Manhattan murder mystery
Executive Summary
Pass/Consider/Recommend/Highly Recommend
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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:
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
Emotions Elicited Percentiles
Robert McKee: "The audience doesn’t go to the movies to see plot; they go to feel emotion, to be moved."
This is a rough estimate of how the average intensity of emotions elicited in this script compare to all scripts in the Vault (all genres).
Higher isn't necessarily better. This is FYI.
This is a rough estimate of how the average intensity of emotions elicited in this script compare to all scripts in the Vault (all genres).
Higher isn't necessarily better. This is FYI.
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
Screenplay Rating:
Consider
Executive Summary
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.
Strengths
- Woody Allen's signature witty and humorous dialogue creates a consistently engaging and entertaining tone. high
- The dynamic between Larry and Carol is believable and relatable, with their marital quirks and banter providing both humor and depth. high
- The use of a hand-held camera or Steadycam creates a dynamic and immersive experience for the viewer. medium
- The escalating series of misunderstandings and escalating suspicions fuel the comedic aspects of the story effectively. medium ( Scene 5 Scene 11 Scene 29 )
- Marcia's character introduces a new dynamic and perspective to the story, offering insightful observations and driving the plot forward. medium ( Scene 37 Scene 39 )
Areas of Improvement
- The pacing of the screenplay could be improved, particularly in the middle section where the investigation seems to stall. high
- The plan to trap Paul relies heavily on coincidence and convenience, potentially straining the believability of the plot. high ( Scene 39 Scene 40 )
- The ending feels somewhat abrupt and convenient, with the resolution of the mystery happening quickly and without much explanation. medium
- While the main characters are well-developed, some supporting characters, like Ted and Marcia, could benefit from further exploration and depth. medium
- The screenplay's reliance on the "dead wife" trope and the comedic treatment of death may not resonate with all audiences. low
MissingElements
- The screenplay would benefit from a stronger exploration of the themes of aging, marriage, and the search for excitement in a routine life. high
- More background information on Paul and Lillian's relationship and motivations would provide a greater understanding of the central conflict. medium
- Exploring the emotional impact of the events on the characters, particularly Larry and Carol, would add depth and resonance to the story. medium
NotablePoints
- The screenplay's intertextual references to classic films like "Double Indemnity" and "The Lady from Shanghai" add a layer of complexity and intrigue. medium
- The screenplay's exploration of paranoia and suspicion within a seemingly ordinary setting creates a unique and unsettling atmosphere. medium
Screenplay Insights:
Characters: 7.5, The screenplay showcases a strong foundation in character development, with each character exhibiting distinct traits and motivations that drive the narrative forward. While some characters undergo significant transformations, others could benefit from further development to enhance the screenplay's emotional impact and audience connection. See More
Premise: 7.5, The screenplay's premise effectively establishes a compelling and clear narrative foundation, with intriguing character dynamics and a mysterious neighbor who raises suspicion. However, enhancing the premise's depth and originality could further strengthen the screenplay's overall intrigue. See More
Structure: 7.5, The screenplay demonstrates a solid foundation with its use of the classic three-act structure, clear plot progression, and compelling character arcs. However, there are areas where the pacing could be tightened and certain plot points could be further developed for enhanced narrative impact. See More
Theme: 8.25, The screenplay effectively explores the themes of friendship, loyalty, and the power of memories, showcasing how these elements can shape and challenge individuals in profound ways. The narrative deftly weaves personal stories and emotional conflicts into a cohesive exploration of these themes, creating a resonant and impactful story. See More
Visual Impact: 8.25, This screenplay presents a generally effective visual foundation for its mystery-thriller narrative. The opening scene at the hockey game establishes a relatable setting and introduces the characters in an engaging manner. However, as the story unfolds, there is a missed opportunity to fully exploit the visual potential of the investigation and suspenseful situations. See More
Emotional Impact: 7.75, The screenplay provides an engaging and emotionally resonant journey, effectively eliciting a range of emotions from the audience. However, it could benefit from further exploration of emotional complexity and the resolution of emotional themes to deepen its impact. See More
Conflict: 8.25, The screenplay effectively presents conflict and stakes to create narrative tension, engaging the audience in the mystery and personal journeys of the characters. However, there are opportunities to deepen the conflict and raise the stakes, particularly in the middle of the story, enhancing the overall impact and suspense. See More
Originality: 8.25, This screenplay stands out for its creative approach to storytelling, particularly in its exploration of the complex relationship between the protagonist and antagonist. The narrative's unique blend of mystery, suspense, and dark humor keeps the audience engaged throughout. See More
Premise: 7.5, The screenplay's premise effectively establishes a compelling and clear narrative foundation, with intriguing character dynamics and a mysterious neighbor who raises suspicion. However, enhancing the premise's depth and originality could further strengthen the screenplay's overall intrigue. See More
Structure: 7.5, The screenplay demonstrates a solid foundation with its use of the classic three-act structure, clear plot progression, and compelling character arcs. However, there are areas where the pacing could be tightened and certain plot points could be further developed for enhanced narrative impact. See More
Theme: 8.25, The screenplay effectively explores the themes of friendship, loyalty, and the power of memories, showcasing how these elements can shape and challenge individuals in profound ways. The narrative deftly weaves personal stories and emotional conflicts into a cohesive exploration of these themes, creating a resonant and impactful story. See More
Visual Impact: 8.25, This screenplay presents a generally effective visual foundation for its mystery-thriller narrative. The opening scene at the hockey game establishes a relatable setting and introduces the characters in an engaging manner. However, as the story unfolds, there is a missed opportunity to fully exploit the visual potential of the investigation and suspenseful situations. See More
Emotional Impact: 7.75, The screenplay provides an engaging and emotionally resonant journey, effectively eliciting a range of emotions from the audience. However, it could benefit from further exploration of emotional complexity and the resolution of emotional themes to deepen its impact. See More
Conflict: 8.25, The screenplay effectively presents conflict and stakes to create narrative tension, engaging the audience in the mystery and personal journeys of the characters. However, there are opportunities to deepen the conflict and raise the stakes, particularly in the middle of the story, enhancing the overall impact and suspense. See More
Originality: 8.25, This screenplay stands out for its creative approach to storytelling, particularly in its exploration of the complex relationship between the protagonist and antagonist. The narrative's unique blend of mystery, suspense, and dark humor keeps the audience engaged throughout. See More
Screenplay Story Analysis
Note: This is the overall critique. For scene by scene critique click here
Summaries
- Larry and Carol are a couple in their early fifties who become embroiled in a murder mystery. The scene opens with the couple at a hockey game, and then follows them as they return to their apartment building and ride the elevator with a friendly middle-aged couple.
- Larry and Carol return to their apartment with a friendly couple, Lilian and Paul, and are invited to their apartment for a drink. Carol wants to accept, but Larry doesn't. In Paul's apartment, Lilian shows Carol a book with diagrams of her treadmill while Paul shows Larry his stamp collection. Eventually, Larry insists on leaving.
- Larry and Carol socialize with their neighbors Paul and Lilian, revealing some personal information about themselves. Larry becomes increasingly annoyed with the conversation and eventually insists they leave.
- Larry and Carol watch a movie and chat with their neighbors about Ted's divorce and upcoming events.
- Larry and Carol return to their apartment building to encounter a gathering of neighbors, and discover that one of the friendly couple they'd just met earlier, Lilian, had died of a heart attack.
- Larry and Carol socialize with their neighbors at a restaurant where they speak about personal matters and Ted's recent divorce. They return home to find that one of the couples they met earlier, Lilian and Paul, had encountered tragedy.
- Larry and Carol observe their neighbors and discuss their personal lives. They return home to find that one of the couples they met earlier had encountered tragedy.
- Larry and Carol return home to find out Lilian, who they met earlier, had died of a heart attack. They go to a restaurant with their neighbors and talk about Ted's recent divorce. They then visit a yard and discuss opening a restaurant. Later, they bring a tray of food to Paul, who they also met earlier, to console him over his wife's death. Paul talks about wanting to leave the city to escape the memories.
- Larry and Carol return home to find out Lilian, who they met earlier, had died of a heart attack. They go to a restaurant with their neighbors and talk about Ted's recent divorce. They then visit a yard and discuss opening a restaurant. Later, they bring a tray of food to Paul, who they also met earlier, to console him over his wife's death. Paul talks about wanting to leave the city to escape the memories.
- After learning about their neighbor's suspicious behavior, Larry and Carol become paranoid and investigate further.
- Larry and Carol become increasingly paranoid and suspicious of their neighbor's behavior, leading them to investigate further.
- Carol steals a spare key from Jack's workshop and uses it to sneak into Paul's apartment. She searches through his belongings for information and discovers that the urn they found earlier is missing. She calls Ted to tell him and he warns her to leave immediately.
- Carol sneaks into Paul's apartment to look for evidence and discovers more about his suspicious behavior while Larry is at work.
- Larry and Marcia discuss her writing and her skills at poker, while Carol sneaks into Paul's apartment and discovers more about his suspicious behavior.
- Carol sneaks into Paul's apartment to uncover evidence of his suspicious behaviour while Larry is at work. She discovers more but makes a mistake by leaving her reading glasses behind. Later, she and Larry return to Paul's apartment with an excuse to search his place for the missing item.
- Carol sneaks into Paul's apartment and almost gets caught when he finds her reading glasses left behind. She covers up her actions with nervous lies, and later meets with Ted to do surveillance on Helen Moss' house.
- Ted and Carol conduct surveillance of Helen Moss, a suspected target. They both await her to exit her apartment building, and when she does, they follow her.
- Carol and Ted follow the suspected target, Helen Moss, to a movie house where she meets up with Paul. Paul shows Helen around the movie house and reveals his plans to sell it. Meanwhile, Carol and Ted hide behind the screen and overhear their conversation.
- Carol and Larry break into Paul's apartment in search of evidence and argue about their actions while doing surveillance on a suspected target.
- Larry and Carol break into Paul's apartment in search of evidence and argue about their actions while doing surveillance on a suspected target.
- Carol and Larry attend a wine tasting while Ted and Carol discuss their assignment. Larry introduces them to Marcia Fox and makes a wisecrack about wine-tasting.
- Carol and Ted have an awkward conversation before he leaves to meet another woman, while Carol stays behind at a lounge. Suddenly, Carol sees a woman on a bus who looks like Paul's deceased wife. She rushes to Larry's apartment and blurts out her discovery.
- Carol claims to have seen the deceased wife on a bus, causing tension and disbelief between her and Larry.
- Carol claims to have seen Paul's deceased wife on a bus, causing tension and disbelief between her and Larry.
- Carol claims to have seen Paul's deceased wife on a bus, causing tension and disbelief between her and Larry.
- Larry and Carol have an awkward conversation in a car parked outside a hotel. Carol misses their old adventurousness, while Larry is preoccupied with his marriage problems.
- Larry and Carol spot Mrs. Caine in a hotel lobby.
- Larry and Carol mistakenly visit Mrs. Caine's room to deliver a gift, only to find a dead body.
- Carol and Larry mistakenly visit Mrs. Caine's hotel room to deliver a gift but find a dead body instead which causes disbelief and confusion among them. They inform the police who cannot understand their conversation, and then they go to the hotel room where they identify the dead body.
- Larry and Carol mistakenly visit Mrs. Caine's hotel room to deliver a gift but find a dead body instead which causes disbelief and confusion among them. They inform the police who cannot understand their conversation, and then they go to the hotel room where they identify the dead body.
- Larry and Carol mistakenly visit Mrs. Caine's hotel room after finding a dead body. They pretend to be police officers to gain access but are unsure of what to do. In the hotel room, they investigate the murder scene and make jokes while waiting for the actual police to arrive.
- Larry and Carol investigate a murder and find themselves stuck in an elevator, where Larry's claustrophobia causes panic.
- Carol and Larry are stuck in an elevator with a dead body and Larry's claustrophobia causes panic. They eventually make it out of the elevator and find themselves in the hotel basement, where they hear strange noises and find a locked door.
- After discovering a dead body, Larry and Carol chase a suspect they see loading a corpse into a car. As they follow the unknown driver, they bicker and make jokes, with Larry's fear of driving and Carol's determination to solve the mystery at odds.
- After chasing the suspect's car, Larry and Carol witness the disposal of Mrs. House's body and realize that they are in too deep. They try to figure out their next steps and contemplate how to inform the police about their discovery.
- Larry and Carol discuss and try to solve the mystery of the dead body they found while stuck in an elevator. They flashback to the discovery and Larry puzzles over possible scenarios, while Carol questions the motives of the killer. Later, they meet with friends to discuss recent events.
- Larry, Carol, Ted, and Marcia discuss and theorize about the murder they witnessed, leading to Marcia presenting her theory of the perfect murder. They contemplate how to trap the killer and discuss his motives and connections with the other women in his life.
- Larry, Carol, Ted, and Marcia discuss how to bluff the murderer by producing a body that they claim to have found, leading to Marcia presenting her plan for the perfect murder.
- Larry, Carol, Ted, and Marcia plan a fake audition to trap the murderer, but Carol questions the validity of the plan and the group discusses other options, leading to Marcia presenting her theory of the perfect murder.
- Larry, Carol, Ted, and Marcia audition their prime suspect, Helen, and discuss their plan to trap the killer.
- Larry, Carol, Ted, Marcia, Sy, Marilyn, and Gladys work together on a plan to trap the murderer by faking a phone call from the victim, Helen. They test the validity of the plan by distorting Helen's voice with Sy's editing machine, and later go through with it.
- The group tries to trap the killer by faking a phone call from the victim, but their plan goes awry when they struggle to cue the correct audio. Despite their nervousness, they eventually succeed in getting the message across to the killer.
- Larry, Carol, Ted, Marcia, Sy, Marilyn, and Gladys work to trap the murderer via a fake phone call from the victim. The plan goes awry, but they eventually succeed.
- Larry and the gang attempt to trap the murderer by faking a phone call from the victim, but their plan goes awry. Paul, the killer, has Carol held hostage and demands a package from Larry in exchange for her release. Larry is forced to pretend he has the package, but when Paul demands to see Lillian's body, Larry realizes he has been caught in a lie.
- Paul captures Carol and demands Larry hand over a package, only to discover he's been lied to. Larry and Paul engage in a physical fight and Larry manages to escape, running into the movie house's backstage area. Paul follows him, gun in hand, and they traverse the backstage area, all while scenes from the film 'The Lady from Shanghai' play in the background. Gladys enters with a gun, pointing it at Paul and the scene ends on a tense standoff.
- Gladys confronts Paul while scenes from the movie play in the background. A shootout ensues and Paul is killed. Larry rescues Carol and they call the police.
- Paul demands a package from Larry in exchange for Carol's release, but Larry's lie is uncovered. A physical fight ensues and Paul is killed. Larry and Carol call the police.
CharacterInconsistencies
-
Character Paul House
Description Paul's overly cheerful demeanor immediately after his wife's death is inconsistent with grieving a spouse of 28 years. His focus on mundane matters like stamps and desserts seems out of place and potentially suspicious.
( Scene 5 Scene 6 ) -
Character Carol Lipton
Description Carol's obsession with investigating Mrs. House's death, to the point of breaking into Paul's apartment multiple times, seems unjustified and out of character, especially considering her initial friendly interaction with the Houses.
( Scene 9 Scene 12 Scene 19 )
StoryInconsistencies
-
Description The ease with which Carol steals the apartment key from Jack's workshop seems unrealistic and convenient for the plot.
( Scene 12 ) -
Description The seemingly random appearance of the woman resembling Mrs. House on the bus feels coincidental and lacks a strong narrative setup.
( Scene 22 )
PlotHoles
DialogueAuthenticity
-
Description The explicit conversation about sexual frequency between Larry and Carol feels slightly unnatural and forced, potentially serving more as exposition than genuine character interaction.
( Scene 4 )
Redundancies
-
Element Larry's insistence on watching the Bob Hope movie
( Scene 1 Scene 3 Scene 4 )
Suggestion While it adds humor, Larry's repeated mentions of the Bob Hope movie could be trimmed for better pacing. -
Element Carol's references to Ted's adventurous nature
( Scene 29 Scene 31 )
Suggestion The multiple instances of Carol wishing Ted were present could be reduced, as it becomes repetitive.
Characters in the screenplay, and their arcs:
| Character | Arc | Critique | Suggestions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carol | Carol's character arc in the screenplay revolves around her rediscovery of her adventurous spirit and her journey towards reconnecting with Larry. At the beginning of the movie, Carol is frustrated with their relationship and misses the excitement of their past. Her curiosity and determination lead her to investigate their neighbor's behavior, and she becomes increasingly obsessed with solving the mystery. However, this obsession also leads to rash decisions and puts her in danger. As she continues to investigate, she realizes that she misses the thrill of adventure and is excited by the prospect of solving a new mystery. This leads her to become more open to new experiences and to take charge of the situation. Through their shared experiences, Carol and Larry reconnect and rediscover the passion and excitement they once shared. | The character arc for Carol is well-developed and provides a strong backbone for the screenplay. However, it would have been beneficial to explore her motivations and background in more detail. While we see glimpses of her past and her longing for adventure, we don't fully understand why she is so driven to solve mysteries and what sparked this interest in the first place. Additionally, her character could have benefitted from a stronger internal conflict, such as a moral dilemma over breaking the law to uncover the truth. This would have added depth and complexity to her character. | To improve Carol's character arc, it would be useful to explore her motivations and backstory in more detail. Additionally, adding a moral conflict would make her character more dynamic and complex. Finally, it would be beneficial to show more of Carol's vulnerabilities and doubts, particularly in the face of danger, to make her more relatable and human. |
| Paul | Throughout the film, Paul's character arc is that of a man who begins as a seemingly harmless and grieving widower, but ultimately reveals himself to be a cold and calculating killer. As the story progresses, Paul's behavior becomes increasingly suspicious, and it becomes clear that he is hiding something. His true nature is revealed when he holds Carol captive and demands that Larry give him a package as part of his escape plan. Despite his confidence and cunning, Paul ultimately underestimates Larry and his accomplices, leading to his downfall. | While Paul is an effective antagonist, his character arc is somewhat predictable and lacks nuance. The reveal that he is the killer could be less telegraphed, and his motivations could benefit from further exploration. Additionally, his vulnerability and desperation could be better established throughout the film, rather than being revealed all at once. | To improve Paul's character arc, it may be useful to explore his history with his wife in more detail, highlighting the ways in which her death has affected him. Additionally, hints at his duplicity could be more subtle, perhaps through foreshadowing and the use of red herrings. Finally, his vulnerability and desperation could be more effectively conveyed by showing him in moments of weakness, rather than relying solely on his actions in the third act. |
| Sy | Sy's character arc begins with him being a reliable and necessary member of the team, using his technical expertise to help with the bluffing plan. As the stakes get higher and the case becomes more intense, he becomes more determined to catch the killer. Despite his doubts, he overcomes his nervousness to contribute to the success of the investigation. By the end of the movie, Sy has become more confident in his abilities and has proven himself to be an important part of the team. | The character arc for Sy is fairly conventional and predictable. While there is some growth in his confidence and ability to handle pressure, it would be more interesting to see him struggle with more internal conflict and difficult choices. Additionally, his background and motivations are not fully explored in the film, making him feel somewhat one-dimensional. | To improve Sy's character arc, the film could delve deeper into his personal history and the reasons for his self-doubt. This would create more emotional depth and give him more agency in the story. Additionally, it would be interesting to see him faced with more challenging decisions that force him to confront his own limitations and beliefs, adding more complexity to his character. |
| Marilyn | Throughout the movie, Marilyn begins as a reliable and helpful friend who is always there for Carol and Larry. As the story progresses, she becomes more assertive and engaged in the group's plan to catch the thief. She starts to express her own concerns about their emotional well-being and encourages them to be honest with each other. By the end of the movie, Marilyn has become a more independent and confident person who is not afraid to speak her mind and take action. | The character arc for Marilyn is well-rounded and believable. However, it could benefit from more development or backstory to explain her personality traits and motivations. Additionally, the arc could be more impactful if Marilyn faced more challenges or obstacles in her journey towards becoming more assertive. | One suggestion for improving Marilyn's character arc would be to include more scenes that reveal her personal life or relationships outside of the group. This would help to give her more depth and make her motivations more clear. Additionally, adding more conflict or tension to her journey would make it more engaging for the audience. |
| Ted | Throughout the movie, Ted grows more focused and driven as he becomes involved in investigations and starts to take them more seriously. He develops a clearer sense of goals and motivations, and becomes a more confident and experienced worker. However, he also continues to struggle with dating and commitment, and sometimes causes tension in his relationships. Ultimately, he becomes an important collaborator and supportive friend to the other characters, providing valuable insights and assistance to help them solve the mystery. | The character arc for Ted is somewhat inconsistent, with his growth and development being occasionally sidelined in favor of comic relief or more dramatic plot developments. Additionally, his struggles with dating and commitment could be more deeply explored, to give the character more nuance and depth. Finally, there is some confusion about his motivations and goals, and more clarity on this issue could make his character more compelling. | To improve the character arc for Ted, it might be helpful to give him a clear arc or throughline that more effectively ties together his various scenes and interactions with other characters. Additionally, exploring his backstory and motivations in more depth could help make him a more complex and interesting character. Finally, it might be helpful to give him more agency and proactivity, so that he feels less like a passive observer or sidekick in some scenes. |
| Marcia | Marcia starts off as a supportive and intelligent character who helps the group uncover the truth behind the murder mystery. She then becomes very goal-focused and ambitious, presenting her theory of the perfect murder and wanting to catch the murderer no matter what it takes. She then becomes a bit darker and more suspicious, being presented as a possible suspect. However, she continues to be resourceful and provides important ideas and information to the group. Finally, Marcia proves to be instrumental in solving the mystery and revealing the killer's identity. | The character arc is well done, but it could be improved by giving Marcia more internal conflict. She seems very confident throughout the film, and it would be interesting to see her struggle with her suspicions and ambition. It would also be helpful to give her more backstory to explain her motivations and darker side. | To improve the character arc, Marcia could struggle with her suspicions and ambition, possibly even becoming paranoid and causing conflict within the group. It would also be helpful to give her more backstory, such as explaining her history with poker and writing and how it influences her desire to solve the mystery. |
| Gladys | Gladys initially starts off as a minor character, only briefly seen on the phone with Paul. However, as the story progresses, she becomes more involved in the plot, eventually entering the scene with a gun. Initially worried about Paul's behavior, Gladys tries to engage him but is met with resistance. However, as the story unfolds and Gladys discovers Paul's true intentions, her anger and desire for revenge take over. She becomes a woman scorned, seeking payback for being dumped for a younger woman. Despite the danger posed by Paul, Gladys stands up to him, displaying her toughness and resilience. However, in the final climactic scene, Gladys's desire for revenge is tempered by her love and concern for others. She is able to save the day by stepping in to stop Paul, proving herself to be a hero. | The character arc for Gladys is well-executed, with a clear progression from a minor character to a hero. However, her desire for revenge could be better developed and explored. Additionally, her backstory and motivations could be more fully fleshed out to better explain her actions and behavior throughout the movie. | One way to improve Gladys's character arc would be to more fully explore her motivations and backstory. This could involve delving deeper into her past relationship with Paul and exploring how it has affected her. Additionally, her desire for revenge could be more fully developed, perhaps by showing how Paul's behavior has directly harmed her. Finally, her actions in the final scene could be better explained and motivated by showing how she has grown and changed throughout the course of the movie. |
| Theme | Theme Details | Themee Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Mortality | The sudden death of Lilian sets a tragic and morose tone throughout subsequent scenes. They discuss life, death, and love. | The theme of mortality explores the inevitability of death and how it affects the characters' perspectives and actions. |
| Ethics and Morality | Larry and Carol argue about the ethics of breaking into Paul's apartment. They engage in a conversation about the possible motives and identities of the killer. | The theme of ethics and morality explores the characters' sense of right and wrong and how it affects their decisions. |
| Paranoia | They eventually become paranoid about their neighbors. Carol breaks into Paul's apartment to uncover evidence of his wrongdoings. They conduct surveillance on Helen Moss. | The theme of paranoia explores the characters' fear of the unknown and their suspicion of others. |
| Love and Relationships | Larry and Carol discuss personal information, uncover secrets and tensions, and express disappointment in each other. A tense standoff turns into a shootout, resulting in Paul's death. Larry and Carol rescue each other. | The theme of love and relationships explores the characters' connections and how they change over the course of the story. |
| Consequences | Larry and Carol panick about how to handle the situation without physical proof. They plan to bluff the murderer into buying a body they found and use his lover to produce evidence. | The theme of consequences explores the characters' actions and how they lead to reactions and outcomes. |
| Humor in Tension | Larry and Carol bicker, joke to cope with tension, struggle with audio cues, and have moments of humor during a tense standoff. | The theme of humor in tension explores how humor can alleviate stress during tense situations. |
Screenwriting Resources on Themes
Articles
| Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Studio Binder | Movie Themes: Examples of Common Themes for Screenwriters |
| Coverfly | Improving your Screenplay's theme |
| John August | Writing from Theme |
YouTube Videos
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Story, Plot, Genre, Theme - Screenwriting Basics | Screenwriting basics - beginner video |
| What is theme | Discussion on ways to layer theme into a screenplay. |
| Thematic Mistakes You're Making in Your Script | Common Theme mistakes and Philosophical Conflicts |
What's going on here? - Scenes are rated on many critreia. The goal isn't to try to maximize every number; \
It's to make you aware of what's happening in your scenes. You might have very good reasons to have character development but not advance the story, or have a scene without conflict. Obviously if your dialogue is really bad, you should probably look into that.
| Story Content | Character Development | Scene Elements | Audience Engagement | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Click for Full Analysis | Tone | Overall | Concept | Plot | Characters | Character Changes | Conflict | High stakes | Story forward | Emotional Impact | Dialogue | ||
| 1 - Manhattan Murder Mystery | "Light-hearted and witty" | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 9 | ||
| 2 - The Invitation | "Light-hearted" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 7 | ||
| 3 - Stamp Collections and Dinner Plans | "Light-hearted" | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 8 | ||
| 4 - Date Night and Neighborhood Chats | "Light-hearted" | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 3 | 7 | ||
| 5 - Unexpected Tragedy | "Somber" | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 8 | 9 | 7 | ||
| 6 - Desserts and Dreams | "Light-hearted" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 9 | ||
| 7 - A Night of Conversation and Tragedy | "Humorous, with a tinge of sadness" | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 9 | ||
| 8 - Tragedy at Every Turn | "somber" | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 9 | 7 | ||
| 9 - Discovering Paul's Secret | "Serious" | 7 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 7 | ||
| 10 - Late Night Tension | "Suspenseful" | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | ||
| 11 - Paranoia and Suspicion | "suspenseful" | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | ||
| 12 - Investigating Paul | "Suspenseful" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | ||
| 13 - Carol's Investigation | "Suspenseful" | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | ||
| 14 - Poker Lessons and Paranoia | "Nervous" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 10 | ||
| 15 - Undercover Investigation | "Tense" | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | ||
| 16 - The Glasses | "Tense" | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 7 | ||
| 17 - Stakeout | "suspenseful" | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 6 | ||
| 18 - Behind the Screen | "Tense" | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 7 | ||
| 19 - Carol and Larry Break into Paul's Apartment | "Tense" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | ||
| 20 - Larry and Carol Break into Paul's Apartment | "Tense" | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | ||
| 21 - Surveillance and Wine Tasting | "Tense" | 7 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 8 | ||
| 22 - Carol's Discovery | "somber" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | ||
| 23 - The Bus Sighting | "tense" | 7 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 4 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 8 | ||
| 24 - The Bus Sighting | "Tense" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | ||
| 25 - The Search for Paul's Wife | "Tense" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | ||
| 26 - Larry and Carol's Awkward Car Conversation | "Tense" | 7 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 5 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 9 | ||
| 27 - The Hotel Lobby | "tense" | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 5 | 7 | ||
| 28 - Mrs. Caine's Room | "Tense" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 7 | ||
| 29 - Carol and Larry Identify a Dead Body in Hotel Room | "Tense" | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | ||
| 30 - Dead Body Find | "Uneasy" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | ||
| 31 - Misguided Investigation | "tense, comedic" | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 9 | ||
| 32 - Stuck in the Elevator | "Suspenseful" | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | ||
| 33 - Elevator Panic | "Tense and comedic" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | ||
| 34 - Chasing the Suspect | "Tense and humorous" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 5 | 9 | ||
| 35 - Discovering the Corpse | "Suspenseful, Dramatic" | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 6 | ||
| 36 - Puzzle-solving and Late Night Dinners | "tense" | 6 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 4 | 6 | ||
| 37 - The Perfect Murder Theory | "Light-hearted" | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 2 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 4 | 9 | ||
| 38 - Bluffing About a Dead Body | "Humorous and Tense" | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | ||
| 39 - The Perfect Murder Plan | "Suspenseful" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | ||
| 40 - Auditioning the Suspects | "Serious" | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 8 | ||
| 41 - Helen's Voice | "suspenseful" | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 7 | ||
| 42 - The Phone Call | "Tense" | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | ||
| 43 - The Failed Phone Call Trap | "tense" | 8.5 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | ||
| 44 - Trapping the Killer | "tense" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 3 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | ||
| 45 - Backstage Showdown | "Suspenseful" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 7 | ||
| 46 - Confrontation on the Backstage | "Tense" | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 7 | ||
| 47 - The Final Showdown | "Tense and dramatic with moments of humor" | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 9 | ||
Summary of Scene Level Analysis
Here are some things that came out of the scene level analysis.
This is a summary of the strengths, weaknesses, and suggestions found in each scene. Some things might appear in both strengths and weaknesses based on the variety of your scenes.
For summary of each criteria click in the top row on the criteria.
Scene Strengths
- The witty dialogue and humorous exchanges between characters establish a lighthearted tone that draws the viewer in from the start. The setting is also well-established through the use of New York City landmarks and locations.
- Good character development and dialogue.
- The scene effectively creates an emotional impact and sets up the mystery element of the story.
- The dialogue is witty and engaging and captures natural human interactions.
- The tense atmosphere and suspenseful situation are well-established, with the characters risking a lot to uncover the truth.
Scene Weaknesses
- The scene lacks a clear sense of direction and overall plot purpose.
- The plot feels somewhat aimless and doesn't have a clear objective or throughline.
- The scene could benefit from more conflict and higher stakes to make it more engaging. Some of the dialogue feels repetitive and meandering.
- Some of the dialogue and actions of the characters may come across as unrealistic or exaggerated at times. The scene may also be too slow-paced for some viewers.
- Lack of action or significant plot developments in the scene, with the focus being on discussion and theory instead of action.
Suggestions
- Focus on creating a stronger throughline for the plot to give more direction to the scenes.
- Increase the stakes in the scenes to create more tension and conflict.
- Edit the dialogue to be more concise and impactful, avoiding any unnecessary repetitiveness.
- Ensure that the actions and dialogue of the characters feel authentic and grounded in reality to avoid coming across as unrealistic.
- Look for opportunities to incorporate more action and physical stakes into scenes to keep the audience engaged.
Top Correlations and patterns found in the scenes:
| Pattern | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Tone and Emotional Impact | There is a strong correlation between the tone of the screenplay and its emotional impact on readers. Light-hearted screenplays tend to have a lower emotional impact, while somber and suspenseful screenplays tend to have a higher emotional impact. |
| Plot and Conflict | Screenplays with higher conflict ratings tend to have more complex and engaging plots. |
| Dialogue and Characters | Screenplays with strong dialogue tend to have well-developed and memorable characters. |
| Character Changes and Emotional Impact | Screenplays with significant character changes tend to have a higher emotional impact on readers. |
| High Stakes and Move Story Forward | Screenplays with higher stakes tend to have a more fast-paced and engaging story that moves forward quickly. |
| Concept and Tone | Screenplays with unique or innovative concepts tend to have a distinct and memorable tone that sets them apart from more traditional screenplays. |
Here are different Tropes found in the screenplay
| Trope | Trope Details | Trope Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Meet Cute | Larry and Carol establish the setting and characters while attending a hockey game and riding an elevator with a friendly couple who invite them for a drink. | Meet Cute is a cliche scene in which two characters meet for the first time in a romantic or comedic way. It's a trope commonly used in romantic comedies and sitcoms. An example of this is in the movie When Harry Met Sally when Harry and Sally meet for the first time on a road trip to New York City and argue about the condiments on a sandwich. |
| Bury Your Gays | Lilian's sudden death sets a tragic and morose tone throughout the subsequent scenes. | Bury Your Gays is a trope that refers to the tendency of television shows and movies to kill off LGBTQ characters more frequently than non-LGBTQ characters. This trope was often used in the past as a way of punishing queer characters for their sexuality. A famous example of this is the death of Tara in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. |
| Stakeout | Carol and Ted conduct a stakeout on Helen Moss' house. | Stakeout is a common trope in movies and TV shows that involves characters watching and waiting for a suspect or target. It's often used in crime dramas or detective stories. An example of this is the movie Beverly Hills Cop when Axel Foley conducts a stakeout on the suspects of a robbery. |
| Breaking and Entering | Carol breaks into Paul's apartment and almost gets caught. | Breaking and Entering is a trope commonly used in crime dramas and spy thrillers. It involves a character forcibly entering a building or residence without permission. An example of this is the movie Ocean's Eleven when the crew breaks into the Bellagio vault. |
| Mistaken Identity | Carol sees a woman who looks like Paul's deceased wife on a passing bus and shares her discovery with Larry, who is skeptical. | Mistaken Identity is a plot device used in movies and TV shows in which characters are mistaken for someone else or someone is thought to be someone they are not. An example of this is in the movie The Parent Trap when Hallie and Annie, who are identical twins, switch places to reunite their parents. |
| Deadly Game | Larry and friends attempt to trap the killer using a fake phone call and are forced into a tense standoff with Paul, who holds Carol hostage and demands a package in exchange for her freedom. | Deadly Game is a trope in which characters compete against each other in a dangerous and potentially lethal contest. It's often used in action movies, thrillers, and horror films. An example of this is the movie The Hunger Games when the tributes are forced to fight to the death in an arena. |
| Hostage Situation | Larry and friends attempt to trap the killer using a fake phone call and are forced into a tense standoff with Paul, who holds Carol hostage and demands a package in exchange for her freedom. | Hostage Situation is a trope in which a character is held captive by another character as leverage to gain something. It's often used in action movies and thrillers. An example of this is the movie Die Hard when Hans Gruber holds hostages to gain access to the vault. |
| Shootout | Gladys confronts Paul with a gun, as scenes from 'The Lady from Shanghai' play in the background. A tense standoff turns into a shootout, resulting in Paul's death. | Shootout is a common trope in movies and TV shows in which characters engage in a gunfight, often resulting in a character's death. It's often used in action movies and crime dramas. An example of this is the movie Heat when the police confront the robbers in a shootout on the streets of Los Angeles. |
Memorable lines in the script:
| Scene Number | Line |
|---|---|
| 1 | 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. |
| 4 | 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. |
| 7 | 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. |
| 42 | Helen's Voice: They have your wife's body. They showed it to me. |
| 47 | TED: You'll do anything to catch a murderer, won't you? |
Some Loglines to consider:
| A couple gets caught up in a murder mystery with their neighbors and end up in the middle of a hostage situation. |
| Larry and Carol try to trap a killer with a fake audition, but their plan backfires causing a shootout with the police. |
| A middle-aged couple becomes amateur detectives when they find a dead body in a hotel room and get caught up in a dangerous murder mystery. |
| Larry and Carol uncover a web of suspicious behavior in their community and must stop a killer before they become the next victim. |
| A murderous plot unfolds in a close-knit community putting Larry and Carol in the center of a dangerous web of deceit and betrayal. |
Help & FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Start with the executive summary to get a bird's eye view.
After that, the high-level menu will offer insights into the story, themes, and characters.
The scene-by-scene analysis will demonstrate how each scene performs across various criteria, summarized in the column headings.
Click on any scene title to view the full analysis, including critiques and suggestions for improvement.
'Other Analyses' provides various insights into your writing and different perspectives, although it might not lead to significant rewrites of your script.
After that, the high-level menu will offer insights into the story, themes, and characters.
The scene-by-scene analysis will demonstrate how each scene performs across various criteria, summarized in the column headings.
Click on any scene title to view the full analysis, including critiques and suggestions for improvement.
'Other Analyses' provides various insights into your writing and different perspectives, although it might not lead to significant rewrites of your script.
Click on the Print Analysis link in the left menu. You can then print to PDF or save it as PDF.
Click the Scene Analysis link on the left menu. Next to each scene title you can click "improve". In the improve page you can select any scene from your script to work on.
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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.