Manhattan murder mystery

Executive Summary

Pass/Consider/Recommend/Highly Recommend

Consider

Explanation: Manhattan Murder Mystery is a comedic screenplay with strong potential, offering Woody Allen's signature wit and a relatable portrayal of marital dynamics. However, the pacing, plot contrivances, and abrupt ending require attention. Further development of supporting characters and exploration of thematic depth would enhance the overall narrative.

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Overview

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Mystery, Romance, Thriller, Suspense, Crime, Film, Noir

Setting: Present day, New York City

Overview: The screenplay received a strong overall score of 8.0, reflecting its originality, well-crafted characters, and engaging plot. While there are areas for improvement, such as deepening emotional complexity and enhancing visual imagery, the screenplay shows promise and marketability.

Themes: Mortality, Ethics and Morality, Paranoia, Love and Relationships, Consequences, Humor in Tension

Conflict and Stakes: John's fight to prove his innocence and protect his career and reputation

Overall Mood: Tense and suspenseful

Mood/Tone at Key Scenes:

  • Scene 5: Intense courtroom scene with high stakes and emotional tension
  • Scene 10: Twist reveal scene that leaves the audience shocked and questioning everything

Standout Features:

  • Twist Ending: Unexpected revelation in the final act that changes everything
  • Unique Setting : New York City backdrop adds depth and authenticity to the story

Comparable Scripts:

  • Rear Window
  • The Big Chill
  • Knives Out
  • The Apartment
  • Psycho
Market Analysis

Budget Estimate:$15-20 million

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

Marketability: Strong lead character, engaging storyline, and relevant themes will attract viewers

Compelling mystery and suspense elements will keep audiences engaged

Potential for critical acclaim and awards due to strong performances and gripping narrative

Profit Potential: Moderate to high, depending on critical reception and word-of-mouth

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

Memorable Lines:

  • Larry: You promised to sit through the entire hockey game without being bored and I'll sit through the Wagner opera with you next week. (Scene 1)
  • Barton Keyes: Oh, not too much, I guess. Just twenty-six year experience... All the percentage there is, and this hunk of concrete in my stomach. (Scene 4)
  • Ted: I figured out how he killed her and made it look like a coronary. He gagged her and tied her to the treadmill, and then he turned the exercise program up to the Olympic levels. (Scene 7)
  • Helen's Voice: They have your wife's body. They showed it to me. (Scene 42)
  • TED: You'll do anything to catch a murderer, won't you? (Scene 47)
Story Shape
Emotions Elicited