[William Whiteford]

ASSIGNMENT 15
William Whiteford – Thriller Map Version 2
1. While rewriting my Thriller Map, I realized the crucial role that clues play in leading to the resolution of mysteries. Initially, after a strong opening (a man with a rifle shooting a bird, a Hitchcock-inspired twist), the tension diminished in Act 1. This was because my protagonist, Glen, a writer, wasn’t facing sufficient danger or threats before the central conflict emerged.
2. Main Improvements:
I have added three additional clues and introduced three new obstacles for the Hero in Act 2.
3. Request for Feedback:
I would appreciate it if the next reviewer could focus on whether all the clues effectively lead to solving the mysteries and if the tension is consistently maintained throughout Act 1.
My Thriller Map Version 2: Enhanced After Feedback
Title: The Secretary
Logline: A celebrated author chases his enigmatic secretary, who frames him for a heinous crime, only to uncover a web of betrayal spun by his alluring but treacherous wife.

Act 1
1. EXT. PARK – DAY
Glen Gordon, a writer, notices a shadowy, bearded man carrying a rifle with a scope while walking in the park. The man vanishes into the bushes, and moments later, a gunshot rings out. Startled, Glen continues home, only to find a bleeding crow hanging from a branch. He’s left wondering: What’s happening?
2. INT. GORDON’S LIVING ROOM – DAY
Glen and his wife, Grace, watch a news report about a fugitive veteran who escaped from a local psychiatric clinic. Their cat, Basil, sits beside them. Feeling trapped in their current life, Grace suggests they move to a Pacific island. Glen, a former Merchant Navy Captain, dismisses the idea, saying he’s had his fill of traveling. Frustrated, Grace accuses him of prioritizing his literary career over their family life, mentioning that his secretary, Jack, is much more understanding. Glen promises to consider traveling next year.
3. INT. GLEN’S STUDY – DAY
Glen discusses his new thriller idea with his secretary, Jack Hamilton, inspired by the image of the dying bird, but he keeps most of the details to himself. Jack helps prepare his credentials for an interview. When Glen asks why they never met at the Santa Barbara Literary Workshop, Jack explains he’s a passionate autodidact who took an online course.
4. INT. JACK’S DEN – DAY
Grace visits Jack, seemingly by chance, and complains about Glen. Jack comforts her and, taking advantage of the moment, seduces her. He tells her she deserves more than what Glen offers, and they share a passionate kiss.
5. EXT. LAWN BOWLS CLUB – DAY
Glen plays bowls with his brother Dan, an aspiring businessman. Dan asks Glen to invest in his motel project, but Glen refuses to allow it on his property. Angrily, Dan declares he’ll proceed, “even over Glen’s dead body.”
6. EXT. GORDONS’ DRIVEWAY – DAY
As Glen approaches his car, it explodes, throwing him to the ground. Fearing media attention, he chooses not to report it to the police, wondering if Dan could be behind it.
7. INT. LIBRARY – DAY
During a meeting with readers, Glen is confronted by his neighbor, Sandra, who accuses him of being a “thief and trickster.” The tension escalates, ending the meeting abruptly.
8. EXT. GORDONS’ YARD – DAY
Sandra arrives at Glen’s home with an exotic plant for Grace. Her poodle, Daisy, whines from the backseat.
9. EXT. GORDONS’ PORCH – DAY
Grace sketches trees on her drawing pad, while Glen scans the area with binoculars, still searching for the armed man. Grace criticizes Glen for his broken promises. Suddenly, Glen spots a figure in military attire running among the trees, aiming at him from behind a tree. Glen grabs a taser and rushes out.
10.EXT. PARK – MOMENTS LATER
Glen searches the park for the armed man but finds nothing.
11.INT. GLEN’S STUDY – DAY
Jack asks Glen to read his manuscript, but Glen, feeling envious, burns it. Enraged, Jack vows revenge.
12.EXT. GORDONS’ FENCE – DAY
Sandra discovers Basil’s lifeless body hanging from the fence and alerts Glen and Grace. Grace blames Glen for provoking the rifleman, while Glen suspects Jack. Glen takes a photo of the dead cat.
13.EXT. GORDONS’ YARD – DAY
Jack arrives, and Glen confronts him about Basil’s death. They fight, with Jack overpowering Glen and leaving.
14.INT. LIVING ROOM – DAY
Glen uncovers that the real Jack Hamilton died three years ago and that his current secretary’s identity is forged. Despite Grace defending Jack, Glen insists on bringing him to justice and asks Grace to draw a portrait of “Jack” from memory.
Act 2
15-16.INT. LIBRARY / WORKSHOP – DAY
Glen shows Jack’s portrait to various people, but no one recognizes him.
17.EXT. GLEN’S BACKYARD – NIGHT
A masked man sneaks toward the back door.
18.INT. HALLWAY – NIGHT
Grace unexpectedly switches on the light, scaring off the intruder.
19.INT. FITNESS CLUB – DAY
Determined to catch Jack, Glen starts martial-arts training.
20..INT. SHOOTING RANGE – DAY
Glen practices shooting and becomes highly skilled.
21.INT. SHOOTING RANGE BAR – DAY
Glen meets his friend, Captain John Bell, and shows him Jack’s portrait. John recognizes him from a gas station.
22.EXT. GAS STATION – DAY
The manager identifies Jack as “Roy Jackson,” a part-time employee who frequents the Trendy Restaurant.
23.EXT. SANDRA’S YARD – DAY
Sandra’s poodle Daisy is found dead, hanging from her fence. The police question her, and she accuses Glen of seeking revenge. Glen denies it and leaves.
24.EXT. STREET NEAR THE PARK – DAY
Glen and Grace observe the police arresting Jeff Walker, the “man with the rifle.” Grace believes Jeff is the animal killer.
25.EXT. STREET – DAY
A masked man reports to the police, falsely accusing Glen of killing Daisy, but the police dismiss the report.
26.INT. GLEN’S STUDY – DAY
Glen compares the photos of Basil and Daisy, noticing the same strangulation marks.
27.EXT. ZOO – DAY
A dead meerkat is discovered hanging from a bridge. A woman sees a man resembling Glen nearby.
28.INT. LIVING ROOM – DAY
The police suspect Glen of the animal killings and restrict him to Santa Barbara.
29.INT. POLICE ARCHIVE – DAY
Glen photographs the dead meerkat’s image from the police archives, noting similar strangulation patterns.
30.INT. THE TRENDY RESTAURANT – DAY
Jack meets a TV reporter, planning to expose Glen’s alleged “dark secrets.”
31.EXT. THE TRENDY RESTAURANT – DAY
Glen spots Jack leaving the restaurant and follows him home.
32.INT. GORDONS’ LIVING ROOM – DAY
Grace watches the TV interview where Jack accuses Glen of the animal killings. Glen’s files are used as evidence.
33.INT. JACK’S DEN – DAY
Glen finds Jack’s fake beard and a cord matching the previous findings, confirming Jack is framing him.
34.INT. GORDONS’ LIVING ROOM – DAY
The police arrest Glen, ignoring his explanation.
Act 3
35.INT. PSYCHIATRIC CLINIC – DAY
Glen meets Jeff and learns more about his situation.
36.INT. CLINIC – DAY
John Bell visits Glen and secretly gives him a toolkit to escape.
37.INT. GORDONS’ LIVING ROOM – DAY
Grace, who has been colluding with Jack, sells Glen’s property. She heads to the airport to meet Jack.
38.EXT. STREETS – NIGHT
Glen escapes from the clinic, pursued by the police.
39.EXT. GORDONS’ HOUSE – DAY
Glen learns that Grace left for the airport.
40.INT. AIRPORT – DAY
Jack waits for Grace, but Glen arrives instead. They fight in the underground garage, and Glen overpowers Jack just as the police arrive.
41.INT. LIBRARY – DAY
Glen triumphantly returns to the literary world, having hired a new secretary. Grace sends a letter from the Pacific, boasting about her new life, while Jack writes his memoirs in prison.
# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 14
William Whiteford – Thriller Map Version 1

What I learned is how to transform a “tagged” Thriller Map into a structured, coherent outline that serves as a blueprint for a script. This version is designed to be clear, easy to follow, and suitable for feedback. Below is the revised Thriller Map, divided into three acts, with each scene numbered.

Act 1
1.EXT. PARK – DAY
Glen Gordon, a writer, is walking through the park when he spots a shadowy, bearded man carrying a rifle. The man disappears into the bushes. Moments later, Glen hears a gunshot. Disturbed, Glen continues home and finds a bleeding crow hanging from a branch. He’s left wondering: What’s going on?

2.INT. GORDON’S LIVING ROOM – DAY
Glen and his wife, Grace, watch a news broadcast warning about a fugitive veteran who escaped from a local psychiatric clinic. Their cat, Basil, sits beside them. Grace expresses frustration, feeling imprisoned in their home. She suggests they move to a Pacific island. Glen, a former Merchant Navy Captain, dismisses the idea, saying he’s had enough of traveling.

3.INT. GLEN’S STUDY – DAY
Glen shares with his secretary, Jack Hamilton, that he’s a new thriller, sparked by the image of the dying bird. However, he keeps the details of his concept to himself.

4.INT. JACK’S DEN – DAY
Grace visits Jack, seemingly by coincidence, and complains about Glen. Jack comforts her and, taking advantage of the moment, seduces her. He tells her she’s too young for Glen and deserves better. They kiss passionately.

5.EXT. LAWN BOWLS CLUB – DAY
Glen is playing bowls with his brother Dan, an aspiring businessman. Dan asks Glen to invest in his motel project, but Glen refuses to let him build it on his property. Frustrated, Dan insists that he’ll go ahead with the project, “even over Glen’s dead body.”

6.INT. LIBRARY – DAY
During a meeting with his readers, Glen is confronted by Sandra, his neighbor, who accuses him of being a “thief and trickster.” The tension escalates, and the meeting ends abruptly.

7.EXT. GORDONS’ YARD – DAY
Sandra arrives at Glen’s home, bringing an exotic plant for Grace. Her poodle, Daisy, whines from the backseat.

8.EXT. GORDONS’ PORCH – DAY
Grace sketches trees on her drawing pad, while Glen surveys the area with binoculars, searching for the armed man. Grace criticizes Glen for his broken promises. Suddenly, Glen spots someone in military attire running among the trees. He grabs a taser and rushes out.

9.INT. GLEN’S STUDY – DAY
Jack asks Glen to read his manuscript, but Glen, feeling envious, burns it. Enraged, Jack vows revenge.

10.EXT. GORDONS’ FENCE – DAY
Sandra discovers Basil’s lifeless body hanging from the fence and alerts Glen and Grace. Grace blames Glen for provoking the rifleman, while Glen suspects Jack. Glen takes a photo of the dead cat.

11.EXT. GORDONS’ YARD – DAY
Jack arrives, and Glen confronts him about Basil’s death. They fight, with Jack overpowering Glen and leaving.

12.INT. LIVING ROOM – DAY
Glen uncovers that the real Jack Hamilton died three years ago and that his current secretary’s identity is forged. Despite Grace defending Jack, Glen insists on bringing him to justice and asks Grace to draw a portrait of “Jack” from memory.
Act 2
13-14.INT. LIBRARY / WORKSHOP – DAY
Glen shows Jack’s portrait to various people, but no one recognizes him.

15.EXT. GLEN’S BACKYARD – NIGHT
A masked man sneaks toward the back door.

16.INT. HALLWAY – NIGHT
Grace unexpectedly switches on the light, scaring off the intruder.

17.INT. FITNESS CLUB – DAY
Determined to catch Jack, Glen starts martial-arts training.

18.INT. SHOOTING RANGE – DAY
Glen practices shooting and becomes highly skilled.

19.INT. SHOOTING RANGE BAR – DAY
Glen meets his friend, Captain John Bell, and shows him Jack’s portrait. John recognizes him from a gas station.

20.EXT. GAS STATION – DAY
The manager identifies Jack as “Roy Jackson,” a part-time employee who frequents the Trendy Restaurant.

21.EXT. SANDRA’S YARD – DAY
Sandra’s poodle Daisy is found dead, hanging from her fence. The police question her, and she accuses Glen of seeking revenge. Glen denies it and leaves.

22.EXT. STREET NEAR THE PARK – DAY
Glen and Grace observe the police arresting Jeff Walker, the “man with the rifle.” Grace believes Jeff is the animal killer.
23.EXT. STREET – DAY
A masked man reports to the police, falsely accusing Glen of killing Daisy, but the police dismiss the report.

24.INT. GLEN’S STUDY – DAY
Glen compares the photos of Basil and Daisy, noticing the same strangulation marks.

25.EXT. ZOO – DAY
A dead meerkat is discovered hanging from a bridge. A woman sees a man resembling Glen nearby.

26.INT. LIVING ROOM – DAY
The police suspect Glen of the animal killings and restrict him to Santa Barbara.

27.INT. POLICE ARCHIVE – DAY
Glen photographs the dead meerkat’s image from the police archives, noting similar strangulation patterns.

28.INT. THE TRENDY RESTAURANT – DAY
Jack meets a TV reporter, planning to expose Glen’s alleged “dark secrets.”

29.EXT. THE TRENDY RESTAURANT – DAY
Glen spots Jack leaving the restaurant and follows him home.

30.INT. GORDONS’ LIVING ROOM – DAY
Grace watches the TV interview where Jack accuses Glen of the animal killings. Glen’s files are used as evidence.

31.INT. JACK’S DEN – DAY
Glen finds Jack’s fake beard and a cord matching the previous findings, confirming Jack is framing him.

32.INT. GORDONS’ LIVING ROOM – DAY
The police arrest Glen, ignoring his explanation.
Act 3
33.INT. PSYCHIATRIC CLINIC – DAY
Glen meets Jeff and learns more about his situation.

34.INT. CLINIC – DAY
John Bell visits Glen and secretly gives him a toolkit to escape.

35.INT. GORDONS’ LIVING ROOM – DAY
Grace, who has been colluding with Jack, sells Glen’s property. She heads to the airport to meet Jack.

36.EXT. STREETS – NIGHT
Glen escapes from the clinic, pursued by the police.

37.EXT. GORDONS’ HOUSE – DAY
Glen learns that Grace left for the airport.

38.INT. AIRPORT – DAY
Jack waits for Grace, but Glen arrives instead. They fight in the underground garage, and Glen overpowers Jack just as the police arrive.

39.INT. LIBRARY – DAY
Glen triumphantly returns to the literary world, having hired a new secretary. Grace sends a letter from the Pacific, boasting about her new life, while Jack writes his memoirs in prison.
# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 13

William Whiteford – Misdirects…When Appropriate!

In this assignment, I explored the essence, types, role, and methods of misdirection in thriller story. Unlike clues, misdirection is used to divert the audience’s attention away from the truth, adding elements of surprise and excitement.
Within the context of our Thriller Map, we applied three existing types of misdirection: “the Reality” as a cover-up, the Villain’s Plan, and the Red Herring. I also learned about a fourth type, which involves the writer’s intentional use of misdirection: clue misdirection, character misdirection, and dialog misdirection. These concepts were illustrated with examples from “Chinatown.”

Updated Thriller Map with Added Misdirections
Act 1 (A1)
•Inciting Incident: A mysterious veteran, described as “a man with a rifle,” shoots a bird in the park.
•Clue 1: The sound of a gunshot in the park and the sight of a man with a rifle running through the bushes.
•Villain’s Plan 1: The villain, Jack H., orchestrates a series of animal killings to frame his boss, aiming to have him committed to a psychiatric clinic, so he can escape abroad with the hero’s wife, Grace.
•Life-Threatening Situation 1: The hero finds himself at risk of being shot during the park encounter.
o Mystery 1 (M1): Who is the shooter?
oMystery 2 (M2): Could the shooter be an escapee from a local psychiatric clinic?
•Twist 1 (T1): The villain hacks into the hero’s account and files.
•Turning Point 1: The hero’s wife’s cat is found dead.
oMystery 3 (M3): Is the mysterious veteran responsible, or is the secretary involved?
oLife-Threatening Situation 2: Is this a warning to the hero and his family?
•The hero burns Jack’s manuscript, leading to a physical confrontation where Jack assaults the hero and vanishes. Later, the hero discovers that Jack H. had died three months earlier.
•Twist 2 (T2): The villain forged his references and letter of recommendation.
•Dialog Misdirection: A secretary from the Literary Workshop informs the hero that Jack Hamilton, whom he hired last week, had actually died three months ago.
•Twist 3 (T3): The villain’s true identity is revealed as Roy J., not Jack H.
oMystery 4 (M4): Who is impersonating “Jack H.” and where is he now? How dangerous is he?
oMystery 5 (M5): Will the hero be able to uncover the villain’s identity and capture him?
Act 2 (A2)
•Clue 2: The hero has a heated argument with his neighbor, Sandra.
•Clue 3: Jack contacts the police.
•Character Misdirection: Grace, the hero’s wife, jumps to the conclusion that Jeff is the killer.
•Twist 4 (T4): The hero encounters unexpected challenges as he begins firearms training.
•Twist 5 (T5): Grace conspires with the villain.
•Twist 6 (T6): Grace betrays the hero multiple times.
•Twist 7 (T7): The hero’s brother, Dan, demands a building plot, complicating matters further.
oLife-Threatening Situation 3: The hero is attacked by a masked man during the night.
oMystery 6 (M6): Could the attacker be Dan, who recently had a property dispute with the hero?
•Clue 4: A man dressed like Glen is seen at the zoo.
•Twist 8 (T8): Evidence suggests that Dan might have attacked his brother at night.
•Clue 5: The same cord was used in all the strangling cases.
•Clue 6: The cord was purchased from three different shops.
•Twist 9 (T9): The hero’s friend, John, offers to assist him.
•Clue 7: John claims he saw Jack in a restaurant.
•Twist 10 (T10): The hero’s trust in others proves to be his downfall.
•Twist 11 (T11): The hero chases Jack with a gun but ends up trapped in an empty building.
•Midpoint: The hero pursues Jack once again, but Jack manages to escape.
•Clue 8: CCTV footage reveals someone resembling Jack.
•Misinterpreted Clue: Grace’s book turns out to be a travel guide, not a psychological handbook.
•Clue 9: A TV psychologist suggests that Glen is the killer.
oLife-Threatening Situation 4: The hero engages in a high-speed chase through the city, with both men armed and firing at each other.
•Turning Point 2: The hero is confined to a psychiatric clinic.
•Twist 12 (T12): The hero faces the threat of a long-term sentence and the potential loss of all his assets.
Act 3 (A3)
•Twist 13 (T13): While in the clinic, the hero fears for his life and is attacked by a veteran.
oLife-Threatening Situation 5: The hero faces the threat of electric shock treatment.
oLife-Threatening Situation 6: The veteran launches a violent attack on the hero.
oLife-Threatening Situation 7: The hero escapes from the clinic but is pursued by the police.
•Twist 14 (T14): At the airport, instead of reuniting with Grace, Jack encounters the fugitive hero.
Climax
•The hero confronts the villain in a final showdown and ultimately triumphs.
oLife-Threatening Situation 8: The hero faces off against the armed villain in a dark, confined space, alone.
Resolution
•The hero’s wife, Grace, flees abroad, while the hero hires a new secretary. Meanwhile, the villain begins writing his memoirs from prison. Will he succeed?
# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 12
William Whiteford – Give Great Clues!
In this assignment, I learned about the concept of a clue—an essential element in thrillers—its nature, types, functions, and how to create one effectively. A clue is anything that helps guide the audience toward solving a mystery, gradually revealing the truth. The writer’s job is to keep the audience engaged in piecing together these clues throughout the story.
It is important to distinguish between a clue and a revelation. A clue points toward future developments in the story, whereas a revelation is a dramatic moment when a truth is uncovered, which may lead to another clue or even solve a mystery. In other words, a revelation can be the factual solution to a mystery or a hint for understanding a past event.
Typically, clues are introduced when the hero (and the audience) is searching for answers. After presenting the mystery, the writer places either obvious or hidden clues that eventually lead to the final reveal. One key task for a writer is to create a trail of clues. To achieve this, we brainstorm possible clues that can lead from the end of the mystery to the final reveal. Then, we decide which clues are more effective: overt clues (obvious) or covert clues (hidden).
Overt clues include things like discussions about the mystery, confessions, evidence, accusations, and logical deductions. Covert clues are more subtle, like hints embedded in earlier events, actions implying something hidden, or details in the background that become significant later.
A good balance between these two types of clues is crucial for maintaining audience interest. The clues should neither confuse the audience nor make solving the mystery too easy.
Finally, ten clues from the film Chinatown were presented as examples.
Main Mysteries in My Story:
1. Who is behind the mysterious series of animal stranglings?
2. What is the true identity of the hero’s secretary?
3. Is the veteran, Jeff, a killer?
Misleading/genuine clues to Mystery A:
• A shot in the park.
• Jeff running through the park.
• The hero’s dispute with the neighbor, Sandra.
• The hero provoked Jeff.
• Jack reports to the police.
• A man, dressed similarly to the hero, is seen at the zoo.
• A TV psychologist blames the hero.
• The same cord was used in all cases.
• The cord was sold in three shops.
• CCTV footage shows the villain, Jack, buying the cord.
Clues to Mystery B:
• The hero’s wife sketches a portrait of Jack from memory.
• Jack attended a workshop.
• Glen never encountered Jack at the workshop.
• A famous writer never met Jack.
• Jack was a frequent visitor at Starbucks.
• An artificial beard was found in Jack’s hideout.
• The hero’s friend, John, saw Jack at a trendy restaurant.
Clues to Mystery C:
• Jeff escaped from a clinic.
• Jeff is armed and out of control.
• He attacked the hero.
• Even after his arrest, the stranglings continued.
Updated Thriller Map
Act 1 (A1):
• Inciting Incident: A mysterious veteran, described as “a man with a rifle,” shoots a bird in the park.
• Clue 1: The shot in the park; a man with a rifle running through the bushes.
• Villain’s Plan 1: The villain, Jack H., stages a series of animal killings to frame his boss, get him confined to a psychiatric clinic, and then escape abroad with Grace, the hero’s wife.
• Life-Threatening Situation 1: The hero is at risk of being shot during the park encounter.
o Mystery 1 (M1): Who is the shooter?
o Mystery 2 (M2): Is the shooter a fugitive from a local psychiatric clinic?
• Twist 1 (T1): The villain hacks the hero’s account and files.
• Turning Point 1: The hero’s wife’s cat is found dead.
o Mystery 3 (M3): Is the elusive veteran responsible, or is it the secretary?
o Life-Threatening Situation 2: Is this a warning to the hero and his family?
• The hero burns Jack’s manuscript. Jack assaults the hero and vanishes. Later, the hero discovers that Jack H. died three months ago.
• Twist 2 (T2): The villain forged his references and letter of recommendation.
• Twist 3 (T3): The villain’s real name is Roy J., not Jack H.
o Mystery 4 (M4): Who is using the identity of “Jack H.” and where is he now? How dangerous is he?
o Mystery 5 (M5): Will the hero be able to identify and capture the villain?
Act 2 (A2):
• Clue 2: The hero argues with his neighbor, Sandra.
• Clue 3: Jack reports to the police.
• Twist 4 (T4): New problems arise as the hero begins firearms training.
• Twist 5 (T5): The hero’s wife, Grace, conspires with the villain.
• Twist 6 (T6): Grace repeatedly betrays the hero.
• Twist 7 (T7): The hero’s brother, Dan, demands a building plot.
o Life-Threatening Situation 3: A masked man attacks the hero at night.
o Mystery 6 (M6): Is the attacker Dan, who recently had a property dispute with the hero?
o Clue 4: A man, dressed similarly to Glen, is spotted at the zoo.
• Twist 8 (T8): Dan may have attacked his brother at night.
• Clue 5: The same cord was used in all the strangling cases.
• Clue 6: The cord was sold in three shops.
• Twist 9 (T9): The hero’s friend, John, offers to help.
• Clue 7: John saw Jack in a restaurant.
• Twist 10 (T10): The hero’s trust in others backfires.
• Twist 11 (T11): The hero chases Jack with a gun but is trapped in an empty building.
• Midpoint: The hero pursues Jack again, but Jack escapes.
• Clue 8: CCTV footage shows someone who looks like Jack.
• Clue 9: A TV psychologist blames Glen for the killings.
o Life-Threatening Situation 4: A high-speed chase through the city, with both men armed and shooting at each other.
• Turning Point 2: The hero is confined to a psychiatric clinic.
• Twist 12 (T12): The hero faces a long-term sentence and the loss of his assets.
Act 3 (A3):
• Twist 13 (T13): In the clinic, the hero fears for his life and is attacked by a veteran.
o Life-Threatening Situation 5: The hero fears the possibility of electric shock treatment.
o Life-Threatening Situation 6: The veteran launches a violent attack on the hero.
o Life-Threatening Situation 7: The hero escapes the clinic, pursued by the police.
• Twist 14 (T14): At the airport, instead of meeting Grace, Jack encounters the fugitive hero.
Climax:
• The hero confronts the villain in a final showdown and triumphs.
o Life-Threatening Situation 8: The hero faces the armed villain alone in a dark, confined space.
Resolution:
• The hero’s wife, Grace, escapes abroad, while the hero hires a new secretary. Meanwhile, the villain begins writing his memoirs from prison. Will he succeed?
# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 11
William Whiteford – Dramatic Reveals

In this assignment, I explored the essence and role of dramatic reveals and how to effectively create them. Generally, reveals are the culmination of mysteries or the unveiling of a villain’s secret plan. They bring surprise and tension to the story. To construct a compelling reveal, it’s important to distinguish between exposition and the reveal itself. Exposition provides information about the story’s elements but lacks dramatic impact. Its main drawback is that it can halt the action and disengage the audience, often offering unnecessary details. In contrast, a reveal brings something previously hidden to light in a dramatic and engaging way.
A well-executed reveal generates an emotional experience and strengthens the emotional connection between the hero and the audience.
Steps to Creating a Reveal
A reveal is created in three main steps:
1. Concealment: Something important is hidden or covered up.
2. Building Suspense: A desire for discovery is created in the audience. This is achieved through mystery, intrigue, and suspense (MIS).
3. The Reveal: The hidden truth is dramatically exposed, often in a powerful and unexpected way.
In summary, two key elements are essential for a successful reveal:
• Creating anticipation for the reveal (through MIS)
• Delivering the reveal with a dramatic impact.
Working Backward to Create a Reveal
When constructing a reveal, it’s often effective to work backward. Start with the reveal itself (what will be exposed?), then determine how it will be concealed, and finally decide how to build the audience’s desire to uncover the truth (which elements of MIS will you employ?). To heighten the audience’s anticipation, it’s beneficial to incorporate multiple layers of MIS that deepen the intrigue. The reveal should be emotionally charged, and its presentation should be both dramatic and meaningful. Ideally, the hero uncovers the truth at the worst possible moment or in the most challenging way.
As an example, I analyzed 29 reveals from The Bourne Identity, focusing on the various MIS elements used to build them.
Important Reveals
1. Jack H. died three months ago.
A. The villain, Jack H., assumed a false identity.
B. He used forged documents.
C. The hero, Glen, had never met Jack in person before.
D. Glen discovers a hanged cat, and his accounts and files are hacked.
2. Jack is behind the mysterious animal killings.
A. Jack is the perpetrator.
B. He disguised himself as a veteran and writer (Glen), submitting false reports to the police and manipulating witnesses and interviews.
C. The series of animal killings was staged.
D. When Glen discovers the truth, the police detain him in a clinic.
3. The suspect veteran is innocent.
A. The veteran, “the man with a rifle,” did not kill the animals.
B. The villain, Jack, disguised as the veteran, shot the bird.
C. Who actually shot the bird?
D. The veteran is wrongfully arrested.
4. The hero’s wife betrayed him.
A. Glen’s wife, Grace, is unfaithful.
B. She pretends to support Glen but conspires with Jack in secret.
C. Grace meets with Jack behind Glen’s back.
D. This betrayal is revealed during a police interrogation.
5. Grace also betrays her lover, Jack.
A. Grace turns out to be a double agent.
B. She sets up a fake meeting.
C. Will Grace escape with Jack?
D. The truth is revealed at the airport, where Glen, not Grace, shows up to confront Jack.
6. The hero’s brother, Dan, reveals his violent tendencies.
A. Dan is the secret attacker.
B. He attacks at night, disguised in a balaclava.
C. A balaclava-clad figure lurks in Glen’s yard.
D. Glen unmasks Dan by pulling off the balaclava.
Reveals Integrated Into My Thriller Map
1. The real identity of “Jack” is revealed by Glen.
2. ,Glen uncovers: Jack is behind the mysterious animal killings.
3. Dan reveals his murderous impulse, further complicating Glen’s situation.
4. Glen exposes Dan – a night attacker.

# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 10
William Whiteford: Trust Relationships in Thrillers

In this assignment, I explored how trust plays a crucial role in thriller narratives and how to effectively incorporate it. Trust, in this context, refers to relationships between characters—some genuine, others fleeting, and some misleading or opposite to what they initially appear to be. The protagonist forms connections with other characters, but whether these individuals are trustworthy remains uncertain. Characters may shift from being trustworthy to untrustworthy, and exploiting these critical moments creates surprise, excitement, and tension in the thriller.

I examined how trust and distrust are portrayed in the relationships between characters in “Three Days of the Condor” and “North by Northwest”.

1. Main Characters:
Hero: Glen
Villain: Jack
Red Herring: Jeff
Trusted, but shouldn’t be: Jack
Not trusted, but should be: Flora
2. Basic States of the Characters:
Glen: Trustworthy
Jack: Initially trustworthy
Jeff: Untrustworthy
Flora: Trustworthy
B:

Jack seems trustworthy at first as he successfully plays the role of Glen’s fan, even presenting references and a letter of recommendation from renowned writers.
Flora, on the other hand, initially appears untrustworthy because she focuses on royalties upfront.
C:

Glen burns Jack’s manuscript.
Flora demonstrates her commitment to cooperating with Glen.
3. Trust-Distrust Dynamics
Glen/Jack

Trust: Jack convincingly plays Glen’s fan.
Trust: Glen hires Jack as his secretary.
Distrust: Glen burns Jack’s manuscript.
Distrust: Jack assaults Glen and escapes.
Distrust: Glen chases and eventually captures Jack.
Glen/Flora

Distrust: Flora demands royalties upfront.
Trust: Flora later shows her dedication to working with Glen.
Glen/Jeff (Red Herring)

Mistrust: Jeff, armed with a rifle, runs through the park.
Mistrust: Jeff might shoot a bird.
Trust: Jeff warns Glen about the electric treatment.
Mistrust: Jeff attacks Glen.
4. My New Thriller Map
Act 1

Inciting Incident: A mysterious veteran, described as “a man with a rifle,” shoots a bird in a park.
Villain’s Plan: Jack H. (the villain) stages a series of animal killings to frame his boss, Glen, have him confined to a psychiatric clinic, and then escape abroad with Glen’s wife, Grace.
Life-Threatening Situation 1: Glen is at risk of being shot during the park encounter.
Mystery 1: Who is the shooter?
Mystery 2: Is the shooter a fugitive from a local psychiatric clinic?
Trust: Jack successfully convinces Glen that he is a devoted fan.
Trust: Glen hires Jack as a secretary.
Twist 1: Jack hacks Glen’s accounts and files.
Turning Point 1: Glen’s wife’s cat is found dead.
Mystery 3: Is the veteran responsible for the cat’s death, or is it Jack?
Life-Threatening Situation 2: Is this a direct warning to Glen and his family?
Mistrust: Glen burns Jack’s manuscript. Jack attacks Glen and disappears. Glen later discovers that Jack H. died three months ago.
Mistrust/Twist 2: Jack forged his references and recommendation letter.
Twist 3: Jack’s real name is Roy J., not Jack H.
Mystery 4: Who is using the identity of Jack H., and where is he now?
Mystery 5: Will Glen be able to track down and capture the villain?
Act 2

Twist 4: As Glen begins firearms training, new consequences arise.
Twist 5: Glen’s wife, Grace, is revealed to be conspiring with Jack.
Twist 6: Grace betrays Glen multiple times.
Twist 7: Glen’s brother, Dan, demands a piece of property from Glen.
Life-Threatening Situation 3: A masked man attacks Glen at night.
Mystery 6: Is Dan behind the attack, given his recent property dispute with Glen?
Twist 8: A new side of Dan emerges, as he is likely the one who attacked his brother.
Twist 9: Glen’s friend, John, offers to help.
Twist 10: Glen’s misplaced trust in others backfires.
Twist 11: Glen chases Jack with a gun but ends up trapped in an empty building.
Midpoint: Glen pursues Jack again, but Jack escapes.
Life-Threatening Situation 4: A high-speed chase ensues through the city, with both men armed and shooting at each other.
Turning Point 2: Glen is confined to a psychiatric clinic.
Twist 12: Glen faces a long-term sentence and the potential loss of his assets.
Act 3

Trust: In the clinic, Jeff warns Glen about the electric shock treatment.
Mistrust/Twist 13: Glen fears for his life in the clinic and is attacked by a veteran.
Life-Threatening Situation 5: Glen dreads the electric shock treatment.
Life-Threatening Situation 6: The veteran violently attacks Glen.
Life-Threatening Situation 7: Glen escapes from the clinic, pursued by the police.
Twist 14: At the airport, instead of meeting Grace, Jack encounters Glen, who is now a fugitive.
Climax

Glen confronts Jack in a final showdown, ultimately triumphing.
Life-Threatening Situation 8: Glen faces Jack, armed and alone, in a dark, confined space.
Resolution

Glen’s wife, Grace, escapes abroad. Glen, now alone, hires a new secretary.
Mistrust: Flora demands royalties upfront.
Trust: Flora eventually demonstrates her commitment to the job.
Meanwhile, the villain, Jack, begins writing his memoirs from prison. Will he succeed?

# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 9
William Whiteford – Twists and Turns

In this assignment, I explored the definition, types, structure, and function of plot twists, as well as how to create them effectively. Plot twists surprise the audience, evoke emotional highs and lows, and make a story more unpredictable. Structurally, a twist is simple: an event or action moves in one direction and then abruptly shifts. There are 14 types of twists. When creating a twist, we can start either with the current direction of the plot or the twist itself and build the structure around it. Additionally, I studied 22 examples of twists in the thriller North by Northwest.

1. Locations of Plot Twists in My Script
Here are the 14 twists (labeled T1–T14) as they appear in chronological order:
•T1: Loss of Resources: The villain, Jack H., hacks into his boss’s account and files (Act 1).
•T2: A Lie Exposed: The villain forged his references and letter of recommendation (Act 1).
•T3: Secret Identity Revealed: The villain, hiding under the alias “Jack H.,” is actually Roy J. Jack H. died three months ago (Act 1).
•T4: New Consequences: After the villain attacks the writer, the writer begins firearms training (Act 2). Later, the police suspect and confine the hero (Act 2).
•T5: Changing Sides: The hero’s wife, Grace, conspires with the villain (Act 2).
•T6: Betrayal of Trust: Grace repeatedly betrays the writer (Acts 2 and 3) and later betrays the villain as well (Act 3).
•T7: New Problem Arises: The hero’s brother, Dan, demands a building plot (Act 2).
•T8: Unexpected Side of Someone: Dan attacks his brother at home during the night (Act 2).
•T9: New Options Unfold: The hero’s friend, John, offers to help (Act 2).
•T10: Mistake Comes Back to Haunt: The hero places too much trust in others (Act 2).
•T11: The “Solution” Backfires: The hero chases Jack with a gun, only to end up trapped in an empty building (Act 2).
•T12: Worst Possible Outcome: The hero is confined to a clinic, facing a long-term sentence and the loss of his assets (Act 2).
•T13: Increasing Danger: In the clinic, the hero fears for his life. A veteran later attacks him (Act 3).
•T14: Something planned for doesn’t happen (Plans Go Awry): The villain and Grace plan to escape abroad, but at the airport, the fugitive hero shows up instead of Grace.

4. Revised Thriller Map
Below is the updated structure of my Thriller Map, with key moments and twists:
Act 1 (A1):
•Inciting Incident: A mysterious veteran, described as “a man with a rifle,” shoots a bird in a park.
•Villain’s Plan 1: The villain, Jack H., stages a series of animal killings to frame his boss, get him confined to a psychiatric clinic, and then escape abroad with Grace, the hero’s wife.
•Life-Threatening Situation 1: The hero is at risk of being shot during the park encounter.
oMystery 1 (M1): Who is the shooter?
oMystery 2 (M2): Is the shooter a fugitive from a local psychiatric clinic?
•Twist 1 (T1): The villain hacks his boss’s account and files.
•Turning Point 1: The hero’s wife’s cat is found dead.
oMystery 3 (M3): Is the elusive veteran responsible, or is it the secretary?
oLife-Threatening Situation 2: Is this a warning to the hero and his family?
•The hero burns Jack’s manuscript. Jack assaults the hero and vanishes. Later, the hero discovers that Jack H. died three months ago.
•Twist 2 (T2): The villain forged his references and a letter of recommendation.
•Twist 3 (T3): The villain’s real name is Roy J., not Jack H.
oMystery 4 (M4): Who is using the identity of “Jack H.” and where is he now? How dangerous is he?
oMystery 5 (M5): Will the hero be able to identify and capture the villain?
Act 2 (A2):
•Twist 4 (T4): New consequences arise as the hero starts firearms training.
•Twist 5 (T5): The hero’s wife, Grace, conspires with the villain.
•Twist 6 (T6): Grace repeatedly betrays the hero.
•Twist 7 (T7): The hero’s brother, Dan, demands a building plot.
oLife-Threatening Situation 3: A masked man attacks the hero at night.
oMystery 6 (M6): Is the attacker Dan, who recently had a dispute over property with the hero?
•Twist 8 (T8): We see an unexpected side of Dan as he likely attacks his brother at night.
•Twist 9 (T9): The hero’s friend, John, offers his help.
•Twist 10 (T10): The hero’s trust in others backfires.
•Twist 11 (T11): The hero chases Jack with a gun but is trapped in an empty building.
•Midpoint: The hero pursues Jack again, but Jack escapes.
oLife-Threatening Situation 4: A high-speed chase through the city with both men armed and shooting at each other.
•Turning Point 2: The hero is confined to a psychiatric clinic.
•Twist 12 (T12): The hero faces a long-term sentence and loss of assets.
Act 3 (A3):
•Twist 13 (T13): In the clinic, the hero fears for his life and is attacked by a veteran.
oLife-Threatening Situation 5: The hero fears the possibility of electric shock treatment.
oLife-Threatening Situation 6: The veteran launches a violent attack on the hero.
oLife-Threatening Situation 7: The hero escapes the clinic, pursued by the police.
•Twist 14 (T14): At the airport, instead of meeting Grace, Jack encounters the fugitive hero.
Climax:
•The hero confronts the villain in a final showdown and triumphs.
oLife-Threatening Situation 8: The hero faces the armed villain alone in a dark, confined space.
Resolution:
•The hero’s wife, Grace, escapes abroad, while the hero hires a new secretary. Meanwhile, the villain begins writing his memoirs from prison. Will he succeed?

# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 8
William Whiteford – Thriller Plot!

In this assignment, I learned how to create a rough draft for a thriller plot outline. The process begins by selecting a movie structure, with the three-act structure being a popular choice. Next, the key elements of mystery, intrigue, and suspense (MIS) are arranged within seven key structural beats: the inciting incident, call to action, turning point 1, midpoint, turning point 2, climax, and resolution. This process was demonstrated using *The Bourne Identity* as an example.

1. List your structure using a format you are comfortable with.

Here is my three-act structure:

Inciting Incident: A mysterious veteran shoots a bird in a park.
Turning Point 1: The Hero’s wife’s cat is found dead, and his files are hacked.
Midpoint: The Hero, writer G., chases the Villain, his secretary, who manages to escape.
Turning Point 2: The Hero is confined to a psychiatric clinic.
Climax: The Hero confronts and defeats the Villain.
Resolution: The Hero hires a new female secretary, the Villain is imprisoned, and the Hero’s wife escapes abroad.

2. Insert life-threatening situations, mysteries, and the Villain’s plan into your structure.

Inciting Incident: A mysterious veteran, described as “a man with a rifle,” shoots a bird in a park.
Villain’s Plan 1: Staging a series of animal killings to frame the his boss, have him confined to a psychiatric clinic, and then flee abroad with the Hero’s wife.
Life-Threatening Situation 1: The Hero could be shot during the park encounter.
M1: Who is the shooter?
M2: Is the shooter a fugitive from a local psychiatric clinic?

Turning Point 1: The writer’s wife’s cat is found dead.
M3: Is the elusive veteran responsible?
Life-Threatening Situation 2: Is this a warning to the writer and his family?
II: The writer burns the secretary Jack’s manuscript. Jack assaults the writer and then vanishes. Later, the writer discovers that Jack H. died three months ago.
M4: Who is using the identity of “Jack H.” and where is he now?
M5: Will the Hero be able to identify, locate, and capture the villain? How?
Life-Threatening Situation 3: A masked man attacks the Hero at home during the night.
M6: Who is the attacker? Could it be the protagonist’s brother, Dan, who recently had a dispute with him over property?
Midpoint: The hero chases the secretary, but the latter escapes.
Life-Threatening Situation 4: A high-speed car chase through the city, with both men armed and aiming at each other.
Turning Point 2: The Hero confined to a psychiatric clinic.
Life-Threatening Situation 5: TheHero fears for his life, dreading the possibility of electric shock treatment.
Life-Threatening Situation 6: While in the clinic, the real veteran launches a violent attack on the Hero.
Life-Threatening Situation 7: The Hero escapes the clinic, pursued by the police.
Climax: The Hero confronts the villain in a final showdown and triumphs.
Life-Threatening Situation 8: The Hero faces the armed Villain alone, in a dark and confined space.

Resolution: The Hero’s wife escapes abroad, while he hires a new female secretary. Meanwhile, the villain begins writing his memoirs from prison. Will he find success?
# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 7

William Whiteford – The Life-Threatening Sequence

In this assignment, I learned how to create a Life-Threatening Sequence, one of the critical conventions in thriller writing. A movie or story thrills when the audience fears for the hero’s safety. Ideally, the hero should remain under constant threat from the inciting incident until the climax.
The most dramatic and effective way to build suspense is by placing the hero in a life-threatening situation. As the stakes rise, it keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. Therefore, writers must carefully consider what emotions their hero’s peril will evoke in the audience.
Additionally, there are two main sources of danger for the hero: the villain’s plan and the need for cover-ups. Often, one crime leads to another (e.g., killing a witness to prevent them from talking). When developing a story, it’s crucial to brainstorm different threats to the hero and select the ones that are most impactful and fitting for the plot.

1. What is the Villain’s plan, and how does it endanger the Hero?
The villain, Scribbler J., plans to frame the hero, writer G., for heinous crimes he has staged himself. His goal is to have G. committed to a psychiatric clinic. Afterward, Scribbler J. intends to flee the country with G.’s younger wife, whom he has manipulated and seduced into assisting with this plan. If the villain succeeds, the hero’s life will be destroyed, potentially resulting in a long-term prison sentence.

2. What other potential dangers could your Hero face while solving the mystery and confronting the Villain?
• A veteran may try to shoot the hero.
• The villain beats the hero at the beginning.
• The villain could physically attack the hero at any time.
• The villain could steal the hero’s literary work and money.
• The hero could lose his job, reputation, and property.
• The hero might face public humiliation.
• The hero could be injured or killed.
• The hero’s brother, Dan, may attack him in secret.
• A psychiatrist hired by the police or TV could request a medical evaluation of the hero.
• The veteran might attack the hero inside a psychiatric clinic.
• The hero may escape from the clinic at night.
• The police could chase the hero, now a fugitive, in a car as he pursues the villain.
• The hero could confront the armed villain in an underground airport garage.

3. From the list of potential dangers, which ones work best for this story?
The following dangers fit best for this particular story:
• While searching a park, the hero, writer G., hears gunshots.
• The veteran runs toward the hero and may shoot him.
• At the beginning of the story, the villain beats the hero.
• The hero’s brother, Dan, secretly attacks him at night.
• Following a TV interview, the hero is placed in a psychiatric clinic.
• The hero escapes from the clinic, and the police chase him.
• The hero pursues the villain to an underground airport garage, where they engage in a life-or-death battle.

4. Sequence these dangers in order:
• A veteran may shoot the hero.
While searching a park, writer G. hears gunshots, followed by rustling and footsteps.
• The villain beats the hero at the start.
After burning the villain’s manuscript, the hero faces a vengeful Scribbler J., leading to a confrontation and a fight in the yard.
• Frustrated by the hero’s decisions, Dan, his brother, attacks him secretly at night.
• Following a TV interview, the hero is sent to a psychiatric clinic.
After a police investigation and pressure from an Animal Rights campaign, the hero is sent to a psychiatric clinic for evaluation.
• The hero escapes from the clinic.
Inside the clinic, the hero confronts the veteran, hears disturbing cries, and escapes. The police give chase.
• The hero pursues the villain to an airport.
The hero tracks the villain to an underground airport garage, where they engage in a final, deadly confrontation.
# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 5
William Whiteford Mystery Sequence

In this assignment, I learned how to create a Mystery Sequence that drives the plot of a thriller. The key to this is starting with the Big Villain’s Secret, which leads to several Main Secrets. Each of these secrets forms a Mystery Chain, a series of mysterious events designed to conceal the Villain’s truth. Typically, every villain’s secret requires a cover-up, pulling the audience deeper into a web of intrigue and deception. This keeps them actively engaged, speculating about what’s happening, why it’s happening, and who is responsible. To heighten suspense, the Hero becomes drawn into solving the first Main Mystery, which propels the story forward.
1. What is the Big Secret the Villain is hiding?
Who is behind a series of brutal animal killings?
2. How many ways can the Villain cover up this secret? These become the mysteries.
There are at least seven ways the Villain can obscure the truth:
• Disguising himself as a fugitive war veteran and Hero, “G.,” a writer.
• Falsely reporting events to the police.
• Manipulating the Hero’s neighbor.
• Supplying corrupt eyewitnesses.
• Presenting falsified evidence.
• Orchestrating a manipulated TV interview.
• Expressing fake public outrage to throw suspicion off himself.

3. The First Mystery: How does it engage the Hero?
The Hero is drawn into the mystery when he begins tracking a war veteran who escaped from a clinic. The same clinic where Jack, the Hero’s secretary, once worked part-time.

4. Sequencing the Mysteries: How do they lead to each other?
Each mystery should seamlessly transition into the next, maintaining tension throughout the story. Here’s the sequence, along with a Red Herring to throw the audience off track:
• Who killed the Hero’s wife’s cat? Could it have been the veteran? (Red Herring)
• Is the Hero’s secretary, Jack, involved? (Red Herring)
• Did the Hero’s brother, Dan, commit the animal killings? (Red Herring)
• Will the Hero finally uncover and stop the true culprit, Rico—the Villain and animal killer?

5. Creating a Mystery Chain for Each Main Mystery:
1. Who killed the Hero’s wife’s cat? (Red Herrin)
• A TV news report mentions a shooting in a nearby park.
• The Hero spots someone with a rifle in the park, raising suspicion that this could be the cat’s killer.
2. Is secretary Jack involved? (Red Herring)
• Jack is revealed to have ties to both Dan (the Hero’s brother) and Rico (the Villain).
• After the Hero, “G.,” burns his manuscript, Jack swears revenge, making him look suspicious.
3. Did the Hero’s brother, Dan, kill the animals? (Red Herring)
• The Hero refuses to let Dan open a motel on his property, leading to a fierce sibling rivalry.
• Dan’s persistence suggests he’s willing to go to any length—even murder—to get what he wants.
4. Will the Hero discover and catch Rico, the true Villain?
• A series of mysterious animal killings terrorizes the local community.
• The Villain, Rico, uses false reports, planted evidence, and bribed eyewitnesses to mislead investigators.
• A manipulated TV interview shifts public attention away from Rico.
• Rico’s hidden alliances with the Hero’s secretary, Jack, and his brother, Dan, complicate matters.
• In a final twist, it’s revealed that Rico was conspiring with the Hero’s wife, Grace, all along. She betrays everyone and flees abroad alone.
# # #

[William Whiteford]

ASSIGNMENT 5
William Whiteford Villain Has a Great Plan!

What I learned is the composition and sequencing Villain’s Plan. Its necessary ingredients are goal, intrigue, and cover-ups. Hero’s destruction is here a by-product. We devise such a plan in a reverse order to engineering Villain’s plan, that is, the end goal first, then execution, and cover-ups.

1.What is the end goal?
The Villain, Scribbler J., wants to ruin the life of G., a famous middle-aged writer, by getting him confined to a psychiatric clinic. Then, J. plans to escape abroad with G.’s younger wife, who has been seduced and manipulated into helping execute this plan.

2.How can the Villain accomplish that in a devious way?

A.Hacking the Writer’s Secret Project:
J. gains access to G.’s private writing files and learns the details of G.’s latest thriller, which happens to involve animal cruelty.
B.Seducing the Wife:
Scribbler J. forges a deep relationship with G.’s wife, feeding her lies about her husband’s mental instability and encouraging her to leave him.
C.Staging Animal Killings:
J. stages several animal murders around the neighborhood, closely mimicking the violent acts described in G.’s thriller. He then plants evidence that links these acts to G.
D.Filing a Police Report:
J. goes to the police, posing as a concerned friend and neighbor. He reports G. for animal cruelty, offering fabricated “proof” from the hacked files.
E.Manipulating the Neighbor:
J. manipulates a neighbor of G.’s into corroborating his claims about G.’s strange behavior, furthering the case against him.
F.Orchestrating a TV Interview:
J. arranges a manipulative TV interview, where he pretends to be G.’s long-time trusted secretary. In this interview, he expresses his “shock” at G.’s behavior, subtly pushing the public to believe G. is mentally unstable and guilty of the crimes.
G.Mobilizing Animal Rights Activists:
J. tips off animal rights activists about G.’s supposed involvement in animal cruelty, creating public outrage and building pressure on the authorities to take action.
H.Forgery and Financial Manipulation:
J. forges documents to take ownership of G.’s house and assets, with the help of G.’s wife. He convinces her to sell everything and flee abroad with him.
3.How can they cover it up?

A.Gaining G.’s Trust:
J. pretends to be an eager fan of G.’s books, exploiting his admiration for G. to gain the writer’s trust and access to his personal life.
B.Mirroring the Book’s Themes:
The animal killings are staged to match the gruesome descriptions in G.’s thriller, making it appear as if G. were acting out his own fictional work.
C.Posing as the Writer’s Secretary:
J. creates a public persona as G.’s trusted secretary, playing the part of a knowledgeable and concerned employee, which helps him manipulate the public.
D.Feigning Shock in the TV Interview:
In the public TV interview, J. expresses shock and disgust over G.’s alleged actions. His emotional performance helps sell the narrative that G. is responsible for the crimes.

5.Sequence it to make it as intriguing as possible.
A.The Hack and Seduction:
Scribbler J. hacks G.’s files and applies for a job as his secretary, using forged letters of recommendation. Once hired, he begins seducing G.’s wife, eventually convincing her to sell the property and leave with him.
B.Burning the Manuscript:
When G. finds out about J.’s intentions, he burns J.’s manuscript in a fit of rage. J. vanishes temporarily but continues meeting G.’s wife secretly. Soon after, a series of animal killings shakes the community.
C.The Police Investigation:
With reports from J. and a manipulated neighbor, the police confine G. to his home, suspecting him of being mentally unstable and responsible for the animal killings.
D.The Villain’s Escape:
G., realizing what has happened, manages to track down his former secretary, but J. escapes before G. can expose him.
E.The TV Interview:
A manipulated TV interview further pushes the public and authorities to see G. as guilty, leading to a formal evaluation of his mental health.
F.Psychiatric Confinement:
Based on the overwhelming pressure from the public, police, and manipulated evidence, G. is committed to a psychiatric clinic. However, G. manages to escape, determined to clear his name.
G.Final Showdown:
G. confronts J. in a final showdown. In this moment, the full extent of J.’s plot is revealed.

# # # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 4/2
William Whiteford
SOTL: Stacking Suspense
Lessons Learned for Writing Stronger Thrillers:
•Character Development Through MIS: I learned the importance of building characters by interweaving mystery, intrigue, and suspense (MIS), which forms the backbone of a thriller.
•Sharpening MIS Awareness: It’s crucial to track MIS elements throughout the story and understand their criteria to maintain tension.
•Hero and Villain Uniqueness: Both the hero(ine) and villain(s) must be unique, with strong positive or destructive capabilities that define their roles in the story.
•Creating a Likeable Hero(ine): A well-rounded hero(ine) should display not only strength and perfection but also vulnerability and setbacks, making them relatable and engaging.
• Building a Thrilling World: Crafting a world filled with suspects, ominous locations, and symbolic elements enhances the suspense and keeps the audience engaged.
•Captivating the Audience: Keeping the audience captivated involves stacking MIS, maintaining a mesmerizing throughline, incorporating unexpected twists, escalating stakes, and depicting the rival’s scheming leading to conflict.
•Constructing a Thriller Plot: Understanding how to structure a compelling thriller plot is key to driving the narrative forward.
•Depicting Dramatic Events: Showcasing the hero(ine)’s dramatic life events and their perilous yet enriching journey adds depth to the story.
•Writing Concise Dialogues: Constructing concise, to-the-point dialogues helps maintain the pacing and keeps the story tight.
•Delivering a Cathartic Experience: Providing the audience with a cathartic experience is essential. The Silence of the Lambs includes also the extraordinary solution: there is the secret agreement between the villain Hannibal and FBI cadet Starling. Hannibal escapes and blends into the crowd, despite the law prevailing in the end.

• This reply was modified 8 months, 1 week ago by  William Whiteford.

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 4/1
William Whiteford
BI Stacking Suspense
In completing this assignment, I learned the following:
• Almost every scene in a thriller involves the application of genre-specific rules, such as Mystery, Intrigue, Suspense (MIS), character MIS, and, at times, the stakes.
• By balancing these elements and intensifying them toward the movie's climax, the audience is kept on the edge of their seats.
• The Big Mystery is typically not resolved until the final scene.
• Even then, a suspicious character often remains a potential villain, leading to an open ending.
• A suspect character, or "Red Herring," often plays a central role, weaving a complex web of relationships with other, sometimes equally suspicious, characters. Meanwhile, the true villain is usually a respectable figure who remains in the shadows.
• Thrillers often delve into the darker aspects of the human psyche, with characters sometimes acting out of control.
• The introduction of new information, reveals, twists, and increasing stakes keeps the audience engaged and enthralled.
# # # x

• This reply was modified 8 months, 1 week ago by  William Whiteford.

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 3: William Whiteford World and Characters
In this assignment, I learned the significance of conceptually outlining key script elements, including an intriguing world, the roles of characters, and their M.I.S. (Mystery, Intrigue, Suspense). This approach allows for a deeper exploration of these elements and enhances their overall effectiveness.
1. Concept and the Big M.I.S. of Your Story
Concept: A devious secretary conspires with his boss’s wife to frame the boss for animal cruelty. As the boss fights to clear his name, his wife betrays both men and flees the country.
• Big Mystery:
The central mystery revolves around Glen’s enigmatic secretary, Jack Hamilton, who attacks Glen and then disappears. The key question is: Who is Jack, and how can Glen find him? Additionally, can the 40-year-old Glen outsmart his 25-year-old adversary and bring him to justice?
• Big Intrigue:
Beneath the surface lies a hidden plot: Jack seduces Glen’s wife, Grace, and convinces her to flee abroad with him. To “neutralize” Glen, Jack frames him for a series of staged animal killings—a twisted idea stolen from Glen’s own thriller project—with the intent of getting the writer jailed.
• Big Suspense:
The primary danger Glen faces is the threat of being convicted for animal cruelty, which could land him in a psychiatric clinic or prison. However, when he escapes the clinic, a deadly showdown awaits him.
2. The Intriguing World of Your Story
The story is set in the following locations: a secluded, dense, overgrown park on the outskirts of the city; the secretary’s depressing den; the writer’s mysterious study in a basement; city streets; beaches; and an airport underground garage.
3. Character Roles and Analysis
• Glen (The Writer, Protagonist): Glen is the protagonist who chases and battles his devious secretary. After his wife flees abroad, he forms a connection with a female student.
• Jack (The Secretary, Antagonist): Jack is Glen’s opponent who devises an unprecedented scheme to frame Glen for animal cruelty. He also forges all the necessary documents to carry out his plan.
• Grace (Glen’s Wife, Deceiver): Grace is a false ally to Glen—she openly supports him but secretly conspires with Jack. She is a stake and pivotal character who ultimately betrays both men and escapes alone.
A. What is the Mystery of These Characters?
• Glen: Though he initially appears naïve and helpless, Glen regains his strength under pressure and ultimately defeats his antagonist.
• Jack: Jack is a man without a clear identity, a rejected writer who unconsciously seeks revenge on Glen and society.
• Grace: Grace secretly desires dark-skinned men. When the cunning and unscrupulous Jack enters her life, she seizes the opportunity to manipulate both Jack and Glen, ultimately achieving her goal of living on a Pacific island.
B. What is the Suspense of These Characters?
• Glen: Glen is the target of several attempts on his life by Jack. He tries to identify, locate, and capture Jack. After being manipulated during a TV interview, he faces imprisonment. Trapped in a psychiatric clinic, he escapes, only to be pursued by the police.
• Jack: Jack starts the story by burning down a publishing house. He then hacks Glen’s bank account and forges documents, all while fearing exposure. When Glen chases him with a gun in hand, Jack narrowly escapes.
• Grace: Grace plays a double role with Glen, who is at risk of discovering her betrayal at every turn.
C. What are the Intrigues of These Characters?
• Jack: Jack hacks, forges, and lies to achieve his goal. His main scheme is to imprison Glen for the staged animal killings, which also involves a manipulated TV interview.
• Grace: Grace’s plan is to support Glen while secretly conspiring with Jack, sell Glen’s property, and eventually escape abroad on her own.
# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 2
William Whiteford
Big M.I.S
.
What I Learned From This Assignment?

In this assignment, I learned about the premises and techniques necessary to write a compelling thriller. Adhering to thriller conventions and integrating the Big M.I.S. (Mystery, Intrigue, Suspense) framework, with its multiple layers, form the essential foundation for crafting a successful thriller. To maintain the essence of the thriller genre and avoid drifting into drama, it’s crucial to stack M.I.S. elements effectively.
I also learned valuable prompts for brainstorming these M.I.S. elements, illustrated with examples from successful thriller films as “exempla trahunt.”

My Logline:
A celebrated author chases his enigmatic secretary, who frames him for a heinous crime, only to uncover a web of betrayal spun by his alluring but treacherous wife.

1.What Are the Conventions of Your Story?

•Unwitting but Resourceful Hero:
My hero, Glen G., is in his 40s—a tough and determined former captain of the Merchant Navy with sharp analytical skills. However, he is somewhat naïve when it comes to his wife, Grace, who is 24.
•Dangerous Villain:
Jack Hamilton, alias Roy Jackson, 25, is Glen’s secretary. He embodies the archetype of a trickster, skilled in hacking and bomb-making, and is relentless in pursuing his own goals.
•High Stakes:
The stakes involve public safety and Glen’s life.
•Life and Death Situations:
There are multiple attempts on Glen’s life throughout the story, culminating in a climactic confrontation in an airport underground garage, where Glen faces a life-or-death struggle.
•Why This Story is Thrilling:
The thrill comes from the escalating duel between Glen and Jack, the unfolding mystery, and the intrigue of Glen’s investigation and efforts to defend himself, all while unraveling Jack’s devious plan.

2.What is the Big M.I.S. of Your Story?

•Big Mystery:
The main mystery revolves around Glen’s enigmatic secretary, Jack Hamilton, who assaults Glen and then vanishes. The central question is: Who is Jack, and how can Glen find him? Additionally, can the 40-year-old Glen outwit his 25-year-old opponent and bring him to justice?
•Big Intrigue:
Beneath the surface lies a covert plot: Jack seduces Glen’s wife, Grace, and persuades her to flee abroad with him. To “neutralize” Glen, Jack frames him for a series of staged animal killings—a twisted idea stolen from Glen’s own thriller project—with the intention of landing the writer in jail.
•Big Suspense:
The primary danger facing Glen is the threat of being convicted for animal cruelty, which could land him in a psychiatric clinic or prison. However, when he escapes the clinic, a deadly showdown awaits him.
# # #

[William Whiteford]

Assignment 1 Revision
Student: William Whiteford
Subject: The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo (2011) – Best Adapted Screenplay by Steven Zaillian, based on the book by Stieg Larsson (166 pages).
Genre: Thriller

What I Learned from this Assignment:
In completing this assignment, I gained insight into the core elements of the thriller genre, particularly from a writer’s perspective. A thriller’s primary function is to deliver a gripping, edge-of-your-seat experience by setting up a battle between the protagonist(s) and their adversary(ies). This is achieved through the use of mystery, intrigue, suspense, betrayal, tension, and unexpected twists. For a story to meet the genre’s conventions and satisfy audience expectations, it must incorporate these elements. The creation of the protagonist and antagonist is crucial: the protagonist must be resourceful and fully committed to their mission, while the antagonist should be menacing and truly evil.

Conventions of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo:
Unwitting but Resourceful Hero: Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig), co-owner of Millennium magazine, is an experienced journalist with a sharp investigative mind and advanced technological skills.

Dangerous Villain: Martin Vanger, Henrik’s nephew and the head of the Vanger Group of companies, initially poses as Mikael’s ally. However, in Sequence F, he reveals his true nature as a cruel, sadistic serial rapist and killer by trapping Mikael in a basement.

High Stakes: Mikael’s survival is in jeopardy when Martin traps him. Additionally, his reputation and quest to clear his name hang in the balance throughout the story.

Life and Death Situations: In the basement, Martin incapacitates Mikael with gas, places a noose around his neck, and interrogates him, prepared to kill him at any moment.

Why This Movie is Thrilling: The audience is intellectually engaged by the ongoing investigation—what happened to Harriet Vanger?—and emotionally invested as the tension escalates with each attempt on Mikael’s life. The unexpected revelation that Harriet is still alive provides a shocking twist in the third act.

Big Mystery, Intrigue, and Suspense of the Story:
Big Mystery: What happened to Harriet Vanger, who disappeared 40 years ago in 1966?

Big Intrigue: Martin Vanger, who appears to be a trustworthy ally to Mikael Blomkvist, is later revealed to be a ruthless serial killer and rapist. This revelation doesn’t occur until Sequence F (page 115 of the screenplay).

Big Suspense: After identifying Martin as the prime suspect, Mikael searches Martin’s empty house at night. Their unexpected confrontation in the yard escalates the tension, thrusting Mikael into a life-threatening situation.

What Made This Movie a Great Thriller:
The movie’s success as a thriller is rooted in its overwhelming aura of mystery, its surprising reveals, and its dramatic twists. The narrative tackles serious issues, such as serial killings and financial fraud, adding social relevance to the tension. Additionally, the character of Lisbeth Salander, Mikael’s assistant, is unique in her problem-solving methods—her shocking and deadly approach creates an unsettling atmosphere that heightens the story’s tension throughout.

[William Whiteford]

Subject Line: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo – Thriller Conventions

In this assignment, I explored the key elements the essence and conventions of the genre, including their definitions, functions, and major components. In addition – the screenwriting techniques associated with thrillers, such as betrayal, twists, anticipation, and surprise.

1. BIG MYSTERY: What happened to Harriet Vanger, who disappeared 40 years ago in 1966?

BIG INTRIGUE: Her brother, Martin Vanger, appears to be a good man and a trustworthy ally to the investigator Mikael Blomkvist. However, he is eventually revealed as a ruthless serial killer and rapist, but not until sequence F (page 115 of the screenplay).

BIG SUSPENSE: After identifying Martin as the prime suspect, Mikael searches Martin’s empty house at night, only to confront him unexpectedly in the yard. Suddenly, Mikael finds himself in a life-threatening situation – his hell starts.

2. Lisbeth Salander, Mikael’s assistant, is a unique character who solves problems in her own shocking, deadly way. She creates an unsettling atmosphere around her and heightens the tension throughout the story.

[William Whiteford]

William Whiteford

I agree to the terms of this release form.

[William Whiteford]

😎

[William Whiteford]

Hi everyone, my name – William, two scripts, mastering thriller secrets, and excel James Cameron, if possible at all.

[William Whiteford]

Hi, Cheryl,

Thanks for your invitation.

Regards,
William.