Severance

Executive Summary

Pass/Consider/Recommend/Highly Recommend

Recommend

Explanation: The screenplay for 'Severance' is a well-crafted thriller that follows a group of corporate employees who become trapped in a remote, dangerous location and must fight for their survival against a group of psychotic, former-military antagonists. The screenplay features strong character development, intense action sequences, and thought-provoking themes around the ethics of the arms industry. While the pacing could be tightened in places and some narrative elements could be further developed, the overall screenplay is a compelling and engaging read that would make for a compelling film adaptation.

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Overview

Genres: Thriller, Action, Drama, Comedy, Satire, Dark, comedy, Adventure, Horror, Mystery, Survival

Setting: Present day, Urban city

Overview: The screenplay shows strong character development, engaging conflicts, and thematic depth. However, there are pacing issues and opportunities for deeper emotional resonance.

Themes: Survival, Ethics, Betrayal, Isolation, Mortality

Conflict and Stakes: John's struggle to clear his name after being falsely accused of a crime, with his career and reputation at stake

Overall Mood: Tense and suspenseful

Mood/Tone at Key Scenes:

  • Scene 5: Intense courtroom scene with high stakes and emotional tension
  • Scene 10: Quiet moment of reflection as John contemplates his next move

Standout Features:

  • Twist Ending: A shocking revelation in the final act that changes everything
  • Unique Setting : The urban cityscape adds a gritty and realistic backdrop to the story
  • Complex Characters : Each character has layers and depth that keep the audience engaged

Comparable Scripts:

  • Deliverance
  • The Game
  • Saw
  • The Cabin in the Woods
  • The Most Dangerous Game
Market Analysis

Budget Estimate:$10-15 million

Target Audience Demographics: Adults aged 25-54, fans of legal dramas and suspense thrillers

Marketability: Strong central conflict and relatable themes that appeal to a wide audience

Compelling characters and a gripping storyline with potential for critical acclaim

Timely social themes and a diverse cast that can attract a broad audience

Profit Potential: Moderate to high, with potential for strong box office performance and awards recognition

Scene Level Percentiles
Script Level Percentiles
Emotions Elicited Percentiles
Writer's Voice

Summary:The writer's voice is characterized by sarcastic and satirical humor, dark humor and irony, witty banter, naturalistic dialogue, and a focus on tension-building and suspense.

Best representation: Scene 34 - Escape from the Lodge. Scene 34 is the best representation of the author's voice because it showcases the writer's darkly comedic and sarcastic dialogue. The dialogue adds a humorous element to the tense situation and effectively builds tension.

Memorable Lines:

  • Maggie: There is a pack of psychotic war criminals fucked up on electro-shock treatment and medication right behind us, and very soon they will come through that door, rip off our heads, and shit down our necks. So if you have any more questions, maybe they can wait until we have GOT THE FUCK OUT OF HERE! NOW MOVE YOUR FAT FUCKING ASS OR I WILL KILL YOU MYSELF! (Scene 35)
  • Deer: Now get out of my forest. Fucking druggie. (Scene 10)
  • Steve: Bugger me sideways. (Scene 8)
  • Gareth: I forgive you... (Scene 30)
  • Steve: Got you, you fucker! (Scene 32)
Story Shape
Emotions Elicited