moore grows as he becomes increasingly affected by the demonic presence. His fear, his desperation to protect Father Gill, and his potential connection with the demon all contribute to a sense of emotional investment in his character. Witnessing his struggle against Kyla’s hidden darkness can be both terrifying and heartbreaking

Father Lyle – This character’s journey: From a skeptic to a fighter against the demonic forces threatening Father Gill.

Father Lyle – Actor Attractors:
• Known for Role: An actor would want to be known for this role because Father Lyle is a dynamic character who transitions from a position of suspicion and strength to one of vulnerability and confrontation. Playing a character who discovers the hidden truth and then becomes a victim offers a powerful narrative arc.
• Most Interesting Character: Father Lyle is interesting because he embodies the battle between faith and skepticism. His journey from suspecting Kyla’s true nature to being struck down by her highlights his vulnerability and determination, making him a compelling figure in the story.
• Interesting Actions:
1. Uncovering clues about Kyla’s possession.
2. Confronting Kyla and experiencing her demonic retaliation.
3. Struggling to warn Father Moore despite his debilitating condition.
4. Participating in the final confrontation with Kyla.
• Introduction: Introduce Father Lyle as a diligent and perceptive priest who is dedicated to protecting his parish. His initial interactions with Kyla show his kindness and concern, which gradually turn into suspicion as he uncovers her dark secret.
• Emotional Range: Father Lyle’s emotional range includes:
1. Compassion and empathy in his care for the community.
2. Growing suspicion and fear as he uncovers Kyla’s secret.
3. Desperation and determination to reveal the truth.
4. Helplessness and frustration when he is struck down by the demon.
5. Courage and resolve during the final confrontation.
• Subtext: Father Lyle can play the subtext of a man grappling with his faith in the face of evil. His struggle against demonic forces mirrors his internal battle with doubt and fear, offering depth to his actions and decisions.
• Interesting Relationships:
1. His mentor-student relationship with Father Moore, who he tries to warn.
2. His complex and adversarial dynamic with Kyla as he uncovers her secret.
3. His bond with Father Gill, sharing a silent understanding of the true horror unfolding.
• Unique Voice: Father Lyle’s unique voice comes from his role as a voice of reason and faith in the face of the supernatural. His speeches and dialogues are laced with biblical references and a calm demeanor, which gradually fray as the horror intensifies.
• Special: What makes Father Lyle special is his resilience and moral strength. Even when physically incapacitated, his mental fortitude and unwavering commitment to his faith and duty drive him to fight against the demonic presence, making him a hero in the eyes of the audience.

1. Role in the story:
• Secondary antagonist and victim.
2. Age range and description:
• Older priest, skeptical of Kyla.
3. Core Traits:
• Skeptical, cautious, devout.
4. Motivation; Want/Need:
• Want: To protect Father Gill and expose the truth about Kyla.
• Need: Survival against the demonic threat.
5. Wound:
• Previous encounters with the supernatural that shook his faith.
6. Likability/Relatability/Empathy:
• Likability: Father Lyle’s initial likability stems from his role as a fellow priest and Kyla’s confidante. He appears skeptical yet supportive, willing to help her uncover the truth. However, this likability plummets as he encounters Kyla’s possession firsthand. His quick fall to the possessed Kyla’s illness raises sympathy for his suffering, but also casts a shadow on his previous trustworthiness. He becomes a cautionary tale, highlighting the fragility of faith and the vulnerability of good intentions.
• Relatability: Father Lyle’s initial openness and willingness to listen could be relatable to anyone who has experienced doubt or uncertainty within their faith. His shock and fear upon encountering the demonic are also universally relatable, as they mirror the audience’s own reactions to the horror unfolding.
• Empathy: While Father Lyle evokes some initial sympathy due to his suffering, his connection to Kyla’s evil deeds and his quick demise limit the audience’s emotional attachment. However, his fate serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of Kyla’s actions and the fragility of human life in the face of demonic power.

• Likability: Initially presented as a mysterious and intriguing figure. His discovery of Kyla’s secret adds a layer of suspense and intrigue to the story. However, his brief screen time and the nature of his encounter with Kyla make it difficult to fully assess his likability.
• Relatability: The viewers may connect with Father Lyle’s dedication to uncovering the truth and his willingness to face danger to protect others. His quick demise at Kyla’s hands adds a sense of tragedy and raises the stakes of the story.
• Empathy: While Father Lyle’s time in the story is short, his suffering and his connection to Father Moore can still evoke empathy from the audience. The viewers will likely sympathize with his plight and feel a sense of injustice for his fate.

• Likability: Father Lyle’s initial role as a concerned observer and potential witness to Kyla’s secret makes him a somewhat enigmatic figure. His quick demise due to Kyla’s demonic breath adds a layer of mystery and tragedy to his character. However, his actions in uncovering Kyla’s secret and attempting to warn Father Moore demonstrate his courage and devotion to his faith.
• Relatability: Father Lyle’s vulnerability in the face of Kyla’s supernatural power can be relatable to anyone who has felt powerless against a larger force. His role as a victim of Kyla’s hidden evil can also generate sympathy and a desire for justice.
• Empathy: While Father Lyle’s screen time might be limited, his suffering and potential connection to Father Gill’s stroke can still evoke empathy from the audience. Witnessing his struggles can add to the overall sense of dread and the urgency to expose Kyla’s true nature.

Demon – This character’s journey: From an unseen force to a revealed and formidable adversary in the battle against the protagonists.

Demon – Actor Attractors:
• Known for Role: This role offers the opportunity for an actor to embody pure evil and terror, creating a memorable and iconic villain that will haunt audiences long after the credits roll.
• Most Interesting Character: The Demon is fascinating because it represents the embodiment of all human fears and desires, wielding its power with malevolent glee as it manipulates and corrupts those around it.
• Interesting Actions: The Demon’s most interesting actions could include possessing Father Gill, tormenting Kyla with hallucinations and nightmares, and orchestrating sinister events to further its own agenda.
• Introduction: Introduce the Demon as a malevolent and omnipresent force lurking in the shadows, its presence foreshadowed by ominous signs and portents of impending doom.
• Emotional Range: The Demon’s emotional range is characterized by sadistic delight, contemptuous malice, and cold, calculating cunning as it toys with its victims like puppets on strings.
• Subtext: The actor can convey the Demon’s insatiable hunger for power and control beneath its outward facade of otherworldly menace, as well as the twisted pleasure it derives from inflicting suffering on others.
• Interesting Relationships: The Demon’s most interesting relationship is with Kyla, where it serves as both adversary and tempter, pushing her to embrace her darkest desires and unleash her demonic powers.
• Unique Voice: The Demon’s unique voice could be presented as guttural and menacing, dripping with venom and malice, sending chills down the audience’s spine with every whispered threat and whispered promise.
• Special: What makes the Demon special is its ability to prey on the deepest fears and vulnerabilities of its victims, exploiting their weaknesses and driving them to the brink of madness in its relentless pursuit of domination.

1. Role in the story:
• The embodiment of evil, manipulating Kyla and possessing Father Gill.
2. Age range and description:
• Ageless, shape-shifting entity.
3. Core Traits:
• Manipulative, sadistic, deceptive.
4. Motivation; Want/Need:
• Want: To cause chaos, pain, and possess Kyla.
• Need: To maintain control and spread darkness.
5. Wound:
• None; a force of pure malevolence.
6. Likability/Relatability/Empathy:
• Likability: Kyla initially presents as highly likable. Her dedication to her caregiving duties and her unwavering faith in God make her appear compassionate, selfless, and worthy of trust. This likability deepens as she confronts Father Gill’s possession with bravery and determination. However, as cracks in her facade begin to show, her likability takes a sharp turn. Subtle gestures like flickers of darkness in her eyes or a too-long touch on Father Gill’s vulnerable areas create unease and suspicion, gradually shifting her from a sympathetic protagonist to a chilling antagonist.
• Relatability: Kyla’s initial struggle with doubt and fear is relatable. Many viewers can identify with her internal conflict between faith and fear, especially in the face of the supernatural. Her desire to protect Father Gill and do the right thing also taps into universal themes of compassion and selflessness. However, as her true nature is revealed, the audience’s connection shifts to a morbid fascination with the darkness lurking beneath the surface of someone seemingly so relatable.
• Empathy: Initially, Kyla evokes a strong sense of empathy. Her devotion to her calling, her fear of the unknown, and her struggle against a powerful entity all resonate with the audience’s capacity to understand and sympathize. However, as her demonic nature is revealed, empathy shifts into a chilling fascination with the depths of her darkness and the lengths to which she will go to maintain her facade. The audience may still find themselves drawn to her internal conflict, but it is a twisted, dark empathy that borders on horror and morbid curiosity.

• Likability: Initially, Demonic Kyla is the epitome of angelic virtue. Her devotion to Father Gill, her unwavering faith, and her gentle demeanor captivate everyone around her. This manufactured likability is her greatest weapon, a mask that lulls her victims into a false sense of security. As cracks begin to show, her likability plummets, replaced by a chilling aura of veiled malevolence.
• Relatability: Demonic Kyla’s initial facade of goodness allows the audience to relate to her on a surface level. Her anxieties about faith, her struggle against darkness, and her desire to help others can resonate with viewers who have grappled with similar internal conflicts. However, upon revealing her true nature, any semblance of relatability dissipates, replaced by a morbid fascination with the depths of her hidden evil.
• Empathy: While Kyla’s internal conflict might hold a flicker of potential empathy, it’s quickly overshadowed by her manipulative nature and the harm she inflicts. Witnessing her torment of Father Gill and Father Lyle evokes disgust and fear rather than sympathy. However, a twisted form of empathy may arise from understanding the torment she might be enduring within her own possessed consciousness.

• Likability: Initially, Demonic Kyla is the picture of saintly likability. Her gentle demeanor, attentive care for Father Gill, and unwavering faith in God make her instantly endearing. Her dedication to her calling and her pious demeanor add to the illusion of righteousness. However, as the cracks in her facade begin to show, her likability plummets. Subtle hints of malice in her eyes, predatory touches, and chilling pronouncements gradually reveal the darkness beneath the surface, creating a sense of unsettling unease.
• Relatability: While not directly relatable in her demonic nature, Kyla’s initial struggle with faith and fear can resonate with viewers. Her internal conflict between piety and the lure of darkness can be seen as a metaphor for the battle between good and evil within each individual. This creates a sense of fascination and morbid curiosity, even as her actions become increasingly sinister.
• Empathy: Demonic Kyla’s true nature evokes a complex mix of emotions. The audience may feel a twisted empathy for her internal struggle, the fear and desperation that fuel her descent into darkness. However, this empathy is constantly challenged by her manipulative actions and the harm she inflicts on others. The audience may find themselves simultaneously drawn to her hidden darkness and repelled by its destructive consequences.

• Likability:
Initially High: Demonic Kyla is meticulously crafted to appear highly likable at first. Her attentive caregiving for Father Gill, her unwavering faith, and her gentle demeanor disarm suspicion. She may even be seen as a pillar of strength and devotion, earning the audience’s initial trust and admiration.
Cracks Appear: As the story progresses, subtle cracks in her facade emerge. A fleeting flicker of darkness in her eyes, a touch lingering too long on Father Gill’s hand, a hint of cruelty in her voice when speaking of the “demon” within him. These moments, though brief, create a growing sense of unease and suspicion, gradually chipping away at the initial likability.
Full Revelation: When her true nature is revealed, any remaining likability is shattered. The audience witnesses her descent into madness, her fanatical zeal replacing her feigned piety. This transformation can be terrifying and unsettling, showcasing the depths of her darkness and solidifying her as a chilling antagonist.
• Relatability:
Struggle with Faith: Demonic Kyla’s internal conflict between her faith and her demonic urges can be surprisingly relatable. Many viewers may have grappled with their own doubts and struggles within their belief systems, creating a point of connection even with such a monstrous character.
Hidden Darkness: The concept of a hidden darkness, a monster lurking beneath a seemingly normal exterior, can resonate with anyone who has felt conflicted or unsure of their own inner demons. This underlying fear of the unknown within ourselves can make Demonic Kyla a terrifying reflection of our own potential vulnerabilities.
Tragic Deception: The revelation that she has been possessed all along adds a layer of tragedy to her character. The audience may see her not just as a monster, but as a victim herself, manipulated by a powerful entity into becoming a pawn in a larger game. This complexity can elicit a twisted form of empathy, forcing viewers to grapple with the consequences of demonic influence and the loss of innocence.
• Empathy:
Limited Empathy: While Demonic Kyla may evoke some initial empathy due to her struggles and tragic backstory, it is important to maintain a healthy distance from her actions. Her manipulative nature, her willingness to harm others, and her embrace of darkness must not be condoned.
Empathy for the Deception: It is possible to feel empathy for the human Kyla who was possessed, the innocent girl who lost control of her own body and soul. However, this empathy should not overshadow the monstrous acts committed by Demonic Kyla, ensuring a clear distinction between the victim and the perpetrator.
Empathy for the Fallen: The audience may also experience a morbid fascination with Demonic Kyla’s descent into madness. Witnessing her fall from grace, her embrace of darkness, and her ultimate confrontation with Father Moore can be a captivating spectacle, even as it evokes a sense of horror and dread.

[Vernall Ritchey]

ASSIGNMENT: Module 3: Lesson 5
Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment is: how my characters have more depth.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Likability/Relatability/Empathy

Protagonist: Kyla
• Likability: Kyla initially presents as highly likable. She’s a compassionate caregiver, dedicated to her faith, and possesses a gentle demeanor. This facade makes her possession all the more shocking and unsettling. As the truth unravels, her likability diminishes, replaced by a sense of unease and creeping dread.
• Relatability: Audiences may initially relate to Kyla’s desire to help others and her dedication to her spiritual path. However, her internal struggle against the demon and the potential darkness lurking within might resonate with anyone who has grappled with personal demons or moral ambiguity.
• Empathy: While Kyla appears empathetic towards Father Gill initially and while she’s In distress as she is terrified of demonic presence. Less so when her true motives are increasingly questionable. As the story progresses, audiences may struggle to find empathy for her as she loses control and the demonic entity takes hold. However, a flicker of vulnerability in her moments of resistance could offer a glimpse of the person she once was, sparking a sliver of empathy for her plight.

• Likability: Kyla is initially portrayed as highly likable. She is presented as a compassionate caregiver, dedicated to her faith and Father Gill’s well-being. Her attentiveness, gentle demeanor, and unwavering faith in God can evoke sympathy and admiration from the audience.
• Relatability: Kyla’s internal struggle against the demon can be relatable for viewers who have faced inner demons or battles with temptation. Her initial denial, fear, and attempts to control the darkness can resonate with human experiences of grappling with negative impulses or hidden desires.
• Empathy: As the story progresses and Kyla’s true nature is revealed, the audience’s empathy may shift. However, her vulnerability and the internal conflict between her faith and demonic nature can still elicit a sense of empathy for her plight. The audience may even feel conflicted, torn between their initial positive impression and the horrifying reality of her true nature.
Victim: Father Gill
• Likability: Father Gill is portrayed as a kind and wise figure, despite his physical limitations. Even through his fear and vulnerability, his faith remains strong. This makes him an easy character to root for and sympathize with.
• Relatability: Audiences may connect with Father Gill’s fear of the unknown and his struggle to maintain faith in the face of terrifying circumstances. His dependence on Kyla and his vulnerability also evoke a sense of protectiveness.
• Empathy: As a bedridden stroke victim, Father Gill is the main catalyst for empathy in the story. He is innocent and helpless against Kyla’s deception and the demonic forces threatening him. The audience’s fear and concern for him drive the narrative and fuel the tension.

• Likability: Father Gill is presented as a kind and wise mentor, a man weakened by illness but still clinging to his faith and humanity. His vulnerability and dependence on Kyla’s care can evoke sympathy and protectiveness from the audience.
• Relatability: The audience may find Father Gill relatable in his fear of the unknown and his struggle to maintain his faith in the face of a seemingly demonic threat. His helplessness and dependence on others can resonate with viewers who have faced similar situations of vulnerability or dependence.
• Empathy: As the story unfolds, the audience’s empathy for Father Gill may deepen as they witness him being manipulated and even endangered by Kyla. His fear, confusion, and potential spiritual torment can elicit strong emotional responses from viewers.

• Likability: Father Gill is immediately endearing. Despite his physical limitations, he retains a gentle spirit, radiating warmth and faith. His vulnerability makes him a sympathetic figure, and his trust in Kyla endears him to the audience. However, his role in the story is primarily to serve as a catalyst for Kyla’s internal struggle. His likability remains constant, acting as a counterpoint to Kyla’s descent into darkness.
• Relatability: Father Gill’s struggle with illness and his dependence on Kyla’s care are relatable to anyone who has experienced vulnerability or relied on others for support. His faith and his gentle demeanor further endear him to the audience, making them easily connect with his plight and root for his safety.
• Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Gill is central to the story’s emotional impact. His vulnerability, his trust in Kyla, and his fear of the unknown make him a powerful figure of sympathy. The horror of Kyla’s possession is amplified by the contrast between her actions and Father Gill’s innocence. The audience will feel deeply for him and fear the threat she poses to his soul.

• Likability: Father Gill, despite his physical limitations, manages to be highly likable. His gentle spirit, despite the circumstances, his vulnerability, and his trust in Kyla (initially) make him a sympathetic figure. The audience will naturally root for his safety and protection.
• Relatability: Father Gill’s vulnerability and dependence on Kyla’s care are relatable to anyone who has experienced physical limitations or relied on others for support. His gentle disposition and faith further endear him to the audience, making them connect with his plight and fear for his safety.
• Empathy: Father Gill’s role as the potential target of Kyla’s possession and his innocence in the face of evil draw strong empathy from the audience. Witnessing Kyla’s descent into madness and his realization of her true nature evoke a chilling understanding of his situation. The audience will feel deeply for him and fear for his safety as the story unfolds.

• Likability: Despite his limited physical presence, Father Gill is a very likable character. His vulnerability and dependence on Kyla make him a sympathetic figure. The audience will root for his safety and feel protective of him as Kyla’s true nature becomes clear.
• Relatability: Many viewers can relate to Father Gill’s experience of illness and dependence on others. His gentle spirit and unwavering faith further endear him to the audience, making them easily connect with his vulnerability and fear.
• Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Gill is crucial to the story’s emotional impact. His witnessing of Kyla’s descent into madness and the revelation of her true nature will evoke a strong sense of horror and empathy. His awareness of the situation adds a layer of tragedy and reinforces the audience’s desire to see him protected.

• Likability: Despite his physical limitations and fear, Father Gill retains a quiet strength and dignity. His vulnerability makes him a sympathetic figure, and his unwavering faith in God inspires admiration. The contrast between his gentle demeanor and Kyla’s growing darkness further enhances his likability.
• Relatability: Father Gill’s dependence on Kyla’s care and his reliance on his faith in the face of danger can resonate with anyone who has faced vulnerability or found strength in their beliefs. His witness to Kyla’s descent into madness adds a layer of horror and tragedy to his character.
• Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Gill is crucial to the emotional impact of the story. His fear, his confusion, and his eventual understanding of Kyla’s true nature all contribute to a powerful sense of connection and concern for his well-being. Witnessing his suffering at the hands of Kyla’s demonic possession can be both terrifying and heartbreaking.

Mentor Priest: Father Moore
• Likability: Initially, Father Moore is highly likable. His compassion, dedication to Sister Kyla, and unwavering faith in God make him appear trustworthy and supportive. This likability strengthens as he bravely confronts the supernatural occurrences, showcasing his commitment to protecting the innocent. However, as the story progresses, and he witnesses the full extent of Kyla’s possession, his likability takes a subtle hit. The trauma and fear visibly affect him, and his unwavering demeanor cracks at times, revealing a vulnerable human beneath the priestly vestments. This shift keeps him relatable but adds a layer of complexity that makes him even more captivating.
• Relatability: Father Moore’s initial calm and composed demeanor is relatable to anyone who has faced fear or uncertainty. His reliance on faith and ritual provides a familiar anchoring point for viewers, especially those with religious backgrounds. As the story progresses, and his fear becomes more apparent, he becomes even more relatable. His emotional journey mirrors the audience’s own as they face the horror of Kyla’s possession.
• Empathy: Father Moore evokes strong empathy. His vulnerability, his unwavering faith in spite of fear, and his determination to protect Father Gill make him a sympathetic figure. The audience will root for him to overcome his fear and ultimately help defeat Kyla. His potential connection with the demon adds a further layer of intrigue and empathy, raising questions about the nature of good and evil within him.

• Likability: Initially very likable. His compassion for Kyla and unwavering faith in God make him a comforting and supportive presence. However, his likability wanes as the supernatural events escalate. His fear and vulnerability become more apparent, shaking his initial composure. This shift in his demeanor adds depth and complexity to his character, keeping the audience invested in his journey.
• Relatability: Many viewers can relate to Father Moore’s struggles with faith and doubt in the face of the unknown. His fear and vulnerability are relatable emotions, especially in a situation involving demonic forces. His reliance on religious rituals and symbols provides a sense of hope and grounding, further connecting him to the audience.
• Empathy: The audience will feel empathy for Father Moore’s emotional and spiritual turmoil. Witnessing his fear and confusion as he confronts the darkness will evoke compassion. His connection to Kyla and his desperation to save Father Gill will further solidify the audience’s emotional investment in his character.

• Likability: Father Moore initially exudes a quiet charisma. His compassion and dedication to his faith are evident in his interactions with Kyla and Father Gill. He serves as a voice of reason and calm amidst the escalating supernatural events. However, as the demonic presence intensifies, his own fear and vulnerability become apparent. This vulnerability can make him both endearing and relatable, but also adds a layer of tension to his interactions with Kyla.
• Relatability: Father Moore’s initial skepticism and eventual acceptance of the supernatural can resonate with viewers who question their own beliefs in the face of the unknown. His reliance on faith and ritual in the face of fear is also relatable to those who find solace in their spiritual beliefs.
• Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Moore grows as he becomes increasingly affected by the demonic presence. His fear, his desperation to protect Father Gill, and his potential connection with the demon all contribute to a sense of emotional investment in his character. Witnessing his struggle against Kyla’s hidden darkness can be both terrifying and heartbreaking.

Fellow Priest & Confidante: Father Lyle
• Likability: Father Lyle’s initial likability stems from his role as a fellow priest and Kyla’s confidante. He appears skeptical yet supportive, willing to help her uncover the truth. However, this likability plummets as he encounters Kyla’s possession firsthand. His quick fall to the possessed Kyla’s illness raises sympathy for his suffering, but also casts a shadow on his previous trustworthiness. He becomes a cautionary tale, highlighting the fragility of faith and the vulnerability of good intentions.
• Relatability: Father Lyle’s initial openness and willingness to listen could be relatable to anyone who has experienced doubt or uncertainty within their faith. His shock and fear upon encountering the demonic are also universally relatable, as they mirror the audience’s own reactions to the horror unfolding.
• Empathy: While Father Lyle evokes some initial sympathy due to his suffering, his connection to Kyla’s evil deeds and his quick demise limit the audience’s emotional attachment. However, his fate serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of Kyla’s actions and the fragility of human life in the face of demonic power.

• Likability: Initially presented as a mysterious and intriguing figure. His discovery of Kyla’s secret adds a layer of suspense and intrigue to the story. However, his brief screen time and the nature of his encounter with Kyla make it difficult to fully assess his likability.
• Relatability: The viewers may connect with Father Lyle’s dedication to uncovering the truth and his willingness to face danger to protect others. His quick demise at Kyla’s hands adds a sense of tragedy and raises the stakes of the story.
• Empathy: While Father Lyle’s time in the story is short, his suffering and his connection to Father Moore can still evoke empathy from the audience. The viewers will likely sympathize with his plight and feel a sense of injustice for his fate.

• Likability: Father Lyle’s initial role as a concerned observer and potential witness to Kyla’s secret makes him a somewhat enigmatic figure. His quick demise due to Kyla’s demonic breath adds a layer of mystery and tragedy to his character. However, his actions in uncovering Kyla’s secret and attempting to warn Father Moore demonstrate his courage and devotion to his faith.
• Relatability: Father Lyle’s vulnerability in the face of Kyla’s supernatural power can be relatable to anyone who has felt powerless against a larger force. His role as a victim of Kyla’s hidden evil can also generate sympathy and a desire for justice.
• Empathy: While Father Lyle’s screen time might be limited, his suffering and potential connection to Father Gill’s stroke can still evoke empathy from the audience. Witnessing his struggles can add to the overall sense of dread and the urgency to expose Kyla’s true nature.

Antagonist: Demonic Kyla
• Likability: Kyla initially presents as highly likable. Her dedication to her caregiving duties and her unwavering faith in God make her appear compassionate, selfless, and worthy of trust. This likability deepens as she confronts Father Gill’s possession with bravery and determination. However, as cracks in her facade begin to show, her likability takes a sharp turn. Subtle gestures like flickers of darkness in her eyes or a too-long touch on Father Gill’s vulnerable areas create unease and suspicion, gradually shifting her from a sympathetic protagonist to a chilling antagonist.
• Relatability: Kyla’s initial struggle with doubt and fear is relatable. Many viewers can identify with her internal conflict between faith and fear, especially in the face of the supernatural. Her desire to protect Father Gill and do the right thing also taps into universal themes of compassion and selflessness. However, as her true nature is revealed, the audience’s connection shifts to a morbid fascination with the darkness lurking beneath the surface of someone seemingly so relatable.
• Empathy: Initially, Kyla evokes a strong sense of empathy. Her devotion to her calling, her fear of the unknown, and her struggle against a powerful entity all resonate with the audience’s capacity to understand and sympathize. However, as her demonic nature is revealed, empathy shifts into a chilling fascination with the depths of her darkness and the lengths to which she will go to maintain her facade. The audience may still find themselves drawn to her internal conflict, but it is a twisted, dark empathy that borders on horror and morbid curiosity.

• Likability: Initially, Demonic Kyla is the epitome of angelic virtue. Her devotion to Father Gill, her unwavering faith, and her gentle demeanor captivate everyone around her. This manufactured likability is her greatest weapon, a mask that lulls her victims into a false sense of security. As cracks begin to show, her likability plummets, replaced by a chilling aura of veiled malevolence.
• Relatability: Demonic Kyla’s initial facade of goodness allows the audience to relate to her on a surface level. Her anxieties about faith, her struggle against darkness, and her desire to help others can resonate with viewers who have grappled with similar internal conflicts. However, upon revealing her true nature, any semblance of relatability dissipates, replaced by a morbid fascination with the depths of her hidden evil.
• Empathy: While Kyla’s internal conflict might hold a flicker of potential empathy, it’s quickly overshadowed by her manipulative nature and the harm she inflicts. Witnessing her torment of Father Gill and Father Lyle evokes disgust and fear rather than sympathy. However, a twisted form of empathy may arise from understanding the torment she might be enduring within her own possessed consciousness.

• Likability: Initially, Demonic Kyla is the picture of saintly likability. Her gentle demeanor, attentive care for Father Gill, and unwavering faith in God make her instantly endearing. Her dedication to her calling and her pious demeanor add to the illusion of righteousness. However, as the cracks in her facade begin to show, her likability plummets. Subtle hints of malice in her eyes, predatory touches, and chilling pronouncements gradually reveal the darkness beneath the surface, creating a sense of unsettling unease.
• Relatability: While not directly relatable in her demonic nature, Kyla’s initial struggle with faith and fear can resonate with viewers. Her internal conflict between piety and the lure of darkness can be seen as a metaphor for the battle between good and evil within each individual. This creates a sense of fascination and morbid curiosity, even as her actions become increasingly sinister.
• Empathy: Demonic Kyla’s true nature evokes a complex mix of emotions. The audience may feel a twisted empathy for her internal struggle, the fear and desperation that fuel her descent into darkness. However, this empathy is constantly challenged by her manipulative actions and the harm she inflicts on others. The audience may find themselves simultaneously drawn to her hidden darkness and repelled by its destructive consequences.

• Likability:
Initially High: Demonic Kyla is meticulously crafted to appear highly likable at first. Her attentive caregiving for Father Gill, her unwavering faith, and her gentle demeanor disarm suspicion. She may even be seen as a pillar of strength and devotion, earning the audience’s initial trust and admiration.
Cracks Appear: As the story progresses, subtle cracks in her facade emerge. A fleeting flicker of darkness in her eyes, a touch lingering too long on Father Gill’s hand, a hint of cruelty in her voice when speaking of the “demon” within him. These moments, though brief, create a growing sense of unease and suspicion, gradually chipping away at the initial likability.
Full Revelation: When her true nature is revealed, any remaining likability is shattered. The audience witnesses her descent into madness, her fanatical zeal replacing her feigned piety. This transformation can be terrifying and unsettling, showcasing the depths of her darkness and solidifying her as a chilling antagonist.
• Relatability:
Struggle with Faith: Demonic Kyla’s internal conflict between her faith and her demonic urges can be surprisingly relatable. Many viewers may have grappled with their own doubts and struggles within their belief systems, creating a point of connection even with such a monstrous character.
Hidden Darkness: The concept of a hidden darkness, a monster lurking beneath a seemingly normal exterior, can resonate with anyone who has felt conflicted or unsure of their own inner demons. This underlying fear of the unknown within ourselves can make Demonic Kyla a terrifying reflection of our own potential vulnerabilities.
Tragic Deception: The revelation that she has been possessed all along adds a layer of tragedy to her character. The audience may see her not just as a monster, but as a victim herself, manipulated by a powerful entity into becoming a pawn in a larger game. This complexity can elicit a twisted form of empathy, forcing viewers to grapple with the consequences of demonic influence and the loss of innocence.
• Empathy:
Limited Empathy: While Demonic Kyla may evoke some initial empathy due to her struggles and tragic backstory, it is important to maintain a healthy distance from her actions. Her manipulative nature, her willingness to harm others, and her embrace of darkness must not be condoned.
Empathy for the Deception: It is possible to feel empathy for the human Kyla who was possessed, the innocent girl who lost control of her own body and soul. However, this empathy should not overshadow the monstrous acts committed by Demonic Kyla, ensuring a clear distinction between the victim and the perpetrator.
Empathy for the Fallen: The audience may also experience a morbid fascination with Demonic Kyla’s descent into madness. Witnessing her fall from grace, her embrace of darkness, and her ultimate confrontation with Father Moore can be a captivating spectacle, even as it evokes a sense of horror and dread.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment is: how important it is to have intriguing layers for each character, specifically crafted to enrich their depth and make them more compelling.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Character Intrigue
Kyla
1. Hidden Agenda: Kyla secretly plans to eliminate anyone who might uncover her true nature as the demon.
2. Competition: She competes with other exorcists like Father Moore to prove her dominance and maintain her facade as a capable caregiver.
3. Conspiracy: Kyla conspires with the demon to manipulate and control the church community from within.
4. Secret: She hides her demonic nature and the true extent of her powers from everyone, including those closest to her.
5. Deception: Kyla deceives Father Gill and the church by pretending to be a devout and caring soon-to-be nun.
6. Unspoken Wound: She harbors a deep-seated resentment from a traumatic past event that led to her possession, shaping her demonic actions.
7. Secret Identity: Kyla internally identifies as a powerful demonic entity, masking it under the guise of a compassionate caregiver.
Father Gill
1. Hidden Agenda: Father Gill tries to secretly gather information on the demonic activity within the church to protect others.
2. Competition: He feels a need to outshine other priests by being the one to solve the mystery of the demonic presence.
3. Conspiracy: Father Gill suspects a conspiracy within the church hierarchy and quietly investigates it.
4. Secret: He hides his increasing certainty about Kyla’s true nature to avoid being targeted directly.
5. Deception: He pretends to be more incapacitated than he is to gather information without raising suspicion.
6. Unspoken Wound: Father Gill is haunted by a previous failed exorcism that resulted in a tragic loss, driving his determination to succeed this time.
7. Secret Identity: He envisions himself as a silent protector, doing whatever it takes to save his parish, even from his bed.
Demon
1. Hidden Agenda: The Demon aims to completely corrupt Kyla and use her as a vessel to infiltrate and dominate the church.
2. Competition: It competes with other demonic entities for control over human souls and the physical world.
3. Conspiracy: The Demon orchestrates a larger scheme involving multiple entities to undermine the church’s faith and power.
4. Secret: The Demon’s true power and intentions are concealed, leading its victims to underestimate it.
5. Deception: It constantly deceives Kyla and others, making them believe they are acting of their own free will.
6. Unspoken Wound: The Demon has a past defeat at the hands of an exorcist, fueling its desire for revenge and absolute control.
7. Secret Identity: It sees itself as the ultimate corrupter, a master manipulator unseen by most.
Father Moore
1. Hidden Agenda: Father Moore secretly trains a select few in the ancient, more potent rituals of exorcism.
2. Competition: He strives to be recognized as the most knowledgeable and capable exorcist within the church.
3. Conspiracy: Father Moore suspects that there are traitors within the church and works covertly to expose them.
4. Secret: He hides his own doubts about the effectiveness of traditional exorcism methods.
5. Deception: He masks his fear and uncertainty behind a facade of unwavering faith and confidence.
6. Unspoken Wound: Father Moore is burdened by the memory of a failed exorcism that resulted in innocent deaths.
7. Secret Identity: He internally views himself as a guardian of humanity, secretly taking on the role of a spiritual warrior against darkness.
Father Lyle
1. Hidden Agenda: Father Lyle is working on a secret investigation to uncover the source of the demonic influence in the church.
2. Competition: He feels an unspoken rivalry with Father Moore, wanting to prove himself as a more effective exorcist.
3. Conspiracy: Father Lyle believes there is a deeper, more organized demonic plot at play and seeks to uncover it.
4. Secret: He hides his own crisis of faith from his peers to avoid appearing weak.
5. Deception: Father Lyle pretends to be fully capable despite his growing physical and spiritual weakness after Kyla’s attack.
6. Unspoken Wound: He carries the burden of a traumatic past exorcism where he lost a loved one, influencing his actions and decisions.
7. Secret Identity: He sees himself as a guardian of faith, struggling silently with his doubts while presenting a strong front.
These intriguing layers for each character add complexity and depth, making them more engaging and multi-dimensional for both actors and the audience.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment: A clearer picture of what attracts actors/actresses to a role.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey’s – Actor attractors for (The Exorcist).
Movie Title: The Exorcist
Lead Character Name: Ellen Burstyn (Chris MacNeil)
1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role? Based on a successful book. One of the most mysterious and frightening aspects of any movie at that time. The role was in demand by many.
2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie? Her ability to be loving and nurturing to hysterical and frightened was spot on. Although terrified in the beginning she calmed herself when she realized that only a priest performing an exorcism could help.
3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the movie? While Regan is possessed and thrashing around, the priests are taken aback and scared, but at this point, Ellen Burstyn (Chris MacNeil) remains calm and helpful.
4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor? She is introduced as a busy actress who is devoted to single parenting her daughter whom she shows much love and affection for.
5. What is this character’s emotional range? Goes from loving, and nurturing to terrified.
6. What subtext can the actor play? Remaining calm and frantic at the same time shown by her constant smoking and drinking while at the bottom of the stairs and outside the door.
7. What is the most interesting relationship this character has? Her loving relationship with her daughter Regan who is possessed by a demon.
8. How is this character’s unique voice presented? Her love and nurturing for her daughter Regan despite being equally terrified of her and for her.
9. What makes this character special and unique? Her ability to be afraid, loving, and caring at the same time. Sensing no matter how demonic her daughter is, she will always be with her.
10. (Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.) Chris finds Regan plunging a crucifix violently into her vagina. When Chris tries to stop her, Regan assaults her with impossible strength, and the furniture around the room starts to move on its own. As Chris watches in horror, her daughter’s head turns completely around backward.

Lead Character Name: Jason Miller (Father Karras)
1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role? Based on a successful book. One of the most mysterious and frightening aspects of any movie at that time. The role was in demand by many.
2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie? A genuinely nice person/priest who is determined to exorcise Regan.
3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the movie? Performs an exorcism.
4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor? A priest who must exorcise a demonic entity from a teenage girl.
5. What is this character’s emotional range? Goes from believing in God almighty to doubting his faith. Just as much as he believes in God, he equally disbelieves in the devil and demonic possession/exorcism.
6. What subtext can the actor play? Remaining calm and frantic at the same time and showing renewed relentlessness in his faith in God.
7. What is the most interesting relationship this character has? His relationship with God is his reason for living.
8. How is this character’s unique voice presented? His belief in Catholicism he knows to be the true answer to defeating the demonic presence in Regan.
9. What makes this character special and unique? His ability to outsmart a demon who knows his uttermost fears and who tries to use them against him.
10. (Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.) Regan begins to talk to Karras in the voice of his mother, and he starts to break down – he strangles her.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment: is how the story is becoming clearer.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey’s – Genre Conventions
Act 1:
Opening: Introduce Kyla in her caregiving role, portraying her as compassionate and dedicated. Inciting Incident: The failed exorcism of Father Gill, revealing the presence of demonic forces. Turning Point 1: Kyla’s initial denial of her demonic nature, clinging to her identity as a caring nun despite the unsettling events.
Act 2:
New Plan: Kyla grapples with her emerging demonic urges while attempting to maintain her facade of normalcy. Plan in Action: Kyla’s internal struggle intensifies as she becomes increasingly paranoid and manipulative, resorting to extreme measures to suppress her demonic nature. Midpoint Turning Point: The revelation of Kyla’s true demonic identity, shattering her illusions and forcing her to confront the reality of her existence.
Act 3:
Rethink Everything: Kyla faces the consequences of her actions and must come to terms with her true nature, leading to a crisis of faith and identity. New Plan: Kyla fully embraces her demonic nature and unleashes her powers, initiating a final confrontation with Father Gill. Turning Point 2: Kyla’s demonic nature is fully revealed, culminating in a climactic battle with Father Gill that results in a major shift in the story’s dynamics.
Act 4:
Climax/Ultimate Expression of Conflict: The final showdown between Kyla and Father Gill, where Kyla’s demonic powers are unleashed in a terrifying display of violence and manipulation. Resolution: The aftermath of the confrontation, with Kyla embracing her demonic identity and embracing her newfound power, while Father Gill’s fate hangs in the balance.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment: is how the 4 Act Structure tightens the 3 Act Structure.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey’s – 4 Act Transformational Structure
Concept = Kyla an attentive caregiver and soon-to-be nun attempts to exorcise a demon in Father Gill a bedridden priest, but the exorcism fails as it becomes clear that the real battle lies not in his exorcism but in hers. She is the true demonic entity.

Main Conflict and Stakes: The primary conflict is Kyla’s battle against supernatural forces and her attempts to exorcise Father Gill from demonic possession. The stakes are high as Kyla’s safety and the fate of Father Gill’s soul are at risk.
Old Ways:
• Attentive kind Caregiver
• Committed to her Catholic faith
• Brave and courageous
• Prayer heals all
New Ways:
• Evil Demon
• Paranoid
• Fanatical and Manipulative
• Sadistic

Protagonist: Kyla’s 4-Act Structure
Act 1:

Opening: Introduce Kyla in her caregiving role, showing her compassion and dedication.
Inciting Incident: The failed exorcism of Father Gill, which sets the stage for the revelation of Kyla’s true nature.
Turning Point 1: Kyla’s demonic nature is hinted at, locking her into a struggle with her identity and her role.

Act 2:

New Plan: Kyla’s caregiving is juxtaposed with her subtle yet growing inappropriate sexual advances and innuendoes toward Father Gill.
Plan in Action: Kyla attempts to maintain her facade by suppressing her anger towards Father Gill’s rejection while dealing with the complications arising from her demonic side.
Turning Point 2 / Midpoint: The revelation of Kyla’s true demonic identity, shifts the stakes and the direction of the story.
Act 3:
Hero Rethinks Everything: Kyla must now confront the consequences of her actions and the reality of her existence.
New Plan: Kyla can no longer contain her demonic urges and decides to fully embrace her demonic nature and molest Father Gill, leading to a confrontation with Father Gill.
Turning Point 3 / Huge failure – Major shift: Kyla’s demonic nature is fully revealed, and she is confronted by Father Gill in a climactic battle.

Act 4:

Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: Kyla faces Father Gill, Father Moore, and Father Lyle in a final battle of wills, where her demonic nature is fully unleashed.
Resolution: The aftermath of the confrontation, with Kyla’s fate and the impact on Father Gill’s life as well as the new status quo for Kyla and Father Moore and Father Lyle. The ultimate confrontation is not only with Father Gill but with the demonic entity that resides within Kyla herself. Manifest as a physical form, an internal voice, or even a dark reflection of her personality. Through this internal battle, Kyla confronts her fears, doubts, and temptations. She must choose between giving in to the demon’s darkness or embracing the light within her, ultimately forging a path toward self-acceptance and redemption.

[Vernall Ritchey]

ASSIGNMENT: Lesson 3
Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment: is how helpful it is to get your 3 Act Structure down tight as soon as possible.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey’s – Transformational Journey

KYLA
Arc Beginning: An attentive Caregiver and soon-to-be nun deeply committed to her faith, showing compassion and dedication to Father Gill’s well-being.
Arc Ending: Fanatical and manipulative Caregiver who resorts to extreme and sadistic measures performing exorcisms while transforming into a terrifying and seductive demonic individual.
Internal Journey: From a brave and determined devout soon-to-be nun. Facing her fears with unwavering resolve and Catholic faith.
The protagonist’s internal goals evolve throughout the script as she goes from fulfilling her duties as a nun to seeking protection and purification from evil forces. These internal goals reflect her deeper desires for safety, protection, and spiritual well-being.
External Journey: Paranoid, fearful, desperate, terrifying, and faithless.
The protagonist’s external goals also evolve throughout the script as she navigates the immediate circumstances and challenges she faces. These external goals reflect her need for safety, protection, and understanding of the supernatural forces at play.
Old Ways:
• Attentive kind Caregiver
• Committed to her Catholic faith
• Brave and courageous
• Prayer heals all
New Ways:
• Evil Demon
• Paranoid
• Fanatical and Manipulative
• Sadistic

ChatGpt 3.5
Arc Begins: At the beginning of the story, Kyla is portrayed as an attentive caregiver and devout aspirant nun, driven by her compassion and faith. She is dedicated to her role in caring for Father Gill, viewing it as a sacred duty. However, beneath her outward appearance of kindness and piety, there are subtle hints of inner turmoil and suppressed emotions.
Arc Ends: By the conclusion of the journey, Kyla has undergone a profound transformation. She embraces her true demonic nature, shedding the facade of benevolence and revealing the darkness that resides within her. No longer bound by the constraints of morality and faith, Kyla embraces her identity as the demonic entity, fully embracing her power and desires.
Internal Journey: On a psychological and emotional level, Kyla experiences a tumultuous internal journey. Initially, she grapples with feelings of guilt and conflict as she confronts her demonic nature. However, as the story progresses, Kyla’s internal struggle gives way to acceptance and empowerment, culminating in her embrace of her true identity.
External Journey: On an action and experience level, Kyla’s journey is marked by a series of escalating conflicts and confrontations. From her initial attempts to exorcise the demon from Father Gill to her eventual confrontation with her own demonic nature, Kyla’s external journey is characterized by intense physical and supernatural battles that mirror her internal turmoil.
Old Ways: Kyla’s old ways are characterized by her facade of compassion and devotion, masking the darkness and conflict within her. She suppresses her true nature in an effort to maintain her identity as a caregiver and aspiring nun, denying the demonic urges that threaten to consume her.
New Ways: By the end of the story, Kyla’s new ways reflect her acceptance and embrace of her true demonic identity. She no longer hides behind a facade of benevolence, instead embracing her power and desires without remorse or restraint. Kyla’s transformation is complete, and she fully embraces the darkness within her, embracing her true demonic nature.

[Vernall Ritchey]

ASSIGNMENT: Lesson 4
Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment: is how helpful it is to get your 3 Act Structure down tight as soon as possible.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey’s – Subtext Plot
Subtext Plot: Layering
Throughout the story, the audience is led to believe that Father Gill, the bedridden priest is possessed by a demon, but in actuality, it is Kyla who is possessed by the demon (as revealed in Act III).

ChatGpt 3.5
Sure! Here are seven possible subtext plots for your horror screenplay about Kyla’s transformational journey:
1. Scheme and Investigation: Kyla, driven by her demonic nature, begins to scheme and manipulate those around her, planting seeds of doubt and fear. Meanwhile, Father Gill, unaware of Kyla’s true identity, investigates the mysterious occurrences surrounding the failed exorcism, uncovering clues that lead him closer to the shocking truth.
2. Layering: Beneath the surface of Kyla’s seemingly devout exterior lies a hidden layer of darkness and malevolence. As the story unfolds, this hidden truth is gradually revealed, exposing the true nature of Kyla’s demonic identity and the sinister forces at play.
3. Someone Hides Who They Are: Kyla, initially hiding her demonic nature, leaves subtle clues that hint at her true identity. Father Gill, unaware of Kyla’s dark secret, begins to investigate the strange occurrences surrounding the failed exorcism, eventually discovering the horrifying truth with devastating repercussions.
4. The Fish Out of Water: As Kyla’s demonic nature begins to emerge, she finds herself in increasingly unfamiliar and terrifying situations. Forced to confront her inner demons, Kyla must navigate a world of supernatural threats and moral ambiguity, testing the limits of her faith and sanity.
5. Superior Position: The audience is privy to Kyla’s true demonic nature, while Father Gill remains oblivious to the sinister forces at play. This dual perspective allows viewers to experience the tension and suspense of Kyla’s transformation, while also witnessing Father Gill’s unwitting descent into darkness.
6. A Major Cover Up: In the aftermath of the failed exorcism, Kyla orchestrates a complex cover-up to conceal her true demonic identity. Manipulating those around her, Kyla employs a series of schemes and lies to maintain her facade of normalcy, while secretly plotting her next move in the ongoing battle against Father Gill and the forces of good.
7. Competitive Agendas: As Kyla’s demonic nature begins to assert itself, she finds herself locked in a deadly game of cat and mouse with Father Gill. Both characters vie for control and dominance, using cunning strategies and supernatural powers to outmaneuver each other in a desperate bid for survival.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment: is how important it is to digest the characters in small pieces first.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey’s – Intentional Lead Characters

Character: Kyla Role: Protagonist Journey: Kyla begins as a devoted caregiver and soon-to-be nun, driven by compassion and faith. However, her encounter with the demon possessing Father Gill shatters her beliefs and forces her to confront her own inner demons. As she grapples with her newfound identity as the true demonic entity, Kyla embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery, redemption, and ultimately, acceptance. Unique: Kyla’s unique background as a caregiver and aspiring nun adds depth to her character, highlighting her moral and spiritual conflicts. Her journey from altruism to darkness provides a compelling arc that resonates with audiences, exploring themes of faith, identity, and the nature of evil. Intentional: Kyla’s character serves as the emotional core of the story, anchoring the audience’s connection to the narrative. Her internal struggles and moral dilemmas drive the plot forward, while her journey reflects the overarching themes of the horror genre, delivering a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche.
Character: Father Gill Role: Catalyst Journey: Father Gill initially appears as a bedridden priest possessed by a demon, setting the stage for the supernatural conflict at the heart of the story. As the catalyst for Kyla’s transformation, Father Gill’s character undergoes a subtle evolution, challenging Kyla’s beliefs and serving as a mirror for her own inner turmoil. Unique: Father Gill’s unique position as both victim and vessel for the demonic presence adds complexity to his character. His background as a priest imbues him with moral authority and spiritual significance, heightening the stakes of Kyla’s struggle. Despite his limited physical presence, Father Gill’s influence reverberates throughout the narrative, driving the protagonist’s journey. Intentional: Father Gill’s character is intentionally crafted to catalyze Kyla’s transformation and deepen the story’s thematic exploration. His role as a symbolic figure of faith and corruption underscores the existential and supernatural themes of the horror genre, enhancing the narrative tension and emotional resonance of the story.
Character: Demon Role: Antagonist Journey: The Demon embodies pure malevolence and serves as the primary obstacle to Kyla’s journey of self-discovery and redemption. Its relentless pursuit of power and destruction drives the narrative conflict, challenging Kyla’s resolve and threatening to consume her soul. Unique: The Demon’s insidious presence and otherworldly nature make it a formidable antagonist, capable of manipulating both physical and spiritual realms. Its origins and motivations remain shrouded in mystery, adding an element of dread and unpredictability to the story. Intentional: The Demon’s character is intentionally designed to embody the essence of evil and test the limits of Kyla’s faith and humanity. Its relentless pursuit of Kyla amplifies the horror elements of the story, heightening the sense of dread and suspense. As the ultimate antagonist, the Demon drives the narrative tension and pushes Kyla to confront her darkest fears, ensuring a gripping and emotionally resonant journey for both the character and the audience.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vision: To captivate audiences by writing, producing, and directing smart, well-written, blockbuster scripts.
What I learned from doing this assignment: is how important it is to know the character structure.
Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey’s – Title, Concept, and Character Structure!
Title =EviLives

High Concept = Kyla an attentive caregiver and soon-to-be nun attempts to exorcise a demon in Father Gill a bedridden priest, but the exorcism fails as it becomes clear that the real battle lies not in his exorcism but in hers. She is the true demonic entity.

Character Structure = Protagonist versus Antagonist

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vernall Ritchey

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.

[Vernall Ritchey]

BWTV-AI Module 1 – Lesson 4:

Subject line: (Vernall Ritchey’s) Intriguing Character Layers

What I learned doing this assignment is the thought process that goes into how to create characters that are engaging.

ASSIGNMENT 1:

Opening Scene:

1. Elizabeth Jennings sucks a man’s penis as he spills the beans giving up important information.

2. Philip Jennings (Elizabeth’s husband ) and another man waiting to execute a hit.

3. Elizabeth pays a man to look out his window for a few minute.

4. Philip and his accomplice chase the Russian Defector into an alley where they have an intense fight scene.

5. Philip’s accomplice gets stabbed in the stomach.

6. Philip catches the Russian Defector, Elizabeth drives up, they throw the Russian Defector in the trunk of the car and drive away.

7. Philip and Elizabeth are at odds with dropping the accomplice off at the hospital. Elizabeth is willing to let him die so they can make the bust. Philip disagrees and they drop their accomplice off at a hospital for help.

8. Philip and Elizabeth missed the bust due to untimeliness.

9. At Home in their garage – the Russian captor tries to bribe Philip with $3 million if he lets him go.

10. Philip pushes the man back into the trunk.

11. The Jennings daughter takes a cup of coffee and leaves for school.

12. Elizabeth goes into the garage and pauses before opening the trunk. She has a flashback to Soviet Union in 1960 when the Russian captor threw her into a submissive hold on the ground, tearing off her sweats and raping her.

13. Philip meets with Martha who calls him Clark unknowing his real identity. Clark pumps Martha for secret FBI information.

14. Philip goes through a hidden storage space behind a circuit box and plays a tape of Elizabeth’s encounter with the man she met at the beginning of the episode in the bar. He listens to some of her sexual exploits with the man.

15. Elizabeth wants to kill the Russian defector captor. Philip disagrees.

16. Philip suggests that they defect themselves and become millionaires, and “a lot of our problems just go away.” Elizabeth isn’t amused. They argue about their disagreeing views.

17. Philip and the kids are going to the mall where he hears a man make a sexual suggestive comment to his daughter.

18. Philip kisses the back of Elizabeth’s neck and she tells him to stop, he doesn’t until she pulls a knife on him. Philip reminds her that she’s his wife, and Elizabeth says, “Is that right?”

19. Jennings’ go over to welcome some new neighbors who’ve just moved in. They meet Agent Stan Beeman, who works for the FBI and tells them he works in counterintelligence.

20. Elizabeth and Philip have an intense argument about whether or not their cover might be blown. Philip brings up letting the Russian captor go and accepting his $3 million offer and living happily in America. Elizabeth goes ballistic, she asks if he’s joking stating her cause for living is to be a spy for Mother Russia.

21. Agent Beeman comes over and asks Philip for some jumper cables. Philip brings Agent Beeman into the garage, who notices the make and model of the car. Philip opens the trunk, and instructs the Russian captor to stay quiet.

22. Back at FBI headquarters, Agent Beeman meets a CIA agent about the kidnapping of the Russian captor. Beeman says that if Russians kidnapped the defector, they’d probably keep him close to home.

23. Later, Philip pulls the Russian captor from the trunk and tells Elizabeth he’s taking the Russian captor to make a deal. She tells him she’s a KGB officer and would die and lose everything before betraying her country. She decides to finish things herself, she fights Philip then . . .

24. . . . Elizabeth beats the Russian captor so hard, that at one point she kicks his head through the garage’s drywall. She picks up a crowbar and the Russian captor tells Elizabeth he’s sorry and never meant to hurt her. “They let us have our way with the cadets. It was part of the job a perk,” he says.

25. Philip asks what he’s talking about and to the Russian captor, “how did you hurt her.” Philips looks at Elizabeth and ask, “how did he hurt you.” Elizabeth drops the crowbar and says nothing but “do what you want with him, take him to the Americans if that’s what you want.”

26. As she’s walking away, Philip grabs the Russian captor, pushes him up against the wall, and chokes him until he dies. Elizabeth turns around and watches. He lets the Russian captor ‘s body fall, then turns to look at Elizabeth, who looks at him and says nothing.

27. We next see Philip and Elizabeth driving in silence. They dump the Russian’s defector body. They get back into the car and look at each other. Saying nothing, Elizabeth climbs across the car and kisses Philip. They then have a steamy make out session, right there in the car.

28. The next morning, Philip and Elizabeth are helping conceal each other’s wounds and bruises. They eat breakfast with their kids when the phone rings. Elizabeth answers and looks stunned. Not saying anything, she looks at Philip.

29. Philip winds up in the backyard of Errol, the man who’d hit on Philip’s 13-year-old daughter at the store earlier. This doesn’t end well for Errol, who winds up severely beaten and with the wrong end of a barbecue fork stuck through his hand.

30. After 15 years of marriage, Elizabeth gets around to telling Philip some of her real backstory: Her father died fighting Nazis and her real name.

31. That night, a curious Agent Beeman breaks into the Jennings’ garage and snoops around for clues, examining the car and even opening its trunk. Seeing nothing amiss, Beeman shakes his head and opens the garage just enough to make his way out.

32. Meanwhile, we see, that Philip has been standing there watching and holding a gun, ready to kill Beeman even if he were to take the snooping further.

ASSIGNMENT 2:

Intriguing Layers:

·

John Doe:

·

Role: Protagonist with amnesia recruited by a DEA Task

Force.

·

Hidden Agendas: John has a dual life as an undercover DEA

Agent and a drug dealer.

·

Competition: Rises in rank as a drug dealer while working

undercover.

·

Conspiracies: Uncovering the truth about G’s attempt to

kill him.

·

Secrets: John’s past, including his identity and the

reason behind his amnesia.

·

Deception: Leading a double life, deceiving both the DEA

and the drug cartel.

·

Wound: Emotional trauma from G’s betrayal and attempted

murder.

·

Secret Identity: Maintaining his secret identity as both

a DEA Agent and a drug dealer.

·

FBI Chief Toni Graves:

·

Role: Leader of the FBI team.

·

Hidden Agendas: Determined to stop human trafficking at

any cost.

·

Competition: Against the criminal organizations involved

in trafficking.

·

Conspiracies: Investigating deeper connections within the

criminal network.

·

Secrets: Personal struggles or sacrifices she makes for

the greater good.

·

Deception: Potential undercover operations within the FBI.

·

Wound: Emotional toll from dealing with heinous crimes.

·

Secret Identity: Unrevealed personal aspects beyond her

role as FBI Chief.

·

Mikef:

·

Role: Skeptical but reliable member of the team.

·

Hidden Agendas: Uncovering the truth behind John’s

abilities.

·

Competition: Internal conflicts within the team.

·

Conspiracies: Doubts about FBI Chief Toni Graves’

decisions.

·

Secrets: Personal motivations for being part of the team.

·

Deception: Shifting from skepticism to adaptiveness.

·

Wound: Emotional struggles, especially regarding Dade’s

wife.

·

Secret Identity: Unveiling personal background and

motivations.

·

Ni:

·

Role: Determined and resourceful team member.

·

Hidden Agendas: Passionate about finding missing girls.

·

Competition: Against time and criminal elements.

·

Conspiracies: Uncovering potential larger criminal

networks.

·

Secrets: Personal frustrations and motivations.

·

Deception: Willing to take risks to achieve goals.

·

Wound: Frustration and impatience in challenging

situations.

·

Secret Identity: Unveiling personal struggles and history.

·

Jones:

·

Role: Observant and analytical member of the team.

·

Hidden Agendas: Questioning decisions and seeking the

truth.

·

Competition: Against potential threats and challenges.

·

Conspiracies: Challenging the status quo when necessary.

·

Secrets: Personal motivations for being vigilant.

·

Deception: Questioning the identity of the antagonist.

·

Wound: Constantly questioning decisions for the team’s

safety.

·

Secret Identity: Uncovering potential hidden talents or

skills.

·

Dade:

·

Role: Tough and determined protagonist.

·

Hidden Agendas: Emotional investment in the mission to

save his wife.

·

Competition: Against those who hold his wife hostage.

·

Conspiracies: Uncovering the motives behind the

kidnapping.

·

Secrets: Authority and expertise in high-pressure

situations.

·

Deception: Carefully measuring words to gather

information.

·

Wound: Emotional struggles and desperation.

·

Secret Identity: Revealing the depth of his determination.

·

Hitch:

·

Role: Confident and observant team member.

·

Hidden Agendas: Providing a voice of reason and support.

·

Competition: Focused on getting answers, even through

force.

·

Conspiracies: Uncovering hidden truths within the team.

·

Secrets: Calming the team in difficult situations.

·

Deception: Quick to take action without questioning

orders.

·

Wound: Unrevealed personal struggles or sacrifices.

·

Secret Identity: Depth beyond the practical and

level-headed exterior.

·

Jimenez:

·

Role: Loyal and skilled team member.

·

Hidden Agendas: Providing unwavering support to teammates.

·

Competition: Quick thinking and resourcefulness in

high-pressure situations.

·

Conspiracies: Reacting with urgency to unforeseen

challenges.

·

Secrets: Professional demeanor masking personal

frustrations.

·

Deception: Cool and confident demeanor in challenging

situations.

·

Wound: Resourcefulness and quick thinking in difficult

moments.

·

Secret Identity: Unrevealed personal background and

motivations.

·

G:

·

Role: Antagonist, John’s ex-best friend and partner in

crime.

·

Hidden Agendas: Jealousy of John’s success and attempts

to kill him.

[Vernall Ritchey]

BWTV-AI Module 1 – Lesson 3:

Subject line: (Vernall Ritchey’s) Engaging Main Characters

What I learned doing this assignment is the thought process that goes into how to create characters that are engaging.

ASSIGNMENT 1:

Example Show: 24 – Episode 2

• A. Role in the show: Jack Bauer head of the Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU)

• B. Unique Purpose / Expertise:

• Highly skilled CTU Agent.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Subject line: (Vernall Ritchey’s) Engaging Main Characters

What I learned doing this assignment is the thought process that goes into how to create characters that are engaging.

ASSIGNMENT 1:

Example Show: 24 – Episode 2

• A. Role in the show: Jack Bauer head of the Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU)

• B. Unique Purpose / Expertise:

• Highly skilled CTU Agent.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Assignment : Module 3: Lesson 5

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

What I learned from doing this assignment is: how my characters have more depth.

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Likability/Relatability/Empathy

Protagonist: Kyla

· Likability: Kyla initially presents

as highly likable. She’s a compassionate caregiver, dedicated to her faith, and

possesses a gentle demeanor. This facade makes her possession all the more

shocking and unsettling. As the truth unravels, her likability diminishes, replaced

by a sense of unease and creeping dread.

· Relatability: Audiences may

initially relate to Kyla’s desire to help others and her dedication to her

spiritual path. However, her internal struggle against the demon and the

potential darkness lurking within might resonate with anyone who has grappled

with personal demons or moral ambiguity.

· Empathy: While Kyla appears empathetic towards Father Gill initially and while she’s In distress as

she is terrified of demonic presence. Less so when her true motives are increasingly questionable. As the story progresses, audiences may struggle to find empathy for her as she loses

control and the demonic entity takes hold. However, a flicker of vulnerability in her moments of resistance could offer a glimpse of the person she once was, sparking a sliver of empathy for her plight.

· Likability: Kyla is initially portrayed as highly likable. She is presented as a compassionate caregiver, dedicated to her faith and Father Gill’s well-being. Her attentiveness, gentle demeanor, and unwavering faith in God can evoke sympathy and admiration from the audience.

· Relatability: Kyla’s internal struggle against the demon can be relatable for viewers who have faced inner demons or battles with temptation. Her initial denial, fear, and attempts to control the darkness can resonate with human experiences of grappling with negative impulses or hidden desires.

· Empathy: As the story progresses and Kyla’s true nature is revealed, the audience’s empathy may shift. However, her vulnerability and the internal conflict between her faith and demonic nature can still elicit a sense of empathy for her plight. The audience may even feel conflicted, torn between their initial positive impression and the horrifying reality of her true nature.

Victim: Father Gill

· Likability: Father Gill is portrayed as a kind and wise figure, despite his physical limitations. Even

through his fear and vulnerability, his faith remains strong. This makes him an easy character to root for and sympathize with.

· Relatability: Audiences may connect with Father Gill’s fear of the unknown and his struggle to maintain faith in the face of terrifying circumstances. His dependence on Kyla and his vulnerability also evoke a sense of protectiveness.

· Empathy: As a bedridden stroke victim, Father Gill is the main catalyst for empathy in the story. He is innocent and helpless against Kyla’s deception and the demonic forces threatening him. The audience’s fear and concern for him drive the narrative and fuel the tension.

· Likability: Father Gill is presented as a kind and wise mentor, a man weakened by illness but still clinging to his faith and humanity. His vulnerability and dependence on Kyla’s care can evoke sympathy and protectiveness from the audience.

· Relatability: The audience may find Father Gill relatable in his fear of the unknown and his struggle to maintain his faith in the face of a seemingly demonic threat. His helplessness and dependence on others can resonate with viewers who have faced similar situations of vulnerability or dependence.

· Empathy: As the story unfolds, the audience’s empathy for Father Gill may deepen as they witness him being manipulated and even endangered by Kyla. His fear, confusion, and potential spiritual torment can elicit strong emotional responses from viewers.

· Likability: Father Gill is immediately endearing. Despite his physical limitations, he retains a gentle spirit, radiating warmth and faith. His vulnerability makes him a sympathetic figure, and his trust in Kyla endears him to the audience. However, his role in the story is primarily to serve as a catalyst for Kyla’s internal struggle. His likability remains constant, acting as a counterpoint to Kyla’s descent into darkness.

· Relatability: Father Gill’s struggle with illness and his dependence on Kyla’s care are relatable to anyone who has experienced vulnerability or relied on others for support. His faith and his gentle demeanor further endear him to the audience, making them easily connect with his plight and root for his safety.

· Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Gill is central to the story’s emotional impact. His vulnerability, his trust in Kyla, and his fear of the unknown make him a powerful figure of sympathy. The horror of Kyla’s possession is amplified by the contrast between her actions and Father Gill’s innocence. The audience will feel deeply for him and fear the threat she poses to his soul.

· Likability: Father Gill, despite his physical limitations, manages to be highly likable. His gentle spirit, despite the circumstances, his vulnerability, and his trust in Kyla (initially) make him a sympathetic figure. The audience will naturally root for his safety and protection.

· Relatability: Father Gill’s vulnerability and dependence on Kyla’s care are relatable to anyone who has experienced physical limitations or relied on others for support. His gentle disposition and faith further endear him to the audience, making them connect with his plight and fear for his safety.

· Empathy: Father Gill’s role as the potential target of Kyla’s possession and his innocence in the face of evil draw strong empathy from the audience. Witnessing Kyla’s descent into madness and his realization of her true nature evoke a chilling understanding of his situation. The audience will feel deeply for him and fear for his safety as the story unfolds.

· Likability: Despite his limited physical presence, Father Gill is a very likable character. His vulnerability and dependence on Kyla make him a sympathetic figure. The audience will root for his safety and feel protective of him as Kyla’s true nature becomes clear.

· Relatability: Many viewers can relate to Father Gill’s experience of illness and dependence on others. His gentle spirit and unwavering faith further endear him to the audience, making them easily connect with his vulnerability and fear.

· Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Gill is crucial to the story’s emotional impact. His witnessing of Kyla’s descent into madness and the revelation of her true nature will evoke a strong sense of horror and empathy. His awareness of the situation adds a layer of tragedy and reinforces the audience’s desire to see him protected.

· Likability: Despite his physical limitations and fear, Father Gill retains a quiet strength and dignity. His vulnerability makes him a sympathetic figure, and his unwavering faith in God inspires admiration. The contrast between his gentle demeanor and Kyla’s growing darkness further enhances his likability.

· Relatability: Father Gill’s dependence on Kyla’s care and his reliance on his faith in the face of danger can resonate with anyone who has faced vulnerability or found strength in their beliefs. His witness to Kyla’s descent into madness adds a layer of horror and tragedy to his character.

· Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Gill is crucial to the emotional impact of the story. His fear, his confusion, and his eventual understanding of Kyla’s true nature all contribute to a powerful sense of connection and concern for his well-being. Witnessing his suffering at the hands of Kyla’s demonic possession can be both terrifying and heartbreaking.

Mentor Priest: Father Moore

· Likability: Initially, Father Moore is highly likable. His compassion, dedication to Sister Kyla, and unwavering faith in God make him appear trustworthy and supportive. This likability strengthens as he bravely confronts the supernatural occurrences, showcasing his commitment to protecting the innocent. However, as the story progresses, and he witnesses the full extent of Kyla’s possession, his likability takes a subtle hit. The trauma and fear visibly affect him, and his unwavering demeanor cracks at times, revealing a vulnerable human beneath the priestly vestments. This shift keeps him relatable but adds a layer of complexity that makes him even more captivating.

· Relatability: Father Moore’s initial calm and composed demeanor is relatable to anyone who has faced fear or uncertainty. His reliance on faith and ritual provides a familiar anchoring point for viewers, especially those with religious backgrounds. As the story progresses, and his fear becomes more apparent, he becomes even more relatable. His emotional journey mirrors the audience’s own as they face the horror of Kyla’s possession.

· Empathy: Father Moore evokes strong empathy. His vulnerability, his unwavering faith in spite of fear, and his determination to protect Father Gill make him a sympathetic figure. The audience will root for him to overcome his fear and ultimately help defeat Kyla. His potential connection with the demon adds a further layer of intrigue and empathy, raising questions about the nature of good and evil within him.

· Likability: Initially very likable. His compassion for Kyla and unwavering faith in God make him a comforting and supportive presence. However, his likability wanes as the supernatural events escalate. His fear and vulnerability become more apparent, shaking his initial composure. This shift in his demeanor adds depth and complexity to his character, keeping the audience invested in his journey.

· Relatability: Many viewers can relate to Father Moore’s struggles with faith and doubt in the face of the unknown. His fear and vulnerability are relatable emotions, especially in a situation involving demonic forces. His reliance on religious rituals and symbols provides a sense of hope and grounding, further connecting him to the audience.

· Empathy: The audience will feel empathy for Father Moore’s emotional and spiritual turmoil. Witnessing his fear and confusion as he confronts the darkness will evoke compassion. His connection to Kyla and his desperation to save Father Gill will further solidify the audience’s emotional investment in his character.

· Likability: Father Moore initially exudes a quiet charisma. His compassion and dedication to his faith are evident in his interactions with Kyla and Father Gill. He serves as a voice of reason and calm amidst the escalating supernatural events. However, as the demonic presence intensifies, his own fear and vulnerability become apparent. This vulnerability can make him both endearing and relatable, but also adds a layer of tension to his interactions with Kyla.

· Relatability: Father Moore’s initial skepticism and eventual acceptance of the supernatural can resonate with viewers who question their own beliefs in the face of the unknown. His reliance on faith and ritual in the face of fear is also relatable to those who find solace in their spiritual beliefs.

· Empathy: The audience’s empathy for Father Moore grows as he becomes increasingly affected by the demonic presence. His fear, his desperation to protect Father Gill, and his potential connection with the demon all contribute to a sense of emotional investment in his character. Witnessing his struggle against Kyla’s hidden darkness can be both terrifying and heartbreaking.

Fellow Priest & Confidante: Father Lyle

· Likability: Father Lyle’s initial likability stems from his role as a fellow priest and Kyla’s confidante. He appears skeptical yet supportive, willing to help her uncover the truth. However, this likability plummets as he encounters Kyla’s possession firsthand. His quick fall to the possessed Kyla’s illness raises sympathy for his suffering, but also casts a shadow on his previous trustworthiness. He becomes a cautionary tale, highlighting the fragility of faith and the vulnerability of good intentions.

· Relatability: Father Lyle’s initial openness and willingness to listen could be relatable to anyone who has experienced doubt or uncertainty within their faith. His shock and fear upon encountering the demonic are also universally relatable, as they mirror the audience’s own reactions to the horror unfolding.

· Empathy: While Father Lyle evokes some initial sympathy due to his suffering, his connection to Kyla’s evil deeds and his quick demise limit the audience’s emotional attachment. However, his fate serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of Kyla’s actions and the fragility of human life in the face of demonic power.

· Likability: Initially presented as a mysterious and intriguing figure. His discovery of Kyla’s secret adds a layer of suspense and intrigue to the story. However, his brief screen time and the nature of his encounter with Kyla make it difficult to fully assess his likability.

· Relatability: The viewers may connect with Father Lyle’s dedication to uncovering the truth and his willingness to face danger to protect others. His quick demise at Kyla’s hands adds a sense of tragedy and raises the stakes of the story.

· Empathy: While Father Lyle’s time in the story is short, his suffering and his connection to Father Moore can still evoke empathy from the audience. The viewers will likely sympathize with his plight and feel a sense of injustice for his fate.

· Likability: Father Lyle’s initial role as a concerned observer and potential witness to Kyla’s secret makes him a somewhat enigmatic figure. His quick demise due to Kyla’s demonic breath adds a layer of mystery and tragedy to his character. However, his actions in uncovering Kyla’s secret and attempting to warn Father Moore demonstrate his courage and devotion to his faith.

· Relatability: Father Lyle’s vulnerability in the face of Kyla’s supernatural power can be relatable to anyone who has felt powerless against a larger force. His role as a victim of Kyla’s hidden evil can also generate sympathy and a desire for justice.

· <b style=”background-color: var(–bb-content-background-color); font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; color: var(–bb-body-text-color);”>Empathy: While Father Lyle’s screen time might be limited, his suffering and potential connection to Father Gill’s stroke can still evoke empathy from the audience. Witnessing his struggles can add to the overall sense of dread and the urgency to expose Kyla’s true nature.

Antagonist: Demonic Kyla

· Likability: Kyla initially presents as highly likable. Her dedication to her caregiving duties and her unwavering faith in God make her appear compassionate, selfless, and worthy of trust. This likability deepens as she confronts Father Gill’s possession with bravery and determination. However, as cracks in her facade begin to show, her likability takes a sharp turn. Subtle gestures like flickers of darkness in her eyes or a too-long touch on Father Gill’s vulnerable areas create unease and suspicion, gradually shifting her from a sympathetic protagonist to a chilling antagonist.

· Relatability: Kyla’s initial struggle with doubt and fear is relatable. Many viewers can identify with her internal conflict between faith and fear, especially in the face of the supernatural. Her desire to protect Father Gill and do the right thing also taps into universal themes of compassion and selflessness. However, as her true nature is revealed, the audience’s connection shifts to a morbid fascination with the darkness lurking beneath the surface of someone seemingly so relatable.

· Empathy: Initially, Kyla evokes a strong sense of empathy. Her devotion to her calling, her fear of the unknown, and her struggle against a powerful entity all resonate with the audience’s capacity to understand and sympathize. However, as her demonic nature is revealed, empathy shifts into a chilling fascination with the depths of her darkness and the lengths to which she will go to maintain her facade. The audience may still find themselves drawn to her internal conflict, but it is a twisted, dark empathy that borders on horror and morbid curiosity.

· Likability: Initially, Demonic Kyla is the epitome of angelic virtue. Her devotion to Father Gill, her unwavering faith, and her gentle demeanor captivate everyone around her. This manufactured likability is her greatest weapon, a mask that lulls her victims into a false sense of security. As cracks begin to show, her likability plummets, replaced by a chilling aura of veiled malevolence.

· Relatability: Demonic Kyla’s initial facade of goodness allows the audience to relate to her on a surface level. Her anxieties about faith, her struggle against darkness, and her desire to help others can resonate with viewers who have grappled with similar internal conflicts. However, upon revealing her true nature, any semblance of relatability dissipates, replaced by a morbid fascination with the depths of her hidden evil.

· Empathy: While Kyla’s internal conflict might hold a flicker of potential empathy, it’s quickly overshadowed by her manipulative nature and the harm she inflicts. Witnessing her torment of Father Gill and Father Lyle evokes disgust and fear rather than sympathy. However, a twisted form of empathy may arise from understanding the torment she might be enduring within her own possessed consciousness.

· Likability: Initially, Demonic Kyla is the picture of saintly likability. Her gentle demeanor, attentive care for Father Gill, and unwavering faith in God make her instantly endearing. Her dedication to her calling and her pious demeanor add to the illusion of righteousness. However, as the cracks in her facade begin to show, her likability plummets. Subtle hints of malice in her eyes, predatory touches, and chilling pronouncements gradually reveal the darkness beneath the surface, creating a sense of unsettling unease.

· Relatability: While not directly relatable in her demonic nature, Kyla’s initial struggle with faith and fear can resonate with viewers. Her internal conflict between piety and the lure of darkness can be seen as a metaphor for the battle between good and evil within each individual. This creates a sense of fascination and morbid curiosity, even as her actions become increasingly sinister.

· Empathy: Demonic Kyla’s true nature evokes a complex mix of emotions. The audience may feel a twisted empathy for her internal struggle, the fear and desperation that fuel her descent into darkness. However, this empathy is constantly challenged by her manipulative actions and the harm she inflicts on others. The audience may find themselves simultaneously drawn to her hidden darkness and repelled by its destructive consequences.

· Likability:

Initially High: Demonic Kyla is meticulously crafted to appear highly likable at first. Her attentive caregiving for Father Gill, her unwavering faith, and her gentle demeanor disarm suspicion. She may even be seen as a pillar of strength and devotion, earning the audience’s initial trust and admiration.

Cracks Appear: As the story progresses, subtle cracks in her facade emerge. A fleeting flicker of darkness in her eyes, a touch lingering too long on Father Gill’s hand, a hint of cruelty in her voice when speaking of the “demon” within him. These moments, though brief, create a growing sense of unease and suspicion, gradually chipping away at the initial likability.

Full Revelation: When her true nature is revealed, any remaining likability is shattered. The audience witnesses her descent into madness, her fanatical zeal replacing her feigned piety. This transformation can be terrifying and unsettling, showcasing the depths of her darkness and solidifying her as a chilling antagonist.

· Relatability:

Struggle with Faith: Demonic Kyla’s internal conflict between her faith and her demonic urges can be surprisingly relatable. Many viewers may have grappled with their own doubts and struggles within their belief systems, creating a point of connection even with such a monstrous character.

Hidden Darkness: The concept of a hidden darkness, a monster lurking beneath a seemingly normal exterior, can resonate with anyone who has felt conflicted or unsure of their own inner demons. This underlying fear of the unknown within ourselves can make Demonic Kyla a terrifying reflection of our own potential vulnerabilities.

Tragic Deception: The revelation that she has been possessed all along adds a layer of tragedy to her character. The audience may see her not just as a monster, but as a victim herself, manipulated by a powerful entity into becoming a pawn in a larger game. This complexity can elicit a twisted form of empathy, forcing viewers to grapple with the consequences of demonic influence and the loss of innocence.

· Empathy:

Limited Empathy: While Demonic Kyla may evoke some initial empathy due to her struggles and tragic backstory, it is important to maintain a healthy distance from her actions. Her manipulative nature, her willingness to harm others, and her embrace of darkness must not be condoned.

Empathy for the Deception: It is possible to feel empathy for the human Kyla who was possessed, the innocent girl who lost control of her own body and soul. However, this empathy should not overshadow the monstrous acts committed by Demonic Kyla, ensuring a clear distinction between the victim and the perpetrator.

Empathy for the Fallen: The audience may also experience a morbid fascination with Demonic Kyla’s descent into madness. Witnessing her fall from grace, her embrace of darkness, and her ultimate confrontation with Father Moore can be a captivating spectacle, even as it evokes a sense of horror and dread.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Assignment : Module 3: Lesson 4

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

What I learned from doing this assignment is: how my characters have more depth.

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Character Intrigue

· Character Name: Kyla

· Subtext Identity: Hidden Demonic Malevolence

· Subtext Trait: Demonic, Cruel, Evil, Immoral, Invasive, Sadistic, Manipulative

· Subtext Logline: Kyla hides her Demonic Malevolence but her demonic, cruel, evil, immoral, invasive, sadistic, and manipulativeness subtly shows.

· Unspoken Wound: What if Kyla was actually the one who was possessed and didn’t know it?

· Possible Areas of Subtext: Kyla

Subtle Gestures:

· Kyla, with her seemingly innocent gestures, always carries a small cross necklace. However, there are moments where she clutches it tightly, revealing an inner turmoil.

· Kyla’s attentive caregiving takes a darker turn as she exhibits subtle, unsettling behaviors. Her touch becomes invasive, and her gaze lingers a little too long, creating an eerie atmosphere around her character.

· Kyla’s caring gestures become increasingly possessive. A gentle touch transforms into a grip that borders on the invasive, reflecting the growing influence of the demonic entity within her.

· Kyla’s caring demeanor masks subtle, sinister undertones that are expressed through small, seemingly innocent actions.

· A fleeting flicker of shadow across her eyes as she speaks of faith.

· A delicate brushing of her fingers against a holy object, followed by a quick withdrawal and a barely-there smirk.

· Offering Father Gill water with a hand that lingers a touch too long, a hint of predatory hunger in her gaze.

· Flickering Eyes: Kyla’s eyes momentarily flash an unnatural color

when stressed or angered, hinting at the demon’s presence beneath.

· Involuntary Twitches: A slight tremor in her hand while offering Father

Gill tea, or a fleeting grimace when passing a crucifix, suggesting a

subconscious struggle against the demon’s control.

· Uncharacteristic Aversions: Kyla avoids sunlight or certain religious

symbols, even if she doesn’t show explicit fear, revealing the demon’s

discomfort.

· Kyla’s gestures transform from gentle caregiving to ominous movements, subtle signs of her descent into madness. The way she clasps her hands during prayers takes on an unsettling intensity.

Contradictory Actions:

· Despite being a caregiver, Kyla occasionally exhibits moments of cruelty, such as withholding medication or offering strange prayers that hint at her darker intentions.

· Kyla, on the surface a compassionate caregiver, starts displaying contradictory actions. Moments of kindness are juxtaposed with sudden outbursts of anger, creating an unsettling dynamic that suggests a hidden darkness within her.

· Kyla’s actions, meant to portray her as an attentive caregiver, start to contradict her true nature as the demonic force within her begins to surface.

· Praying with an exaggerated fervor, eyes closed but lips moving silently, forming forbidden words.

· Tenderly tending to Father Gill’s needs while her touch lingers on vulnerable areas, a

subtle hint of malicious intent.

· Whispering soothing words to Father Gill while a faint, chilling melody hums under her

breath, inaudible to human ears.

Reactions to Stimuli:

· In tense situations, Kyla’s reactions betray a hidden malevolence beneath her caring façade. A flicker of a sinister smile or an unsettling calmness during chaotic moments raises suspicion.

· Kyla’s reactions, on the other hand, become increasingly erratic as the exorcism progresses. Seemingly insignificant stimuli trigger intense emotional responses, hinting at the internal struggle within her.

· Kyla’s actions become more contradictory as she struggles with her dual identity. Moments of genuine compassion clash with sudden, malicious impulses, leaving both the audience and other characters questioning her true nature.

· Kyla’s reactions become increasingly erratic, ranging from paralyzing fear to maniacal laughter. Seemingly mundane stimuli trigger intense emotional responses, revealing the internal turmoil as she grapples with her demonic nature.

· Kyla’s reactions to the exorcism rituals and holy objects initially seem genuine, but subtle expressions betray a sinister pleasure derived from the failed attempts to expel the suspected demon from Father Gill.

· A crucifix necklace catching on fire in her hand as she tries to offer comfort.

· A holy book pages flipping wildly as she approaches, whispering obscenities in an

unknown tongue.

· Sunlight making her skin momentarily flicker and writhe, leaving a faint, sulfurous

scent behind.

Changes in Physicality:

· Eyes that flicker from gentle blue to menacing red when Father Gill speaks of his

faith.

· A subtle shift in posture, becoming more predatory and coiled, even while

bedridden.

· A voice that subtly changes pitch and timbre, betraying the demonic entity

lurking within.

Unexplained Phenomena:

· Objects moving on their own in her presence, responding to her unspoken commands.

· Shadows deepening and twisting unnaturally around her, taking on menacing shapes.

· Cold whispers and chilling laughter echoing in the room, emanating from nowhere and

yet everywhere.

Disturbing Actions:

· Animalistic Tendencies: Kyla absentmindedly

scratches at the back of her neck, a gesture mirroring a predator grooming

itself.

· Unnecessary Cruelty: She takes care of Father Gill diligently, but a flicker of malice appears in her eyes as she adjusts a pillow, subtly causing discomfort.

· Involuntary Whispers: Kyla murmurs under her breath in an unknown tongue, often during moments of intense emotion, hinting at the demon communicating with her.

Contrasting Behaviors:

· Shifting Demeanors: Kyla switches from gentle caregiver to stern disciplinarian with Father Gill, the change abrupt and unsettling, suggesting the demon’s influence taking over.

· Sudden Disgust: She recoils from Father Gill’s touch, despite expressing affection earlier, highlighting the demon’s aversion to his purity.

· Unexpected Knowledge: Kyla speaks of ancient rituals or obscure scripture with an unnerving fluency, suggesting the demon’s access to forbidden knowledge.

Symbolic Actions:

· Playing with Shadows: Kyla manipulates shadows with subtle gestures, stretching and contorting them, symbolizing her control over the darkness within.

· Tampering with Holy Objects: She subtly defaces a crucifix or spills holy water, small acts of defiance that reveal the demon’s resistance to the sacred.

· Offering Forbidden Temptations: Kyla subtly leaves forbidden items like alcohol or gambling chips near Father Gill, testing his faith and pushing him toward darkness.

· Character Name: Father Gill

· Subtext Identity: Victim (thought to be antagonist)

· Subtext Trait: Suspicious, Fearful

· Subtext Logline: Father Gill is a Victim (thought to be the antagonist) who is suspicious and fearful of Kyla

· Hidden Agenda: Father Gill has a plan and is implementing a strategy or taking action to free himself and exorcise Kyla without her knowledge.

· Possible Areas of Subtext: Father Gill

Subtle Gestures:

· Father Gill’s eyes often follow an unseen presence as well as Kyla, subtly hinting at the demonic entity’s presence.

· Father Gill, despite his physical limitations, communicates through subtle gestures that hint at a deeper understanding of the supernatural. His eyes hold a knowing glint, and his fingers, when not in sign language, form a pattern that suggests protection.

· Father Gill’s sign language takes on an otherworldly quality, with subtle protection gestures. His eyes convey a silent plea for understanding and comprehension.

· Father Gill’s initially subtle gestures during his sign language conversations become more pronounced as the demonic presence within Kyla intensifies.

· Father Gill, despite his physical limitations, subtly communicates his awareness of the demonic presence. His gaze lingers on Kyla with a mix of concern and understanding, silently questioning the intentions behind her actions.

Contradictory Actions:

· Father Gill, bedridden and vulnerable, sometimes displays unexpected strength during moments of demonic possession, showcasing a contradiction between his frailty.

· Father Gill’s slurred speech and limited movements seem at odds. His contradictory actions leave the audience questioning whether he is a victim or harbinger of the malevolent force.

· Father Gill’s slurred speech seems to conceal a deliberate eloquence. His contradictory actions, alternating between vulnerability and quiet strength, hint at a deeper understanding of the demonic force surrounding him.

· Father Gill, bedridden and seemingly vulnerable, occasionally exhibits contradictory actions that hint at a hidden strength or knowledge beyond his physical limitations.

Reactions to Stimuli:

· Father Gill’s reaction to Kyla is unpredictable; sometimes he reacts violently, while other times he seems strangely comforted by her presence.

· Father Gill’s reactions to supernatural stimuli are not typical for witnessing a possessed individual. Instead of fear, there’s a calm acceptance, as if he is meant to exorcise the demonic entity.

· Father Gill’s reactions to supernatural stimuli are not fear-driven but rather marked by a solemn acceptance. His calm demeanor in the face of unearthly occurrences suggests he is ready to take on the demonic presence in Kyla.

· Father Gill’s reactions to religious artifacts and symbols become increasingly unpredictable, indicating a struggle between his devout faith and the demonic influence taking hold of Kyla.

· Father Gill’s reactions to Kyla’s demonic presence are profound. His witnessing of her madness invokes a mix of pity and horror, and he grapples with the realization that the true battle lies within Kyla herself.

· Character Name: Father Moore

· Subtext Identity: Priest Mentor

· Subtext Trait: In Denial, Fearful

· Subtext Logline: Father Moore is a Priest Mentor who is in denial and fearful for and of Kyla if from what he is told is true.

· Conspiracy: Father Moore and Father Lyle have a secret plan to confront Kyla about her possession. They have a spoken agreement to exorcise Kyla no matter how unlawful or harmful. There is an unspoken agreement with Father Gill to do the same.

· Secret: Father Moore and Father Lyle keep hidden or concealed Kyla’s possible demonic possession from others.

· Possible Areas of Subtext:

Contradictory Actions:

· Father Moore’s initial support for Sister Kyla contrasts with his growing unease as supernatural events unfold. He grapples with conflicting actions, torn between his duty to protect and his own fear, leading to a more intense and fervent approach to his rituals.

Reactions to Stimuli:

· Father Moore’s reactions to supernatural occurrences showcase a blend of faith-driven courage and vulnerability. The sight of religious symbols calms him, while sudden disturbances elicit visible fear, revealing the struggle within his own soul.

Evolution of Characters:

· Father Moore’s evolution from a composed priest to a shaken, but resolute, figure mirrors the escalating supernatural conflict. His character embodies the internal struggle against doubt and the external battle against demonic forces.

· Character Name: Father Lyle

· Subtext Identity: Fellow Priest & Confidante

· Subtext Trait: Fearful

· Subtext Logline: Father Lyle is a Fellow Priest & Confidante who is fearful of Kyla’s demonic presence.

· Conspiracy: Father Moore and Father Lyle have a secret plan to confront Kyla about her possession. They have a spoken agreement to exorcise Kyla no matter how unlawful or harmful. There is an unspoken agreement with Father Gill to do the same.

· Secret: Father Lyle discovers that Kyla is possessed by a demonic presence

· Possible Areas of Subtext:

Subtle Gestures:

Father Lyle tries to determine who just left his confession booth before collapsing.

Contradictory Actions:

· Father Lyle’s discovery of Kyla’s possession unveils a contradiction in her role as a caregiver and a demonic force. Kyla’s apparent benevolence contradicts the malevolent force she harbors within.

Evolution of Characters:

· Father Lyle’s collapse after Kyla’s demonic breath inflicts him with a quick disease becomes a turning point, reflecting the consequences of exposing the demonic truth. His vulnerability adds a layer of suspense and urgency to the unfolding narrative.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Lesson 2:

What I learned doing this assignment is how insightful it was.

Subject line: Vernall Ritchey – Three Circles of Characters

Assignment 1:

24

A. Main Characters Circle: Jack Bauer, Nina Myers, Senator David Palmer, Tony Almeida, Teri Bauer, Kim Bauer

B. Connected Circle: Richard Walsh, Martin Belkin, Janet York, Jamey Farrell, Sherry Palmer, Nicole Palmer, Bridget, George Mason, Alan York, Patty Brooks, Victor Rovner, Mandy, Dan Mounts, Rick, Maureen Kingsley, Vincent, Keith Palmer, Ira Gaines, Rick Allen Jonathan Matijevich, Aaron Pierce, Scott Baylor, assailants.

C. Environment Circle: Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU) employees, Senator David Palmer’s hotel suite, airplane personnel, and passengers, Mojave Desert, Dunlop Plaza, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia safehouse, Valley safehouse, Gaines’ desert house, furniture store, campaign rally, secret service agents, Dunlop building garage.

Assignment 2:

1. Create the three circles of characters for your show.

A. Main Characters Circle: John Doe, FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Chief Toni Graves, FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agent Mikef, FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agent Ni, FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agent Jones, FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agent Dade, FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agent Hitch, and FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agent Jimenez

B. Connected Circle: Officer #1, Dr. Shaw, Dr. Leman, Technician, SRT Officer #1, SRT Officer #2, SRT Officer #3, Ten Armed Suspects, Officer Andrea Norris, FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agent Cynthia Dade (wife of FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agent Dade), Raul: Sex Trafficker, Kidnapper and antagonist, Mia: One of ten abducted models, Chezvik: Terrorist, Kidnapper and antagonist who kidnaps and threatens Cynthia Dade, Police Officers, Armed Suspects.

C. Environment Circle: FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agents, FBI Agents, Terrorists, DEA agents, Gang members, Hospital Staff, Criminal Underworld, Strip Joint, a large sub-section of U.S. society, from the gritty and dangerous underground world of drugs, organized crime, corruption, and politics. From gang members, political figures to junkies and drug users, via the drug dealers, corrupt police officers and lawyers, side-hustlers, prostitutes, brothels, underground strip clubs, and everyone else who makes the drug trade possible.

2. Give us a one-sentence description of each of the Main Characters.

1. John Doe: A disheveled man with retrograde amnesia and survival skills, joins a team to rescue kidnapped girls from a sex trafficking operation. John is a protagonist with a deep sense of justice and a willingness to take risks to help others. He possesses quick thinking and agility in the face of danger and has a straightforward and pragmatic speaking style. Over the course of the pilot, John grows from initially doubting his abilities to becoming a loyal and skilled member of the team. He confronts personal vendettas and dangerous individuals with a cold and calculated tone. John’s speaking style evolves from initially detached to becoming more focused and determined as he becomes more invested in the mission.

2. FBI Chief Toni Graves: Leader of the FBI team. Graves is a determined and no-nonsense leader who is dedicated to stopping human trafficking. She is focused and willing to take risks to save the kidnapped girls. Her speaking style is commanding, assertive and reflects her leadership qualities. She speaks with authority and uses strong language to motivate and command the respect of her team.

3. Mikef is a member of the team who initially perceives John’s abilities with skepticism and confronts Graves’ decisions. He is known for his critical and confrontational speaking style, often using strong language to express his doubts and frustrations. Despite this, he remains a reliable and dependable team member, driving the squad van and providing essential support. Throughout the pilot, Mikef demonstrates a more empathetic side, showing his reassurance to Dade about finding his wife. His character exhibits a significant change from skepticism towards adaptiveness and support.

4. Ni is a determined, resourceful, and reliable member of the team. She is straightforward, blunt, and speaks with a direct and no-nonsense style. Her speaking style is concise and focused, reflecting her disciplined and detail-oriented nature. Ni is frustrated and passionate when it comes to finding missing girls and is willing to take risks to achieve her goal. She has a fiery and passionate personality that can sometimes cause her to be impatient. In comforting situations, her speaking style shifts to be more comforting and optimistic.

5. Jones is an observant and analytical member of the team, always quick to react to potential threats and prepared for any situation. He can be practical and straightforward in his communication, but also questions decisions and raises valid concerns in a questioning and logical manner. Jones is a valuable asset to the team, as he is always on the lookout for potential dangers and demonstrates his attention to detail. He questions the identity of the person holding Dade’s wife hostage, showing that he is not afraid to challenge the status quo when necessary.

6. Dade is a tough and determined protagonist who takes charge in high-pressure situations. He is emotionally invested in the mission to save his wife, which sometimes leads to reckless behavior. His speaking style is direct, assertive, and intense. He uses strong language to intimidate his targets and expresses anger and desperation as he fights to rescue his wife. Dade measures his words carefully in his efforts to gather information, and he is authoritative and self-assured when sharing his expertise with his team.

7. Hitch is a confident, skilled, and observant member of the team. She is practical and level-headed, providing a voice of reason and helping to keep the team focused. Her speaking style is direct and assertive, reflecting her no-nonsense personality. Hitch is resourceful, quick on her feet, and determined to get answers, willing to use force if necessary. She is a loyal member of the team, following orders without question and always quick to take action. Hitch provides support to her team members, trying to calm them down in difficult situations.

8. Jimenez is a loyal, skilled, and level-headed member of the team who provides unwavering support to his teammates. He speaks in a calm and measured professional tone, reflecting his supportive and reassuring nature, but also has a cool and confident demeanor in high-pressure situations. Although he reacts with frustration and urgency when things don’t go as planned, he is resourceful and quick-thinking, making him a valuable member of the team.

PROMPT: Please create three groups of characters for my TV Series that is [genre] about [concept] that is set in [sub-world] and are unique to this story.

A. Main Characters: 3 – 5 key characters that the journey is about. Tell us the following:

Unique Role:

Secret or Intrigue:

B. Connected Characters: These are characters that the main characters interact with during the season. They play a part in the journey in some way and sometimes affect the main character’s actions.

C. Environment Characters: These are background characters that are necessary to fulfill the “standard roles” for your kind of story, but usually don’t do anything significant. List them by their jobs only.

Genre = Crime

Concept = A low-level drug dealer with retrograde amnesia recruited by a DEA Task Force remembers his past and decides to lead a double-life as an undercover DEA Agent and a drug dealer determined to rise in rank in both by any means necessary.

Sub-World = FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agents, FBI Agents, Terrorists, DEA agents, Gang members, Hospital Staff, Criminal Underworld, Strip Joint, a large sub-section of U.S. society, from the gritty and dangerous underground world of drugs, organized crime, corruption, and politics. From gang members, political figures to junkies and drug users, via the drug dealers, corrupt police officers and lawyers, side-hustlers, prostitutes, brothels, underground strip clubs, and everyone else who makes the drug trade possible.

CHAT GPT

A. Main Characters:

Ethan “Shade” Walker

• Unique Role: Low-level drug dealer with retrograde amnesia recruited by a DEA Task Force.

• Secret or Intrigue: Uncovering fragments of his forgotten past while leading a dangerous double life as an undercover DEA agent and a rising drug dealer.

Agent Valerie “Viper” Rodriguez

Unique Role:

• Secret or Intrigue: A past connection to Shade, driven by personal reasons to bring down the criminal underworld.

• Secret or Intrigue: Secretly collaborating with corrupt politicians and law enforcement to expand his drug empire.

Special Agent Sarah Rodriguez

• Unique Role: Lead DEA agent in charge of the task force recruiting Alex.

• Secret or Intrigue: Concealing a personal vendetta against a powerful drug lord and using Alex as a key pawn in her pursuit.

• Secret or Intrigue: Uncovering a mysterious informant within his organization, unaware of Shade’s double life.

Dominic “Shadow” Ramirez

• Unique Role: Ruthless and cunning gang leader with deep ties to both the drug trade and criminal underworld.

• Secret or Intrigue: Uncovering a mysterious informant within his organization, unaware of Shade’s double life.

Detective Mia Reynolds

• Unique Role: Undercover police officer embedded in the world of organized crime.

• Secret or Intrigue: Balancing her loyalty to the police force with her growing affection for Alex, unaware of his true identity.

B. Connected Characters:

Dr. Evelyn Carter (Hospital Staff)

• Role: Neurologist treating Shade’s retrograde amnesia and helping him unlock his lost memories.

• Impact on Main Characters: Unwittingly becomes entangled in Shade’s undercover activities, putting her in a dangerous position.

Carlos “Shadow” Hernandez (Criminal Underworld)

• Role: Mysterious informant providing crucial intel to Alex while pursuing his own agenda.

• Impact on Main Characters:

Detective Marcus “Hawk” Thompson

• Role: Corrupt police officer on the payroll of the criminal underworld.

• Impact on Main Characters: A constant threat to Shade’s undercover operation, while unknowingly manipulated by Chief of Task Force.

Amanda “Siren” Taylor (Strip Joint)

• Role: Exotic dancer at an underground strip club frequented by key players in the criminal world.

• Impact on Main Characters:

Isabella “Siren” Martinez

• Role: High-end prostitute with connections to politicians and high-profile figures.

• Impact on Main Characters: Becomes a key informant for Shade, providing critical information on the political landscape.

Senator Richard Morgan (Political Figure)

• Role: Corrupt politician with ties to Vincent “Viper” Martinez, influencing drug policies for personal gain.

• Impact on Main Characters:

C. Environment Characters (Listed by Jobs):

• DEA Agents

• FBI Special Operations Unit (SOU) Agents

• Terrorists

• Gang Members

• Corrupt Police Officers

• Lawyers

• Side-Hustlers

• Prostitutes

• Brothel Staff

• Underground Strip Club Employees

• Drug Users

• Junkies

• Various U.S. Society Members Involved in the Drug Trade

• Hospital Staff

• Criminal Underworld Lawyers

• Politicians

[Vernall Ritchey]

Assignment : Module 3: Lesson 3

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

What I learned from doing this assignment is: how hard and important it is to write subtext for characters.

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Subtext Characters

· Character Name: Kyla

· Subtext Identity: Hidden Demonic Malevolence

· Subtext Trait: Demonic, Cruel, Evil, Immoral, Invasive, Sadistic, Manipulative

· Subtext Logline: Kyla hides her Demonic Malevolence but her demonic, cruel, evil, immoral, invasive, sadistic, and manipulativeness subtly shows.

· Possible Areas of Subtext: Kyla

Subtle Gestures:

· Kyla, with her seemingly innocent gestures, always carries a small cross necklace. However, there are moments where she clutches it tightly, revealing an inner turmoil.

· Kyla’s attentive caregiving takes a darker turn as she exhibits subtle, unsettling behaviors. Her touch becomes invasive, and her gaze lingers a little too long, creating an eerie atmosphere around her character.

· Kyla’s caring gestures become increasingly possessive. A gentle touch transforms into a grip that borders on the invasive, reflecting the growing influence of the demonic entity within her.

· Kyla’s caring demeanor masks subtle, sinister undertones that are expressed through small, seemingly innocent actions.

Contradictory Actions:

· Despite being a caregiver, Kyla occasionally exhibits moments of cruelty, such as withholding medication or offering strange prayers that hint at her darker intentions.

· Kyla, on the surface a compassionate caregiver, starts displaying contradictory actions. Moments of kindness are juxtaposed with sudden outbursts of anger, creating an unsettling dynamic that suggests a hidden darkness within her.

· Kyla’s actions, meant to portray her as an attentive caregiver, start to contradict her true nature as the demonic force within her begins to surface.

Reactions to Stimuli:

· In tense situations, Kyla’s reactions betray a hidden malevolence beneath her caring façade. A flicker of a sinister smile or an unsettling calmness during chaotic moments raises suspicion.

· Kyla’s reactions, on the other hand, become increasingly erratic as the exorcism progresses. Seemingly insignificant stimuli trigger intense emotional responses, hinting at the internal struggle within her.

· Kyla’s actions become more contradictory as she struggles with her dual identity. Moments of genuine compassion clash with sudden, malicious impulses, leaving both the audience and other characters questioning her true nature.

· Kyla’s reactions become increasingly erratic, ranging from paralyzing fear to maniacal laughter. Seemingly mundane stimuli trigger intense emotional responses, revealing the internal turmoil as she grapples with her demonic nature.

· Kyla’s reactions to the exorcism rituals and holy objects initially seem genuine, but subtle expressions betray a sinister pleasure derived from the failed attempts to expel the suspected demon from Father Gill.

· Character Name: Father Gill

· Subtext Identity: Victim (thought to be antagonist)

· Subtext Trait: Suspicious, Fearful

· Subtext Logline: Father Gill is a Victim (thought to be the antagonist) who is suspicious and fearful of Kyla

· Possible Areas of Subtext: Father Gill

Subtle Gestures:

· Father Gill’s eyes often follow an unseen presence as well as Kyla, subtly hinting at the demonic entity’s presence.

· Father Gill, despite his physical limitations, communicates through subtle gestures that hint at a deeper understanding of the supernatural. His eyes hold a knowing glint, and his fingers, when not in sign language, form a pattern that suggests protection.

· Father Gill’s sign language takes on an otherworldly quality, with subtle protection gestures. His eyes convey a silent plea for understanding and comprehension.

· Father Gill’s initially subtle gestures during his sign language conversations become more pronounced as the demonic presence within Kyla intensifies.

Contradictory Actions:

· Father Gill, bedridden and vulnerable, sometimes displays unexpected strength during moments of demonic possession, showcasing a contradiction between his frailty.

· Father Gill’s slurred speech and limited movements seem at odds. His contradictory actions leave the audience questioning whether he is a victim or harbinger of the malevolent force.

· Father Gill’s slurred speech seems to conceal a deliberate eloquence. His contradictory actions, alternating between vulnerability and quiet strength, hint at a deeper understanding of the demonic force surrounding him.

· Father Gill, bedridden and seemingly vulnerable, occasionally exhibits contradictory actions that hint at a hidden strength or knowledge beyond his physical limitations.

Reactions to Stimuli:

· Father Gill’s reaction to Kyla is unpredictable; sometimes he reacts violently, while other times he seems strangely comforted by her presence.

· Father Gill’s reactions to supernatural stimuli are not typical for witnessing a possessed individual. Instead of fear, there’s a calm acceptance, as if he is meant to exorcise the demonic entity.

· Father Gill’s reactions to supernatural stimuli are not fear-driven but rather marked by a solemn acceptance. His calm demeanor in the face of unearthly occurrences suggests he is ready to take on the demonic presence in Kyla.

· Father Gill’s reactions to religious artifacts and symbols become increasingly unpredictable, indicating a struggle between his devout faith and the demonic influence taking hold of Kyla.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Assignment : Module 3: Lesson 2

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

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

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Actor attractors!

Lead Character Name:

Role: Kyla (Protagonist)

1. What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it? Sister Kyla Flores, goes from a compassionate caregiver deeply committed to her faith to being possessed with a demonic entity. The narrative takes unexpected twists and turns, challenging the audience’s assumptions about who the true antagonist is. The horror lies not just in supernatural elements but in the psychological and emotional unraveling of the characters.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story? The main conflict in EviLives is between the characters’ religious beliefs and the presence of supernatural evil. Kyla’s fear and paranoia drive her to extreme measures to protect Father Gill.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script? Showing the range of hysteria as she unknowingly transforms into a demon.

4. How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor? Sister Kyla Flores becomes increasingly paranoid and fearful as she experiences supernatural events in a dilapidated convalescent house. She believes that Father Gill, a stroke victim, is possessed by a demon and takes extreme measures to protect him. As the story unfolds, Kyla’s own sanity and faith are tested, leading to a climactic confrontation between the forces of good and evil

5. What could be this character’s emotional range? Kyla’s character arc follows a path from a compassionate caregiver to a twisted victim of possession. She starts out as a warm and caring individual deeply committed to her faith but falls into madness and fanatical beliefs. She then transforms into a terrifying presence consumed by demonic energy. However, despite being possessed, Kyla exhibits signals of regret and humanity, indicating her transformation is not complete, and she still holds on to a forlorn hope of redemption.

6. What subtext can the actor play? Subtle Gestures:

• Kyla, with her seemingly innocent gestures, always carries a small cross necklace. However, there are moments where she clutches it tightly, revealing an inner turmoil.

• Kyla’s attentive caregiving takes a darker turn as she exhibits subtle, unsettling behaviors. Her touch becomes invasive, and her gaze lingers a little too long, creating an eerie atmosphere around her character.

• Kyla’s caring gestures become increasingly possessive. A gentle touch transforms into a grip that borders on the invasive, reflecting the growing influence of the demonic entity within her.

• Kyla’s caring demeanor masks subtle, sinister undertones that are expressed through small, seemingly innocent actions.

7. What’s the most interesting relationships this character can have? The relationship she has with Father Gill. Kyla is a caregiver deeply committed to her faith, showing compassion and dedication to Father Gill’s well-being in the beginning. However, as she becomes increasingly paranoid and fearful, her desperation to protect herself from evil influences her actions, filled with pleas and prayers, reflecting her fear and desperation. Her speaking style becomes urgent and frantic as she struggles with her beliefs in the presence of a demon. As she faces the supernatural threat, Kyla transforms into a brave and determined protagonist, facing her fears with unwavering resolve and adapting to challenging situations. She then falls into a fanatical and manipulative state, resorting to extreme and sadistic measures during the exorcism. Finally, as she becomes possessed, Kyla transforms into a terrifying and seductive demonic presence.

8. How will this character’s unique voice be presented? Her speaking style shifts from labored breaths to demonic snarls and growls, showcasing her transformation into evil. Despite her possession, she exhibits signs of humanity and regret, apologizing to Father Gill through sign language.

9. What could make this character special and unique? She thinks prayer and her special concoction are the ways to expel the demon.

Role: Father Gill (Victim believed to be Antagonist)

1. What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it? Showing how Father Gill’s physical limitations interact with the supernatural forces at play, exploring how he works around them to fight against evil. The narrative takes unexpected twists and turns, challenging the audience’s assumptions about who the true antagonist is. The horror lies not just in supernatural elements but in the psychological and emotional unraveling of the characters.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story? Father Gill begins as an innocent and vulnerable character, initially suffering from a stroke that affects his speech. His physical limitations are a significant part of his character – he is forced to use sign language to survive and is bedridden for the 1st Act.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script? Performing an exorcism with sign language and a speech impediment due to stroke.

4. How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor? Introduced as a Victim in ACT I to being the Antagonist in ACT II becoming the savior in Act III.

5. What could be this character’s emotional range? Father Gill begins as an innocent and vulnerable character, initially suffering from a stroke that affects his speech. He then becomes a victim of Kyla’s brutish exorcism, stripping him of his power and leaving him helpless. He then transforms into (what seems to be) a powerful antagonist, possessed by evil spirits. As his experiences with Kyla continue, the audience experiences a shift in perception and emotional state as they witness his unwavering faith and commitment to helping Kyla, who turns out to be the one possessed.

6. What subtext can the actor play? Subtle Gestures:

• Father Gill’s eyes often follow an unseen presence as well as Kyla, subtly hinting at the demonic entity’s presence.

• Father Gill, despite his physical limitations, communicates through subtle gestures that hint at a deeper understanding of the supernatural. His eyes hold a knowing glint, and his fingers, when not in sign language, form a pattern that suggests protection.

• Father Gill’s sign language takes on an otherworldly quality, with subtle protection gestures. His eyes convey a silent plea for understanding and comprehension.

• Father Gill’s initially subtle gestures during his sign language conversations become more pronounced as the demonic presence within Kyla intensifies.

7. What’s the most interesting relationships this character can have? The relationship he has with Kyla. Father Gill is an elderly priest who has recently suffered a stroke. He is vulnerable, but determined and devoted to his faith. He has a strong sense of humor and enjoys bantering with Kyla. His character evolves throughout the movie, from being a vessel for the evil spirits and a catalyst to the supernatural occurrences to being a victim of Kyla’s violence. He transforms from being vulnerable and spooked to a possessed individual who becomes the antagonist, to being a helpless individual who relies on Kyla for care. He later becomes a conflicted and remorseful priest who is haunted by his past actions, seeking redemption through his dedication to protecting Kyla and helping others. His speaking style is limited due to his physical restraints and stroke speech pattern, but he communicates primarily through his actions and sign language.

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

9. What could make this character special and unique? Father Gill, is an elderly priest who has suffered a stroke and is thought to become a vessel for evil spirits.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Assignment : Module 3: Lesson 1

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

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

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

Movie Title: The Exorcist

Lead Character Name: Ellen Burstyn (Chris MacNeil)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lead Character Name: Jason Miller (Father Karras)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Vernall Ritchey]

Assignment: Lesson 1

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

What I learned from doing this assignment is: the importance of mastering the 5 Star Model

Subject Line: Vernall Ritchey – 24 – 5 Star Model

1. 24

12:00 A.M. Victor Rovner transmits from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia that a shooter is coming into town to target Senator Palmer. Agent Richard Walsh, a high-ranking Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU) officer, is alerted.

12:01 A.M. Senator David Palmer, an African-American running for President, writes his speech for the next day’s California primary election.

12:03 A.M. Jack Bauer plays chess with his daughter Kimberly in their home. Before going to bed, she tells him that she’s glad he moved back in. Jack and his wife Teri go to her room to find she has snuck out the window. Nina Myers, Jack’s chief-of-staff at CTU, calls him into the office because Richard Walsh is in town. Jack phones Kimberly’s ex-boyfriend Vincent, but he doesn’t know where she is.

12:06 A.M. Kimberly and her friend Janet York are on their way to meet up with some guys named Dan and Rick.

12:09 A.M. Jack arrives at CTU headquarters and calls his wife to alleviate her fears. Turning back to work, Jack gathers his team and suggests that perhaps Senator Palmer is the reason they have been called in. He asks them to start pulling together information on the candidate. Along with Nina are CTU employees Jamey Farrell and Tony Almeida. Meanwhile, Kimberly and Janet arrive at a furniture store where they meet the guys.

12:14 A.M. Jack asks a friend at the LAPD to keep a lookout for his daughter. Walsh arrives and briefs Jack’s team about an expected attempt on Palmer’s life. Walsh privately tells Jack that there may be a leak within CTU involved in the hit.

12:22 A.M. Martin Belkin, a foreign photographer, calls Palmer campaign manager Patty Brooks from an airplane bound for Los Angeles. He is scheduled to meet Palmer for breakfast the next morning. Mandy, the woman in the seat next to him, overhears his conversation and asks about Palmer.

12:24 A.M. Nina confronts Jack about not being included in a meeting with District Director George Mason. Jack does not tell her what the secrecy is about. Teri calls to tell Jack that she found joints in Kimberly’s desk. Jack apologizes for not being there to help. In a heart-to-heart talk with Rick, Kimberly lies and says that her father is dead.

12:28 A.M. Mason does not reveal to Jack what his source is for the information on the Palmer case. Jack is suspicious and shoots Mason with a tranquilizer gun to knock him out. Jack orders Nina to look up the assets of convicted heroin dealer Phillipe Darcet because he has always suspected that Mason skimmed money from the bust. Jack hopes to use that information to blackmail the District Director.

12:36 A.M. Teri receives a call from Alan York, the father of Kimberly’s friend Janet. He too is looking for his daughter.

12:40 A.M. Jack requests that Nina get Tony to access the Darcet files. Tony suspects that Nina is doing this because she is still sleeping with Jack. She doesn’t give a straight answer but convinces the reluctant Tony to get her the information. Jack asks Jamey to trace the passwords for the email accounts on his home phone line. He informs Teri that Kimberly’s password is LIFESUCKS.

12:43 A.M. On the plane, Mandy continues to grill Martin flirtatiously. There is a growing attraction between them.

12:45 A.M. Senator Palmer gets a phone call from Maureen Kingsley at the network. He gets angry at her allegation and avoids telling his wife Sherry what was discussed.

12:49 A.M. Nina grows worried about Jack’s erratic behavior, and she voices her concern that he is breaking the law by tapping into private files. He says that he will not compromise himself. Meanwhile, Teri and Alan York decide to try to find the girls at an address found in Kimberly’s email account. Seeing her mother’s repeated calls on her cell phone, Kimberly asks the guys to drive her home.

12:52 A.M. Martin and Mandy make love in the airplane bathroom. She asks if they can get together in Los Angeles, but he replies that he will be “pretty busy.” At CTU, Tony sends Jack the accessed wire transfers on the Darcet account, and Jack wakes Mason. He once again asks the District Director who his source is, but this time shows the incriminating Darcet transfers. Mason relents. In the air, Mandy goes to the back of the plane and knocks a flight attendant unconscious. She takes out Martin’s stolen identification and puts on a protective jumpsuit. She removes a bomb from the plane’s fire extinguisher and detonates it. Mandy ejects herself from the cabin within seconds of the plane’s explosion, parachuting to safety.

12:57 A.M. Teri speaks to Jack while driving with Alan York to the Valley. When he loses contact with his wife, Jack sets out to find her. Tony stops him with news that a plane has blown up over the Mojave Desert. Preliminary reports indicate that it was bombed. While Dan drives the van with the girls inside, he ignores Kimberly’s directions to her house. For the first time, she is afraid, and she realizes that she may not be in control of the situation.

2. From that, make a list of the 5 Star Points for that show.

1. Big Picture Hooks
   Ask this: What is the big hook of this show? Assassination attempt on Senator Palmer who is running to be the first Black U.S. President.

2. Amazing and Intriguing Character
   Ask this: What makes these main characters intriguing and interesting? Jack Bauer head of the Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU) finds himself between a rock and a hard place and at the last second gets out safe. Jack is professional, reliable, and relentless. He does whatever it takes to get the assignment done, except when it comes to his family, he is willing to risk the safety of the U.S. for them.

3. Empathy / Distress
   Ask this: What situations cause us to feel both empathy and distress for these characters? Jack is ruthless and determined except when Teri and Kimberly are kidnapped, Jack becomes vulnerable and shows that he will do whatever it takes to prevent his family from being killed, even if it means letting the president-hopeful Senator Palmer get assassinated. Jack, head of CTU is willing to betray his commitment to keeping the U.S. safe for the safety of his family.

4. Layers / Open Loops
   Ask this: What questions are created by this first episode that can only be answered by watching the entire season? Will Jack prevent President hopeful Senator Palmer from being assassinated? Will Teri and Kimberly be saved or killed by the kidnappers? Who is the real mole at CTU?

5. Inviting Obsession
   Ask this: How does this pilot create the need to see every single episode? Will Jack prevent President hopeful Senator Palmer from being assassinated? Will Teri and Kimberly be saved or killed by the kidnappers? Who is the real mole at CTU?

[Vernall Ritchey]

1. VERNALL RITCHEY

2. The words “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.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Lesson 6: Assignment

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

What I learned from doing this assignment is: that is great to see how clearer the story is becoming.

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Genre Conventions

Title: EviLives

Concept: An attentive caregiver and soon-to-be nun attempts to exorcise a demon in a bedridden priest, but the exorcism fails as it becomes clear that the real battle lies not in his exorcism but in hers. She is the true demonic entity.

Genre: Horror

Genre Conventions:

PURPOSE: To create the experience of horror for your audience by taking your characters to the point of hysteria.

ISOLATION: Setting and situation where the characters are alone and powerless against the monster.

DEATH: Threaten your characters with awful, violent, and torturous deaths. Create the fear of death or insanity.

MONSTER/VILLAIN: A person or entity that will inflict endless terror and violence.

HIGH TENSION: Put your characters in sinister situations that are out of their control, then turn up the heat to the point of hysteria.

DEPARTURE FROM REALITY: These are extreme locations, and situations, outside of daily life. Thrillers are part of our normal life. Horror movies are a departure.

MORAL STATEMENT: Under all of this horror is a social message about what are acceptable values and what lines not to cross. Those who violate these values are punished in a bad way.

Act 1:

• Opening: Kyla is introduced as an attentive Caregiver and soon-to-be nun deeply committed to her faith, showing compassion and dedication to Father Gill’s well-being, while subtly hinting that a demonic force has entered the house to possess her and Father Gill.

· Inciting Incident: There’s a loud NOISE hinting that a demonic force has entered the house.

o Isolation: All windows and doors close shut and lock simultaneously preventing both Kyla and Father Gill from leaving the house. Kyla tries to escape/get out of the house, but can’t so . . .

o Purpose: Kyla hysterically attempts various remedial rituals/methods (purification concoctions, prayer, salt) to purify her, Father Gill, and the house, each failing.

• Turning Point 1: Kyla, trapped in Father Gill’s bedroom, experiences a demonic presence and concludes that a demonic entity has possessed Father Gill.

• Isolation and Purpose: Kyla is alone and powerless against the Demon.

• DEATH: Threaten your characters with awful, violent, and torturous deaths. Create the fear of death or insanity.

• HIGH TENSION: Put your characters in sinister situations that are out of their control, then turn up the heat to the point of hysteria.

Act 2:

• New plan: Kyla reaches out to Father Moore and 911 for help with Father Gill’s possession.

· Plan in action: Kyla concocts various methods to expel the demonic entity from Father Gill.

• Kyla performs an exorcism wherein she escalates sinister methods to rid Father Gill of the demon.

• Midpoint Turning Point: Kyla forces purification concoctions down Father Gill’s throat forcing him to choke and his heart to stop beating. Father Gill passes out and then regains consciousness. Assumed exorcised.

• Kyla immorally molests Father Gill – she massages his penis as she cleans him.

• Demon speaks. Proving exorcism failed.

• A paranoid Kyla throws the kitchen sink at Father Gill in an attempt to exorcise him. She binds him and sadistically beats Father Gill to the point where he stops breathing. She resuscitates him. Her thought is that by killing him, she also kills the demon. He is in essence born again.

• MONSTER/VILLAIN: Kyla is a person and the demonic entity that inflicts endless terror and violence.

• HIGH TENSION: A hysterical Kyla has Father Gill in a sinister situation that is out of his control.

o DEATH: An insane Kyla, threatens Father Gill with awful, violent, and torturous deaths. Create the fear of death or insanity.

Act 3:

• Rethink everything: Presumed exorcised, Kyla obsesses over Father Gill – bathes feeds him, and unleashes jealousy.

• New plan: A Demonic Father Gill turns the table on Kyla – an eye for an eye. He taunts and terrorizes Kyla.

• Turning Point 2 – Huge failure / Major shift: A hysterical Kyla is presumed sexually assaulted by a Demonic Father Gill. This is a traumatic and intense experience.

• Kyla’s true demonic identity is fully revealed, when the room turns upside down and Kyla is exposed as the person who is sexually assaulting Father Gill and is possessed by the demon, not Father Gill – shifting the audience’s perception of her as not only a monster in the inside, but the outside too.

Act 4:

• Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: A demonic Kyla faces Father Gill, Father Moore, and Father Lyle in a final battle of wills, where her demonic powers are fully unleashed. The Father’s fight for their lives. Kyla kills Father Lyle.

• Resolution: The battle’s aftermath shows the new status quo for Kyla and the Fathers. The ultimate confrontation is not only with Father Gill but with the demonic entity that resides within Kyla herself. Manifest as a physical form, an internal voice, or even a dark reflection of her personality. Through this internal battle, Kyla confronts her fears, doubts, and temptations. She chooses between giving in to the demon’s darkness and embracing the light within her, ultimately forging a path toward self-acceptance and redemption.

• Father Gill and Father Moore exorcised Kyla.

• DEPARTURE FROM REALITY: Kyla kills Father Lyle in a demonic way. Father Gills breaks his wrist and stabs Kyla in the eye to survive her deadly wrath.

• MORAL STATEMENT: The overarching philosophical conflict in the screenplay is the battle between good and evil, as represented by the protagonist’s belief in God and the presence of demonic forces. This conflict intertwines with the protagonist’s journey as she confronts her own fears, doubts, and the existence of evil. It challenges her beliefs, values, and faith, forcing her to question the nature of good and evil and the power of faith in the face of supernatural occurrences.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Hi everyone, my name is Vernall and I have written 2 scripts that I want to make better with the learnings from this class. I look forward to working with everyone.

[Vernall Ritchey]

VERNALL RITCHEY

I agree to the following terms of the Group Release as stated below:

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.

[Vernall Ritchey]

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

What I learned from doing this assignment is: that is great to see how clearer the story is becoming.

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – 4 Act Transformational Structure

Concept: An attentive caregiver and soon-to-be nun attempts to exorcise a demon in a bedridden priest, but the exorcism fails as it becomes clear that the real battle lies not in his exorcism but in hers. She is the true demonic entity.

Old Ways:

• Attentive kind Caregiver

• Committed to her Catholic faith

• Brave and courageous

• Prayer heals all

New Ways:

• Evil Demon

• Paranoid

• Fanatical and Manipulative

• Sadistic

Act 1:

• Opening: Kyla is introduced as an attentive Caregiver and soon-to-be nun deeply committed to her faith, showing compassion and dedication to Father Gill’s well-being, while subtly hinting that a demonic force has entered the house to possess her and Father Gill.

· Inciting Incident: There’s a loud NOISE hinting that a demonic force has entered the house.

• Turning Point 1: Kyla, trapped in Father Gill’s bedroom, experiences a demonic presence and concludes that a demonic entity has possessed Father Gill.

Act 2:

• New plan: Kyla concocts various methods to expel the demonic entity from Father Gill.

• Plan in action: Kyla performs an exorcism wherein she escalates sinister methods to rid Father Gill of the demon.

• Midpoint Turning Point: Kyla sadistically beats Father Gill to the point where he stops breathing and has to be resuscitated. Her thought is that by killing him, she also kills the demon. He is in essence born again.

Act 3:

• Rethink everything: Kyla reaches out to Father Moore and 911 for help with Father Gill’s possession.

• New plan: A paranoid Kyla throws the kitchen sink at Father Gill in an attempt to exorcise him. She binds him, forces purification concoctions down his throat forcing him to choke and his heart to stop beating. She resuscitates him in a different way than before.

• Turning Point 2 – Huge failure / Major shift: Kyla’s true demonic identity is fully revealed, when the room turns upside down and Kyla is exposed as the person who is possessed by the demon, not Father Gill – shifting the audience’s perception of her as not only a monster in the inside, but the outside too.

Act 4:

• Climax/Ultimate expression of the conflict: Kyla faces Father Gill, Father Moore, and Father Lyle in a final battle of wills, where her demonic nature is fully unleashed.

• Resolution: The battle’s aftermath shows the new status quo for Kyla and the Fathers. The ultimate confrontation is not only with Father Gill but with the demonic entity that resides within Kyla herself. Manifest as a physical form, an internal voice, or even a dark reflection of her personality. Through this internal battle, Kyla confronts her fears, doubts, and temptations. She must choose between giving in to the demon’s darkness or embracing the light within her, ultimately forging a path toward self-acceptance and redemption.

[Vernall Ritchey]

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

What I learned from doing this assignment is the many facets of Subtext Plot

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Subtext Plot

Concept 1: An attentive caregiver and soon-to-be nun attempts to exorcise a demon in a bedridden priest, but the exorcism fails as it becomes clear that the real battle lies not in his exorcism but in hers. She is the true demonic entity.

Subtext Plot: Layering

Throughout the story, the audience is led to believe that Father Gill, the bedridden priest is possessed by a demon, but in actuality, it is Kyla who is possessed by the demon (as revealed in Act III).

[Vernall Ritchey]

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

What I learned from doing this assignment is the transformational journey for my protagonist.

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Transformational Journey

KYLA

Arc Beginning: An attentive Caregiver and soon-to-be nun deeply committed to her faith, showing compassion and dedication to Father Gill’s well-being.

Arc Ending: Fanatical and manipulative Caregiver who resorts to extreme and sadistic measures performing exorcisms while transforming into a terrifying and seductive demonic individual.

Internal Journey: From a brave and determined devout soon-to-be nun. Facing her fears with unwavering resolve and Catholic faith.

External Journey: Paranoid, fearful, desperate, terrifying, and faithless.

Old Ways:

• Attentive kind Caregiver

• Committed to her Catholic faith

• Brave and courageous

• Prayer heals all

New Ways:

• Evil Demon

• Paranoid

• Fanatical and Manipulative

• Sadistic

[Vernall Ritchey]

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

What I learned from doing this assignment is how difficult it was.

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Intentional Lead Characters

PROTAGONIST

• Kyla: An attentive caregiver and soon-to-be nun.

• Logline: An attentive caregiver and soon-to-be nun attempts to exorcise a demon in extreme and sadistic measures.

• Unique: She is the true demonic entity.

ANTAGONIST

• Father Gill: A bedridden priest who recently suffered a stroke.

• Logline: A vulnerable bedridden priest who recently suffered a stroke appears to be possessed by a demon and must fight for his life.

• Unique: He is not possessed by a demonic entity.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Lesson 1: Assignment

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

What I learned from doing this assignment is how hard it is to perfect the title and concept.

Subject Line: WIM – Vernall Ritchey – Title, Concept, and Character Structure!

Title: EviLives

Concept 1: A nun attempts to exorcise a demon in a bedridden priest, but the exorcism fails as it becomes clear that the real battle lies not in his exorcism, but in hers. She is the true demonic entity.

Character Structure: Protagonist versus Antagonist.

or

Character Structure: Dramatic Triangle.

Please assist. I am unsure as to the structure. I have a Protagonist, a Victim (who is also a main character), and an Antagonist (a person possessed by a Demon).

• This reply was modified 1 year, 4 months ago by  Vernall Ritchey.
• This reply was modified 1 year, 4 months ago by  Vernall Ritchey.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Hi everyone,

My name is Vernall Ritchey. I have written 3 scripts, all of which I am trying to make great from the lessons learned from this course. My goal is to produce and direct the scripts I have written.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vernall Ritchey

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.

[Vernall Ritchey]

I VERNALL RITCHEY 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.

This completes the Group Release Form for the class.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vernall Ritchey – Pitch Fest Pitch

What I’ve learned is that these thought provoking lessons are helping to make a good script great.

1.

2. MAN HUNT a Romantic Comedy.

3. A beautiful, young woman has just been bequeathed a $25 million inheritance by her late, estranged, TRIBESMAN father if she marries A MAN LIKE HIM by tomorrow.

A beautiful, young woman stands to inherit $25 million from her late, estranged, TRIBESMAN father, if she can fulfill his stringent conditions, which is to marry A MAN LIKE HIM by her 21st birthday, which is in three days.

4.

Low budget: $500k to $5 million

Actors: Comedians or up and coming comedians

ACT I – Victoria, a beautiful, young woman stands to inherit $25 million from her late, estranged, TRIBESMAN father, if she can fulfill his stringent conditions, which is to marry A MAN LIKE HIM by her 21st birthday, which is in three days.

ACT II – Victoria, with the help of her raunchy, foul mouth mother, aunt, and two friends set out on a treacherous MAN HUNT where they find Martin, a tribesman for Victoria to marry. Martin adds preconditions of his own. Victoria grovels before complying.

ACT III – Martin accepts Victoria’s marriage proposal. Victoria vows to kick Martin’s ass after they are married and Victoria, Martin her tribesman fiancé, her raunchy, foul mouth mother, aunt, and two friends hurry back home.

How does it end? (setup / payoff) – Victoria finds Martin a tribesman to marry. Martin shocks them with his own preconditions that not only does he want the promised $100K, he wants a public marriage proposal on bended knee, a slow dance, and a juicy tongue kiss. Victoria grovels as she is forced to endure Martin’s multitude of indignities. But, after she does, he does too. They all head home making it back in the nick of time for Victoria and Martin to get married. They say I do, the clock strikes 5:00pm, and Victoria throws a punch, kicking Martin’s ass. It’s a near miss as Martin ducks — then plants a juicy kiss on Victoria’s lips. Victoria screams — Mama!

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vernall Ritchey – Query Letter

QUERY LETTER

Man Hunt is a hilarious comedy about a beautiful, recently engaged young woman who find out that she has just been bequeathed a $25 million inheritance by her late, estranged, TRIBESMAN father if she marries A MAN LIKE HIM by tomorrow.

Needless to say, all hell breaks loose when her dream engagement is off and her nightmarish hunt is on, literally and figuratively – as she, with the help of her raunchy, foul mouth mother, aunt, and two friends set out through the treacherous terrain of the forbidden forest to find a tribesman for her to marry.

Armed with courage, determination, and a mother’s useful advice (using quotes) is proven not to be enough as insurmountable problems occur when Victoria, with much disgust, is forced to grovel for Martin, a tribesman hand in marriage. Finally defeated by humiliation, Martin satisfied, accepts Victoria’s marriage proposal. Victoria vows to kick Martin’s ass after they are married. Martin shows that he is up for the challenge, evidenced by their back and forth sarcastic banter.

Determined to collect them coints, Martin and his boys take a short cut as they take the girls home. They make it back in the nick of time for Victoria and Martin to get married. They say I do, the clock strikes 5:00pm, and Victoria throws a punch, kicking Martin’s ass. It’s a near miss as Martin ducks then plants a juicy kiss on Victoria’s lips. Victoria screams.

REQUEST: If you like the concept, I’d be happy to send you the script.

CONTACT INFO: Vernall Ritchey, cellphone: (310) 500-8064, address: 9110 S. Cullen Way, Inglewood, CA 90305, email: vernallritchey@gmail.com

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vernall Ritchey – Synopsis Hook

Synopsis Hook

Man Hunt is a hilarious comedy about a beautiful, recently engaged young woman who find out that she has just been bequeathed a $25 million inheritance by her late, estranged, TRIBESMAN father if she marries A MAN LIKE HIM by tomorrow.

Needless to say, all hell breaks loose when her dream engagement is off and her nightmarish hunt is on, literally and figuratively – as she, with the help of her raunchy, foul mouth mother, aunt, and two friends set out through the treacherous terrain of the forbidden forest to find a tribesman for her to marry.

Armed with courage, determination, and a mother’s useful advice (using quotes) is proven not to be enough as insurmountable problems occur when Victoria, with much disgust, is forced to grovel for Martin, a tribesman hand in marriage. Finally defeated by humiliation, Martin satisfied, accepts Victoria’s marriage proposal. Victoria vows to kick Martin’s ass after they are married. Martin shows that he is up for the challenge, evidenced by their back and forth sarcastic banter.

Determined to collect them coints, Martin and his boys take a short cut as they take the girls home. They make it back in the nick of time for Victoria and Martin to get married. They say I do, the clock strikes 5:00pm, and Victoria throws a punch, kicking Martin’s ass. It’s a near miss as Martin ducks then plants a juicy kiss on Victoria’s lips. Victoria screams.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vernall Ritchey – High Concept/Elevator Pitch

HIGH CONCEPT – MAN HUNT is a hilarious romantic comedy about a beautiful, recently engaged young woman who finds out that she has just been bequeathed a $25 million inheritance by her late, estranged TRIBESMAN father, if she marries a MAN LIKE HIM by tomorrow. Needless to say, all hell breaks loose when her dream engagement is off and her nightmarish hunt is on, literally and figuratively – as she, with the help of her raunchy, foul mouth mother, aunt, and two friends set out into the forbidden forest to find a tribesman for her to marry.

ELEVATOR PITCH – The hunt begins when a beautiful young woman, with the help of her raunchy, foul mouth mother, aunt, and two friends set out into the forbidden forest to find a tribesman for her to marry in order to receive her $25 million inheritance.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vernall Ritchey – 10 Most Interesting Things

A. Unique Hero: Victoria is committed with conquering the most treacherous terrain in order to get to the Forbidden Village with hope of finding a man like her father to marry.

B. Major Hook: Victoria must marry a man like her tribesman father in order to receive $25 million inheritance.

C. Turning Point: Herman bequeaths Victoria a $25 million inheritance provided she marry a man like him before her birthday, which is tomorrow.

Turning Point: Victoria approaches Martin a tribesman and asks for his hand in marriage for 62 days. Martin makes Victoria grovel before accepting.

D. Emotional Dilemma: Victoria gets cold feet and has a mini breakdown when faced with having to propose to Martin, let alone marry him.

E. Reveal: Avalanche is intentional.

F. Reversal: Victoria is warming up to Martin after he saves her life from drowning.

G. Character Betrayal: Lawyer Kane intentional waits 3 days before expiration of inheritance before notifying Victoria of her bequeathment.

H. Surprise: Victoria likes Martin.

Other Interesting Things

– Victoria, along with her family and friends are avid skiers and very athletic and determined.

– Victoria, her mother, aunt, and 2 girlfriends have foul mouths and display raunchy behavior.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vernall Ritchey – Producer/Manager

1. How will you present yourself and your project to the producer?

MAN HUNT is a hilarious comedy about Victoria, a beautiful young woman who, accompanied by her mother and three girlfriends, frantically hunt for a tribesman for Victoria to marry in order for her to claim her $25 million inheritance that is due to expire in three days. After many obstacles and much disgust, they do and she does.

MAN HUNT is a UNIQUE comedy with WIDE AUDIENCE APPEAL – It’s a movie that will get teens in the door, as well as others who are interested in a good comedy full of laughs. It has GREAT ROLES FOR BANKABLE ACTORS, especially comedians, up in coming comedians, or actors with a comedic interest, which will allure directors, along with the scenic directions involved.

MAN HUNT has few locations and characters. It WOWS as a Comedy or an Animation or both, depending upon interests and budgetary constraints. It opens the opportunity for sequels, as well as world building by easily introducing other marketable projects.

2. How will you present yourself and your project to the manager?

MAN HUNT is a hilarious comedy about Victoria, a beautiful young woman who, accompanied by her mother and three girlfriends, frantically hunt for a tribesman for Victoria to marry in order for her to claim her $25 million inheritance that is due to expire in three days. After many obstacles and much disgust, they do and she does.

MAN HUNT is a UNIQUE comedy with WIDE AUDIENCE APPEAL – It’s a movie that will get teens in the door, as well as others who are interested in a good comedy full of laughs. It has GREAT ROLES FOR BANKABLE ACTORS, especially comedians, up in coming comedians, or actors with a comedic interest, which will allure directors, along with the scenic directions involved.

MAN HUNT WOWS as a Comedy or an Animation or both, depending upon interests and budgetary constraints. It opens the opportunity for sequels, which I have written, as well as world building by easily introducing other marketable projects, which I have also written.

3. What I learned about doing this assignment is?

How Producers’ wants are different from Managers’ wants. Each have different components on which their determination to accept are based.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Assignment #2: Vernall Ritchey

CURRENT LOGLINE: Victoria, accompanied by her mother and three girlfriends, frantically hunt for a tribesman for Victoria to marry in order for her to claim her $25 million inheritance that is due to expire in three days.

COMPONENTS OF MARKETABILITY:

1. UNIQUE

2. GREAT TITLE – MAN HUNT

3. WIDE AUDIENCE APPEAL – It’s a movie that will get teens in the door, as well as others who are interested in a good comedy full of laughs.

4. A GREAT ROLE FOR A BANKABLE ACTOR – A great role for comedians, up in coming comedians, or actors with a comedic interest.

WHAT I LEARNED ABOUT DOING THIS ASSIGNMENT IS:

How hard it is to do the assignment. My logline is forever changing, hopefully for the better. Also, determining if the components of marketability are there, how to elevate them in the script.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Name: Vernall Ritchey, Project: Man Hunt, Market: Theater and Steaming

1. Comedy, Man Hunt, An unlikely romance between a beautiful young woman and a tribesman

2. The fact that the beautiful young woman stands to inherit $25 million from her late, estranged tribesman father whom she never met, if she marries a man like him by her 28th birthday which is in 3 days.

3. Actor’s production companies, producers, then managers. I picked target because an actor may have a vested interest in the role.

4. What I learned today is that marketing is just as important as a great script.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Hello, my name is Vernall Ritchey. I have written 4 scripts and my hope is to learn how to successfully navigate the entertainment industry whereby I can ultimately produce my own script.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vernall Ritchey

I Vernall Ritchey 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.

[Vernall Ritchey]

Vernall Ritchey

I Vernall Ritchey agree to the terms of this 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.