Starting a Story

Earlier this term, we got given a brief on a short film. In this brief, we have to plan the film, start the pre-production, production and analyse the outcome after.

To start, I made a list of ideas I had with the brief. (The brief is to the right.) Firstly, I thought about just having the scientist making the decision but that was most people's idea, and I wanted some individuality in my film. My second idea was where there were more characters involved, and they were trying to hunt down the scientist to make the right decision. However, while planning it, I realised the plot was too long and complicated for two-three minutes. Also, there was no 'right' decision as it's a matter of opinion, so I didn't like that some people wouldn't be on the same side as my characters.

Finally, I had the idea of simplicity. This was where the scientist makes a short film to explain to people his decision years after he's made it. I thought this could be powerful and effective, yet simple.
To the left is my MindMap, which I made to organise my ideas. This includes scenes, locations, structure, etc.

After, I realised I needed to start on a script, but before I wanted to get to know my character. I made a detailed profile on my character, including beliefs, backstory, etc. To the right, you can read it. This helped me put a real person behind the character, and so the script didn't seem too unnatural.

I used Celtx for writing the script, which made it so much easier. I've introduced Celtx to my blog before, and it helped a lot when writing my script.

Prior to writing the script, I also did research on cold fusion, and found a lot on how much our world would supposedly change. Mostly to the lack of jobs, cut connections with countries that businesses are based around oil production, and now I understand the consequences of cold fusion and this 'decision'.