[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ Began Act 2

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is whenever I hesitated to think about what I should do next, I reminded myself that this was a first draft and resumed writing at a high speed.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Finished Act 1

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is how quickly I was able to write and complete the first Draft of Act 1.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Next Act 1 Scenes

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is by doing high-speed writing, I will be finished writing Act 1 tomorrow.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Act 1 First Draft Part 1

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is I’m really enjoying doing high-speed writing.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s High-Speed Writing Rules

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is writing at a high speed instead of focusing on the details of the scene makes it very easy to write each season my first draft.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s First Scene

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is how completing all the Lessons in Module 3 and Module 4 is not only making writing my outlines easier but also will improve the quality of my drafts and eventually my script.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

Sorry Everyone. I've already done two exchanges and won't be doing any more exchanges.

Hi Everyone,
I’m LJ and I’m writing a Sci-Fi/Drama with the title “Defiant Allies”.

Concept: An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

LJ

• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.
• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Fascinating Scene Outlines!

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is how each of the Lessons in Module 4 has resulted in me being prepared to start writing an incredible outline.

Genre = Sci-Fi
Title = Defiant Allies
Concept = An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

Scene 1: INT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Beginning: Mia, Gina, and Brett stand near the door of the home. Claire and Rosie run up to Mia, begging her not to leave (External Dilemma).
Middle: Mia hugs the girls and explains she must leave because she's an adult now. Flashback to Gina abusing the girls while Mia shields them (Uncomfortable Moment).
Ending: Gina angrily orders the girls to chores, gives Mia twenty dollars as a "parting gift," and Brett rolls his eyes. Mia leaves the foster home (Misinterpretation).

Scene 2: EXT. DYSTOPIAN STREET – DAY
Beginning: Mia walks down a street filled with robots performing various jobs (More interesting setting).
Middle: Mia enters a restaurant looking for work but exits dejected. She notices a hover van where Duke and Josh struggle with Ariael (Intrigue).
Ending: Mia uses her biomechanical arm and martial arts skills to free Ariael from the men. Zarael orders them back into the van and flies away. Ariael buys Mia food to show appreciation (Surprise).

Scene 3: INT. HOVER VAN – DAY
Beginning: Zarael shouts at and criticizes Duke and Josh (Superior Position).
Middle: The men are stunned when Zarael suddenly becomes soft-spoken, asking if they were hurt during the altercation (Mislead / Reveal).
Ending: Duke and Josh exchange confused glances, unsure of Zarael's true nature.

Scene 4: EXT. ALLEY – DAY
Beginning: Mia and Ariael sit on boxes, discussing the recent events while Mia eats (Uncertainty).
Middle: Ariael reveals that Zarael is from her country and killed her security guards. She offers Mia a job as her assistant (Secret).
Ending: Mia accepts the job, suggesting the foster home as a possible safe place to stay.

Scene 5: INT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Beginning: Gina agrees to let Mia and Ariael stay for a high monthly payment (External Dilemma).
Middle: Claire and Rosie giggle while scrubbing the kitchen floor, prompting Gina to strap them. Ariael criticizes Gina (Uncomfortable Moment).
Ending: Mia ushers Ariael to her former bedroom, worried about the situation (Suspense).

Scene 6: INT. MIA'S BEDROOM – DAY
Beginning: Ariael insists on having her own bedroom due to her status as a princess (Character changes radically).
Middle: Mia explains the lack of space and suggests making do with what they have.
Ending: Ariael decides to take a bath to think over the situation.

Scene 7: INT. WASHROOM – DAY
Beginning: Ariael removes her wig, revealing her white hair, and relaxes in the bathtub (Intrigue).
Middle: Gina bursts in with a strap, threatening Ariael for speaking out (Cliffhanger).
Ending: Ariael turns Gina into a white mouse and threatens to flush her down the toilet unless she agrees to sell the foster home (Major twist).

Scene 8: INT. MIA'S BEDROOM – DAY
Beginning: Ariael informs Mia about the deal she made with Gina (Surprise).
Middle: Ariael offers to make Mia and Brett co-owners of the foster home.
Ending: Mia is stunned but begins to see a glimmer of hope.

Scene 9: INT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Beginning: Ariael prepares all the necessary legal documents for the sale (Superior Position).
Middle: Gina hurriedly signs the papers and leaves, taking the money. Ariael announces Mia and Brett as the new owners.
Ending: Ariael promises to pay for a housekeeper, giving Mia a sense of control and stability (Resolution).

Scene 10: INT. ARIAEL'S BEDROOM – DAY
Beginning: Mia helps Ariael settle into her new room (More interesting setting).
Middle: Ariael decorates the room using her powers, creating an alien ambiance.
Ending: Mia is both amazed and intimidated by Ariael's abilities, deepening her sense of responsibility.

Scene 11: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Beginning: Zarael angrily updates Dugan about the failed capture (External Dilemma).
Middle: She provides him with Ariael's picture and instructs him to inform his allies (Mislead / Reveal).
Ending: Zarael emphasizes the importance of capturing Ariael alive for their plans (Suspense).

Scene 12: EXT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Beginning: Mia tells Claire and Rosie about the new ownership (Intrigue).
Middle: The girls are excited and hopeful about the future. Mia and Ariael leave to visit Brett (More interesting setting).
Ending: Mia reflects on her trust in Brett, hoping he can help them.

Scene 13: INT. BRETT'S WORKSHOP – DAY
Beginning: Brett's workshop is filled with advanced technology and a training area (More interesting setting).
Middle: Mia introduces Ariael to Brett and explains her situation. They demonstrate martial arts skills (Surprise).
Ending: Ariael, though impressed, insists on focusing on immediate threats, noting time is critical (Uncertainty).

Scene 14: EXT. ROBOT MUSEUM – DAY
Beginning: Mia and Ariael head to Ariael's financial institution, passing a robot museum (More interesting setting).
Middle: They evade Duke and Josh by transforming into ancient robots (Mystery).
Ending: Safe for the moment, they continue to the bank.

Scene 15: INT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Beginning: Mia and Ariael, having narrowly escaped danger, are recovering. Ariael prepares to reveal her true identity. (Interest Technique: Suspense)
Middle: Ariael tells Mia she is an alien princess and explains her unique gift. Mia reacts with shock and curiosity. (Interest Technique: Major Twist)
Ending: Mia grapples with the reality of Ariael’s revelation, unsure of what to believe. (Interest Technique: Uncertainty)

Scene 16: EXT. ARIAEL’S PLANET – DAY
Beginning: Ariael takes Mia through an energy vortex, transporting them to her home planet. (Interest Technique: More Interesting Setting)
Middle: Ariael introduces Mia to the Grounders and Floaters, her allies who explain their struggle. (Interest Technique: Superior Position)
Ending: Mia is amazed by the alien world and the responsibilities Ariael carries, feeling a new sense of purpose. (Interest Technique: Intrigue)

Scene 17: INT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Beginning: Mia and Ariael return to Earth. Mia reflects on what she has seen and heard. (Interest Technique: Internal Dilemma)
Middle: Mia decides to trust Ariael and vows to fight with her against Zarael. (Interest Technique: Character changes radically)
Ending: They prepare for the challenges ahead, solidifying their partnership. (Interest Technique: Suspense)

Scene 18: INT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Beginning: Ariael runs out of cash, causing tension. Mia feels betrayed and considers quitting. (Interest Technique: Betrayal)
Middle: Ariael promises to get money from her bank, explaining the difficulties she's facing. (Interest Technique: Uncomfortable Moment)
Ending: They agree to a risky plan to obtain the funds, showcasing the strain on their alliance. (Interest Technique: External Dilemma)

Scene 19 INT. ZARAEL’S CUBICLE – EVENING
Beginning: Zarael is seen struggling with her split personality, torn between revenge and pity for Ariael. (Interest Technique: Internal Dilemma)
Middle: Her conflicting emotions are evident as she debates her next move against Ariael. (Interest Technique: Mislead / Reveal)
Ending: Zarael’s unstable mental state heightens the danger she poses. (Interest Technique: Cliffhanger)

Scene 20: INT. ARIAEL’S BEDROOM – DAY
Beginning: Ariael and Mia plan their disguise to safely access Ariael’s financial institution. (Interest Technique: Mystery)
Middle: Ariael transforms into a baby, and Mia into a robot nanny. They rehearse their roles. (Interest Technique: Surprise)
Ending: Ready for the mission, they head towards the financial institution. (Interest Technique: Suspense)

Scene 21: EXT. FINANCIAL INSTITUTION – DAY
Beginning: Before entering, they overhear Duke and Josh discussing Zarael's instability. (Interest Technique: Superior Position)
Middle: Mia and Ariael realize the depth of Zarael's mental issues, increasing their concern. (Interest Technique: Misinterpretation)
Ending: They enter the building, more cautious and determined. (Interest Technique: Suspense)

Scene 22: INT. FINANCIAL INSTITUTION – DAY
Beginning: Ariael and Mia revert to their normal appearances to approach an important robot manager. (Interest Technique: Uncertainty)
Middle: Ariael successfully obtains the requested finances. (Interest Technique: Superior Position)
Ending: They transform back into the nanny and baby before leaving the building. (Interest Technique: Intrigue)

Scene 23: EXT. FINANCIAL INSTITUTION – DAY
Beginning: Outside, they overhear Duke planning to update Tyrell and Zarael. (Interest Technique: Superior Position)
Middle: Mia and Ariael decide to follow Duke to gather more information. (Interest Technique: Suspense)
Ending: They tail Duke discreetly, leading them to a warehouse. (Interest Technique: Mystery)

Scene 24: EXT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Beginning: Ariael and Mia observe Duke entering the warehouse, trying to remain unseen. (Interest Technique: Suspense)
Middle: They discuss their next move, weighing the risks. (Interest Technique: External Dilemma)
Ending: Deciding to investigate further, they prepare to enter the warehouse. (Interest Technique: Cliffhanger)

Scene 25: EXT. ALLEY – DAY
Beginning: Ariael and Mia transform into pigeons to infiltrate the warehouse. (Interest Technique: Surprise)
Middle: They fly into an open window, cautiously observing the scene inside. (Interest Technique: Intrigue)
Ending: Inside, they witness something shocking related to Zarael's plans. (Interest Technique: Major Twist)

Scene 26: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Beginning: The warehouse sprawls with shadows, an ominous setting for the clandestine meeting between Tyrell and Zarael. (BIG PICTURE – More interesting setting) Pigeons flutter overhead, unnoticed observers of the unfolding events.
Middle: Zarael, perceiving Ariael's potential threat to her own freedom, reluctantly aligns with Tyrell's ruthless plan to eliminate her twin sister. (TWIST – Mislead/Reveal)
Ending: With a chilling resolve, Zarael decides that Ariael must be eliminated to secure her own safety, setting a dangerous course of action in motion. (CHARACTER – Betrayal)

Scene 27: INT. ARIAEL’S BEDROOM – EVENING
Beginning: In the intimacy of Ariael's sanctuary, the tension rises as she reveals her connection to Zarael and the dire consequences of their inevitable confrontation. (BIG PICTURE – Superior Position)
Middle: Ariael entrusts Mia with a device crucial to their survival, deepening their bond of friendship and mutual trust amid looming danger. (CHARACTER – Internal Dilemma)
Ending: As Mia commits to aiding Ariael in her time of need, they forge a pact that will test their resilience and determination in the face of impending peril. (CHARACTER – Uncomfortable Moment)

Scene 28: INT. BRETT’S WORKSHOP – DAY
Beginning: Mia grapples with newfound admiration for Ariael as they reflect on her selflessness and impact on their lives, against the backdrop of Brett's cluttered workshop. (BIG PICTURE – More interesting setting)
Middle: Ariael embraces her duty as a future leader, acknowledging her responsibilities to both her people and her newfound allies, solidifying her resolve. (CHARACTER – Character changes radically)
Ending: With a shared determination, Ariael and Mia prepare to confront the looming threat posed by Zarael and Tyrell, setting the stage for a showdown. (TWIST – Major twist)

Scene 29: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Beginning: Disguised amidst the shadows, Ariael and Mia eavesdrop on Tyrell and Zarael's sinister alliance, their presence unnoticed amid the chaos. (BIG PICTURE – More interesting setting)
Middle: Zarael's escalating desperation leads to a shocking revelation as she conspires with Tyrell to obtain a devastating weapon, heightening the stakes. (TWIST – Surprise)
Ending: Ariael and Mia are left reeling from the revelation of Zarael's ruthless intentions, forced to confront the dire threat posed by their relentless adversary. (ANTICIPATION – Suspense)

Scene 30: INT. ARIAEL’S BEDROOM – EVENING
Beginning: In the sanctuary of Ariael's chamber, the weight of Zarael's treachery hangs heavy as Ariael and Mia grapple with the enormity of their predicament. (BIG PICTURE – More interesting setting)
Middle: With resolve born of desperation, Ariael and Mia hatch a daring plan to expose Zarael's machinations to the world, risking everything in a bid for salvation. (TWIST – Mislead/Reveal)
Ending: Mia reluctantly agrees to a dangerous transformation, setting the stage for a daring infiltration that could spell victory or doom. (CHARACTER – Uncomfortable Moment)

Scene 31: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Beginning: Disguised amidst the shadows, Mia embarks on a perilous mission to uncover Zarael and Tyrell's treachery, her fate hanging in the balance. (BIG PICTURE – More interesting setting)
Middle: As Mia covertly gathers incriminating evidence, the tension mounts as Zarael and Tyrell's sinister plans unfold before her eyes. (TWIST – Mislead/Reveal)
Ending: With damning evidence in hand, Mia risks everything to expose Zarael's betrayal, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown. (ANTICIPATION – Suspense)

Scene 32: INT. BRETT’S WORKSHOP – EVENING
Beginning: In Brett's makeshift sanctuary, Ariael and Mia present their damning evidence to their unlikely ally, setting the stage for a daring gambit to turn the tide. (BIG PICTURE – More interesting setting)
Middle: Brett, driven by a sense of duty and justice, vows to take their evidence to the highest authorities, setting the stage for a final confrontation. (CHARACTER – Character changes radically)
Ending: With Brett's assistance, Ariael and Mia set their plan into motion, racing against time to thwart Zarael's sinister ambitions. (ANTICIPATION – Suspense)

Scene 33: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Beginning: Gina's bitter betrayal sends shockwaves through the ranks of Ariael and Mia's allies, setting the stage for a final showdown with Zarael and her minions. (BIG PICTURE – More interesting setting)
Middle: As Zarael's forces close in, Ariael and Mia find themselves trapped in a deadly game of cat and mouse, their survival hanging in the balance. (TWIST – Cliffhanger)
Ending: With Ariael captured and Mia held at bay, the stage is set for a climactic showdown that will determine the fate of worlds. (ANTICIPATION – Suspense)

Scene 34: INT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Beginning: In the familiar surroundings of the foster home, the arrival of government agents heralds a sudden shift in fortunes, setting the stage for a dramatic resolution. (BIG PICTURE – More interesting setting)
Middle: As Tyrell is apprehended for his treachery, the balance of power shifts, setting the stage for a final confrontation between Ariael and Zarael. (TWIST – Major twist)
Ending: With Tyrell's arrest, the tide turns in favor of Ariael and Mia, setting the stage for a climactic showdown that will determine the fate of worlds. (ANTICIPATION – Suspense)

Scene 35: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Beginning: As Zarael and her minions prepare to make their escape, the arrival of government agents shatters their plans, setting the stage for a final showdown. (BIG PICTURE – More interesting setting)
Middle: With Tyrell's arrest, Zarael's grip on power begins to slip, setting the stage for a climactic confrontation with Ariael and Mia. (TWIST – Cliffhanger)
Ending: With the balance of power in flux, Ariael and Mia confront Zarael in a high-stakes showdown that will determine the fate of worlds. (ANTICIPATION – Suspense)

Scene 36: INT. HOVER VAN – DAY
Beginning: As Zarael and her captives make their escape, a startling revelation on a floating news billboard threatens to unravel her plans, setting the stage for a dramatic climax. (BIG PICTURE – More interesting setting)
Middle: With her treachery exposed to the world, Zarael is forced to confront the consequences of her actions, setting the stage for a final showdown with Ariael. (TWIST – Major twist)
Ending: As Zarael and her captives race towards an uncertain fate, the stage is set for a climactic showdown that will determine the fate of worlds. (ANTICIPATION – Suspense)

Scene 37: INT. ZARAEL’S CUBICLE – EVENING
Beginning: (Anticipation – Uncertainty) Zarael hastily gathers her belongings in her cubicle, a sense of urgency palpable in the air as she prepares to depart for her planet through an energy vortex, evading capture on Earth.
Middle: (Twist – Major twist) Ariael, accompanying Zarael, shares a glance laden with hidden meaning, hinting at an unexpected turn of events as they vanish through the vortex, leaving behind a trail of uncertainty and intrigue.
Ending: (Character – Uncomfortable Moment) The tension dissipates momentarily as the scene shifts to a quiet calm, leaving the audience with a lingering discomfort, wondering about the true intentions behind Zarael and Ariael's departure and what consequences it may hold for Mia and her allies.

Scene 38: INT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Beginning: (Big Picture – More interesting setting) The Foster Home, once a place of solace, now exudes an aura of foreboding as the housekeeper returns, discovering the aftermath of Zarael's visit, setting the stage for the emotional turmoil to come.
Middle: (Character – Internal Dilemma) Mia grapples with her sense of failure and despair, her internal conflict laid bare as she contemplates the daunting task of rescuing Ariael from the clutches of Zarael, highlighting the depth of her commitment to her newfound ally.
Ending: (Character – Uncomfortable Moment) Duke and Josh's unexpected apology injects a moment of discomfort into the scene, blurring the lines between friend and foe, leaving Mia and the audience questioning the complexities of loyalty and redemption.

Scene 39: INT. BRETT’S WORKSHOP – EVENING
Beginning: (Character – Betrayal) Mia confides in Brett, revealing her promise to Ariael and her determination to rescue her, setting the stage for a risky and potentially treacherous mission to Ariael's planet.
Middle: (Big Picture – More interesting setting) The workshop becomes a hub of activity as Mia prepares to embark on her journey, the air crackling with anticipation as she harnesses the power of the energy vortex to travel to Ariael's planet, signaling a pivotal moment in her quest.
Ending: (Twist – Cliffhanger) As Mia disappears into the vortex, uncertainty looms over her fate, leaving Brett and the audience on edge, wondering what challenges await her on Ariael's planet and whether she will emerge victorious in her mission.

Scene 40: EXT. ARIAEL’S PLANET – DAY
Beginning: (Anticipation – Suspense) Mia arrives on Ariael's planet, greeted by the unfamiliar sights and sounds of an alien world, heightening the sense of suspense as she begins to coordinate with Ariael's allies to rescue her from captivity.
Middle: (Twist – Mislead/Reveal) The revelation of Ariael's dire situation deepens the stakes, as Mia and the audience are misled into believing that a direct confrontation may be necessary, only to discover a surprising twist as Mia devises a different plan of action.
Ending: (Character – Internal Dilemma) Mia's decision to seek counsel from Brett highlights her internal struggle with the weight of responsibility, underscoring her commitment to finding a solution that balances pragmatism with empathy, leaving the audience on tenterhooks as they await the next development.

Scene 41: INT. BRETT’S WORKSHOP – DAY
Beginning: (Character – Uncomfortable Moment) Mia confides in Brett, sharing the details of Ariael's predicament and their plan to rescue her, laying bare her vulnerability and uncertainty as she grapples with the enormity of the task ahead.
Middle: (Twist – Major twist) Brett's ingenious creation of stink bombs injects a surprising twist into the scene, transforming what seemed like a hopeless situation into a glimmer of hope, as Mia prepares to deploy them in a daring attempt to turn the tide in their favor.
Ending: (Character – Betrayal) The scene concludes with Mia's departure for Ariael's planet, leaving Brett behind with a heavy heart, as the weight of their shared burden and the uncertainty of their future loom large, foreshadowing the challenges that lie ahead for both of them.

Scene 42: EXT. ARIAEL’S PLANET – DAY
Climax
Beginning (Anticipation – Intrigue): The scene opens with a breathtaking panoramic shot of Ariael's lush, otherworldly planet bathed in the soft glow of its twin suns. The setting is more captivating than ever, with vibrant alien flora dotting the landscape and exotic creatures flitting about.
Middle (Interest Technique: Twist – Major Twist): In a heart-pounding sequence, Mia and her allies unleash Brett's ingeniously crafted stink bombs, causing chaos among Zarael's forces. The unexpected twist catches Zarael off guard, throwing her meticulously laid plans into disarray and granting Mia and her allies the opportunity they need to turn the tide of the battle in their favor.
Ending (Interest Technique: Character – Radical Change): With Zarael's forces defeated and her grand scheme thwarted, Ariael approaches her broken twin sister with a compassion born of wisdom and empathy. In a moment of radical change, Ariael chooses to set aside her animosity and vengeance, opting instead to show mercy to her fallen sibling.
In a poignant conclusion to the scene, Ariael lovingly places Zarael in the care of the planet's psychiatric facility, recognizing the depth of her sister's emotional wounds and offering her a chance at redemption and healing.

Scene 43: INT. THRONE ROOM – DAY
Beginning: (Character – Uncomfortable Moment) Mia and Ariael stand before the throne, their bittersweet reunion tinged with a sense of farewell, as Mia grapples with the conflicting emotions of duty and longing, setting the stage for their poignant farewell.
Middle: (Anticipation – Intrigue) Mia's decision to return to Earth adds a layer of intrigue to the scene, leaving the audience wondering about the fate of the Foster Home and Mia's unresolved past, as she bids farewell to Ariael and embarks on a new chapter of her journey.
Ending: (Twist – Cliffhanger) The scene concludes with Mia and Ariael's heartfelt promise to reunite, leaving the audience with a sense of anticipation and uncertainty, as they eagerly await the next installment of their adventure and the resolution of Mia's quest for justice and redemption.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Scene Requirements

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is how knowing about Scene Requirements and applying them adds meaning to every scene in a screenplay.

Genre = Sci-Fi
Title = Defiant Allies
Concept = An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

ACT 1
Scene 1: FOSTER HOME – DAY
Scene Arc: The scene begins with Mia preparing to leave the foster home. It ends with Mia comforting Claire and Rosie as they express their fear of being unprotected.
Essence: Establishing Mia's difficult past and her sense of responsibility towards the younger children in the foster home.
Conflict: Mia's decision to leave the foster home and the fear expressed by Claire and Rosie about being unprotected.
Subtext: Mia's traumatic past influences her decision to leave, but her empathy for Claire and Rosie drives her to comfort them.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to find safety and purpose outside the foster home, but fears leaving Claire and Rosie vulnerable.
Scene Requirements:
• Introduce Mia's troubled past and her protective nature.
• Establish the abusive environment in the foster home.
• Highlight Mia's internal conflict about leaving Claire and Rosie behind.
• Create empathy for Mia's character through her interactions with the younger children.
________________________________________
Scene 2: DYSTOPIAN STREET – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia encounters Ariael being captured by Zarael's men. It ends with Mia using her skills to help Ariael escape.
Essence: Introducing the conflict between Ariael and Zarael, and establishing Mia's courage and resourcefulness.
Conflict: Ariael's capture by Zarael's men and Mia's decision to intervene to help her.
Subtext: Mia's willingness to help a stranger reflects her compassionate nature and her desire to protect others from harm.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to rescue Ariael and prevent her from falling into the hands of her enemies, but fears the consequences of confronting Zarael's forces.
Scene Requirements:
• Introduce Zarael as the main antagonist.
• Establish Ariael's vulnerability and the threat she faces.
• Showcase Mia's bravery and combat skills.
• Set up the initial alliance between Mia and Ariael.
________________________________________
Scene 3: HOVER VAN – DAY
Scene Arc: Ariael shows unexpected kindness towards Duke and Josh, surprising Mia. It ends with Ariael bonding with Mia over a meal.
Essence: Revealing Ariael's compassionate nature and her ability to see beyond appearances.
Conflict: Ariael's conflicting behavior towards her captors, Duke and Josh, and Mia's confusion about Ariael's motives.
Subtext: Ariael's actions hint at her complexity as a character and foreshadow her willingness to trust others despite her circumstances.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to understand Ariael's intentions and build a genuine connection with her, but fears the uncertainty of their alliance.
Scene Requirements:
• Develop Ariael's character beyond a simple victim.
• Establish a sense of camaraderie between Mia and Ariael.
• Hint at Ariael's ability to manipulate situations to her advantage.
________________________________________
Scene 4: ALLEY – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia learns about Zarael's intentions and agrees to help Ariael in exchange for a job and protection. It ends with Mia suggesting the foster home as a safe haven.
Essence: Cementing Mia and Ariael's alliance and setting up their future plans.
Conflict: Mia's reluctance to get involved in Ariael's conflict with Zarael and her decision to ultimately accept the offer of employment.
Subtext: Mia's past experiences influence her decision to join Ariael, as she sees an opportunity to protect others from suffering.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to find purpose and safety by aligning with Ariael, but fears the risks involved in confronting Zarael.
Scene Requirements:
• Solidify Mia and Ariael's partnership.
• Establish the foster home as a central location for the story.
• Set up Mia's internal conflict about getting involved in Ariael's mission.
________________________________________
Scene 5: FOSTER HOME – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael confront Gina about her abusive behavior towards the children. It ends with Ariael suggesting Mia's involvement in running the foster home.
Essence: Highlighting the injustice within the foster home and Mia's commitment to protecting the children.
Conflict: Gina's abusive behavior and Mia's determination to stand up for the children's rights.
Subtext: Ariael's intervention emphasizes her role as a catalyst for positive change and hints at her leadership qualities.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to create a safer environment for the children, but fears the repercussions of challenging Gina's authority.
Scene Requirements:
• Address the ongoing conflict within the foster home.
• Showcase Ariael's insight and empathy towards the children's plight.
• Establish Mia's growing sense of responsibility towards the foster home and its residents.
• Set up the potential for positive change within the foster home under Mia and Ariael's leadership.
________________________________________
Scene 6: MIA’s BEDROOM – DAY
Scene Arc: Ariael and Mia discuss their living arrangements and Ariael's need for her own space. It ends with Ariael reluctantly accepting Mia's proposal.
Essence: Establishing the dynamics of Mia and Ariael's living situation and their differing needs.
Conflict: Ariael's desire for privacy clashes with the limited space available in the foster home.
Subtext: Ariael's acceptance of Mia's offer hints at her adaptability and willingness to compromise for the sake of their partnership.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes to find a sense of security and belonging in her new environment, but fears the limitations imposed by her circumstances.
Scene Requirements:
• Develop the relationship between Mia and Ariael as roommates.
• Highlight Ariael's need for independence and privacy.
• Establish Mia as a supportive and accommodating friend to Ariael.
• Set up the foster home as a temporary refuge for Ariael while she plans her next move.
________________________________________
Scene 7: WASHROOM – DAY
Scene Arc: Ariael confronts Gina about her abusive behavior and negotiates the sale of the foster home. It ends with Gina agreeing to Ariael's terms.
Essence: Resolving the conflict with Gina and securing the foster home for Ariael and Mia's use.
Conflict: Gina's resistance to Ariael's authority and Ariael's determination to protect Mia and the children.
Subtext: Ariael's use of her powers to assert control over Gina highlights her resourcefulness and strategic thinking.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes to create a safe haven for herself and Mia, but fears Gina's retaliation and resistance.
Scene Requirements:
• Resolve the conflict with Gina and establish Ariael's authority over the foster home.
• Showcase Ariael's ability to negotiate and manipulate situations to her advantage.
• Highlight Mia's growing trust in Ariael's abilities and judgment.
• Set up the foster home as a base of operations for Mia and Ariael's mission to thwart Zarael's plans.
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Scene 8: MIA’s BEDROOM – DAY
Scene Arc: Ariael proposes making Mia and Brett co-owners of the foster home. It ends with Mia and Brett accepting Ariael's offer.
Essence: Solidifying Mia and Brett's involvement in Ariael's mission and establishing their commitment to protecting the foster home.
Conflict: Mia and Brett's uncertainty about their roles in Ariael's plans and Ariael's need for allies.
Subtext: Ariael's gesture reflects her trust in Mia and Brett and her recognition of their value as allies.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes to strengthen her alliance with Mia and Brett, but fears their reluctance to get involved in her conflict with Zarael.
Scene Requirements:
• Cement Mia and Brett's commitment to Ariael's cause.
• Establish Mia and Brett as integral members of Ariael's team.
• Highlight Ariael's strategic thinking and her ability to inspire loyalty in others.
• Set up the foster home as a united front against Zarael's threats.
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Scene 9: FOSTER HOME – DAY
Scene Arc: Ariael handles the legalities of purchasing the foster home and hiring a housekeeper. It ends with Ariael finalizing the arrangements.
Essence: Establishing Ariael's authority over the foster home and setting up the infrastructure for their mission.
Conflict: Ariael's need to secure the foster home and Mia's concern about the housekeeper's suitability.
Subtext: Ariael's actions demonstrate her capability as a leader and her commitment to Mia's well-being.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes to create a stable environment for herself and Mia, but fears the challenges of managing the foster home.
Scene Requirements:
• Solidify Ariael's control over the foster home through legal means.
• Establish the housekeeper as a supporting character in their mission.
• Highlight Mia's cautious optimism about their new living arrangements.
• Set up the foster home as a base of operations for Mia and Ariael's endeavors.
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Scene 10: ARIAL’S BEDROOM – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia helps Ariael settle into her new living quarters. It ends with Ariael expressing gratitude towards Mia.
Essence: Developing the bond between Mia and Ariael and establishing a sense of camaraderie.
Conflict: Ariael's discomfort with her new surroundings and Mia's efforts to make her feel welcome.
Subtext: Ariael's gratitude towards Mia hints at her growing attachment to her as a friend and ally.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes to find stability and friendship in her new environment, but fears the challenges ahead.
Scene Requirements:
• Deepen the friendship between Mia and Ariael.
• Showcase Mia's nurturing side and her empathy towards Ariael's situation.
• Establish Ariael's vulnerability and her need for support in her exile.
• Set up Ariael's integration into the foster home community.
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Scene 11: WAREHOUSE – DAY
Scene Arc: Zarael instructs Dugan to capture Ariael alive for their nefarious plans. It ends with Zarael plotting to use Ariael's powers for her own gain.
Essence: Introducing Zarael's scheme and raising the stakes for Ariael and Mia.
Conflict: Zarael's desire to control Ariael's powers and Mia's determination to protect her friend.
Subtext: Zarael's manipulation of Dugan reflects her cunning nature and her willingness to exploit others for her own ends.
Hope/fear: Zarael hopes to use Ariael's powers to further her ambitions, but fears Mia's interference in her plans.
Scene Requirements:
• Establish Zarael's role as the primary antagonist.
• Introduce Dugan as a henchman under Zarael's control.
• Highlight Mia's commitment to protecting Ariael from harm.
• Set up the conflict between Ariael and Zarael over control of Ariael's powers.
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Scene 12: FOSTER HOME – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia reassures Claire and Rosie about their safety in the foster home. It ends with Mia and Ariael leaving to visit Brett.
Essence: Establishing the foster home as a safe haven for the children and setting up Mia and Ariael's next move.
Conflict: Claire and Rosie's fear of being abandoned and Mia's efforts to comfort them.
Subtext: Mia's reassurance reflects her protective instincts and her sense of responsibility towards the children.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to create a sense of security for Claire and Rosie, but fears the challenges ahead.
Scene Requirements:
• Reinforce the foster home as a place of safety and refuge.
• Develop Mia's relationship with Claire and Rosie.
• Establish Mia and Ariael's next destination and their ongoing mission.
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Scene 13: BRETT’S WORKSHOP – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael discuss Mia's martial arts training with Brett. It ends with Ariael discovering Mia's biomechanical arm.
Essence: Exploring Mia's background and setting up Ariael's discovery.
Conflict: Mia's reluctance to discuss her past and Ariael's curiosity about her abilities.
Subtext: Ariael's fascination with Mia's biomechanical arm hints at her deeper understanding of human technology.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to keep her past hidden from Ariael, but fears the consequences of revealing too much.
Scene Requirements:
• Develop Mia's backstory and her relationship with Brett.
• Highlight Ariael's curiosity about human technology and culture.
• Foreshadow Ariael's discovery of Mia's biomechanical arm.
• Set up future conflicts between Mia's desire for secrecy and Ariael's quest for knowledge.
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Scene 14: ROBOT MUSEUM – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael evade capture by using Ariael's powers to transform Duke and Josh. It ends with Mia and Ariael continuing on their mission.
Essence: Demonstrating Ariael's abilities and Mia's resourcefulness in navigating dangerous situations.
Conflict: Duke and Josh's pursuit of Ariael and Mia, countered by Ariael's use of her powers to escape.
Subtext: Ariael's quick thinking and mastery of her abilities underscore her potential as a powerful ally.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes to evade capture and continue her mission, while fearing the consequences of being apprehended by her pursuers.
Scene Requirements:
• Showcase Ariael's powers and their effectiveness in evading capture.
• Highlight Mia's role as Ariael's protector and ally.
• Introduce the theme of using Ariael's abilities strategically to overcome obstacles.
• Set up the tension between Ariael's need for secrecy and the pursuit by Duke and Josh.
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Scene 15: FOSTER HOME – DAY
Scene Arc: Ariael reveals her true identity to Mia, explaining her situation. It ends with Mia processing the revelation.
Essence: Deepening the bond between Mia and Ariael through honesty and trust.
Conflict: Ariael's need to confide in Mia and Mia's struggle to accept the truth.
Subtext: Ariael's vulnerability in confiding her identity to Mia underscores the depth of their friendship.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes for Mia's understanding and support, while fearing rejection or betrayal.
Scene Requirements:
• Establish Ariael's trust in Mia by revealing her true identity.
• Develop Mia's character through her reaction to Ariael's revelation.
• Deepen the emotional connection between Mia and Ariael.
• Set up future conflicts stemming from Ariael's alien identity and Mia's role in protecting her.
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ACT 2
Scene 16: ARIAEL’S PLANET – DAY
Scene Arc: Ariael introduces Mia to her allies on her home planet, demonstrating her leadership. It ends with Mia deciding to join Ariael's cause.
Essence: Immersing Mia in Ariael's world and solidifying her commitment to their mission.
Conflict: Mia's uncertainty about her role in Ariael's mission and Ariael's need for allies.
Subtext: Ariael's connections on her home planet showcase her status as a respected leader among her people.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes for Mia's support and assistance in their mission, while fearing rejection or abandonment.
Scene Requirements:
• Establish Ariael's status and relationships on her home planet.
• Showcase Mia's decision to join Ariael's cause and her growing commitment to their mission.
• Set up future conflicts and challenges they will face on Ariael's planet.
• Develop the theme of loyalty and trust between Mia and Ariael.
________________________________________
Scene 17: FOSTER HOME – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia decides to trust Ariael and commit to helping her. It ends with Mia expressing her determination to stand by Ariael's side.
Essence: Solidifying Mia's commitment to Ariael's cause and setting up their next move.
Conflict: Mia's internal struggle to trust Ariael and her own instincts.
Subtext: Mia's decision to trust Ariael reflects her growth and willingness to confront her own fears and doubts.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to make a difference and protect Ariael, while fearing the challenges and dangers ahead.
Scene Requirements:
• Showcase Mia's character development and her decision to trust Ariael.
• Establish Mia's role as Ariael's ally and partner in their mission.
• Set up the next phase of their plan and the challenges they will face together.
• Reinforce the theme of loyalty and solidarity between Mia and Ariael.
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Scene 18: FOSTER HOME – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia confronts Ariael about her inability to pay her daily salary, expressing her concerns. It ends with Ariael explaining the urgency of their situation.
Essence: Highlighting the practical challenges of Ariael's mission and Mia's need for financial stability.
Conflict: Mia's frustration with Ariael's inability to pay her and Ariael's desperation to fulfill her mission.
Subtext: Ariael's financial difficulties underscore the high stakes of their mission and the obstacles they face.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes for Mia's understanding and patience, while fearing her potential abandonment.
Scene Requirements:
• Address the practical challenges of Ariael's mission and the need for resources.
• Develop Mia and Ariael's relationship through their conflict and resolution.
• Establish the urgency of their mission and the risks they face if they fail.
• Set up future conflicts and challenges stemming from their financial constraints.
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Scene 19: ZARAEL’S CUBICLE – EVENING
Scene Arc: Zarael struggles with her conflicting emotions regarding Ariael. It ends with her determination to capture Ariael.
Essence: Highlighting Zarael's inner turmoil and her relentless pursuit of power.
Conflict: Zarael's inner conflict between her desire for revenge and her moments of doubt and sympathy.
Subtext: Zarael's internal struggle reveals her complexity as a character and adds depth to her motivations.
Hope/fear: Zarael hopes to assert her dominance and eliminate Ariael as a threat, while fearing the consequences of failure.
Scene Requirements:
• Explore Zarael's internal conflict and her motivations for capturing Ariael.
• Develop Zarael's character by highlighting her vulnerability and her ruthless ambition.
• Set up the climax by emphasizing Zarael's determination to achieve her goals at any cost.
• Foreshadow the final confrontation between Zarael and Ariael.
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Scene 20: ARIAL’S BEDROOM – DAY
Scene Arc: Ariael transforms herself and Mia to execute a plan to obtain money from her financial institution. It ends with them preparing for the mission.
Essence: Demonstrating Ariael's resourcefulness and her ability to adapt to different situations.
Conflict: Ariael's need to acquire funds without attracting attention and Mia's reluctance to participate in the risky mission.
Subtext: Ariael's decision to involve Mia in the mission highlights their partnership and mutual trust.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes to secure the resources they need to continue their mission, while fearing the risks involved in the operation.
Scene Requirements:
• Establish the necessity of obtaining funds for Ariael's mission and the risks involved.
• Develop Ariael and Mia's partnership through their collaboration on the mission.
• Set up the tension and suspense of the mission and its potential consequences.
• Foreshadow future conflicts and challenges stemming from their actions.
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Scene 21: FINANCIAL INSTITUTION – DAY
Scene Arc: Ariael successfully obtains the necessary funds with Mia's assistance. It ends with them leaving the institution.
Essence: Resolving the immediate conflict of acquiring funds and advancing their mission.
Conflict: Ariael's need to navigate the financial institution undetected and Mia's role in assisting her.
Subtext: Ariael's skill in manipulating others and her resourcefulness in acquiring funds demonstrate her determination to succeed.
Hope/fear: Ariael hopes to secure the resources they need and evade detection, while fearing the consequences of failure.
Scene Requirements:
• Resolve the conflict of acquiring funds and advance the plot.
• Showcase Ariael's abilities and resourcefulness in manipulating others to achieve her goals.
• Develop the tension and suspense of the mission as they navigate the financial institution.
• Set up the next phase of their plan and the challenges they will face.
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Scene 22: FINANCIAL INSTITUTION – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael decide to follow Duke after overhearing his conversation. It ends with them tracking Duke to a warehouse.
Essence: Setting up the next phase of their mission and introducing a new challenge.
Conflict: Mia and Ariael's decision to follow Duke and the potential risks involved.
Subtext: Mia and Ariael's determination to uncover Zarael's plans and protect themselves underscores their commitment to their mission.
Hope/fear: Mia and Ariael hope to gather valuable information and thwart Zarael's plans, while fearing the dangers they may encounter.
Scene Requirements:
• Establish the new challenge of tracking Duke and uncovering Zarael's plans.
• Develop Mia and Ariael's partnership as they work together to gather information.
• Set up the tension and suspense of their investigation and the dangers they face.
• Foreshadow the confrontation with Zarael and the climax of the story.
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Scene 23: WAREHOUSE – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael transform into pigeons to infiltrate the warehouse. It ends with them eavesdropping on Tyrell and Zarael's conversation.
Essence: Continuing their investigation and gathering crucial information.
Conflict: Mia and Ariael's need to gather information covertly and avoid detection.
Subtext: Mia and Ariael's resourcefulness and adaptability in using their abilities to gather information demonstrate their determination to succeed.
Hope/fear: Mia and Ariael hope to uncover Zarael's plans and stop her, while fearing discovery and the consequences of failure.
Scene Requirements:
• Advance the plot by gathering crucial information about Zarael's plans.
• Showcase Mia and Ariael's resourcefulness and adaptability in using their abilities.
• Develop the tension and suspense of their investigation and the dangers they face.
• Foreshadow the climax and the final confrontation with Zarael.
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Scene 24: EXT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael witness Duke entering the warehouse, setting up a confrontation. It ends with them following Duke inside.
Essence: Building tension and anticipation as Mia and Ariael approach a crucial moment in their mission.
Conflict: Mia and Ariael's need to confront Duke and gather more information while avoiding detection.
Subtext: The intensity of the situation highlights the stakes for Mia and Ariael and the risks they are willing to take.
Hope/fear: Mia and Ariael hope to gather valuable information and stop Zarael's plans, while fearing the dangers they may encounter.
Scene Requirements:
• Introduce a new phase of the investigation as Mia and Ariael confront Duke.
• Increase tension and suspense as they approach the climax of the story.
• Develop Mia and Ariael's determination to uncover the truth and stop Zarael.
• Foreshadow the final confrontation with Zarael and the resolution of the conflict.
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Scene 25: EXT. ALLEY – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael transform into pigeons to enter the warehouse undetected. It ends with them infiltrating the warehouse.
Essence: Continuing the suspense as Mia and Ariael infiltrate the warehouse to gather more information.
Conflict: Mia and Ariael's need to remain undetected while gathering information inside the warehouse.
Subtext: The tension mounts as Mia and Ariael approach the heart of Zarael's operation, underscoring the risks they face.
Hope/fear: Mia and Ariael hope to uncover crucial information and thwart Zarael's plans, while fearing discovery and the consequences of failure.
Scene Requirements:
• Build tension and suspense as Mia and Ariael enter the warehouse and approach the climax of the story.
• Highlight the risks involved in their mission and the dangers they face.
• Develop Mia and Ariael's determination and resourcefulness as they navigate the warehouse.
• Foreshadow the final confrontation with Zarael and the resolution of the conflict.
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Scene 26: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael eavesdrop on Duke's report to Tyrell and Zarael's subsequent conversation with Tyrell. It ends with Zarael's decision to prioritize capturing Ariael.
Essence: Heightening tension as Mia and Ariael gather crucial information about Zarael's plans.
Conflict: Mia and Ariael's need to gather information covertly while avoiding detection by Zarael and Tyrell.
Subtext: The intensity of the situation underscores the urgency of Mia and Ariael's mission and the risks they face.
Hope/fear: Mia and Ariael hope to uncover Zarael's plans and stop her, while fearing discovery and the consequences of failure.
Scene Requirements:
• Advance the plot by revealing crucial information about Zarael's plans and motivations.
• Increase tension and suspense as Mia and Ariael approach the climax of the story.
• Develop Mia and Ariael's determination and resourcefulness in gathering information.
• Foreshadow the final confrontation with Zarael and the resolution of the conflict.
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Scene 27: INT. ARIAL’S BEDROOM – EVENING
Scene Arc: Ariael reveals her twin sister, Zarael's, identity to Mia, disclosing the imminent danger they face. It ends with Mia's commitment to aid Ariael.
Essence: Establishing the gravity of the situation and strengthening the bond between Mia and Ariael as they face a common threat.
Conflict: Mia's realization of the true extent of the danger posed by Zarael and the need to strategize a response.
Subtext: The revelation deepens the emotional stakes for Mia and Ariael, highlighting the importance of their alliance.
Hope/fear: Mia and Ariael hope to devise a plan to thwart Zarael's schemes and protect themselves, while fearing the potential consequences of failure.
Scene Requirements:
• Heighten the stakes by revealing Zarael's identity and her threat to Ariael.
• Solidify Mia and Ariael's bond as allies against a common adversary.
• Establish Mia's commitment to aiding Ariael and confronting Zarael.
• Set the stage for the final confrontation and resolution of the conflict.
________________________________________
ACT 3
Scene 28: INT. BRETT’S WORKSHOP – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael discuss their next steps and decide to return to the warehouse for further information. It ends with a renewed determination to confront Zarael.
Essence: Planning their strategy and reinforcing their resolve to confront Zarael and thwart her plans.
Conflict: Mia and Ariael's need to formulate a plan while under pressure to stop Zarael's impending threat.
Subtext: The urgency of the situation underscores the importance of their mission and the risks involved.
Hope/fear: Mia and Ariael hope to gather vital information and stop Zarael, while fearing the challenges and dangers ahead.
Scene Requirements:
• Advance the plot by setting up the final confrontation with Zarael.
• Develop Mia and Ariael's determination and resolve to confront Zarael.
• Establish the plan for their next move and gather resources for their mission.
• Foreshadow the climax of the story and the resolution of the conflict.
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Scene 29: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael eavesdrop on Tyrell and Zarael's new plans, learning of Zarael's intentions to obtain a planet-destroying device. It ends with Zarael's ominous threat.
Essence: Revealing Zarael's escalating ambitions and the imminent danger they face.
Conflict: Mia and Ariael's need to gather intelligence while remaining undetected and confronting the magnitude of Zarael's threat.
Subtext: The gravity of the situation heightens as Mia and Ariael uncover Zarael's intentions, emphasizing the urgency of their mission.
Hope/fear: Mia and Ariael hope to thwart Zarael's plans and prevent catastrophe, while fearing the consequences of failure and the growing danger they face.
Scene Requirements:
• Advance the plot by revealing Zarael's escalating ambitions and the threat they pose.
• Increase tension and suspense as Mia and Ariael approach the climax of the story.
• Develop Mia and Ariael's determination to stop Zarael and protect themselves and their allies.
• Foreshadow the final confrontation with Zarael and the resolution of the conflict.
________________________________________
Scene 30: INT. ARIAL’S BEDROOM – EVENING
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael realize the gravity of Zarael's plan and decide to expose it to the media. It ends with Mia reluctantly agreeing to be transformed into a cat for the mission.
Essence: Heightening the stakes as Mia and Ariael plan their next move to thwart Zarael's destructive intentions.
Conflict: Mia and Ariael's need to devise a plan to stop Zarael's dangerous scheme while navigating the risks involved.
Subtext: The desperation of the situation underscores the importance of their mission and the sacrifices they must make.
Hope/fear: Mia and Ariael hope to expose Zarael's plan and prevent catastrophe, while fearing the challenges and dangers ahead.
Scene Requirements:
• Advance the plot by establishing the plan to thwart Zarael's intentions.
• Develop Mia and Ariael's determination to stop Zarael and protect their planet.
• Highlight the risks and sacrifices involved in their mission.
• Foreshadow the final confrontation with Zarael and the resolution of the conflict.
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Scene 31: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia, now transformed into a cat, infiltrates the warehouse to gather evidence. It ends with Mia overhearing Tyrell and Zarael's conversation.
Essence: Building tension as Mia executes her part of the plan to expose Zarael's intentions.
Conflict: Mia's need to gather evidence while navigating the dangers of the warehouse and avoiding detection.
Subtext: The intensity of the situation underscores the risks Mia faces and the importance of her mission.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to gather crucial evidence and stop Zarael, while fearing discovery and the consequences of failure.
Scene Requirements:
• Advance the plot by showing Mia's infiltration of the warehouse and her efforts to gather evidence.
• Increase tension and suspense as Mia navigates the dangers of the warehouse.
• Develop Mia's determination to complete her mission and stop Zarael.
• Foreshadow the final confrontation with Zarael and the resolution of the conflict.
________________________________________
Scene 32: INT. BRETT’S WORKSHOP – EVENING
Scene Arc: Mia shares the evidence with Brett, who vows to help them expose Zarael's plans. It ends with Brett preparing to take action.
Essence: Solidifying the alliance between Mia, Ariael, and Brett as they prepare to confront Zarael.
Conflict: The need to act quickly and decisively to thwart Zarael's dangerous scheme.
Subtext: The urgency of the situation highlights the importance of their mission and the risks they face.
Hope/fear: Mia, Ariael, and Brett hope to expose Zarael's plan and prevent catastrophe, while fearing the challenges and dangers ahead.
Scene Requirements:
• Advance the plot by setting up the final confrontation with Zarael.
• Develop Mia, Ariael, and Brett's determination to stop Zarael and protect their planet.
• Establish the plan for their next move and gather resources for their mission.
• Foreshadow the climax of the story and the resolution of the conflict.
________________________________________
Scene 33: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Scene Arc: Gina, seeking revenge, reveals Ariael's whereabouts to Tyrell and Zarael. It ends with Mia and Ariael's capture by Zarael.
Essence: Raising the stakes as Zarael closes in on Mia and Ariael, leading to their capture.
Conflict: The betrayal by Gina and the imminent danger posed by Zarael's forces.
Subtext: The consequences of past actions come to fruition as Gina's betrayal jeopardizes Mia and Ariael's safety.
Hope/fear: Mia and Ariael hope to evade capture and stop Zarael, while fearing the consequences of Gina's betrayal and the growing danger they face.
Scene Requirements:
• Advance the plot by escalating the conflict with Zarael's discovery of Ariael's location.
• Increase tension and suspense as Mia and Ariael's situation becomes increasingly perilous.
• Develop the consequences of Gina's betrayal and its impact on Mia and Ariael.
• Foreshadow the final confrontation with Zarael and the resolution of the conflict.
________________________________________
Scene 34: INT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Brett find themselves captured by Zarael, Duke, and Josh at the foster home. It ends with the revelation of Gina’s betrayal.
Essence: Heightening the tension as Mia and Brett face capture and Zarael’s plans unfold.
Conflict: Mia and Brett’s struggle against Zarael’s forces and the betrayal by Gina.
Subtext: Gina’s betrayal underscores the complexities of loyalty and trust, adding an unexpected twist to the situation.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to resist capture and find a way to stop Zarael, while fearing the consequences of their imprisonment.
Scene Requirements:
• Introduce the climax of the story as Mia and Brett confront Zarael at the foster home.
• Highlight the tension and stakes of the situation as Mia and Brett face capture.
• Reveal Gina’s betrayal as a pivotal moment in the plot.
• Set the stage for the final confrontation between Mia, Ariael, and Zarael.
________________________________________
ACT 4
Scene 35: INT. WAREHOUSE – DAY
Scene Arc: Government agents raid the warehouse and arrest Tyrell for treason. It ends with Zarael deciding to flee with Ariael to their home planet.
Essence: Resolving the immediate threat of Tyrell’s conspiracy as Zarael makes a decisive move.
Conflict: Zarael’s attempt to evade capture and take Ariael to their home planet.
Subtext: Zarael’s desperation and determination to escape capture highlight her ruthlessness and fear of failure.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to stop Zarael and rescue Ariael, while fearing the consequences of their escape.
Scene Requirements:
• Resolve the subplot of Tyrell’s conspiracy by his arrest.
• Heighten the stakes as Zarael decides to flee with Ariael to their home planet.
• Establish Zarael’s determination to achieve her goals at any cost.
• Set up the final confrontation between Mia and Zarael.
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Scene 36: INT. HOVER VAN – DAY
Scene Arc: Zarael, Duke, and Josh flee in a hover van as they hear news of Tyrell’s arrest. It ends with Zarael instructing Duke to take them to her cubicle.
Essence: Building tension as Zarael and her allies attempt to escape capture.
Conflict: Zarael’s pursuit by government agents and her determination to evade capture.
Subtext: Zarael’s urgency to regroup and plan her next move underscores her desperation and thirst for power.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to intercept Zarael and rescue Ariael, while fearing the challenges of their pursuit.
Scene Requirements:
• Maintain the momentum of the plot as Zarael and her allies flee from the authorities.
• Highlight Zarael’s determination and resourcefulness in evading capture.
• Build anticipation for the final confrontation between Mia and Zarael.
• Set up the resolution of the conflict in the upcoming scenes.
________________________________________
Scene 37: INT. ZARAEL’S CUBICLE – EVENING
Scene Arc: Zarael gathers her belongings and prepares to escape with Ariael to their home planet. It ends with Zarael and Ariael departing through an energy vortex.
Essence: Heightening the tension as Zarael makes her final preparations to flee.
Conflict: Zarael’s race against time to escape capture and secure Ariael’s capture.
Subtext: Zarael’s determination to achieve her goals reflects her ruthless ambition and fear of failure.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to intercept Zarael and rescue Ariael, while fearing the consequences of their escape.
Scene Requirements:
• Increase the tension as Zarael prepares to flee with Ariael.
• Highlight Zarael’s desperation and determination in her final attempt to secure power.
• Set the stage for the climactic confrontation between Mia and Zarael.
• Foreshadow the resolution of the conflict in the upcoming scenes.
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Scene 38: INT. FOSTER HOME – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Brett are freed by the housekeeper, who informs them of Gina’s betrayal. It ends with Mia lamenting their failure to stop Zarael.
Essence: Providing a moment of reflection as Mia and Brett grapple with their failure to prevent Zarael’s escape.
Conflict: Mia and Brett’s disappointment and frustration at being unable to stop Zarael’s plans.
Subtext: Mia and Brett’s resilience in the face of adversity highlights their determination to continue fighting for justice.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to find a way to rescue Ariael and stop Zarael, while fearing the challenges ahead.
Scene Requirements:
• Allow Mia and Brett to process their failure and regroup for the final confrontation.
• Highlight their resilience and determination to continue fighting against Zarael.
• Set up the resolution of the conflict in the upcoming scenes.
• Maintain the tension and anticipation for the climax of the story.
________________________________________
I’ll continue with the remaining scenes in the next response.
3.5
Please rewrite Scenes 39 to 43 using the same format as the previous feedback.
ChatGPT
Certainly, let’s continue with the remaining scenes:
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Scene 39: INT. BRETT’S WORKSHOP – EVENING
Scene Arc: Mia confides in Brett about her promise to rescue Ariael. It ends with Mia deciding to use the energy vortex to travel to Ariael’s planet.
Essence: Mia and Brett strategize their next move to rescue Ariael and confront Zarael.
Conflict: Mia’s internal conflict between her desire to fulfill her promise to Ariael and her fear of the dangers ahead.
Subtext: Mia’s determination to rescue Ariael reflects her growth and commitment to protecting others.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to succeed in rescuing Ariael and stopping Zarael, while fearing the challenges and dangers they will face.
Scene Requirements:
• Allow Mia and Brett to discuss their plan to rescue Ariael.
• Highlight Mia’s resolve and determination to fulfill her promise.
• Set the stage for Mia’s journey to Ariael’s planet and the final confrontation with Zarael.
• Maintain the tension and anticipation for the climax of the story.
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Scene 40: EXT. ARIAEL’S PLANET – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia coordinates with Ariael’s allies to plan the rescue operation. It ends with the discovery of Ariael’s location in a deep cavern.
Essence: Building anticipation as Mia prepares to confront Zarael and rescue Ariael.
Conflict: The challenges Mia faces in coordinating the rescue operation and confronting Zarael’s forces.
Subtext: Mia’s determination and resourcefulness reflect her growth and development throughout the story.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to succeed in rescuing Ariael and stopping Zarael, while fearing the dangers and obstacles ahead.
Scene Requirements:
• Introduce the final phase of Mia’s mission to rescue Ariael.
• Highlight Mia’s leadership and strategic abilities as she coordinates with Ariael’s allies.
• Set up the climactic confrontation with Zarael in the deep cavern.
• Maintain the tension and anticipation for the resolution of the conflict.
________________________________________
Scene 41: INT. DEEP CAVERN – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia confronts Zarael and her allies in the deep cavern. It ends with Zarael threatening to kill Ariael if anyone attacks.
Essence: Raising the stakes as Mia confronts Zarael in a final showdown.
Conflict: The intense confrontation between Mia and Zarael as they fight for control.
Subtext: The emotional tension between Mia and Zarael reflects their personal stakes and conflicting motivations.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to defeat Zarael and rescue Ariael, while fearing the consequences of failure.
Scene Requirements:
• Heighten the tension and suspense as Mia confronts Zarael in the deep cavern.
• Establish the high stakes of the confrontation as Zarael threatens Ariael’s life.
• Set the stage for the climactic resolution of the conflict.
• Maintain the momentum and anticipation for the climax of the story.
________________________________________
Scene 42: EXT. ARIAEL’S PLANET – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael’s allies use Brett’s stink bombs to overcome Zarael and her allies. It ends with Zarael incapacitated and Ariael placing her in psychiatric care.
Essence: Resolving the conflict as Mia and Ariael’s allies defeat Zarael and rescue Ariael.
Conflict: The final confrontation between Mia and Zarael as they fight for control.
Subtext: The emotional resolution of the conflict reflects Mia’s growth and development throughout the story.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to defeat Zarael and rescue Ariael, while fearing the consequences of failure.
Scene Requirements:
• Resolve the conflict as Mia and Ariael’s allies defeat Zarael and rescue Ariael.
• Provide closure to the storyline as Zarael is incapacitated and Ariael takes charge.
• Highlight Mia’s growth and development as she fulfills her promise to Ariael.
• Set the stage for the resolution and conclusion of the story.
________________________________________
Scene 43: INT. THRONE ROOM – DAY
Scene Arc: Mia and Ariael stand in front of the throne, discussing their future plans. It ends with Mia deciding to return to Earth.
Essence: Providing closure to the story as Mia and Ariael reflect on their journey and make plans for the future.
Conflict: The resolution of the conflict between Mia and Zarael as Mia fulfills her promise to Ariael.
Subtext: The emotional resolution of the story reflects Mia’s growth and development as a character.
Hope/fear: Mia hopes to return to Earth and continue her life, while fearing the challenges ahead.
Scene Requirements:
• Provide closure to the storyline as Mia and Ariael reflect on their journey.
• Highlight Mia’s growth and development as she makes plans for the future.
• Set the stage for the resolution and conclusion of the story.
• Maintain the emotional resonance and thematic depth of the narrative.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Intriguing Moments

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is how I can add at least two possible new intriguing moments in each act, following the two processes of identifying existing intrigue and creating new ones.

Genre = Sci-Fi
Title = Defiant Allies
Concept = An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

Act 1: Set Up and See Old Ways
Intriguing Moment 1: Mia’s Encounter with Ariael
Intrigue: Mia saves Ariael from Zarael’s capture attempt, not realizing the true stakes involved.
How it plays out: During a routine day of survival, Mia stumbles upon Ariael being pursued by Zarael's henchmen. Mia’s instincts kick in, and she intervenes, leading to a tense and fast-paced chase scene. The audience senses there's more to Ariael than meets the eye.

Intriguing Moment 2: Ariael’s Secret Gift
Secret: Ariael uses her alien gift to buy the foster home, revealing her extraordinary abilities.
How it plays out: After being accosted by Gina, the foster home owner, Ariael discreetly uses her power to manipulate reality, ensuring the ownership of the home changes hands smoothly. Mia is stunned by this revelation, realizing Ariael is more than a helpless girl.

Intriguing Moment 3: Zarael’s Covert Agenda
Covert agenda: Zarael’s partnership with Tyrell Dugan, a corrupt politician.
How it plays out: A clandestine meeting between Zarael and Tyrell highlights their sinister plan. They discuss the implications of Ariael’s capture, hinting at a larger conspiracy. This scene sets the tone for the depth of Zarael's ambition and the scope of the threat.

Intriguing Moment 4: Turning Point with the Energy Vortex
Hidden identity: Ariael reveals her true alien nature by transporting Mia to her home planet.
How it plays out: Ariael takes Mia through an energy vortex, showing her the hidden allies on her planet. This moment solidifies Mia’s trust in Ariael and deepens the plot by revealing the true stakes of their struggle.

Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways
Intriguing Moment 1: Trust Issues Surface
Superior position: The audience knows Ariael's capabilities, but Mia doubts her.
How it plays out: Mia’s struggle with trusting Ariael reaches a peak when Ariael runs out of money. Ariael promises to fix things but needs to go to her bank. Their heated argument highlights the strain on their alliance.

Intriguing Moment 2: Disguised Heist
Scheme: Ariael transforms herself and Mia to infiltrate a bank.
How it plays out: To access funds, Ariael disguises herself as a baby and Mia as her nanny. The tension builds as they navigate the bank under the watchful eyes of security, adding suspense and showcasing Ariael's unique abilities.

Intriguing Moment 3: Overheard Conspiracy
Conspiracy: Mia and Ariael overhear a plot involving Tyrell Dugan.
How it plays out: While at the bank, they accidentally overhear Dugan’s underlings discussing the deal with Zarael. This realization forces them to reassess their situation and the depth of the conspiracy against them.

Intriguing Moment 4: Revelation of Twin Relationship
Mystery: Ariael reveals Zarael is her twin sister and their troubled past.
How it plays out: After narrowly escaping another capture attempt, Ariael confides in Mia about Zarael being her twin and the stakes of their conflict. This deepens the audience's understanding of Zarael's motivations and the emotional complexity of their rivalry.

Act 3: Profound Moments that Give Us New Ways
Intriguing Moment 1: Mia's Growing Trust
Mystery: Mia starts to trust Ariael and embraces their friendship.
How it plays out: Mia acknowledges how much Ariael has done for her and the foster home. A heartfelt conversation solidifies their bond and commitment to each other’s safety and success, highlighting Mia’s emotional growth.

Intriguing Moment 2: Ariael's Leadership Acceptance
Secret: Ariael accepts her responsibility to her people and planet.
How it plays out: Ariael confides in Mia about her doubts and fears. The two discuss their roles, and Ariael decides to embrace her destiny as a leader. This moment of vulnerability and determination sets the stage for their renewed strategy.

Intriguing Moment 3: Zarael's Ruthless Plan
Covert agenda: Zarael plans to use a planet-destroying device.
How it plays out: In a secret meeting with Tyrell, Zarael outlines her ruthless plan to destroy her home planet if she can't capture Ariael. The audience is privy to this plan, increasing the tension as Mia and Ariael remain unaware.

Intriguing Moment 4: Mia’s Disguise
Hidden identity: Mia disguises herself as Zarael to gather evidence.
How it plays out: Using Ariael’s abilities, Mia is transformed to look like Zarael. She infiltrates Tyrell’s meeting, records their conversation, and escapes, revealing the extent of Zarael’s plans. This moment adds suspense and shows Mia’s bravery and resourcefulness.

Act 4: Test the Change in this Character! Prove New Ways!
Intriguing Moment 1: Betrayal at the Foster Home
Cover up: Gina reveals Ariael’s location to Zarael.
How it plays out: Gina, the former foster home owner, betrays Mia and Ariael by informing Zarael of their whereabouts. This leads to a dramatic confrontation at the foster home, testing Mia’s and Ariael’s resolve.

Intriguing Moment 2: Ariael’s Capture
Scheme: Zarael captures Ariael and takes her back to their home planet.
How it plays out: In a daring raid, Zarael captures Ariael, leaving Mia and the foster home in chaos. This setback forces Mia to use the energy vortex device and coordinate with Ariael’s allies for a rescue mission, heightening the stakes.

Intriguing Moment 3: Mia’s Counterattack
Superior position: The audience knows Mia’s plan to rescue Ariael.
How it plays out: Mia uses the energy vortex and leads Ariael’s allies to Zarael’s hideout. The tension mounts as the audience knows Mia’s plan while Zarael is unaware. This creates a dramatic buildup to the final confrontation.

Intriguing Moment 4: Final Showdown
Climax: Mia and Ariael confront Zarael.
How it plays out: In a final showdown, Mia and Ariael face Zarael. Zarael threatens to kill Ariael if attacked. Using Brett’s teargas, Mia incapacitates Zarael and her allies, rescuing Ariael. The climax is intense, showcasing their unity and newfound strength.

Resolution
Intriguing Moment 1: Zarael’s Downfall
Conspiracy: The media exposes Tyrell and Zarael’s plans.
How it plays out: Mia releases the recording to the media, leading to Tyrell’s arrest and Zarael’s retreat to avoid capture. The public outcry against their conspiracy sets the stage for Zarael’s final defeat.

Intriguing Moment 2: Zarael’s Mental Breakdown
Cover up: Zarael's mental breakdown as a consequence of her failure.
How it plays out: After failing in her plans, Zarael is mentally devastated. Ariael, showing compassion, places Zarael in a psychiatric care home. This moment highlights the emotional cost of Zarael's ambition and sets up potential redemption or further descent into madness.

Intriguing Moment 3: Ariael’s Leadership
Secret: Ariael takes her place as a leader, revealing her true identity to her people.
How it plays out: Ariael returns to her planet, fully embracing her role as a leader. She addresses her people, revealing her true identity and the sacrifices made. This moment is triumphant, showcasing her growth and the hope for her planet’s future.

Intriguing Moment 4: Mia’s New Beginning
Mystery: Mia’s future as Ariael’s trusted companion.
How it plays out: With Zarael defeated and Ariael leading her people, Mia finds peace and purpose. She decides to stay by Ariael’s side as her trusted companion. The story concludes with a sense of hope and new beginnings for both characters, emphasizing their friendship and resilience.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Emotional Moments

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is the importance of getting the audience involved emotionally in my story.

Genre = Sci-Fi
Title = Defiant Allies
Concept = An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

Act 1: Set Up and See Old Ways
1. Positive Emotions: Surprise
• Moment: Mia frees Ariael from Zarael’s henchmen.
• Details: As Mia fights off Zarael’s helpers, she showcases her street-smarts and resourcefulness. Ariael, astonished and grateful, sees a glimmer of hope in Mia. This surprise establishes their bond and sets the tone for their alliance.
• Play Out: After the intense struggle, Mia, panting and bruised, turns to Ariael and says, "You're safe now." Ariael, wide-eyed, responds, "You saved me. I didn’t think anyone would."

2. Negative Emotions: Trigger their Wounds
• Moment: Mia watches Ariael use her gift against Gina West.
• Details: Mia’s past trauma resurfaces as she witnesses Ariael’s power used in anger. It reminds her of the unpredictable and abusive behavior she faced in foster care.
• Play Out: As Gina flees, Mia’s eyes narrow, her body tensing. Ariael notices and softly says, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you.” Mia, haunted, mutters, “Just… don’t lose control like that.”

3. Positive Emotions: Bonding
• Moment: Ariael shares her story with Mia over dinner.
• Details: Ariael’s vulnerability and sincerity in sharing her exile story create an emotional connection. Mia begins to see Ariael not just as a responsibility, but as a friend.
• Play Out: Sitting at a dimly lit diner, Ariael’s voice trembles as she recounts her past. Mia listens intently, her guarded expression softening. “I know what it’s like to feel alone,” Mia admits quietly, and Ariael smiles faintly.

4. Positive Emotions: Courage
• Moment: Mia decides to trust Ariael and help her.
• Details: Despite her deep-seated trust issues, Mia's courage to take a leap of faith and trust Ariael marks a pivotal emotional moment.
• Play Out: After returning from Ariael’s planet, Mia looks her in the eyes and says, “Okay, I’m in. We’ll fight this together.” Ariael’s relief is palpable as she nods, “Thank you, Mia.”

Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways
1. Negative Emotions: Distress
• Moment: Mia and Ariael struggle with finances.
• Details: Tensions flare as Mia’s survival instincts clash with Ariael’s royal burdens. Mia’s distress over their dire situation triggers a heated argument.
• Play Out: In a cramped apartment, Mia shouts, “You said you could pay me! I can’t keep doing this for free!” Ariael, frustrated, retorts, “You think it’s easy being hunted? I’m doing my best!”

2. Positive Emotions: Excitement
• Moment: Successfully obtaining funds disguised as nanny and baby.
• Details: The thrill of pulling off the disguise plan at the financial institution brings a rare moment of levity and excitement.
• Play Out: As they leave the bank, Mia laughs for the first time, “We did it! We actually did it!” Ariael, giggling, replies, “I told you we’d make a great team.”

3. Negative Emotions: Betrayal
• Moment: Overhearing the conspiracy between Zarael and Tyrell.
• Details: The shock and betrayal Mia feels upon learning the extent of the conspiracy shakes her, making her realize the gravity of their situation.
• Play Out: Hidden behind a pillar, Mia’s face hardens as she listens to Tyrell’s plans. “They’re worse than I thought,” she whispers to Ariael, who nods grimly.

4. Negative Emotions: Moral Issue
• Moment: Mia’s internal conflict over saving Ariael or ensuring her own safety.
• Details: Mia’s past and survival instincts conflict with her burgeoning sense of duty and loyalty to Ariael.
• Play Out: Alone in their hideout, Mia stares at the emergency vortex device, torn. Ariael, noticing her hesitation, softly says, “I understand if you want to leave.” Mia clenches her fists, replying, “No. I’m staying.”

Act 3: Profound Moments that Give Us New Ways
1. Positive Emotions: Success/Winning
• Moment: Mia successfully records Tyrell’s incriminating conversation.
• Details: The victory of capturing the evidence against Tyrell marks a high point, showcasing Mia’s ingenuity and bravery.
• Play Out: Hidden in a ventilation shaft, Mia holds her breath, recording every word. As she plays back the recording, she grins, “Gotcha.”

2. Negative Emotions: Sacrifice
• Moment: Ariael is captured, and Mia feels helpless.
• Details: Mia’s desperation and guilt over failing to protect Ariael highlight her emotional turmoil and deepen her resolve.
• Play Out: Rushing to the foster home, Mia arrives just as Zarael’s forces take Ariael away. “Ariael!” she screams, tears streaming down her face. “I’ll get you back, I swear!”

3. Positive Emotions: Love
• Moment: Mia’s realization of her deep bond with Ariael.
• Details: Reflecting on their journey, Mia realizes how much Ariael means to her, solidifying her commitment to rescue her.
• Play Out: Alone, Mia clutches a small trinket Ariael gave her, whispering, “You’re my family now. I won’t let them take you.”

4. Negative Emotions: Hidden Weakness
• Moment: Zarael’s split personality causes her to question her actions.
• Details: The internal conflict within Zarael reveals her vulnerabilities, adding depth to her character.
• Play Out: In her lair, Zarael looks at herself in a mirror, her face twisted in anguish. “What have I become?” she murmurs, tears glistening.

Act 4: Test the Change in this Character! Prove New Ways!
1. Positive Emotions: Courage
• Moment: Mia infiltrates Zarael’s stronghold.
• Details: Displaying newfound bravery and strategic thinking, Mia faces her fears to save Ariael.
• Play Out: Disguised and determined, Mia sneaks past guards, her heart pounding. “This is for Ariael,” she mutters, steeling herself.

2. Negative Emotions: Distress
• Moment: Ariael’s life is threatened during the showdown.
• Details: The tension and fear as Zarael threatens Ariael push Mia to her emotional limits.
• Play Out: As Zarael holds a weapon to Ariael’s throat, Mia’s voice shakes, “Don’t hurt her! Take me instead!” The room falls silent.

3. Positive Emotions: Success/Winning
• Moment: Using teargas to incapacitate Zarael and rescue Ariael.
• Details: The triumph of outsmarting Zarael and saving Ariael is a cathartic victory for Mia.
• Play Out: Mia throws the teargas, and chaos ensues. She rushes to Ariael, pulling her to safety. “We did it,” she breathes, tears of relief streaming down her face.

4. Negative Emotions: Sacrifice
• Moment: Ariael places Zarael in a psychiatric care home.
• Details: The emotional cost of Zarael’s defeat and the compassionate decision to care for her highlight Ariael’s growth.
• Play Out: As Zarael, incoherent and broken, is led away, Ariael watches with sorrow. “You’re still my sister,” she whispers, a tear falling. Mia stands beside her, offering silent support.

Resolution
1. Positive Emotions: Bonding
• Moment: Mia and Ariael solidify their friendship.
• Details: The culmination of their journey and the deep bond they’ve formed are celebrated, showcasing their enduring alliance.
• Play Out: Back at the foster home, Mia and Ariael share a quiet moment. “We’re family now,” Mia says softly, and Ariael smiles, “Forever.”

2. Positive Emotions: Love
• Moment: Mia’s newfound sense of belonging and purpose.
• Details: Mia’s emotional transformation and acceptance of love and trust mark her character’s growth.
• Play Out: Surrounded by the foster girls, Mia feels a sense of peace. She looks at Ariael and says, “I finally feel at home.”

3. Positive Emotions: Success/Winning
• Moment: Ariael’s return to her planet as a rightful leader.
• Details: The successful culmination of their mission and Ariael’s reclaiming of her place as a leader signify the story’s triumph.
• Play Out: On her home planet, Ariael is crowned amidst cheers. She looks at Mia, standing proudly beside her, and says, “We did it together.”

4. Negative Emotions: Moral Issue
• Moment: Reflecting on the cost of their journey.
• Details: The acknowledgment of sacrifices and losses during their journey adds depth to their victory.
• Play Out: Alone, Mia and Ariael stand at a memorial for those lost. “We’ve come so far,” Mia says, her voice heavy with emotion. Ariael nods, “And we’ll honor them always.”

By structuring the story around these moments, the emotional journey of Mia and Ariael is highlighted, providing depth and resonance to their characters and their relationship.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.
• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.
• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Reveals!

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is “When a deep part of character or a major plot twist is revealed dramatically, it creates an emotional experience for the audience. It is interesting and entertaining. It isn’t just information; it is a bonding moment between audience and character.”

Genre: Sci-Fi
Concept: An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

ACT 1
Reveal 1
Question 1: What will you reveal?
Ariael tells Mia that she’s a princess who has been exiled from her country and that there is a country woman of hers who Ariael caused to be exiled that is seeking revenge on Ariael and had Ariael’s security detail killed

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
After the Inciting Incident

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
Zarael and her helpers attempt to apprehend Ariael and get her in a hover van, but Mia interrupts them, fights with them, and frees Ariael.

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
After the Inciting Incident

Reveal 2
Question 1: What will you reveal?
Zarael’s behavior indicates after Zarael might have a split personality

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
Part of the Opening

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
Zarael’s split personality is present before the Opening

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
Zarael’s split personality is present before the Opening

Reveal 3
Question 1: What will you reveal?
One of the ways Ariael can use her gift

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
As part of the Inciting Incident

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
After seeing how Gina West, the foster home owner, treats the resident girls, Ariael uses her gift for the first time when Gina invades Ariael’s private bath

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
Shortly before the Inciting Incident

Reveal 4
Question 1: What will you reveal?
Ariael finally tells Mia she’s an alien princess and tells Mia about her gift. To prove to Mia she is who she says she is, Ariael takes Mia through an energy vortex to her planet and introduces Mia to some of her hidden allies

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
The Turning Point in Act 1

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
Ariael’s gift helps her and Mia avoid capture,

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
Shortly before the Turning Point

ACT 2
Reveal 5
Question 1: What will you reveal?
An example that Zarael has a split personality

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
Early in Act 2

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
After Zarael’s attempts to capture Ariael are thwarted, she drives herself crazy wanting to seek revenge on Ariael one moment, and the next she bemoans her thoughts about hurting her twin and the loss of their relationship

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
The first time is in Act 1 after Zarael and her helpers are not successful in capturing Ariael

Reveal 6
Question 1: What will you reveal?
Ariael’s ability to change the physical appearance of herself and Mia

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
Just before Ariel and Mia go to Ariael’s financial institution

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
Ariael uses a part of her gift on Gina

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
During the Inciting Incident

Reveal 7
Question 1: What will you reveal?
After they overhear Dugan’s conversation about his alliance with Zarael, Mia and Ariael realize the depth of the conspiracy against them, deepening the stakes and forcing them to rethink their approach to survival.

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
Just before the Midpoint

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
Zarael trying to capture Arial at various times

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
Act 1 and Act 2

Reveal 8
Question 1: What will you reveal?
Ariael tells that Zarael, her adversary, is her identical twin

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
At the Midpoint

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
Ariael was involved in having Zarael exiled from their world before this story starts
Ariael only refers to Zarael as her adversary from her country

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
In Act 1

ACT 3
Reveal 9
Question 1: What will you reveal?
As they delve deeper into the conspiracy, Mia and Ariael uncover evidence that Zarael now has a plan to obtain a planet-destroying device, shocking them with the extent of the threat they face.

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
Zarael’s frustration at not being able to capture Ariael

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
In Act 1 and Act 2

Reveal 10
Question 1: What will you reveal?
When Gina betrays their trust and reveals Ariael’s location to Zarael and Tyrell, it leads to Ariael being captured

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
Before the Turning Point at the end of Act 3

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
Gina is still angry at Arial for using her gift on her

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
The Turning Point in Act 1

ACT 4
Reveal 11
Question 1: What will you reveal?
Zarael’s final demand for power and control, coupled with her threat to kill Ariael, demonstrates the extent of her delusion and the danger she poses. This forces Mia to act decisively to save her friend and thwart Zarael’s plans, ultimately leading to Zarael’s defeat and the resolution of their conflict.

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
After Ariael has been captured by Zarael

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
Mia’s and Brett’s friendship
Brett having trained Mia in martial arts
Brett’s expertise in chemistry and physics

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
Before this story begins and in Act 1

Reveal 12
Question 1: What will you reveal?
On their home planet, Zarael threatens to kill Ariael unless her demands are met, showcasing her desperation and obsession with power.

Question 2: When will the reveal show up in the story?
When Mia and Arial’s allies locate Zarael ad her allies

Question 3: What setups need to be in place to have each reveal work?
Examples of Zarael’s split personality

Question 4: Where in the story do those setups belong?
In Acts 1, 2 and 3

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Character Action Tracks!

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is brainstorming multiple possibilities for each beat increases the chances of my creating more interesting action in my screenplays.

Genre: Sci-Fi
Concept: An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

MIA
Act 1: Set Up and See Old Ways
Survival Tactics: Mia uses her street knowledge to survive in a harsh urban environment. She scavenges for food in innovative ways, such as creating makeshift traps for small animals or scavenging abandoned vending machines with a self-made tool.
Heroic Rescue: Seeing Ariael in danger, Mia uses her knowledge of the city’s hidden alleys and escape routes to create a diversion, allowing them both to escape. Her quick thinking and familiarity with the city’s underbelly are crucial here.
Hidden Sanctuary: Mia takes Ariael to an old, secret hideout she used as a child. This place is filled with her old belongings, showcasing her resourcefulness and the emotional weight of her past.
DIY Medical Care: When Ariael gets injured during their escape, Mia tends to her wounds using improvised first aid from materials she finds around the hideout, displaying her practical skills and nurturing side.
Job Search and Rejection: Mia’s attempts to find legitimate work are thwarted by automation. She confronts a robot in a diner, arguing with it as if it were a person, highlighting her frustration and human touch in an increasingly impersonal world.

Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways
Clever Disguises: To access Ariael’s funds, Mia crafts a convincing disguise for both of them. She uses thrift store finds and makeup tricks learned during her time in foster care to transform their appearances completely.
Strategic Eavesdropping: At the bank, Mia uses her street skills to eavesdrop on conversations, picking up critical information about Zarael and Tyrell Dugan’s plans. She uses subtle techniques like reflective surfaces and lip-reading to gather intel.
Tough Love Confrontation: During an argument with Ariael, Mia uses tough love to push Ariael to realize the gravity of their situation. Her blunt, no-nonsense approach is a result of her hard life and contrasts with Ariael’s more sheltered upbringing.
Resourcefulness Under Pressure: When their money runs low, Mia barters and negotiates with street vendors and small-time criminals to get what they need, using her wits and street credibility to survive.
Network of Informants: Mia taps into her network of street contacts and former foster siblings to get information on Zarael’s movements, showcasing her deep ties to the underworld and her ability to mobilize resources quickly.

Act 3: Profound Moments that Give Us New Ways
High-Stakes Infiltration: On Ariael’s home planet, Mia, disguised as Zarael, uses her acting skills and observational abilities to convincingly infiltrate a meeting. She mimics Zarael’s mannerisms and speech patterns learned through careful study.
Recording Evidence: Mia cleverly hides a recording device in her clothing to capture Tyrell’s confession. She uses a decoy to distract the guards and ensure the recording device remains undetected, displaying her cunning and strategic planning.
Emergency Vortex Activation: In a critical moment, Mia uses the emergency vortex device to transport herself and Ariael to safety, demonstrating her ability to stay calm under pressure and make quick, life-saving decisions.
Emotional Breakthrough: Mia has a profound heart-to-heart with Ariael, sharing her past traumas openly for the first time. This vulnerable moment helps solidify their bond and shows Mia’s growth in trusting others.
Innovative Combat: During a confrontation, Mia uses her environment creatively to fight off Zarael’s men. She employs tactics like setting traps with everyday objects and using her agility to outmaneuver stronger opponents.

Act 4: Test the Change in this Character! Prove New Ways!
Coordinated Rescue Operation: Mia plans and executes a coordinated rescue mission with Ariael’s allies. She uses guerrilla tactics and knowledge of the terrain to outsmart Zarael’s forces, reflecting her growth as a leader.
Using Teargas: Mia ingeniously deploys teargas she and Brett concocted from basic chemicals, neutralizing Zarael’s guards without causing permanent harm. This action shows her commitment to non-lethal methods and her scientific ingenuity.
Final Showdown: In the climax, Mia confronts Zarael, using her knowledge of Zarael’s psychological weaknesses to gain the upper hand. She uses empathy and strategic manipulation to outwit Zarael, reflecting her deep understanding of human (and alien) nature.
Mercy and Redemption: After defeating Zarael, Mia advocates for her to receive psychiatric care rather than punishment. This act of mercy highlights her evolution from a hardened survivor to a compassionate leader.
Embracing a New Role: Mia decides to stay on Ariael’s planet, taking on a role as an advisor and protector. She helps implement reforms in the foster system, ensuring no child experiences what she did, showing her dedication to change and justice.
These actions are tailored to Mia’s unique background and growth, ensuring that her journey is both compelling and specific to her character in the story.

ARIAEL
Act 1: Set Up and See Old Ways
Using Her Shape-Shifting Abilities to Avoid Capture:
Ariael uses her shape-shifting abilities to blend into the environment and evade Zarael’s initial attempt to capture her. She might transform into an ordinary object, like a street lamp or a piece of furniture, to avoid detection.
First Display of Compassion and Wisdom:
When Mia is turned away from the short-order cook position, Ariael discreetly uses her powers to alter the restaurant owner’s perception, making them reconsider and offer Mia the job. Ariael’s intervention showcases her compassionate nature and her willingness to use her abilities for the benefit of others.
Purchasing the Foster Home:
Ariael uses her influence and resources to purchase the foster home, ensuring a safe haven for Mia and the other children. She does this by transforming her appearance to look like a wealthy investor, thus avoiding any suspicion about her true identity.
Revealing Her Alien Nature:
Ariael creates a small, controlled display of her powers to show Mia her true alien form, explaining the intricacies of her gift and the dangers they face. This act of trust helps to solidify their bond early in the story.

Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways
Disguising Themselves to Access Funds:
Ariael uses her shape-shifting ability to transform herself into a baby and Mia into her nanny. This clever disguise allows them to access her financial institution without raising suspicion, showcasing her strategic thinking and adaptability.
Creating Decoys to Misdirect Pursuers:
As Zarael’s agents close in on them, Ariael creates multiple decoys of herself and Mia, leading the pursuers on a wild chase and buying them valuable time. This action highlights her creativity and quick thinking under pressure.
Using Her Gift to Overhear Conversations:
Ariael transforms into an inconspicuous object or person within earshot of a critical conversation between Zarael and Tyrell Dugan’s allies. By doing this, she gains crucial information about their plans without being detected.
Navigating Intergalactic Politics:
During their visit to her planet, Ariael leverages her knowledge of intergalactic politics to secure temporary alliances and gather intelligence. She uses her diplomatic skills and her shape-shifting ability to attend a high-stakes meeting in disguise, obtaining vital support for their cause.

Act 3: Profound Moments that Give Us New Ways
Embodying Zarael for Strategic Advantage:
Ariael uses her abilities to transform Mia into a perfect replica of Zarael. This risky move allows them to gather incriminating evidence against Tyrell Dugan and Zarael, turning the tide in their favor. This action demonstrates Ariael’s boldness and willingness to take significant risks for the greater good.
Communicating Through Transformation:
Ariael transforms into a small, inconspicuous animal to infiltrate a secure location and deliver a message to an ally without alerting the enemy. This unique use of her powers underlines her resourcefulness and ability to think outside the box.
Self-Sacrifice for a Strategic Retreat:
When they are cornered, Ariael creates an illusion of herself leading the pursuers away, giving Mia and their allies time to regroup and plan a counterattack. This act of self-sacrifice highlights her leadership and protective instincts.
Emotional Revelation:
Ariael, in a moment of vulnerability, transforms into her true form and reveals to Mia the full extent of her powers and the weight of her exile. This emotional revelation deepens their bond and provides critical character development.

Act 4: Test the Change in this Character! Prove New Ways!
Coordinating a Multi-Front Assault:
Using her shape-shifting abilities, Ariael coordinates a multi-front assault by transforming into various key figures to send strategic orders to her allies. This action showcases her leadership and tactical brilliance.
Disguising Herself as Zarael:
In a high-stakes gamble, Ariael transforms herself into Zarael to infiltrate the enemy stronghold, creating confusion and chaos among Zarael’s allies. This bold move demonstrates her courage and innovative thinking.
Healing Through Transformation:
After the final confrontation, Ariael uses her powers to heal Mia’s injuries by transforming the environment around them to provide natural healing elements. This unique action emphasizes her nurturing side and her commitment to her friends.
Restoring Peace:
Ariael uses her abilities to create a public display that exposes Zarael’s true intentions and Tyrell Dugan’s conspiracy. By revealing the truth in such a dramatic and undeniable way, she restores peace and order, showcasing her wisdom and integrity.
Transformative Justice:
Instead of imprisoning Zarael in a traditional sense, Ariael uses her powers to create a serene and isolated environment for her twin, providing the mental care she needs while ensuring she cannot harm anyone else. This compassionate approach to justice reflects Ariael’s core values and her growth throughout the story.
These actions, deeply tied to Ariael’s unique abilities and character traits, would make her an intriguing and compelling figure within the sci-fi narrative, showcasing her intelligence, compassion, and resilience in ways that only she could.

ZARAEL
Act 1: Set Up and See Old Ways
Strategic Disguise: Zarael uses her cunning to disguise herself as a high-ranking Earth official, infiltrating government meetings to gain information on Ariael’s whereabouts.
Manipulative Outreach: She contacts various human officials, offering advanced alien technology in exchange for their cooperation in capturing Ariael, demonstrating her manipulative prowess.
Deceptive Diplomacy: Zarael stages a public appearance on Earth, presenting herself as a diplomat seeking peaceful relations while secretly planting surveillance devices to track Ariael’s movements.
Resource Mobilization: Zarael employs her charm and authority to rally her loyal followers, both human and alien, promising them power and wealth for their assistance in her quest.

Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways
Tech Espionage: Zarael hacks into Earth’s surveillance systems, using her advanced alien tech to monitor any potential leads on Ariael and Mia’s location.
Psychological Warfare: She sends threatening holographic messages to Mia, taunting her and attempting to destabilize her mentally, showcasing Zarael’s ruthless nature.
Subtle Sabotage: Zarael sabotages key infrastructures in the city, causing chaos and diverting attention while her agents close in on Ariael.
Counterfeit Alliances: She forms a temporary alliance with a rival alien faction, promising them a share of the power once she captures Ariael, all the while planning to betray them once they outlive their usefulness.

Act 3: Profound Moments that Give Us New Ways
Identity Switch: Zarael uses her ability to shape-shift or use advanced tech to impersonate Mia, gaining close proximity to Ariael and sowing distrust between them.
Moral Manipulation: In a moment of false vulnerability, Zarael reveals partial truths about her traumatic past to Ariael, attempting to manipulate her into surrendering willingly.
Strategic Retreat: Zarael feigns defeat in a confrontation with Mia and Ariael, strategically retreating to lure them into a trap where she has the upper hand.
False Flag Operation: She orchestrates a public attack on an Earth landmark, framing Ariael and turning public opinion against her, demonstrating her cunning and deceptive nature.

Act 4: Test the Change in this Character! Prove New Ways!
Desperation Gambit: As her plans start to unravel, Zarael kidnaps Mia, using her as bait to draw Ariael into a final confrontation.
Emotional Confrontation: In the climax, Zarael confronts Ariael, attempting to emotionally manipulate her by recounting their shared past and her own feelings of betrayal and inadequacy.
Power Display: Zarael unleashes her full technological arsenal, showcasing her superior alien technology in an attempt to overpower Mia and Ariael.
Sacrificial Manipulation: Zarael stages a situation where she appears to sacrifice herself for the greater good, aiming to manipulate Ariael and others into believing she’s had a change of heart, only to reveal it as a ploy for a final strike.
Final Betrayal: In the ultimate moment of defeat, Zarael attempts to activate a hidden self-destruct mechanism in her hideout, aiming to take everyone down with her, illustrating her relentless pursuit of power even in the face of certain defeat.

By weaving these actions into Zarael’s journey, her character’s complexity and ruthlessness are highlighted, making her a compelling antagonist whose actions are uniquely tied to her traits and motivations.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s New Outline Beats!

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is how enjoyable it was to use the three processes to plot my screenplays outline beats.

Genre: Sci-Fi
Concept: An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

THE ESSENCE OF DEFIANT ALLIES
Concept: The essence of the concept is the promise of a story that delves into the complexities of trust, betrayal, and the quest for justice in a dystopian setting. It encapsulates the idea of two unlikely allies, Mia and Ariael, joining forces against a common enemy while navigating their own personal demons.
Character: Mia Vance embodies resilience and survival, grappling with moral dilemmas as she confronts her past and learns to trust others. Ariael represents the struggle with identity and the burden of leadership, seeking acceptance and redemption amidst exile. Zarael, the antagonist, is driven by a tragic past and a desire for power, grappling with inner conflict as she pursues her vendetta against Ariael.
Scene/Situation: Each scene and situation must contribute to fulfilling the promise of the concept. They should delve into the essence of trust, betrayal, and the fight against tyranny, driving the narrative forward while revealing deeper layers of the characters’ struggles.
Essence: The essence of this story lies in its exploration of identity, trust, and the fight against oppression. It’s about characters grappling with their pasts, forging unlikely alliances, and confronting their inner demons amidst a backdrop of political intrigue and moral ambiguity.
To capture the essence effectively, each element of the story must be aligned with the central themes and purpose of the narrative. This requires a deep understanding of the characters, their motivations, and the world they inhabit, ensuring that every scene serves to advance the overarching story and resonate with the audience on a profound level.

Act 1: Set Up and See Old Ways
Opening:
PJ: Mia Vance is introduced as a street-smart, independent eighteen-year-old with a troubled past in foster care. She exhibits her survival instincts and deep-seated trust issues, shown through her guarded interactions and tendency to protect others while hiding her own pain.

Having aged out at a foster care home, Mia searches for a job so she can earn enough money to eat and have a place to live. Due to the common use of robots on Earth she’s unsuccessful at doing so.

AJ: Zarael is introduced as the ambitious, power-hungry twin sister of Ariael, displaying her cunning and manipulative nature as she schemes to regain favor and power. Her goal is to capture Ariael and use her powers to further her own ambitions.

Zarael and her helpers attempt to apprehend Ariael and get her in a hover van, but Mia interrupts them, fights with them, and frees Ariael.

Zarael is very upset by the fact that Ariael appears to have allies who are helping her

PJ: Mia encounters Ariael, a mysterious twelve-year-old girl who reveals herself as an exiled princess. Ariael seeks Mia’s help to avoid capture by Zarael.

Ariael takes Mia to an eating place. Mia is rejected when she applies for the short-order cook position.

Ariael tells Mia that she’s a princess who has been exiled from her country and that there is a country woman of hers who Ariael caused to be exiled that is seeking revenge on Ariael and had Ariael security detail killed

Mia agrees to be hired by Ariael as her assistant and both of them decide that Mia’s former foster home is the safest place for them to live

Inciting Incident:
After seeing how Gina West, the foster home owner, treats the resident girls, Ariael uses her gift for the first time when Gina invades Ariael’s private bath

Ariael purchases the foster home from Gina and has it put in Brad West’s name. The now-rich Gina moves out

AJ: Zarael begins her pursuit of Ariael, viewing her as a direct threat to her plans for dominance.

Zarael and Tyrell Dugan, a corrupt Earth politician, discuss the importance of the capture of Ariael to both of their plans to control their countries

Turning Point:
PJ: Mia reluctantly agrees to help Ariael, setting the stage for their journey together. This decision marks a point of no return, locking Mia into the conflict.

After Ariael’s gift helps them avoid capture, Ariael tells Mia she’s an alien princess and tells Mia about her gift.

In order to prove to Mia she is who she says she is, Ariael takes Mia through an energy vortex to her planet and introduces Mia to some of her hidden allies

Mia decides to trust Ariael and fight with her after they return back to Earth

AJ: Zarael escalates her efforts to capture Ariael, demonstrating her ruthless determination.

Tyrell desires and needs Zarael’s help with his plans, so he tells Zarael he will contact his many allies and followers and have them keep a lookout for Ariael at financial institutions as they realize she will probably need to obtain finances in order to remain hidden

Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways
Reaction:
PJ: Mia and Ariael navigate a world where their old ways of survival clash with new alliances.
Mia’s trust issues and Ariael’s royal burdens create tension

As Ariael runs out of money and is unable to pay Mia’s daily salary, Mia believes she can’t trust Ariael to provide Mia with a livelihood and threatens to quit working for Ariael and try to find a paying job

Ariael promises that she can pay Mia but needs to go to her bank to get money but they’re trying to avoid being seen in order to prevent Ariael from being captured. Ariael complains that Mia doesn’t realize how much Ariael is dealing with and how much responsibility she has not only to Mia but also the people on her planet

AJ: Zarael’s initial attempts to capture Ariael are thwarted, forcing her to reassess her approach.

As Zarael has a split personality, she drives herself crazy wanting to seek revenge on Ariael one moment, and the next she bemoans her thoughts about hurting her twin and the loss of their relationship

The Plan:
PJ: Mia and Ariael’s initial attempts to evade Zarael fail, forcing them to adapt and find new strategies.

Ariael transforms herself into a baby, and Mia into her nanny in order for Ariael to safely get into her financial institution and obtain more funds to pay Mia and for other expenses

They were successful and undetected during their trip for Ariael to obtain more funds

While they are at Mia’s financial institution they overhear Dugan’s lives speaking about the unconventional and eerie agreement between Tyrell Dugan and Zarael

AJ: Zarael employs various tactics, from bribery to intimidation, to capture Ariael, but each attempt fails.

Zarael is upset that she doesn’t have the use of technology from her planet nor the funds to assist her in finding Ariael.

Midpoint:
PJ: Mia and Ariael uncover a labyrinthine conspiracy involving Zarael. They realize the forces against them are far greater than they initially imagined, shifting their understanding and deepening the stakes.

Realizing what they’re up against, Ariael tells Mia that Zarael is her twin sister and if Zarael captures her they will probably end up back on their home planet

Ariael provides Mia with a device to create an energy vortex to Ariael’s home planet in an emergency.

Because the two of them have become very good friends, Mia agrees to try and save Ariael if that happens

AJ: Zarael realizes the true extent of the threat posed by Ariael’s escape.

Zarael realizes that if he doesn’t capture Ariael, she might find some way to have Zarael arrested and imprisoned on Earth

Therefore, although initially hesitant to harm Aerial, Zarael tells Tyrell that Tyrell’s supporters should kill Ariael instead of capturing her when they find her

Act 3: Profound Moments that Give Us New Ways
Rethink:
PJ: Mia and Ariael undergo transformations, realizing that their old ways won’t suffice. Mia confronts her trust issues, and Ariael embraces her true identity.

Mia realizes how good and helpful Ariael has been to Mia, and the girls and Brett at the foster home, and acknowledges that she now likes and trusts Ariael

Ariael accepts the fact and responsibility that she has not only to Mia and the residence of the foster home, and that she has a responsibility to return to her home planet in order to be an excellent princess and eventually the Queen for the residents

AJ: Zarael realizes her previous methods won’t work, prompting her to devise a new, more ruthless plan.

Zarael conspires with Tyrell to obtain planet destroying device so she can destroy Ariael and her home planet

New Plan:
PJ: Mia and Ariael devise a new plan to confront Zarael and unravel the conspiracy. They enlist unexpected allies and embrace their roles in shaping the outcome.

Ariael uses her gift to change a reluctant Mia so she looks exactly like Zarael.

The transformed Mia records Tyrell discussing his plans to provide Zarael with the planet destroying device and for Tyrell to take over his country using violence if necessary

AJ: Zarael enacts her new plan, leveraging her connections and resources to track down Ariael and crush any opposition.

Zarael tells Tyrell that he would rather have Ariael captured instead of killed in order to really experience suffering and grief when their home planet is destroyed

Turning Point:
PJ: Mia and Ariael face betrayal and setbacks, testing their resolve to the breaking point.

Gina, the former foster home owner reveals to Tyrell and Zarael that Ariael is living at the foster home

Ariael is captured by Zarael and her agents at the foster home and taken back to their home world.

AJ: Zarael faces a setback as her allies betray her, leading to a moment of desperation and reckoning.

Mia releases the recording of Tyrell and Zarael’s plans to the media and Tyrell is arrested.

This results in Zarael returning to her own planet so she’s not arrested. She only relies upon herself and her allies to take Ariael through an energy vortex back to Zarael and Ariael’s planet

Act 4: Test the Change in this Character! Prove New Ways!
Climax:
PJ: Mia and Ariael confront Zarael in a final showdown, facing their deepest fears and challenges head-on. Their unity and newfound resolve are put to the ultimate test.

Mia uses the energy vortex and coordinates with Ariael’s allies on her planet to try to rescue Ariael from Zarael and her allies

AJ: Zarael confronts Ariael and Mia in a final showdown, where she must confront her own flaws and vulnerabilities.

Zarael threatens to kill Ariael if anyone attacks the hideout and if she is not made Queen of the world

Mia uses teargas made by Brett to incapacitate Zarael and her allies, and to free Ariael

Resolution:
AJ: Zarael’s world is forever changed as she realizes the cost of her obsession with power and control, setting the stage for her potential redemption or further descent into darkness.

Zarael is mentally devastated and incoherent as a result of not succeeding with her plans. Ariael lovingly and considerately places Zarael in a psychiatric care home

PJ: Mia and Ariael emerge victorious, their defiant alliance proving that courage and compassion can triumph over tyranny. Mia finds strength in vulnerability, overcoming her past traumas. Ariael leads her people into a new era of peace and prosperity.

Because of everything they have gone through together, Mia and Ariael are friends for life and Mia is Queen Ariael’s trusted companion

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Beat Sheet Draft 1

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is that creating a Beat Sheet is an excellent way of organizing and refining many components of a new screenplay.

Genre: Sci-Fi
Concept: An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

Act 1: Set Up and See Old Ways
Opening:
• PJ: Mia Vance is introduced as a street-smart, independent eighteen-year-old with a troubled past in foster care. She exhibits her survival instincts and deep-seated trust issues, shown through her guarded interactions and tendency to protect others while hiding her own pain.
• AJ: Zarael is introduced as the ambitious, power-hungry twin sister of Ariael, displaying her cunning and manipulative nature as she schemes to regain favor and power. Her goal is to capture Ariael and use her powers to further her own ambitions.
Inciting Incident:
• PJ: Mia encounters Ariael, a mysterious twelve-year-old girl who reveals herself as an exiled alien princess. Ariael seeks Mia’s help to avoid capture by Zarael.
• AJ: Zarael begins her pursuit of Ariael, viewing her as a direct threat to her plans for dominance.
Turning Point:
• PJ: Mia reluctantly agrees to help Ariael, setting the stage for their journey together. This decision marks a point of no return, locking Mia into the conflict.
• AJ: Zarael escalates her efforts to capture Ariael, demonstrating her ruthless determination.
Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways
Reaction:
• PJ: Mia and Ariael navigate a world where their old ways of survival clash with new alliances. Mia’s trust issues and Ariael’s royal burdens create tension.
• AJ: Zarael’s initial attempts to capture Ariael are thwarted, forcing her to reassess her approach.
The Plan:
• PJ: Mia and Ariael’s initial attempts to evade Zarael fail, forcing them to adapt and find new strategies.
• AJ: Zarael employs various tactics, from bribery to intimidation, to capture Ariael, but each attempt fails.
Midpoint:
• PJ: Mia and Ariael uncover a labyrinthine conspiracy involving Zarael. They realize the forces against them are far greater than they initially imagined, shifting their understanding and deepening the stakes.
• AJ: Zarael discovers the depth of the conspiracy and realizes the true extent of the threat posed by Ariael’s escape.
Act 3: Profound Moments that Give Us New Ways
Rethink:
• PJ: Mia and Ariael undergo transformations, realizing that their old ways won’t suffice. Mia confronts her trust issues, and Ariael embraces her true identity.
• AJ: Zarael realizes her previous methods won’t work, prompting her to devise a new, more ruthless plan.
New Plan:
• PJ: Mia and Ariael devise a new plan to confront Zarael and unravel the conspiracy. They enlist unexpected allies and embrace their roles in shaping the outcome.
• AJ: Zarael enacts her new plan, leveraging her connections and resources to track down Ariael and crush any opposition.
Turning Point:
• PJ: Mia and Ariael face betrayal and setbacks, testing their resolve to the breaking point.
• AJ: Zarael faces a setback as her allies betray her, leading to a moment of desperation and reckoning.
Act 4: Test the Change in this Character! Prove New Ways!
Climax:
• PJ: Mia and Ariael confront Zarael in a final showdown, facing their deepest fears and challenges head-on. Their unity and newfound resolve are put to the ultimate test.
• AJ: Zarael confronts Ariael and Mia in a final showdown, where she must confront her own flaws and vulnerabilities.
Resolution:
• PJ: Mia and Ariael emerge victorious, their defiant alliance proving that courage and compassion can triumph over tyranny. Mia finds strength in vulnerability, overcoming her past traumas. Ariael leads her people into a new era of peace and prosperity.
• AJ: Zarael’s world is forever changed as she realizes the cost of her obsession with power and control, setting the stage for her potential redemption or further descent into darkness.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.
• This reply was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Deeper Layer!

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is the importance of having a deeper level that delivers on the concept of my screenplays.

Genre: Sci-Fi
Concept: An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

5 New Plot Layers
Hidden Prophecy: A prophecy exists that foretells the rise of a leader from a royal alien bloodline who will bring peace to both alien and human worlds. This prophecy drives many of the character’s actions and decisions, unbeknownst to Mia and Ariael initially.
Intergalactic Espionage: A covert group of alien spies within human society has been manipulating events for decades, working both for and against Zarael. Their involvement adds a layer of intrigue and reveals the depth of the conspiracy.
Ancient Alliance: Humanity and the alien race have an ancient, forgotten alliance. Mia and Ariael discover this history, which complicates their understanding of current events and provides them with unexpected allies.
Power Source: Ariael’s ability to change appearances and identities is derived from a rare alien artifact hidden on Earth. This artifact becomes a key objective for all parties, as it holds the power to change the tide of the conflict.
Foster System Corruption: The foster care system that Mia experienced abuse within is revealed to be a front for Zarael’s operatives to find and exploit vulnerable children for their own ends. This adds personal stakes for Mia and highlights the systemic corruption.

5 New Character Layers for Mia
Hidden Lineage: Mia is unknowingly of alien descent, a secret kept from her to protect her. This revelation connects her more deeply to Ariael and the alien conflict.
Trauma-Induced Abilities: Mia’s traumatic past has inadvertently awakened latent abilities that make her uniquely suited to protect Ariael and combat Zarael’s forces.
Past Connection with Zarael: In a twist, Mia had a past encounter with Zarael that she doesn’t remember due to suppressed memories, which Zarael exploits to manipulate Mia’s actions.
Self-Sabotage: Mia has a tendency to subconsciously sabotage relationships and plans when they become too personal or emotionally intense, reflecting her deep-seated trust issues.
Reluctant Hero: Mia is initially reluctant to embrace her role as protector due to a fear of failing those she cares about, stemming from a past failure that resulted in loss or trauma.

5 New Character Layers for Ariael
Involuntary Empath: Ariael’s abilities include involuntary empathy, meaning she can’t help but feel the emotions of those around her, making her deeply compassionate but also vulnerable to emotional overload.
Exiled for Compassion: Ariael’s exile was due to her opposition to cruel practices on her home planet, showing her inherent kindness as a strength that also made her a target.
Dual Identity Crisis: Ariael struggles with her ability to change identities, sometimes losing herself in the personas she adopts, which creates internal conflict about her true self.
Secret Heirloom: Ariael possesses a secret heirloom from her mother that holds hidden powers or knowledge crucial to overcoming Zarael and resolving the larger conflict.
Hidden Training: Despite her young appearance, Ariael has undergone extensive training in diplomacy, combat, and leadership, making her more formidable than she initially appears.

5 New Character Layers for Zarael
Sympathetic Villain: Zarael’s actions are driven by a twisted sense of duty to save her people from an even greater unseen threat, making her a more complex and sympathetic antagonist.
Split Personality: Zarael suffers from a psychological split, with one side ruthless and power-hungry and the other deeply regretful and conflicted, adding depth to her motivations and actions.
Shadowy Mentor: Zarael is being manipulated by a mentor figure who has their own dark agenda, adding a layer of tragedy to her character as she believes she is acting of her own free will.
Forbidden Love: Zarael harbors feelings for a human or alien character who is allied with Mia and Ariael, creating internal conflict between her ambitions and her emotions.
Deceptive Vulnerability: Zarael occasionally shows vulnerability or regret, which she uses to manipulate others, but these moments also hint at her buried humanity and potential for redemption.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Character Structure
My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is how to create character structure which is part of how to create a multi-layered outline for my screenplay.

Title = Defiant Allies
Genre = Sci-Fi
Concept = Eighteen-year-old Mia Vance, who was abused as a foster child, rescues Ariael, a gifted, exiled alien twelve-year-old Princess, and agrees to help her avoid capture by Zarael, the Princess’s twenty-four-year-old identical twin sister, an adversary who wants to misuse the Princess’s gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

Lead Character = Mia Vance
Role = Co-Protagonist
Act 1: Set up and see Old Ways

Beginning: Introduce Mia Vance as a survivor of foster care abuse, haunted by her traumatic past and struggling with trust issues. She conceals her own pain while focusing on protecting others, driven by a deep sense of empathy towards those who suffer.

Inciting Incident: Mia encounters Ariael, the exiled alien princess, and agrees to help her evade capture by Zarael, her tyrannical twin sister. This decision thrusts Mia into a world of danger and intrigue, where she must navigate through a web of conspiracies to protect the princess.

Turning Point: Mia commits to helping Ariael, locking herself into a conflict with Zarael and setting the stage for her transformative journey.

Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways

Reaction: Mia begins to confront her own demons and gradually opens up to the possibility of forming genuine connections. Her experiences alongside Ariael challenge her preconceived notions and force her to reevaluate her beliefs and priorities.

The Plan: Mia’s attempts to protect Ariael are met with obstacles, forcing her to rely on her resourcefulness and determination to outwit their adversaries. Her old ways are challenged as she learns that vulnerability can be a strength.

Turning Point 2 / Midpoint: Mia discovers a shocking revelation about Ariael’s powers and the conspiracy surrounding them, shifting her understanding of the situation and deepening the stakes of her mission.

Act 3: Profound moments that give us new ways

Rethink: Mia undergoes a transformation as she realizes the extent of the danger they face and the need for a new plan. She confronts her trust issues and learns to rely on others for support, embracing vulnerability as a strength.

New Plan: Mia teams up with Ariael and their allies to devise a new strategy to thwart Zarael’s plans. She takes actions she never would have considered before, embracing her role as a protector and leader.

Turning Point 3: Mia faces a devastating setback as Zarael gains the upper hand, pushing her to the lowest of lows and forcing her to confront her deepest fears.

Act 4: Test the change in this character! Prove New Ways!

Climax: Mia confronts Zarael in a final showdown, drawing upon her newfound strength and the bonds she has forged to emerge victorious. She faces the ultimate test of her transformation, risking everything to protect Ariael and secure a better future for both humanity and alien kind.

Resolution: Mia emerges from her journey changed but triumphant, embracing her role as a protector and finding strength in vulnerability. She has overcome her past traumas and forged deep connections with those around her, embodying resilience, empathy, and courage in the face of adversity.

Lead Character = Ariael
Role = Co-Protagonist/Triangle Character
Act 1: Set up and see Old Ways
Beginning: Ariael starts the story as a vulnerable yet determined young alien princess, haunted by the betrayal that led to her exile. She carries the weight of responsibility for her people’s safety and struggles with feelings of isolation and insecurity.

Inciting Incident: Ariael’s encounter with Mia marks the beginning of her journey to escape from her pursuers and uncover the truth about the conspiracy threatening both humanity and alien kind.

Turning Point: Ariael’s decision to trust Mia and embark on a dangerous journey away from her familiar surroundings locks her into a conflict with her sister, Zarael, and the forces pursuing them.

Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways

Reaction: Ariael faces the challenges of life outside her comfort zone, relying on her old ways of secrecy and manipulation to navigate the dangers of the cosmos.

The Plan: As Ariael and Mia attempt to evade capture, their initial plans quickly falter, forcing Ariael to confront the limitations of her old ways and adapt to the unfamiliar circumstances.

Turning Point 2 (Midpoint): A shocking revelation about the true nature of the conspiracy and the extent of her sister’s involvement disrupts Ariael’s perception of reality, forcing her to reassess her priorities and alliances.

Act 3: With Midpoint change, Profound moments that give us new ways

Rethink: Ariael undergoes a profound transformation as she confronts her past traumas and embraces her true identity, recognizing the need for a new plan to confront the growing threats against her and her allies.

New Plan: With newfound clarity and resolve, Ariael takes charge of her destiny, forging alliances with other alien races and confronting her adversaries head-on in pursuit of justice and redemption.

Turning Point 3: Ariael faces the ultimate test of her newfound strength and determination as she confronts Zarael and the forces behind the conspiracy in a climactic showdown.

Act 4: Test the change in this character! Prove New Ways!

Climax: In a final confrontation with Zarael, Ariael proves her worth as a leader and protector, using her powers and alliances to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds and secure a brighter future for her people.

Resolution: With the conspiracy thwarted and her enemies defeated, Ariael emerges as a symbol of hope and resilience, leading her people into a new era of peace and prosperity.

Lead Character = Zarael
Role = Antagonist
Act 1: Set up and see Old Ways

Beginning: Introduce Zarael as the ambitious, power-hungry twin sister of Ariael. Show her cunning and manipulative nature as she schemes to regain favor and power.

Inciting Incident: Ariael’s escape and Mia’s involvement set Zarael’s pursuit in motion. Zarael sees Ariael’s escape as a direct threat to her plans for dominance.

Turning Point: Zarael is determined to capture Ariael, seeing it as her opportunity to solidify her control and eliminate her rival.

Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways

Reaction: Zarael’s initial attempts to capture Ariael are thwarted, challenging her usual methods of manipulation and coercion.

The Plan: Zarael employs various tactics, from bribery to intimidation, to capture Ariael, but each attempt fails, forcing her to reassess her approach.

Turning Point 2 / Midpoint: Zarael discovers the depth of the conspiracy and realizes the true extent of the threat posed by Ariael’s escape, altering her perception of the situation.

Act 3: With Midpoint change, Profound moments that give us new ways

Rethink: Zarael realizes that her previous methods won’t work against the conspiracy, prompting her to devise a new, more ruthless plan.

New Plan: Zarael enacts her new plan, which involves leveraging her connections and resources to track down Ariael and crush any opposition.

Turning Point 3: Zarael faces a setback as her allies betray her, leading to a moment of desperation and reckoning.

Act 4: Test the change in this character! Prove New Ways!

Climax: Zarael confronts Ariael and Mia in a final showdown, where she must confront her own flaws and vulnerabilities to emerge victorious.

Resolution: Zarael’s world is forever changed as she realizes the cost of her obsession with power and control, setting the stage for her redemption or further descent into darkness.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Supporting Characters

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is a great way to create purpose-driven supporting characters in a screenplay.

Supporting Characters

Support 1:
Name: Brad West
Role: he’s married to Gina, the owner of the home in which Mia and other orphan girls live. He’s a former high-income scientist who’s light-sensitive as the result of an accident.
Main purpose: He has taught Mia martial arts skills and later helps her search for Ariael
Value: over the years Mia has lived in his home, he has become someone whom Mia trusts

Support 2:
Name: Gina West
Role: Brad’s bitter wife who owns the home, resents the fact that Brad is no longer able to provide a high income which led her to decide to make her home into a residence for orphan girls. She takes out her anger on the girls.
Main purpose: to provide insight into the abuse that Mia’s suffered at her hands
Value: She’s a supporter of Tyrell Duggan and later betrays the location of Ariael to Zarael

Support 3:
Name: Tyrell Dugan
Role: a corrupt politician who wants Zarael to help him become the Supreme Leader on Earth
Main purpose: to provide Zarael with Tyrell’s allies and thugs to help Zarael find and capture Ariael. In return, Tyrell will provide Zarael with humans to assist Zarael in becoming Queen on her planet
Value: This shows the determination and corruption of Tyrell and Zarael in becoming the controlling person on their planets

Background Characters

A nine-year-old and twelve-year-old girl who live in Gina’s home
Dugan’s supporters and thugs

• This reply was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Character Profiles Part 2

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is the step-by-step approach to the Lessons in Module 3 has helped me to create interesting and complex lead characters.

Genre = Sci-Fi
Concept = Mia Vance, an eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues Ariael, a gifted, exiled alien princess who’s in the form of a twelve-year-old girl, and agrees to help her avoid capture by Zarael, an alien adversary who wants to misuse her gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alien kind.

MIA
The High Concept
In a universe teetering on the brink of war, an abused foster child turned courageous protector, Mia Vance, must team up with an exiled alien princess, Ariael, to thwart a sinister conspiracy orchestrated by the malevolent Zarael, all while confronting her own trust issues and past trauma.

This character’s journey

Beginning:
Mia Vance, an eighteen-year-old woman with a biomechanical arm, struggles to trust others due to her abusive past in foster care.
Mia encounters Ariael, a gifted exiled alien princess in the form of a twelve-year-old girl, fleeing from Zarael, an alien adversary.
Despite her initial reluctance, Mia feels a deep sense of empathy towards Ariael and decides to help her evade capture.
Mia’s journey begins as she steps out of her comfort zone to protect Ariael, driven by her desire to prevent others from experiencing the same suffering she endured.
Internal Challenge:
Mia wrestles with her trust issues, fearing betrayal and struggling to open up to Ariael despite their growing bond.
Memories of her traumatic past haunt Mia, causing her to question her own worthiness and ability to protect Ariael.
Mia’s internal conflicts threaten to undermine her mission as she grapples with self-doubt and emotional turmoil.
External Challenge:
Zarael’s relentless pursuit forces Mia and Ariael to constantly evade capture, pushing them to their physical and mental limits.
Mia must navigate through unfamiliar territories and outsmart Zarael’s operatives, relying on her resourcefulness to keep herself and Ariael safe.
As they uncover Zarael’s involvement in a conspiracy threatening both humanity and alienkind, Mia realizes the magnitude of the danger they face and the importance of their mission.
Transformation:
Through their shared experiences and challenges, Mia learns to trust Ariael and gradually opens up about her past, allowing their bond to deepen.
As Mia confronts her fears and insecurities, she discovers inner strength she never knew she possessed, realizing that her past does not define her.
Mia’s journey from a wounded survivor to a courageous protector culminates in a final confrontation with Zarael, where she risks everything to save Ariael and thwart his plans.
In the climax, Mia’s courage and resilience shine as she overcomes her inner demons and emerges victorious, proving her worthiness and finding redemption in protecting others.
End:
Despite the challenges they faced, Mia and Ariael emerge triumphant, their bond stronger than ever.
With Zarael defeated and the conspiracy exposed, Mia finds solace in knowing that she made a difference, both for Ariael and for herself.
As they part ways, Mia embarks on a new chapter of her life, no longer defined by her past but by her newfound courage, empathy, and resilience.

The Actor Attractors for this character

Role: Co-Protagonist
Lead Character: Mia Vance, an eighteen-year-old red-headed Caucasian female with an advanced biomechanical arm with natural-looking skin.
Core Traits: Courageous, resourceful, empathetic, distrustful
Motivation: Mia’s troubled past as an abused foster child drives her to protect others from suffering the same fate. She sees an opportunity to make a difference by helping the exiled alien princess, feeling a deep sense of empathy towards her. Additionally, Mia seeks redemption for her own past by standing up against injustice, even if it means facing dangerous adversaries.
Wound: Mia carries emotional scars from her abusive childhood, resulting in trust issues and a tendency to keep people at arm’s length. Her traumatic experiences fuel her determination to fight for justice, but they also create internal conflicts that she must overcome throughout the story.
Likability: Have Mia demonstrate acts of kindness towards others, such as rescuing a stray animal or helping a stranger in need. Show her volunteering at a local shelter, highlighting her compassionate nature.
Relatability: Explore Mia’s struggles with trust issues stemming from her abusive past, allowing the audience to empathize with her internal conflicts. Show her navigating the challenges of forming meaningful connections despite her emotional scars.
Empathy: Put Mia through moments of distress where her traumatic past resurfaces, causing the audience to empathize with her pain and root for her resilience. Highlight her vulnerability as she confronts her past and strives for redemption.

Character Subtext

Subtext Identity: A survivor
Subtext Trait: Guardedness
Subtext Logline: Mia is a survivor who guards her vulnerability fiercely.
Possible Areas of Subtext:
Hiding something: Mia hides her emotional scars from her traumatic past, putting on a brave face for others.
Afraid to say: She’s afraid to admit her fears and insecurities, often masking them with determination and resolve.
Withholding: Mia withholds her true feelings, especially when it comes to accepting help from others, fearing vulnerability.
Plotting: Underneath her exterior of resilience, Mia quietly plots her next moves, always strategizing to protect herself and those she cares about.

Character Intrigue

Hidden Agenda: Mia may secretly harbor a desire for vengeance against those who wronged her in the past, driving her actions to protect herself and the alien princess.
Competition: Mia might feel a subtle sense of competition with Ariael, striving to prove herself as capable and worthy of trust despite her traumatic upbringing.
Conspiracy: Mia could be unknowingly caught up in a larger conspiracy involving her past, with hidden forces manipulating events to their advantage.
Secret: Mia may possess a hidden skill or knowledge that could turn the tide in the conflict against Zarael, but she’s reluctant to reveal it due to past betrayals.
Deception: Mia could find herself resorting to deception to protect those she cares about, even if it means sacrificing her own trustworthiness in the process.
Unspoken Wound: Mia’s trauma might stem from a specific event or betrayal in her past that she’s never fully come to terms with, fueling her actions and decisions.
Secret Identity: Mia might see herself as a reluctant hero, concealing her true strength and resilience behind a facade of vulnerability to avoid drawing attention to herself.

Flaw: Trust Issues

Mia Vance’s flaw lies in her deep-seated trust issues, stemming from her traumatic past as an abused foster child. This internal struggle manifests as a reluctance to fully trust others, even when forming crucial alliances in the face of danger. Mia’s fear of betrayal and vulnerability often leads her to keep people at arm’s length, hindering her ability to form meaningful connections and risking her mission to protect Ariael and thwart Zarael’s conspiracy.

Under Stress: Whenever Mia is under stress, her trust issues surface, causing her to second-guess the intentions of those around her and creating tension within her relationships. This flaw becomes particularly pronounced when faced with situations where she must rely on others for support or guidance, forcing her to confront her deepest insecurities and fears head-on.

This flaw adds layers to Mia’s character, highlighting her internal struggle to reconcile her desire to protect others with her innate sense of self-preservation. Throughout the story, Mia’s journey will involve confronting her trust issues, learning to lean on others when necessary, and ultimately finding the courage to open herself up to the possibility of genuine connection and companionship.

Core Values

Given Mia Vance’s character arc and the themes of trust, protection, and resilience, here are five core values that could deeply resonate with her journey in the Sci-Fi screenplay:
Courage: Mia’s journey is marked by her courageous acts, stepping out of her comfort zone to protect Ariael despite her own fears and past traumas. Courage drives her to confront her inner demons and face external challenges, demonstrating her resilience in the face of adversity.
Empathy: Mia’s empathy towards Ariael is a driving force behind her decision to help the exiled alien princess. Despite her trust issues, Mia’s ability to empathize with Ariael’s plight fosters a deep bond between them, guiding her actions towards protecting others from suffering.
Resourcefulness: Mia’s resourcefulness is crucial in navigating through the dangers posed by Zarael and his operatives. Whether it’s outsmarting pursuers or finding creative solutions to unforeseen obstacles, Mia’s resourcefulness helps her adapt to ever-changing circumstances and stay one step ahead of her adversaries.
Resilience: Mia’s resilience shines through her ability to endure and overcome the challenges thrown her way, both internally and externally. Despite her traumatic past and ongoing struggles with trust, Mia perseveres, learning and growing stronger with each obstacle she faces on her journey.
Integrity: Despite her trust issues and the temptation to resort to deception or self-preservation, Mia maintains her integrity throughout her quest to protect Ariael and thwart Zarael’s conspiracy. Her unwavering commitment to doing what’s right, even in the face of danger and uncertainty, defines her character and earns her the respect of those around her.

These core values align with Mia Vance’s character arc, driving her actions and decisions as she navigates the challenges of her Sci-Fi adventure while grappling with her past traumas and trust issues.

Internal Dilemma

Mia Vance’s internal dilemma could revolve around the conflict between her desire for independence and her need for connection and support from others.

On one side, Mia is fiercely independent, likely as a result of her traumatic past. She may have learned to rely solely on herself to survive, distrusting others and avoiding forming deep emotional bonds out of fear of betrayal or abandonment. This independence could manifest as her tendency to keep people at arm’s length, hesitant to fully trust anyone, including Ariael, despite their growing bond.

On the other side, Mia craves connection and support, especially as she navigates the dangerous journey to protect Ariael and thwart Zarael’s conspiracy. Deep down, she yearns for someone she can rely on, someone who understands her past traumas and stands by her side through thick and thin. This need for connection clashes with her instinct to push others away, creating an internal conflict that she must grapple with throughout the story.

This internal dilemma becomes particularly poignant as Mia forms a close bond with Ariael, realizing that she can’t protect the alien princess alone and must learn to trust and rely on others, even when it’s difficult. Mia’s journey involves finding a balance between her independence and her need for connection, learning to open herself up to the possibility of genuine companionship while staying true to her resilient and resourceful nature.

ARIAEL
The High Concept
In a world where ancient conspiracies threaten the fate of two civilizations, meet Ariael, a gifted alien princess exiled to Earth in the form of a twelve-year-old girl. Teaming up with Mia Vance, a courageous young woman scarred by her own past, they embark on a journey to uncover the truth and save both humanity and alienkind from impending doom. But standing in their way is Ariael’s identical, but size for age-appropriate female twin and nemesis, whose nefarious plans could spell destruction for all. Will Ariael’s ability to change identities and objects be enough to outmaneuver Zarael and restore peace to the galaxy?

This character’s journey

Introduction to Earth: Ariael, in the guise of a twelve-year-old girl, lands on Earth after being exiled from her home planet. She is immediately faced with the harsh reality of being alone and vulnerable on a new world.
Encounter with Mia Vance: Mia, a young woman who empathizes with Ariael’s vulnerability due to her own troubled past, rescues her from a dangerous situation. Ariael is initially wary but begins to trust Mia as they form a bond based on their shared experiences of pain and isolation.
Revelation of Threat: Ariael confides in Mia about the conspiracy led by her twin brother, Zarael, who seeks to exploit her powers for his own gain. She explains the grave danger posed not only to herself but to both humanity and her own people.
The Journey Begins: Ariael and Mia embark on a journey to evade Zarael’s agents who are hunting them down. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and challenges that test their resilience and trust in each other.
Alliance Building: Ariael uses her abilities to gain allies among both humans and aliens who are sympathetic to their cause. Through acts of kindness and diplomacy, she gradually earns the trust of those who initially doubted her intentions.
Confrontation with Betrayal: Ariael’s trust is shattered when one of their newfound allies betrays them to Zarael’s forces. She experiences feelings of betrayal and abandonment, but Mia helps her find the strength to carry on despite the setback.
Facing Inner Demons: Ariael confronts her own inner demons stemming from her past trauma and the fear of repeating the mistakes that led to her exile. With Mia’s support, she learns to embrace her vulnerabilities and use them as sources of strength rather than weakness.
Showdown with Zarael: The final confrontation with Zarael culminates in a battle of wills and powers. Ariael must dig deep within herself to summon the courage and determination to face her brother and stop him from wreaking havoc on both worlds.
Redemption and Reconciliation: Through the course of the battle, Ariael manages to reach out to the humanity buried deep within Zarael, appealing to his sense of family and shared heritage. In a moment of clarity, Zarael sees the error of his ways and reconciles with Ariael, putting an end to the conspiracy.
Return to Home: With the threat neutralized and peace restored, Ariael bids farewell to Mia and returns to her home planet, not as an exile, but as a hero who has proven her worth and reclaimed her rightful place among her people. She carries with her the lessons learned and the bonds forged during her journey on Earth, forever changed by the experience.

The Actor Attractors for this character

Lead Character Name: Ariael, is physically blond twelve years old
Role: Co-Protagonist and Triangle Character, She’s the first-born fraternal twin of Zarael and an Alien Princess exiled to Earth for her own safety
Core Traits: Intelligent, compassionate and resilient. She was born with the ability to not only change her own appearance and identity whenever she needs to, but she also has the ability to change them for other individuals. She can also change objects.
Motivation: Ariael’s primary motivation is to protect her people and prevent further harm caused by the conspiracy threatening both humanity and her own kind. Despite her young appearance, she possesses ancient wisdom and a deep understanding of the complexities of intergalactic politics. Ariael seeks allies who can help her uncover the truth behind the conspiracy and restore her rightful place as a leader among her people.
Wound: Ariael carries the weight of her exile and the burden of responsibility for her people’s safety. The betrayal that led to her exile has left her emotionally scarred, causing her to struggle with feelings of isolation and insecurity. However, her experiences have also forged her resilience, driving her determination to fight for justice and reclaim her rightful place among her people.
Likability: Showcase Ariael’s compassion towards others, such as her concern for the well-being of humans despite their initial fear and mistrust of her alien nature.
Relatability: Explore Ariael’s struggles with feeling like an outsider on Earth, longing for a sense of belonging and connection that resonates with the audience’s universal desire for acceptance.
Empathy: Put Ariael through moments of vulnerability and betrayal, allowing the audience to empathize with her emotional pain and root for her redemption.

Character Subtext

Subtext Identity: The Exiled Royalty
Subtext Trait: Calculated Innocence
Subtext Logline: Ariael is exiled royalty who strategically conceals her true power behind an innocent facade.
Possible Areas of Subtext:
Luring/seducing: Ariael uses her innocence and vulnerability as a tool to gain trust and manipulate situations to her advantage.
Secret: She harbors secrets about her true identity and the extent of her powers, revealing them only when necessary.
Being polite: Ariael maintains a facade of politeness and courtesy, even in the face of adversity, masking her true intentions.
Plotting: Beneath her innocent exterior, Ariael quietly schemes and strategizes, always one step ahead in the game of politics and survival.

Character Intrigue

Hidden Agenda: Ariael may have a hidden agenda to reclaim her throne and seek revenge against those who exiled her, manipulating events from behind the scenes.
Competition: Ariael might feel a sense of competition with Zarael, both vying for control over their people’s destiny and struggling to outmaneuver each other in the political landscape.
Conspiracy: Ariael could be aware of a conspiracy within her own ranks, with loyalists secretly plotting against her to prevent her from reclaiming her rightful place as princess.
Secret: Ariael might possess a secret ability or knowledge that could change the course of the conflict, but she’s hesitant to reveal it for fear of endangering herself and those around her.
Deception: Ariael may find herself resorting to deception to protect her true identity and intentions, playing the role of the innocent exile while secretly working towards her own goals.
Unspoken Wound: Ariael’s exile could be the result of a deeply personal betrayal, leaving emotional scars that influence her actions and decisions throughout the story.
Secret Identity: Ariael may struggle with her identity as both a princess and an exile, torn between her duty to her people and her desire for freedom and independence.

Flaw: Undervalues herself

In the midst of her quest to protect her people and thwart her twin sister’s nefarious plans, Ariael battles with an internal struggle of undervaluing herself. Despite her extraordinary powers and intelligence, she consistently underestimates her own worth and capabilities, often to her detriment.

This flaw rears its head whenever Ariael is under stress, causing her to doubt her decisions and hesitate when taking decisive action. Despite her strategic prowess and diplomatic skills, she struggles to recognize the impact she can have on the outcome of events.

Ariael’s tendency to undervalue herself stems from the emotional scars of her exile and the betrayal that led to it. She internalizes feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness, believing herself to be lesser than her twin sister Zarael or unworthy of the loyalty and support she receives from her allies.

Throughout the story, Ariael must confront this flaw head-on, learning to recognize and embrace her own worth. With the help of Mia and other allies, she gradually comes to understand the value of her contributions and the strength that lies within her. By overcoming her self-doubt, Ariael not only fulfills her role as a leader and protector but also finds redemption and reconciliation within herself.

Core Values

Given Ariael’s character arc and journey in the Sci-Fi screenplay, here are five core values that could deeply resonate with her character:

Integrity: Despite the challenges she faces, Ariael remains true to her principles and values, striving to protect her people and prevent further harm caused by the conspiracy. Her integrity guides her actions as she navigates through difficult decisions and maintains her moral compass amidst the chaos and betrayal surrounding her.
Compassion: Ariael’s compassion towards others, including humans and aliens alike, underscores her desire to seek allies and build bridges between different factions. Despite being exiled and betrayed, she extends empathy towards those who initially fear and mistrust her, demonstrating a deep understanding of the universal desire for acceptance and connection.
Resilience: Ariael’s resilience is evident in her ability to endure and overcome the challenges posed by her exile and the conspiracy orchestrated by her twin sister. Despite moments of vulnerability and betrayal, she perseveres, drawing strength from her inner resilience to confront her fears and forge ahead on her quest to restore peace and justice.
Courage: Ariael’s journey is marked by acts of courage as she confronts her twin sister Zarael and battles against the forces aligned against her. Despite her young appearance, she possesses a courageous spirit that drives her to stand up against injustice and fight for the greater good, even at great personal risk.
Self-Worth: Throughout her quest, Ariael grapples with feelings of self-doubt and undervaluing herself, stemming from the emotional scars of her exile and betrayal. However, as she learns to recognize and embrace her own worth, she undergoes a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment, realizing the strength and potential within herself to shape her own destiny and make a difference in the world.

These core values align with Ariael’s character traits, motivations, and internal struggles, driving her actions and decisions as she navigates the complexities of her Sci-Fi adventure while confronting her past traumas and striving to fulfill her destiny as a leader and protector.

Internal Dilemma

Ariael’s internal dilemma revolves around the conflicting desires of duty versus personal freedom. As an exiled alien princess burdened with the responsibility of protecting her people and thwarting her twin sister’s nefarious plans, she feels a profound sense of duty and obligation.

However, this duty often clashes with her longing for personal freedom and autonomy.
On one hand, Ariael understands the importance of fulfilling her role as a leader and protector, especially in the face of the conspiracy threatening both humanity and her own kind. She feels a deep sense of responsibility towards her people and is willing to sacrifice her own desires for the greater good.

On the other hand, Ariael yearns for the freedom to live her life on her own terms, away from the constraints of her royal lineage and the expectations placed upon her. She longs to explore her own identity and forge her own path, independent of the burdens of duty and obligation.

This internal dilemma causes Ariael to vacillate between fulfilling her responsibilities as a princess and seeking personal fulfillment and autonomy. She struggles to reconcile her sense of duty with her desire for freedom, leading to moments of inner conflict and uncertainty throughout her journey.

Ultimately, Ariael must confront and resolve this internal conflict in order to fully embrace her destiny and find inner peace. By striking a balance between her duty to her people and her own personal needs and desires, she can chart a path forward that honors both her sense of responsibility and her longing for freedom.

ZARAEL
The High Concept
The dynamic between the antagonist, Zarael, Ariael’s identical, but size for age-appropriate female twin and nemesis, and the protagonist, Mia Vance. Zarael’s relentless pursuit of power, fueled by her past failures and insecurities, creates a compelling conflict against Mia, who is driven by her own traumatic past to protect Ariael and prevent Zarael’s nefarious plans.

This character’s journey

Introduction:
Zarael, a young but formidable politician from Ariael’s planet, is introduced, exuding confidence and ambition.
Her past failures and rejection are hinted at, foreshadowing her deep-seated insecurities.
Discovery of Ariael:
Zarael learns of Ariael’s existence and her powerful abilities, seeing an opportunity to fulfill her own ambitions.
She sets her sights on capturing Ariael, viewing her as a means to solidify her own power.
Pursuit Begins:
Zarael mobilizes her resources, using cunning and manipulation to track down Ariael and Mia Vance, the human who shelters her.
She encounters obstacles but remains relentless, driven by her desire for dominance.
Confrontation with Mia Vance:
Zarael faces off against Mia Vance, recognizing her as an obstacle to her plans.
Their confrontation reveals Zarael’s ruthless nature as she uses any means necessary to achieve her goals.
Betrayal and Setbacks:
Zarael experiences betrayal from allies she trusted, causing setbacks in her pursuit of Ariael.
Her insecurities are further exposed as she struggles to maintain control amidst the chaos.
Moment of Doubt:
Zarael faces a moment of doubt as she reflects on her past failures and the sacrifices she’s made for power.
Her facade of confidence begins to crack as she questions the cost of her ambitions.
Final Showdown:
Zarael confronts Ariael and Mia Vance in a climactic showdown, fueled by desperation to prove her dominance.
She faces internal and external challenges, including her own doubts and the strength of her adversaries.
Reckoning with Personal Demons:
Zarael confronts her own personal demons during the showdown, forced to reckon with her insecurities and past traumas.
Her relentless pursuit of power is tested as she grapples with the human flaws beneath her facade.
Defeat and Redemption:
Zarael is ultimately defeated by Ariael and Mia Vance, her plans crumbling around her.
In her moment of defeat, she experiences a sense of catharsis as she realizes the futility of her ambitions.
Resolution:
Zarael is left to pick up the pieces of her shattered aspirations, humbled but not defeated.
She begins a journey of redemption, seeking to reconcile her past mistakes and find a new purpose beyond her thirst for power.

The Actor Attractors for this character

Lead Character: Zarael is physically a blond eighteen-year-old. She’s the second-born fraternal twin of Ariael
Role: Antagonist. She’s a ruthless, cunning, power-hungry, alien politician from Ariael’s planet
Core Traits: Calculating, authoritarian, ambitious
Motivation: Zarael is driven by a desire for power and control. She wants to be the alien princess instead of Ariael and will stop at nothing to capture her and use her to make that happen.
Wound: Zarael’s wound originates from her own past failures and rejection, fueling her distrust of others and driving her relentless pursuit of dominance. She harbors deep-seated insecurities masked by a facade of unwavering confidence and aggression.
Likability: Present Zarael as a formidable antagonist with a compelling backstory that explains her motivations and actions, earning begrudging respect from the audience despite her ruthless nature.
Relatability: Explore Zarael’s insecurities and vulnerabilities beneath her facade of confidence and authority, revealing the human flaws that drive her relentless pursuit of power.
Empathy: Put Zarael through moments of betrayal and loss that challenge her convictions, allowing the audience to empathize with her struggle to reconcile her ambitions with her personal demons.

Character Subtext

Subtext Identity: The Scarred Manipulator
Subtext Trait: Calculated Vulnerability
Subtext Logline: Zarael is a manipulator who masks his vulnerabilities with calculated displays of power.
Possible Areas of Subtext:
Hiding something: Zarael hides his emotional wounds and insecurities beneath a facade of confidence and authority.
Lying: He manipulates others through deceit and manipulation, weaving intricate webs of lies to achieve his goals.
Withholding: Zarael withholds his true intentions, often playing his cards close to his chest to maintain an air of mystery and control.
Plotting: Behind his outward displays of power, Zarael quietly schemes and strategizes, always seeking to outmaneuver his adversaries and maintain his grip on power.

Character Intrigue

Hidden Agenda: Zarael may have a hidden agenda to not only seize power but also to uncover the truth behind his own past traumas, driving him to manipulate events to his advantage.
Competition: Zarael could feel a sense of competition with other rival factions within his own society, each vying for dominance and control over the future of their planet.
Conspiracy: Zarael might be the mastermind behind a larger conspiracy, pulling the strings from behind the scenes to manipulate events to his advantage and eliminate his enemies.
Secret: Zarael may harbor a dark secret from his past, one that he’ll go to great lengths to protect, even if it means sacrificing others in the process.
Deception: Zarael is a master of deception, weaving intricate lies and half-truths to manipulate others into doing his bidding and furthering his own ambitions.
Unspoken Wound: Zarael’s ruthless demeanor could be a facade to mask the pain and trauma of his past, driving him to seek power and control as a means of compensating for his own inner turmoil.
Secret Identity: Zarael may see himself as the rightful savior of his people, concealing his vulnerabilities and insecurities behind a facade of strength and authority.

Flaw: Overconfidence

Zarael’s flaw lies in her overconfidence, a trait deeply rooted in her past failures and insecurities. Despite her calculating nature and cunning manipulations, she often underestimates the resolve and capabilities of her adversaries. This overconfidence blinds her to potential risks and blindsides, leading her to make reckless decisions in pursuit of power.

Whenever Zarael is under stress or faced with a challenge to her authority, her overconfidence becomes her Achilles’ heel. Instead of carefully assessing the situation, she relies too heavily on her own perceived invincibility, which ultimately sabotages her success. This flaw not only exposes her vulnerabilities but also leaves her susceptible to manipulation by those who recognize and exploit her arrogance.

Throughout the screenplay, Zarael’s overconfidence repeatedly leads her into traps set by Mia Vance and Ariael, as she fails to anticipate their resilience and resourcefulness. Each setback serves as a humbling reminder of her own fallibility, forcing her to confront the fragility of her facade of power and control.

In the final showdown, Zarael’s unchecked overconfidence proves to be her downfall as she underestimates the strength of her adversaries and overestimates her own abilities. It is only in the face of defeat that she is forced to acknowledge the destructive consequences of her arrogance, paving the way for her eventual redemption and reconciliation with her own limitations.

Core Values

Ambition: Zarael’s unyielding drive to ascend to power and control the fate of her planet fuels her every action. Her ambition is the driving force behind her relentless pursuit of dominance, even at the expense of others.
Integrity: Despite her ruthless methods, Zarael possesses a twisted sense of integrity, adhering to her own code of conduct and staying true to her goals. Her unwavering commitment to her ambitions, though morally skewed, underscores her character’s consistency and determination.
Intelligence: Zarael’s sharp intellect and cunning manipulation are central to her character. She relies on her strategic mind to outmaneuver her adversaries and navigate the complex web of political intrigue, always staying one step ahead in her quest for power.
Courage: Beneath her facade of confidence lies a deep-seated courage that drives Zarael to confront any obstacle in her path. Despite facing betrayal, setbacks, and her own inner demons, she refuses to back down, facing each challenge with unwavering resolve and determination.
Resilience: Zarael’s past failures and insecurities have hardened her resolve, making her resilient in the face of adversity. She bounces back from setbacks with renewed determination, using each defeat as fuel to propel her closer to her ultimate goal of dominance.

Internal Dilemma: Dominance versus Redemption

Zarael’s internal conflict revolves around her relentless pursuit of dominance and control, fueled by her past failures and insecurities, versus the desire for redemption and reconciliation with her own limitations and vulnerabilities.

On one hand, Zarael is driven by an insatiable thirst for power, seeking to ascend to the highest echelons of authority on her planet. Her past traumas and rejections have instilled in her a deep-seated need to prove her worth and superiority, leading her to manipulate and betray others to achieve her goals. This drive for dominance is a core aspect of her identity, shaping her every action and decision as she ruthlessly pursues her ambitions.

On the other hand, beneath her facade of confidence lies a flicker of doubt and self-awareness, a recognition of the destructive consequences of her actions and the toll they have taken on her psyche. Despite her outward displays of strength, Zarael harbors a secret longing for redemption, a desire to break free from the cycle of manipulation and deceit that has defined her existence. She yearns to confront her own inner demons, to acknowledge her vulnerabilities and flaws, and to find a sense of peace and acceptance within herself.

Throughout the screenplay, Zarael grapples with this internal dilemma, torn between the allure of power and the whisper of redemption. Each confrontation with Mia Vance and Ariael serves as a catalyst for her internal struggle, forcing her to confront the consequences of her actions and the true cost of her ambitions. As the stakes escalate and her facade begins to crumble, Zarael is forced to confront the possibility of redemption, to acknowledge the humanity beneath her veneer of authority.

In the final showdown, Zarael is faced with a choice: to cling to her thirst for dominance at any cost or to embrace the possibility of redemption and reconciliation. It is a moment of reckoning, a culmination of her internal conflict as she confronts the truth of who she is and who she wants to be. In the end, whether Zarael chooses the path of dominance or redemption, her decision will define not only her own fate but also the fate of those around her.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Character Profiles Part 1

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is using a variety of information assists in creating the right characters for my screenplay.

Genre = Sci-Fi
Concept = Mia Vance, an eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues Ariael, a gifted, exiled alien princess who's in the form of a twelve-year-old girl, and agrees to help her avoid capture by Zarael, an alien adversary who wants to misuse her gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alienkind.

Mia
The High Concept
In a universe teetering on the brink of war, an abused foster child turned courageous protector, Mia Vance, must team up with an exiled alien princess, Ariael, to thwart a sinister conspiracy orchestrated by the malevolent Zarael, all while confronting her own trust issues and past trauma.

This character’s journey

Beginning:
Mia Vance, an eighteen-year-old woman with a biomechanical arm, struggles to trust others due to her abusive past in foster care.
Mia encounters Ariael, a gifted exiled alien princess in the form of a twelve-year-old girl, fleeing from Zarael, an alien adversary.
Despite her initial reluctance, Mia feels a deep sense of empathy towards Ariael and decides to help her evade capture.
Mia's journey begins as she steps out of her comfort zone to protect Ariael, driven by her desire to prevent others from experiencing the same suffering she endured.
Internal Challenge:
Mia wrestles with her trust issues, fearing betrayal and struggling to open up to Ariael despite their growing bond.
Memories of her traumatic past haunt Mia, causing her to question her own worthiness and ability to protect Ariael.
Mia's internal conflicts threaten to undermine her mission as she grapples with self-doubt and emotional turmoil.
External Challenge:
Zarael's relentless pursuit forces Mia and Ariael to constantly evade capture, pushing them to their physical and mental limits.
Mia must navigate through unfamiliar territories and outsmart Zarael's operatives, relying on her resourcefulness to keep herself and Ariael safe.
As they uncover Zarael's involvement in a conspiracy threatening both humanity and alienkind, Mia realizes the magnitude of the danger they face and the importance of their mission.
Transformation:
Through their shared experiences and challenges, Mia learns to trust Ariael and gradually opens up about her past, allowing their bond to deepen.
As Mia confronts her fears and insecurities, she discovers inner strength she never knew she possessed, realizing that her past does not define her.
Mia's journey from a wounded survivor to a courageous protector culminates in a final confrontation with Zarael, where she risks everything to save Ariael and thwart his plans.
In the climax, Mia's courage and resilience shine as she overcomes her inner demons and emerges victorious, proving her worthiness and finding redemption in protecting others.
End:
Despite the challenges they faced, Mia and Ariael emerge triumphant, their bond stronger than ever.
With Zarael defeated and the conspiracy exposed, Mia finds solace in knowing that she made a difference, both for Ariael and for herself.
As they part ways, Mia embarks on a new chapter of her life, no longer defined by her past but by her newfound courage, empathy, and resilience.

The Actor Attractors for this character

Role: Co-Protagonist
Lead Character: Mia Vance, an eighteen-year-old red-headed Caucasian female with an advanced biomechanical arm with natural-looking skin.
Core Traits: Courageous, resourceful, empathetic, distrustful
Motivation: Mia's troubled past as an abused foster child drives her to protect others from suffering the same fate. She sees an opportunity to make a difference by helping the exiled alien princess, feeling a deep sense of empathy towards her. Additionally, Mia seeks redemption for her own past by standing up against injustice, even if it means facing dangerous adversaries.
Wound: Mia carries emotional scars from her abusive childhood, resulting in trust issues and a tendency to keep people at arm's length. Her traumatic experiences fuel her determination to fight for justice, but they also create internal conflicts that she must overcome throughout the story.
Likability: Have Mia demonstrate acts of kindness towards others, such as rescuing a stray animal or helping a stranger in need. Show her volunteering at a local shelter, highlighting her compassionate nature.
Relatability: Explore Mia's struggles with trust issues stemming from her abusive past, allowing the audience to empathize with her internal conflicts. Show her navigating the challenges of forming meaningful connections despite her emotional scars.
Empathy: Put Mia through moments of distress where her traumatic past resurfaces, causing the audience to empathize with her pain and root for her resilience. Highlight her vulnerability as she confronts her past and strives for redemption.

Ariael
The High Concept
In a world where ancient conspiracies threaten the fate of two civilizations, meet Ariael, a gifted alien princess exiled to Earth in the form of a twelve-year-old girl. Teaming up with Mia Vance, a courageous young woman scarred by her own past, they embark on a journey to uncover the truth and save both humanity and alienkind from impending doom. But standing in their way is Zarael, Ariael's twin and nemesis, whose nefarious plans could spell destruction for all. Will Ariael's ability to change identities and objects be enough to outmaneuver Zarael and restore peace to the galaxy?

This character’s journey

Introduction to Earth: Ariael, in the guise of a twelve-year-old girl, lands on Earth after being exiled from her home planet. She is immediately faced with the harsh reality of being alone and vulnerable on a new world.
Encounter with Mia Vance: Mia, a young woman who empathizes with Ariael's vulnerability due to her own troubled past, rescues her from a dangerous situation. Ariael is initially wary but begins to trust Mia as they form a bond based on their shared experiences of pain and isolation.
Revelation of Threat: Ariael confides in Mia about the conspiracy led by her twin brother, Zarael, who seeks to exploit her powers for his own gain. She explains the grave danger posed not only to herself but to both humanity and her own people.
The Journey Begins: Ariael and Mia embark on a journey to evade Zarael's agents who are hunting them down. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and challenges that test their resilience and trust in each other.
Alliance Building: Ariael uses her abilities to gain allies among both humans and aliens who are sympathetic to their cause. Through acts of kindness and diplomacy, she gradually earns the trust of those who initially doubted her intentions.
Confrontation with Betrayal: Ariael's trust is shattered when one of their newfound allies betrays them to Zarael's forces. She experiences feelings of betrayal and abandonment, but Mia helps her find the strength to carry on despite the setback.
Facing Inner Demons: Ariael confronts her own inner demons stemming from her past trauma and the fear of repeating the mistakes that led to her exile. With Mia's support, she learns to embrace her vulnerabilities and use them as sources of strength rather than weakness.
Showdown with Zarael: The final confrontation with Zarael culminates in a battle of wills and powers. Ariael must dig deep within herself to summon the courage and determination to face her brother and stop him from wreaking havoc on both worlds.
Redemption and Reconciliation: Through the course of the battle, Ariael manages to reach out to the humanity buried deep within Zarael, appealing to his sense of family and shared heritage. In a moment of clarity, Zarael sees the error of his ways and reconciles with Ariael, putting an end to the conspiracy.
Return to Home: With the threat neutralized and peace restored, Ariael bids farewell to Mia and returns to her home planet, not as an exile, but as a hero who has proven her worth and reclaimed her rightful place among her people. She carries with her the lessons learned and the bonds forged during her journey on Earth, forever changed by the experience.

The Actor Attractors for this character

Lead Character Name: Ariael, is physically blond twelve years old
Role: Co-Protagonist and Triangle Character, She’s the first-born fraternal twin of Zarael and an Alien Princess exiled to Earth for her own safety
Core Traits: Intelligent, compassionate and resilient. She was born with the ability to not only change her own appearance and identity whenever she needs to, but she also has the ability to change them for other individuals. She can also change objects.
Motivation: Ariael's primary motivation is to protect her people and prevent further harm caused by the conspiracy threatening both humanity and her own kind. Despite her young appearance, she possesses ancient wisdom and a deep understanding of the complexities of intergalactic politics. Ariael seeks allies who can help her uncover the truth behind the conspiracy and restore her rightful place as a leader among her people.
Wound: Ariael carries the weight of her exile and the burden of responsibility for her people's safety. The betrayal that led to her exile has left her emotionally scarred, causing her to struggle with feelings of isolation and insecurity. However, her experiences have also forged her resilience, driving her determination to fight for justice and reclaim her rightful place among her people.
Likability: Showcase Ariael's compassion towards others, such as her concern for the well-being of humans despite their initial fear and mistrust of her alien nature.
Relatability: Explore Ariael's struggles with feeling like an outsider on Earth, longing for a sense of belonging and connection that resonates with the audience's universal desire for acceptance.
Empathy: Put Ariael through moments of vulnerability and betrayal, allowing the audience to empathize with her emotional pain and root for her redemption.

Zarael
The High Concept
The dynamic between the antagonist, Zarael, and the protagonist, Mia Vance. Zarael's relentless pursuit of power, fueled by her past failures and insecurities, creates a compelling conflict against Mia, who is driven by her own traumatic past to protect Ariael and prevent Zarael's nefarious plans.

This character’s journey

Introduction:
Zarael, a young but formidable politician from Ariael's planet, is introduced, exuding confidence and ambition.
Her past failures and rejection are hinted at, foreshadowing her deep-seated insecurities.
Discovery of Ariael:
Zarael learns of Ariael's existence and her powerful abilities, seeing an opportunity to fulfill her own ambitions.
She sets her sights on capturing Ariael, viewing her as a means to solidify her own power.
Pursuit Begins:
Zarael mobilizes her resources, using cunning and manipulation to track down Ariael and Mia Vance, the human who shelters her.
She encounters obstacles but remains relentless, driven by her desire for dominance.
Confrontation with Mia Vance:
Zarael faces off against Mia Vance, recognizing her as an obstacle to her plans.
Their confrontation reveals Zarael's ruthless nature as she uses any means necessary to achieve her goals.
Betrayal and Setbacks:
Zarael experiences betrayal from allies she trusted, causing setbacks in her pursuit of Ariael.
Her insecurities are further exposed as she struggles to maintain control amidst the chaos.
Moment of Doubt:
Zarael faces a moment of doubt as she reflects on her past failures and the sacrifices she's made for power.
Her facade of confidence begins to crack as she questions the cost of her ambitions.
Final Showdown:
Zarael confronts Ariael and Mia Vance in a climactic showdown, fueled by desperation to prove her dominance.
She faces internal and external challenges, including her own doubts and the strength of her adversaries.
Reckoning with Personal Demons:
Zarael confronts her own personal demons during the showdown, forced to reckon with her insecurities and past traumas.
Her relentless pursuit of power is tested as she grapples with the human flaws beneath her facade.
Defeat and Redemption:
Zarael is ultimately defeated by Ariael and Mia Vance, her plans crumbling around her.
In her moment of defeat, she experiences a sense of catharsis as she realizes the futility of her ambitions.
Resolution:
Zarael is left to pick up the pieces of her shattered aspirations, humbled but not defeated.
She begins a journey of redemption, seeking to reconcile her past mistakes and find a new purpose beyond her thirst for power.

The Actor Attractors for this character

Lead Character: Zarael is physically a blond eighteen-year-old. She’s the second-born fraternal twin of Ariael
Role: Antagonist. She’s a ruthless, cunning, power-hungry, alien politician from Ariael’s planet
Core Traits: Calculating, authoritarian, ambitious
Motivation: Zarael is driven by a desire for power and control. She wants to be the alien princess instead of Ariael and will stop at nothing to capture her and use her to make that happen.
Wound: Zarael's wound originates from her own past failures and rejection, fueling her distrust of others and driving her relentless pursuit of dominance. She harbors deep-seated insecurities masked by a facade of unwavering confidence and aggression.
Likability: Present Zarael as a formidable antagonist with a compelling backstory that explains her motivations and actions, earning begrudging respect from the audience despite her ruthless nature.
Relatability: Explore Zarael's insecurities and vulnerabilities beneath her facade of confidence and authority, revealing the human flaws that drive her relentless pursuit of power.
Empathy: Put Zarael through moments of betrayal and loss that challenge her convictions, allowing the audience to empathize with her struggle to reconcile her ambitions with her personal demons.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Likability/Relatability/Empathy

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is being aware that each person has good and bad qualities which make them more relatable to audiences.

Genre = Sci-Fi
Concept = Mia Vance, an eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues Ariael, a gifted, exiled alien princess who's in the form of a twelve-year-old girl, and agrees to help her avoid capture by Zarael, an alien adversary who wants to misuse her gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alienkind.

Mia Vance:
1. Likability: Have Mia demonstrate acts of kindness towards others, such as rescuing a stray animal or helping a stranger in need. Show her volunteering at a local shelter, highlighting her compassionate nature.
2. Relatability: Explore Mia's struggles with trust issues stemming from her abusive past, allowing the audience to empathize with her internal conflicts. Show her navigating the challenges of forming meaningful connections despite her emotional scars.
3. Empathy: Put Mia through moments of distress where her traumatic past resurfaces, causing the audience to empathize with her pain and root for her resilience. Highlight her vulnerability as she confronts her past and strives for redemption.
4. Showcase Mia bonding with Ariael over shared experiences of feeling out of place or misunderstood, emphasizing their unlikely friendship and the strength they draw from each other.
5. Highlight Mia's resourcefulness in overcoming obstacles, such as using her biomechanical arm to creatively solve problems or outsmart adversaries, earning admiration from the audience.
6. Develop Mia's character arc by showing her gradually learning to trust others and open up about her past, allowing the audience to witness her growth and transformation.
7. Introduce moments where Mia stands up against injustice, risking her own safety to protect others, reinforcing her courageous and selfless nature.
8. Explore Mia's sense of responsibility towards Ariael, showcasing her determination to keep her safe despite the dangers they face, resonating with the audience's desire to protect loved ones.
9. Allow Mia to make mistakes and face consequences, demonstrating her humanity and relatability as she learns from her failures and strives to make amends.
10. Show glimpses of Mia's resilience in the face of adversity, highlighting her ability to persevere despite the odds stacked against her, inspiring the audience to root for her success.

Ariael:
1. Likability: Showcase Ariael's compassion towards others, such as her concern for the well-being of humans despite their initial fear and mistrust of her alien nature.
2. Relatability: Explore Ariael's struggles with feeling like an outsider on Earth, longing for a sense of belonging and connection that resonates with the audience's universal desire for acceptance.
3. Empathy: Put Ariael through moments of vulnerability and betrayal, allowing the audience to empathize with her emotional pain and root for her redemption.
4. Highlight Ariael's intelligence and wisdom, demonstrating her ability to adapt to new environments and navigate complex political landscapes with grace and determination.
5. Showcase Ariael's curiosity about human culture and customs, leading to humorous or heartwarming moments of cultural exchange that endear her to the audience.
6. Develop Ariael's relationship with Mia as a source of emotional support and camaraderie, emphasizing the bond they share despite their differences.
7. Explore Ariael's internal conflicts between her duty to her people and her desire for personal freedom, allowing the audience to empathize with her difficult choices.
8. Highlight Ariael's resilience in the face of adversity, showcasing her determination to fight for justice and reclaim her rightful place as a leader among her people.
9. Introduce moments where Ariael uses her shape-shifting abilities to aid others or outmaneuver her adversaries, earning admiration from the audience for her resourcefulness.
10. Show Ariael grappling with her own insecurities and fears, allowing the audience to see her as a complex and relatable character striving to find her place in the world.

Zarael:
1. Likability: Present Zarael as a formidable antagonist with a compelling backstory that explains her motivations and actions, earning begrudging respect from the audience despite her ruthless nature.
2. Relatability: Explore Zarael's insecurities and vulnerabilities beneath her facade of confidence and authority, revealing the human flaws that drive her relentless pursuit of power.
3. Empathy: Put Zarael through moments of betrayal and loss that challenge her convictions, allowing the audience to empathize with her struggle to reconcile her ambitions with her personal demons.
4. Showcase Zarael's cunning and strategic brilliance, demonstrating her ability to outmaneuver her enemies and maintain control over her faction through manipulation and intimidation.
5. Develop Zarael's rivalry with Ariael as a complex dynamic rooted in jealousy, resentment, and a shared history of betrayal, adding depth to her character and motivations.
6. Highlight Zarael's conflicted feelings towards Mia, wavering between viewing her as a threat to be eliminated and a pawn to be manipulated for her own ends.
7. Explore Zarael's relationship with her subordinates, revealing moments of camaraderie and loyalty that humanize her character despite her authoritarian leadership style.
8. Introduce moral dilemmas that force Zarael to question the righteousness of her actions, adding nuance to her character and inviting the audience to ponder the nature of good and evil.
9. Show glimpses of Zarael's past successes and failures, illustrating the high stakes of her quest for power and the personal sacrifices she has made along the way.
10. Allow Zarael moments of vulnerability where her facade cracks, revealing the wounded soul beneath the armor of ambition and control, eliciting sympathy from the audience despite her villainous deeds.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Character Intrigue

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is that having intriguing character layers in my screenplay can cause an audience to search for what is really happening.

Title: Defiant Allies
Genre: Sci-Fi
Concept: Mia Vance, an eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues Ariael, a gifted, exiled alien princess who's in the form of a twelve-year-old girl, and agrees to help her avoid capture by Zarael, an alien adversary who wants to misuse her gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alienkind.

Mia Vance:
• Hidden Agenda: Mia may secretly harbor a desire for vengeance against those who wronged her in the past, driving her actions to protect herself and the alien princess.
• Competition: Mia might feel a subtle sense of competition with Ariael, striving to prove herself as capable and worthy of trust despite her traumatic upbringing.
• Conspiracy: Mia could be unknowingly caught up in a larger conspiracy involving her past, with hidden forces manipulating events to their advantage.
• Secret: Mia may possess a hidden skill or knowledge that could turn the tide in the conflict against Zarael, but she's reluctant to reveal it due to past betrayals.
• Deception: Mia could find herself resorting to deception to protect those she cares about, even if it means sacrificing her own trustworthiness in the process.
• Unspoken Wound: Mia's trauma might stem from a specific event or betrayal in her past that she's never fully come to terms with, fueling her actions and decisions.
• Secret Identity: Mia might see herself as a reluctant hero, concealing her true strength and resilience behind a facade of vulnerability to avoid drawing attention to herself.

Ariael:
• Hidden Agenda: Ariael may have a hidden agenda to reclaim her throne and seek revenge against those who exiled her, manipulating events from behind the scenes.
• Competition: Ariael might feel a sense of competition with Zarael, both vying for control over their people's destiny and struggling to outmaneuver each other in the political landscape.
• Conspiracy: Ariael could be aware of a conspiracy within her own ranks, with loyalists secretly plotting against her to prevent her from reclaiming her rightful place as princess.
• Secret: Ariael might possess a secret ability or knowledge that could change the course of the conflict, but she's hesitant to reveal it for fear of endangering herself and those around her.
• Deception: Ariael may find herself resorting to deception to protect her true identity and intentions, playing the role of the innocent exile while secretly working towards her own goals.
• Unspoken Wound: Ariael's exile could be the result of a deeply personal betrayal, leaving emotional scars that influence her actions and decisions throughout the story.
• Secret Identity: Ariael may struggle with her identity as both a princess and an exile, torn between her duty to her people and her desire for freedom and independence.

Zarael:
• Hidden Agenda: Zarael may have a hidden agenda to not only seize power but also to uncover the truth behind his own past traumas, driving him to manipulate events to his advantage.
• Competition: Zarael could feel a sense of competition with other rival factions within his own society, each vying for dominance and control over the future of their planet.
• Conspiracy: Zarael might be the mastermind behind a larger conspiracy, pulling the strings from behind the scenes to manipulate events to his advantage and eliminate his enemies.
• Secret: Zarael may harbor a dark secret from his past, one that he'll go to great lengths to protect, even if it means sacrificing others in the process.
• Deception: Zarael is a master of deception, weaving intricate lies and half-truths to manipulate others into doing his bidding and furthering his own ambitions.
• Unspoken Wound: Zarael's ruthless demeanor could be a facade to mask the pain and trauma of his past, driving him to seek power and control as a means of compensating for his own inner turmoil.
• Secret Identity: Zarael may see himself as the rightful savior of his people, concealing his vulnerabilities and insecurities behind a facade of strength and authority.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Subtext Characters
My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is this lesson and the AI Prompt have provided me with a tool to create valuable subtext for the characters in my screenplay.

Title: Defiant Allies
Genre: Sci-Fi
Concept: Mia Vance, an eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues Ariael, a gifted, exiled alien princess who's in the form of a twelve-year-old girl, and agrees to help her avoid capture by Zarael, an alien adversary who wants to misuse her gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alienkind.

Mia Vance
• Subtext Identity: A survivor
• Subtext Trait: Guardedness
• Subtext Logline: Mia is a survivor who guards her vulnerability fiercely.
• Possible Areas of Subtext:
• Hiding something: Mia hides her emotional scars from her traumatic past, putting on a brave face for others.
• Afraid to say: She's afraid to admit her fears and insecurities, often masking them with determination and resolve.
• Withholding: Mia withholds her true feelings, especially when it comes to accepting help from others, fearing vulnerability.
• Plotting: Underneath her exterior of resilience, Mia quietly plots her next moves, always strategizing to protect herself and those she cares about.

Ariael
• Subtext Identity: The Exiled Royalty
• Subtext Trait: Calculated Innocence
• Subtext Logline: Ariael is exiled royalty who strategically conceals her true power behind an innocent facade.
• Possible Areas of Subtext:
• Luring/seducing: Ariael uses her innocence and vulnerability as a tool to gain trust and manipulate situations to her advantage.
• Secret: She harbors secrets about her true identity and the extent of her powers, revealing them only when necessary.
• Being polite: Ariael maintains a facade of politeness and courtesy, even in the face of adversity, masking her true intentions.
• Plotting: Beneath her innocent exterior, Ariael quietly schemes and strategizes, always one step ahead in the game of politics and survival.

Zarael
• Subtext Identity: The Scarred Manipulator
• Subtext Trait: Calculated Vulnerability
• Subtext Logline: Zarael is a manipulator who masks his vulnerabilities with calculated displays of power.
• Possible Areas of Subtext:
• Hiding something: Zarael hides his emotional wounds and insecurities beneath a facade of confidence and authority.
• Lying: He manipulates others through deceit and manipulation, weaving intricate webs of lies to achieve his goals.
• Withholding: Zarael withholds his true intentions, often playing his cards close to his chest to maintain an air of mystery and control.
• Plotting: Behind his outward displays of power, Zarael quietly schemes and strategizes, always seeking to outmaneuver his adversaries and maintain his grip on power.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Actor Attractors!
My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is using the Actor Attractor Template is very valuable in assisting me in creating characters who are complex and interesting.

Concept: Mia Vance, an eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues Ariael, a gifted, exiled alien princess who's in the form of a twelve-year-old girl, and agrees to help her avoid capture by Zarael, an alien adversary who wants to misuse her gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alienkind.

Lead Character Name: Mia Vance
Role: Co-Protagonist

What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it?
This role offers a complex character arc with deep emotional depth, providing the opportunity for an actor to showcase their range and talent. Mia's journey from a troubled past to a courageous protector allows an actor to explore themes of redemption, resilience, and empathy, resonating with audiences on a profound level.

What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story?
Mia's blend of vulnerability and strength makes her compelling. Her traumatic past as an abused foster child adds layers to her character, shaping her motivations and actions throughout the story. Her empathy towards the alien princess and her determination to fight against injustice makes her a driving force in the narrative.

What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script?
Mia's most interesting actions could include risking her own safety to protect the alien princess, outsmarting adversaries with her resourcefulness, confronting her own past trauma to find inner strength, and making difficult moral choices that challenge her beliefs.

How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor?
You could highlight Mia's journey from a vulnerable survivor to a resilient protector, emphasizing the emotional depth and complexity of the character. Emphasize the opportunity for character growth and the chance to portray a relatable yet inspiring figure who overcomes adversity.

What could be this character’s emotional range?
Mia's emotional range could include vulnerability, fear, determination, empathy, anger, and eventually, a sense of empowerment and self-discovery as she confronts her past and finds her place in the world.

What subtext can the actor play?
The actor could play the subtext of Mia's internal struggles with trust, self-worth, and the desire for redemption. Additionally, there could be sub-textual layers to Mia's relationship with the alien princess, exploring themes of friendship, identity, and acceptance.

What are the most interesting relationships this character can have?
Mia's relationship with the alien princess would be central, characterized by a mix of mutual dependence, mentorship, and friendship. Additionally, her interactions with other characters, such as allies who support her and adversaries who challenge her, would add depth to her journey.

How will this character’s unique voice be presented?
Mia's unique voice will be presented through her actions, dialogue, and inner monologue, reflecting her resilience, determination, and underlying vulnerability. Her voice will evolve throughout the story as she grows and confronts her past.

What could make this character special and unique?
Mia's blend of trauma, empathy, and courage makes her special and unique. Her past experiences shape her worldview and motivations, driving her to protect others and fight against injustice in a way that feels authentic and compelling.

Lead Character Name: Ariael
Role: Co-Protagonist, An Alien Princess exiled to Earth for her own safety

What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it?
Playing Ariael offers the opportunity for an actor to delve into complex emotional depths while embodying a character with extraordinary abilities and a rich backstory. The role not only allows for the exploration of themes like trauma, resilience, and leadership but also presents the challenge of portraying an otherworldly being navigating the complexities of Earth and intergalactic politics.

What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story?
Ariael's dual nature as both a vulnerable, exiled princess and a powerful, wise leader makes her incredibly compelling. Her ability to shape-shift adds layers to her character, as she grapples with questions of identity and trust. Additionally, her journey from victim to hero, as she overcomes the trauma of her past and fights to protect her people, is a central arc that drives the narrative forward.

What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script?
Ariael could demonstrate her shape-shifting abilities in creative and unexpected ways, such as assuming different identities to gather information or infiltrate enemy territory. Her diplomatic skills could be put to the test as she navigates alliances and betrayals in both human and alien societies. Ultimately, her most significant actions would involve rallying allies to uncover the conspiracy and thwart the plans of those who seek to exploit her people's gifts.

How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor?
Highlighting Ariael's complexity and depth, as well as the opportunity for an actor to portray both vulnerability and strength, would be key in selling the role. Emphasizing the character's pivotal role in the story's overarching conflict and her journey of self-discovery and redemption would appeal to actors seeking challenging and meaningful roles.

What could be this character’s emotional range?
Ariael's emotional range spans from deep-seated trauma and vulnerability to fierce determination and righteous anger. She experiences moments of doubt and insecurity but also demonstrates resilience, compassion, and unwavering loyalty to her people and allies. As she confronts her past and faces the challenges ahead, her emotional journey is complex and multifaceted.

What subtext can the actor play?
The actor portraying Ariael can convey the subtext of internal conflict and hidden strength beneath her outward appearance of innocence and vulnerability. Ariael's interactions with others may be layered with subtext as she navigates the delicate balance between trust and suspicion, concealing her true motives and abilities while seeking allies she can rely on.

What are the most interesting relationships this character can have?
Ariael's relationships with the protagonist, the young woman who rescues her, and other key characters are central to the story's development. Her dynamic with the human protagonist could evolve from mistrust to deep friendship and mutual respect as they work together to uncover the truth and confront their adversaries. Additionally, Ariael's interactions with other aliens and political figures could reveal layers of intrigue and betrayal as she navigates the complexities of her own society and its relationships with other galactic powers.

How will this character’s unique voice be presented?
Ariael's unique voice is characterized by a blend of wisdom beyond her years and vulnerability stemming from her traumatic past. She speaks with a sense of authority and gravitas befitting her status as a princess and leader but also exhibits moments of insecurity and self-doubt, particularly when confronted with reminders of her exile and the betrayal that led to it.

What could make this character special and unique?
Ariael's ability to shape-shift, both herself and others, sets her apart as a character with immense power and potential. Her journey of self-discovery and redemption, as she grapples with the trauma of her past and seeks to protect her people, adds depth and complexity to her character, making her a truly unique and compelling protagonist in the sci-fi genre.

Lead Character Name: Zarael
Role: Antagonist, a ruthless, cunning, power-hungry, alien politician from Ariael’s planet

What about this role would cause an actor to want to be known for it?
Zarael is the epitome of a complex villain. Playing such a character offers an actor the opportunity to delve deep into the psyche of a power-hungry antagonist with a tragic backstory. It's a chance to showcase versatility and depth in portraying a character driven by ambition, resentment, and a relentless pursuit of dominance.

What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in your story?
Zarael's complexity lies in his multifaceted nature. On the surface, he's a cunning and ruthless politician, but beneath that exterior, there's a wounded soul driven by past trauma. His dynamic with the exiled princess adds layers to his character, showcasing his vulnerabilities and the lengths he'll go to in order to reclaim what he perceives as his rightful place.

What are the most interesting actions the Lead could take in the script?
Zarael's actions are driven by his insatiable thirst for power. From manipulating political alliances to orchestrating covert operations, he stops at nothing to achieve his goals. His clashes with Mia and the princess could involve elaborate schemes, high-stakes confrontations, and morally ambiguous choices that challenge both his adversaries and the audience's perception of him.

How can you introduce this role in a way that could sell it to an actor?
Picture a gripping opening scene where Zarael makes a grand entrance, exuding charisma and authority as he addresses a crowd of supporters. His magnetic presence, coupled with hints of underlying menace, sets the stage for an antagonist who commands attention and leaves a lasting impression on both the characters and the audience.

What could be this character’s emotional range?
Zarael's emotional range spans from cold calculation to fiery rage, with glimpses of vulnerability in between. Beneath his facade of confidence lies a wounded soul plagued by resentment and longing for validation. An actor portraying Zarael must navigate this spectrum of emotions, showcasing both his ruthless determination and his inner turmoil.

What subtext can the actor play?
Throughout the story, Zarael's actions and dialogue can be laden with subtext, hinting at his deeper motivations and insecurities. His interactions with Mia and the princess could be layered with tension and underlying agendas, adding complexity to his character and keeping the audience guessing about his true intentions.

What are the most interesting relationships this character can have?
Zarael's relationships are fraught with complexity. His rivalry with the exiled princess is central to the plot, rooted in past betrayals and unresolved conflicts. His interactions with Mia could range from manipulative to begrudgingly respectful, as they navigate a delicate balance of power and mutual distrust. Additionally, his dynamic with other alien leaders and political figures could offer insight into his cunning and strategic prowess.

How will this character’s unique voice be presented?
Zarael's voice is commanding and persuasive, with a hint of arrogance that reflects his confidence in his own abilities. He speaks with conviction, never wavering in his pursuit of power. His dialogue is sharp and calculated, revealing glimpses of his cunning intellect and underlying menace.

What could make this character special and unique?
Zarael's complexity lies in his multifaceted nature as both a formidable antagonist and a deeply flawed individual driven by past trauma. His journey is one of redemption and reckoning, as he grapples with his own demons while striving for dominance. Portraying Zarael offers an actor the chance to explore the depths of human ambition and the consequences of unchecked power.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Actor Attractors for Hunger Games
My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is that being aware of the Actor Attractors while watching a movie could assist me in creating better, more complex roles for my characters.

Movie Title: The Hunger Games
Lead Character Name: Katniss Everdeen

1. Why would an actor WANT to be known for this role?
The character Katniss is placed in many interesting, stressful, and deadly situations and interacts with many different people in the movie which illustrates her many different character traits.

Also, Katniss is the heroine in this story and she defies President Snow’s Hunger Games plan when she and Peeta threaten to kill themselves instead of killing each other to be the sole victor of the Hunger Game.

2. What makes this character one of the most interesting characters in the movie?
She doesn’t want to kill anyone in order to survive the Hunger Games but she does kill when her life is threatened as she wants to survive the games.

3. What are the most interesting actions the Lead takes in the movie?
Katniss volunteers to be her District’s female tribute instead of her young sister who was randomly selected.

When possible sponsors ignore her when she demonstrates her ability with a bow and arrow, she shoots an arrow into an apple in their midst.

When Rue is accidentally killed while she is with Katniss, Katniss cries, kisses Rue’s forehead, respectfully puts flowers in Rue’s hands, and gives Rue’s district a respectful salute.

Katniss subtly demonstrates her anger and disgust for President Snow and the Hunger Games when she and Peeta threaten to kill themselves instead of killing each other to be the sole victor of the Hunger Games.

4. How is this character introduced that could sell it to an actor?
Katniss comforts her sister who wakes from a nightmare and who’s afraid she will be picked for the Hunger Games. Then Katniss goes illegally outside of her district’s boundaries to retrieve a bow and arrow and goes hunting to provide food for her mother and Prim. She chooses to be realistic when Gale talks about leaving the district, being free and having children.

5. What is this character’s emotional range?
Katniss is gentle, caring, smart, practical, a loner, independent, resentful, brave, stubborn, sentimental, appreciative, loyal, a capable hunter, playful only to portray a part, and defiant.

6. What subtext can the actor play?
She refuses to kill other tributes including Peeta unless her life is threatened. Katniss is angry and disgusted by the concept of the Hunger Games as well as the opulence of the people in the city while the people in her district are scrounging for food and she wants to spite them by surviving the game.

7. What’s the most interesting relationships this character has?
After her father died in a mine Katniss was forced to take care of her almost catatonic mother and her sister Prim. Her mother promises to take care of Prim after Katniss volunteers to take Prim’s place as the District 12 tribute.

Gale and Katniss talk about leaving the district together. She gets him to promise to provide her mother and Prim with food when she volunteers to be in the game. He’s unhappy to see Katniss and Peeta being portrayed as star-crossed lovers during the Hunger Games and when she kisses Peeta on the lips.

Peeta wants the two of them to be mentored by Haymitch as he believes it will help them to survive. He reveals to Master Of Ceremonies, Caesar Flickerman that had a secret crush on Katniss back home. He tells Katniss he wishes he could show the people in the city he’s not just another piece in their game and that they don’t own him. During the game, he attempts to lead a group of tributes in a direction he believes is away from Katniss. After Seneca announces there can be two winners from the same district, a wounded Peeta is willing to die so Katniss can live but she won’t leave him and kisses him. When Seneca announces there are needed gifts for everyone at the cornucopia Katniss decides to go get something to help him heal as she knows he would do that for her. He and Katniss threaten to kill themselves instead of killing each other to be the sole victor of the Hunger Games.

Haymitch initially considers Katniss to be unlikable and arrogant. He’s impressed by her angry decision to shoot the apple out of a pig’s mouth when the sponsors were ignoring her and the fact that resulted in her having the highest score of the tributes. He gives her advice about what to do and what not to do when she enters the game. He worries about her when she’s trapped up a tree with a burn on her leg, talks to sponsors, and has a salve sent to her. At the end of the games, he tells her that what she and Peeta did to become the survivors angered President Snow and that is going to affect others.

Cinna, impressed by the bravery and self-sacrifice Katniss displayed when she volunteered to take Prim’s place as a tribute, wants to give her costumes that will impress the people in the city and the sponsors. He secretly gives her the Mockingjay pin before she enters the arena. He tells her if he could bet he would bet on her surviving.

Master Of Ceremonies, Caesar Flickerman is very impressed by Katniss, the girl on fire even though she’s uncomfortable during her interview with him.

Game-maker Seneca gives Katniss a higher score than the other tributes and is reprimanded by President Snow for doing that. After Rue dies and her district revolts, Haymitch tells Seneca not to kill off Katniss as that would make her a martyr. He tells Seneca to give the people young love to root for but President Snow doesn’t like this and warns Seneca to be careful. Seneca decides to change the rules so there can be two victors if they are from the same district. He changes the rule back to only one survivor after Katniss and Peeta are the only survivors. When Katniss and Peeta are unwilling to kill each other and are about to kill themselves with poison berries, Seneca makes Katniss and Peeta the winners of the 74th Hunger Games.

President Snow doesn’t want Katniss to have too much hope so he tells Seneca to contain it. After Seneca makes Katniss and Peeta the winners of the 74th Hunger Games, President Snow has Seneca locked in a room with the poison berries so Seneca can commit suicide.

Katniss is flattered by Rue’s attention and appreciates Rue’s help when some tributes wait for Katniss to come down from a tree so they can kill her. When Rue is accidentally killed while she is with Katniss, Katniss cries, kisses Rue’s forehead, respectfully puts flowers in Rue’s hands and gives Rue’s district a respectful salute.

8. How is this character’s unique voice presented?
She refuses to kill other tributes including Peeta unless her life is threatened. Katniss is angry and disgusted by President Snow and the concept of the Hunger Games as well as the opulence of the people in the city while the people in her district are scrounging for food and wants to spite them by surviving the game.

9. What makes this character special and unique?
Katniss volunteers to be her District’s female tribute instead of her young sister Prim who was randomly selected. Katniss is smart and an excellent hunter and archer.

10. (Fill in a scene that shows the character fulfilling much of the Actor Attractor model.)
Katniss subtly demonstrates her anger and disgust for the opulence and the people in the city, President Snow and the Hunger Games when, based upon her shrewd idea, she and Peeta threaten to kill themselves instead of killing each other to be the victor of the Hunger Games.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Genre Conventions
My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is that knowing and utilizing the Conventions for a specific Genre can enrich a screenplay written in that Genre.

Title: Defiant Allies
Concept: An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien princess who's in the form of a twelve-year-old girl and agrees to help her avoid capture by an alien adversary who wants to misuse her gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alienkind.
Genre: Sci-Fi

Genre conventions for a Sci-Fi film:
1. Extraterrestrial Elements: Ensure the alien princess, Ariael, and her world are richly detailed with unique technologies, cultures, and customs. Integrate elements like advanced spacecraft, otherworldly landscapes, and futuristic gadgets to immerse the audience in the sci-fi setting.

2. Technological Advancements: Showcase futuristic technology throughout the story, from advanced weaponry used by Zarael's forces to futuristic gadgets that aid Mia and Ariael in their journey. This can include holographic displays, neural implants, or even genetic modifications.

3. Worldbuilding: Expand on the universe beyond Earth by providing glimpses into the politics, history, and societal structures of both human and alien civilizations. Show how these different worlds interact and how their histories have shaped their current conflicts.

4. Themes of Otherness and Identity: Explore themes of identity and belonging through the characters of Mia and Ariael. Mia grapples with her identity as a survivor of abuse and a foster child, while Ariael struggles with her identity as an alien princess exiled from her home. Use their relationship to delve into the complexities of being an outsider.

5. High Stakes and Grand Scale: Amplify the sense of urgency and danger by emphasizing the high stakes involved in the conspiracy threatening both humanity and alienkind. Incorporate large-scale action sequences, epic battles, and moments of peril to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

6. Exploration of Morality and Ethics: Delve into moral dilemmas surrounding power, responsibility, and the consequences of one's actions. Explore the ethical implications of using Ariael's gift for either good or evil purposes, and the choices Mia must make as she navigates this morally complex world.

7. Visual Spectacle: Take advantage of the visual medium of film to create stunning visuals that showcase the wonders of the sci-fi universe. Utilize CGI, practical effects, and imaginative production design to bring the world of the film to life in a visually captivating way.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s 4 Act Transformational Structure

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is that using the 4-Act Transformational Structure and the previously developed character profiles will make the future development of my story outline easier.

Four-Act Transformational Structure
Title: Defiant Allies
Act 1: Set Up and See Old Ways
• Opening: Introduce Mia Vance, a street-smart, independent eighteen-year-old, navigating the harsh realities of her foster care past. Show her survival instincts, street smarts, and deep-seated trust issues.
• Inciting Incident: Mia encounters Ariael, a mysterious twelve-year-old girl who reveals herself to be an exiled alien princess. Ariael seeks Mia’s help to avoid capture by Zarael, a power-hungry alien politician.
• Turning Point: Mia reluctantly agrees to help Ariael, setting the stage for their journey together. There’s no turning back as they embark on a quest to evade Zarael’s grasp.
Act 2: Challenge the Old Ways
• Reaction: Mia and Ariael find themselves outside their comfort zones, navigating a world where the old ways of survival clash with new alliances. Mia’s trust issues and Ariael’s royal burdens create tension as they struggle to find common ground.
• The Plan: Mia and Ariael’s initial attempts to evade Zarael fail, forcing them to confront the limitations of their old ways. They must adapt and find new strategies to stay one step ahead.
• Turning Point 2: Midpoint: The scale of the conflict expands as Mia and Ariael uncover a labyrinthine conspiracy involving Zarael. They realize the forces against them are far greater than they initially imagined, shattering their perceptions of reality.
Act 3: Profound Moments that Give Us New Ways
• Rethink: Mia and Ariael undergo a transformation, realizing that their old ways won’t suffice in the face of the escalating threat. They have profound insights into their own limitations and the need to change.
• New Plan: With newfound determination, Mia and Ariael devise a new plan to confront Zarael and unravel the conspiracy. They enlist the help of unexpected allies and embrace their roles in shaping the outcome.
• Turning Point: As they reach the “all is lost” moment, Mia and Ariael face betrayal and setbacks that test their resolve to the breaking point.
Act 4: Test the Change in this Character! Prove New Ways!
• Climax: Mia and Ariael confront Zarael in a final showdown, facing their deepest fears and challenges head-on. Their unity and newfound resolve are put to the ultimate test as they fight for their lives and the future of both humanity and alienkind.
• Resolution: Despite the odds, Mia and Ariael emerge victorious, their defiant alliance proving that courage and compassion can triumph over tyranny. As they stand together, changed by their journey, the world is forever altered by their actions.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Subtext Plot

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is the importance of creating subtext-oriented plots in order to create a more interesting and complex screenplay.

My choice of two subtext plots for my concept are:

Concept: An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien princess who’s in the form of a twelve-year-old girl and agrees to help her avoid capture by an alien adversary who wants to misuse her gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alienkind.

Subtext-Oriented Plot 1: Scheme and Investigation

In this plot, the main character, the abused foster child turned rescuer, is constantly scheming and investigating to protect the exiled alien princess. Meanwhile, there’s an undercurrent of subtext in every interaction as the protagonist navigates through a world where trust is scarce, and danger lurks around every corner. The foster child must decipher the true intentions of those around them, knowing that behind every question lies the underlying desire to catch or trick them. The alien princess, too, may have her own agenda, hidden beneath her innocent facade. As the story progresses, the protagonist must use their investigative skills to outsmart their adversaries and ensure the safety of the alien princess, all while unraveling the deeper layers of the conspiracy that threatens both human and alienkind.

Subtext-Oriented Plot 6: A Major Cover-Up

In this plot, the conspiracy threatening both humanity and alienkind involves a major cover-up orchestrated by the alien adversary and their allies. As the protagonist delves deeper into the mystery surrounding the gifted alien princess, they uncover layers of deception and manipulation aimed at concealing the truth. The foster child, with their firsthand experience of abuse and betrayal, is uniquely equipped to recognize the signs of a cover-up. As they piece together clues and unearth hidden information, the protagonist realizes the extent of the conspiracy and the danger it poses to both worlds. With the help of the exiled alien princess, they embark on a mission to expose the truth and thwart the plans of those who seek to misuse her gift. Along the way, they must navigate a web of lies and deceit, relying on their intuition and resourcefulness to stay one step ahead of their adversaries.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Transformational Journey

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is the importance of designing a great transformational journey for my Protagonist.

Mia’s Transformational Journey

Act 1:

Character Arc: Arc Begins: Mia Vance is a young woman haunted by her past as an abused foster child. She struggles with trust issues, keeping people at a distance to protect herself from potential harm. Arc Ends: Through her journey, Mia learns to confront her past, trust others, and open herself up emotionally. She evolves into a courageous and empathetic individual who is willing to risk everything to protect those she cares about.

Internal Journey: Mia’s internal journey begins with her deep-seated fear of vulnerability and attachment due to her traumatic past. As she forms a bond with the alien princess, she gradually learns to let go of her emotional barriers and embrace her capacity for empathy and connection.

External Journey: Externally, Mia’s journey involves her physical actions in rescuing and protecting the alien princess. She navigates through dangerous situations, outsmarting adversaries and overcoming obstacles to ensure the princess’s safety.

Old Ways: At the beginning of the story, Mia’s old ways manifest as her reluctance to trust others and her tendency to push people away. She harbors deep-seated anger and resentment towards her abusers, which fuels her desire to fight against injustice but also prevents her from forming meaningful connections.

New Ways: By the end of the story, Mia’s new ways are characterized by her willingness to trust others and form genuine connections. She lets go of her past traumas, finding strength in vulnerability and empathy. Mia emerges as a beacon of hope, committed to protecting the vulnerable and standing up for what is right.

Act 2:

Character Arc: Arc Begins: Mia’s journey intensifies as she faces greater challenges and dangers while protecting the alien princess. She grapples with doubts and fears, questioning her own abilities and convictions. Arc Ends: Through her trials and tribulations, Mia undergoes a transformation, emerging stronger and more determined than ever. She embraces her role as a protector and leader, finding purpose in her mission to safeguard the princess and prevent catastrophe.

Internal Journey: Mia’s internal journey deepens as she confronts her inner demons and insecurities. She wrestles with feelings of inadequacy and guilt, struggling to reconcile her past with her present actions. However, as she continues to fight for what she believes in, Mia gains confidence and self-assurance, ultimately accepting herself and her capabilities.

External Journey: Externally, Mia’s journey takes her to various locations and confrontations as she evades capture and thwarts the plans of her adversaries. She relies on her resourcefulness and courage to navigate through perilous situations, forging alliances and outmaneuvering her enemies along the way.

Old Ways: During the second act, Mia’s old ways resurface as she grapples with self-doubt and insecurity. She struggles to trust her instincts and make difficult decisions, haunted by the specter of her past traumas.

New Ways: By the climax of the story, Mia has shed her old insecurities and doubts, emerging as a confident and determined leader. She draws strength from her past experiences, using them to fuel her resolve and guide her actions. Mia’s newfound sense of purpose drives her towards victory, as she embraces her role as a protector and guardian.

Act 3:

Character Arc: Arc Begins: As Mia enters the final act, she is faced with the ultimate test of her courage and resolve. She must confront her greatest fears and adversaries, risking everything to protect the alien princess and prevent catastrophe. Arc Ends: In the climactic resolution, Mia completes her transformation, fully embracing her identity as a hero and protector. She achieves redemption for her past and finds peace within herself, knowing that she has made a difference in the world.

Internal Journey: Mia’s internal journey reaches its zenith as she confronts her deepest fears and insecurities head-on. She finds the strength to overcome her past traumas and embrace her true potential, becoming the hero she was always meant to be.

External Journey: Externally, Mia’s journey culminates in a final showdown with her adversaries, where she must use all of her skills and resources to emerge victorious. She faces overwhelming odds and impossible challenges but refuses to back down, driven by her unwavering determination to protect the princess and save the day.

Old Ways: At the beginning of the third act, Mia’s old ways threaten to resurface as she faces the greatest challenges of her journey. She is tempted to succumb to doubt and fear, questioning whether she has what it takes to succeed in her mission.

New Ways: In the climax of the story, Mia fully embraces her new identity as a hero and protector. She confronts her adversaries with courage and determination, refusing to let her past define her. Mia’s newfound sense of purpose guides her actions, leading to a triumphant victory and a brighter future for herself and those she cares about.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Intentional Lead Characters

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is discovering what makes each of these three characters fit my concept and title powerfully.

NB During the Pre-Class, after I selected the concept I was going to use in this class, I used the AI Prompts from my previous classes with Hal about AI to create an in-depth development of my characters, and I am including all of that here in this lesson

Genre = Sci-Fi
Title = Defiant Allies
Concept =

An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien princess who’s in the form of a twelve-year-old girl and agrees to help her avoid capture by an alien adversary who wants to misuse her gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alienkind.
Characters =

Logline: Despite having trust issues as a result of her life, Mia agrees to help Ariel defeat Zarael.

Name: Mia Vance

Role: Protagonist

Core Traits: Courageous, resourceful, and empathetic

Motivation: Mia’s troubled past as an abused foster child drives her to protect others from suffering the same fate. She sees an opportunity to make a difference by helping the exiled alien princess, feeling a deep sense of empathy towards her. Additionally, Mia seeks redemption for her own past by standing up against injustice, even if it means facing dangerous adversaries.

Wound: Mia carries emotional scars from her abusive childhood, resulting in trust issues and a tendency to keep people at arm’s length. Her traumatic experiences fuel her determination to fight for justice, but they also create internal conflicts that she must overcome throughout the story.

Complex Backstory: During her life in the Foster Home, Mia fended for herself when she went out into the streets, developing a keen sense of survival instincts and street smarts. In secret, she became proficient in various forms of combat, honing her skills to defend herself against threats in the unforgiving urban environment.

Unique Skillset: Mia’s proficiency in various forms of combat sets her apart, making her a formidable fighter despite her seemingly ordinary appearance. She utilizes her skills to navigate dangerous situations and protect herself and others.

Moral Dilemmas: Mia faces moral dilemmas as she grapples with her past and the harsh realities of her environment. She must often make split-second decisions where her survival instincts clash with her empathetic nature, forcing her to confront the consequences of her actions.

Interpersonal Relationships: Mia’s struggles with trust and intimacy affect her relationships with allies, including Ariael. Despite her reluctance to let others in, she forms a deep bond with the alien princess as they navigate their shared struggles.

Personal Growth Arc: Mia’s journey involves overcoming her trust issues and learning to rely on others. Through her partnership with Ariael and her encounters with allies, she gradually learns the importance of vulnerability and connection in the fight against injustice.

Logline: Ariel, an Alien Princess, defeats Zarael with Mia’s help.

Name: Ariael

Role: Connecting Character /Co-Protagonist She’s an Alien Princess exiled to Earth for her own safety

Core Traits: Intelligent, compassionate and resilient. She was born with the ability to not only change her own appearance and identity whenever she needs to, but she also has the ability to change them for other individuals.

Motivation: Ariael’s primary motivation is to protect her people and prevent further harm caused by the conspiracy threatening both humanity and her own kind. Despite her young appearance, she possesses ancient wisdom and a deep understanding of the complexities of intergalactic politics. Ariael seeks allies who can help her uncover the truth behind the conspiracy and restore her rightful place as a leader among her people.

Wound: Ariael carries the weight of her exile and the burden of responsibility for her people’s safety. The betrayal that led to her exile has left her emotionally scarred, causing her to struggle with feelings of isolation and insecurity. However, her experiences have also forged her resilience, driving her determination to fight for justice and reclaim her rightful place among her people.

Hidden Depths: Despite her composed exterior, Ariael grapples with questions of identity and belonging as she navigates life in exile on Earth. She struggles to reconcile her royal heritage with her newfound vulnerability and isolation, leading to moments of introspection and self-discovery.

Struggle with Identity: Ariael’s ability to change her physical appearance adds another layer to her struggle with identity. She wrestles with questions of authenticity and self-acceptance, wondering if she will ever truly belong in either the human or alien world.

Tragic Grace: Ariael’s composed exterior conceals deep emotional scars from her betrayal and exile. She carries the weight of her responsibilities and the burden of her people’s safety, yet she remains resilient in the face of adversity, drawing strength from her inner resolve.

Leadership Challenges: Ariael faces resistance from those who doubt her ability to lead her own people. Despite the challenges, she remains steadfast in her commitment to protect her people and uncover the truth behind the conspiracy threatening both worlds.

Transformation Arc: Ariael undergoes a transformation as she navigates the challenges of exile and betrayal. Through her experiences with Mia, she learns to embrace her vulnerabilities and channel her inner strength, emerging as a formidable leader determined to reclaim her rightful place among her people.

Logline: Zarael, who wants to capture Ariel in order to use her ability for his own purposes, is defeated by Ariael and Mia.

Name: Zarael

Role: Antagonist

Core Traits: Ruthless, cunning, power-hungry

Motivation: Zarael is an alien politician who’s driven by a desire for dominance and control over both human and alien realms. As a high-profile individual in the alien society, he sees the exiled princess as a threat to his plans for conquest and will stop at nothing to eliminate her. Zarael’s thirst for power blinds him to the suffering he causes, making him a formidable adversary for Mia and the princess.

Wound: Zarael harbors deep-seated resentment towards the exiled princess, stemming from a past conflict on their planet that resulted in his own exile. This unresolved trauma fuels his determination to prove himself and regain favor with his peers back on his planet, driving his ruthless pursuit of the princess and anyone who stands in his way.

Tragic Past: Zarael shows moments of doubt or inner conflict as he relentlessly pursues Ariael. Despite his outward facade of confidence and ruthlessness, he harbors deep-seated insecurities stemming from his past betrayals and failures.

Ambiguous Motivations: While power and control are his primary goals, Zarael’s motivations are driven by a desire to regain his standing among his people. He believes that capturing Ariael and manipulating her into replacing honorable individuals on their planet and on Earth will secure his place of power and restore his reputation.

Conflict within Himself: Zarael struggles with guilt and self-doubt as he grapples with the morality of his actions. He questions whether his pursuit of power justifies the harm he inflicts on others, leading to moments of introspection amidst his ruthless pursuit of his goals.

Personal Vendetta: Zarael’s obsession with capturing Ariael borders on irrationality, fueled by his vendetta and his alliance with an unscrupulous Earth politician. He becomes increasingly unhinged as he becomes more desperate to achieve his objectives, posing a significant threat to Mia and Ariael.

Redeemable Qualities: Despite his villainous actions, Zarael possesses redeemable qualities buried beneath his facade of cruelty. He may show glimpses of compassion or remorse, hinting at the potential for redemption even as he remains a formidable adversary.

[Lawrence Seliski]

LJ’s Title, Concept, and Character Structure!

My vision is to write incredible high-concept screenplays that are made into popular, financially successful movies.

What I learned from doing this assignment is how valuable the FEEDBACK ON PITCH Prompt was in evaluating and helping me to improve my Title, High Concept, and Major Story Hook.

Title: Defiant Allies
High Concept:

An eighteen-year-old woman who was abused as a foster child rescues a gifted, exiled alien princess who’s in the form of a twelve-year-old girl and agrees to help her avoid capture by an alien adversary who wants to misuse her gift and is involved in a conspiracy that threatens both humanity and alienkind.

I’ve chosen the following Character Structure:

Protagonist versus Antagonist

Mia Vance, the eighteen-year-old woman, is a Co-Protagonist

Ariael, the Alien Princess, is a Co-Protagonist

Zarael, an Alien, is the Antagonist

[Lawrence Seliski]

Hi Monica,
Great start. I’m looking forward to seeing how you fill out this screenplay outline.
LJ

• This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Lawrence Seliski.

[Lawrence Seliski]

I look forward to seeing more about your screenplay Monica.

LJ