Merch
Executive Summary
Screenplay Video
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Promo
USP: This script stands out from others in its genre through its unique voice, which is characterized by concise and impactful dialogue, minimalistic narrative description, and a focus on tension and suspense. The writer's voice creates a sense of urgency, danger, and moral ambiguity, exploring themes of personal agency and the consequences of one's actions. The script's authentic and realistic dialogue adds depth to the characters and enhances the suspense and atmosphere. The writer's voice effectively conveys the internal struggles and conflicts faced by the characters, as well as the dark and dangerous world they inhabit. The best scene that encapsulates the writer's unique voice is Scene 4, which effectively conveys the protagonist's internal struggle and moral dilemma.
Overview
Genres: Thriller, Crime, Drama, Action, Mystery
Setting: Contemporary, Various locations including a parking lot, rooftop, desert, gas station, and airport
Overview: The screenplay receives an overall score of 7.78, reflecting its strong potential and engaging narrative. Its strengths lie in character development, suspenseful plot, and exploration of relevant themes. However, there are opportunities to enhance emotional depth, plot complexity, and resolution satisfaction.
Themes: Kidnapping and Human Trafficking, Guilt and Redemption, Betrayal and Deception, Family and Parental Love, Corruption and Crime, Desperation and Survival, Justice and Law Enforcement, Identity and Self-discovery
Conflict and Stakes: The primary conflicts in this story include Glenn's struggle to navigate the dangerous criminal world he stumbled upon, Sarah's fight for survival and escape from her kidnappers, and the FBI's investigation into the criminal activities. The stakes are high as lives are at risk, and the truth must be uncovered to bring justice and protect innocent victims.
Overall Mood: Suspenseful and tense
Mood/Tone at Key Scenes:
- Scene 1: The mood in this scene is mysterious and suspenseful as Glenn discovers the car with $10k and the kidnapped girl.
Standout Features:
- Suspenseful Plot: The screenplay offers a suspenseful and gripping plot that keeps the audience engaged.
- Strong Characters : The screenplay features well-developed and compelling characters that drive the story.
- Twists and Turns : The screenplay includes unexpected plot twists and turns that keep the audience guessing.
Comparable Scripts:
Market Analysis
Budget Estimate:$10-15 million
Target Audience Demographics: Adults aged 25-54, fans of suspenseful thrillers and crime dramas
Marketability: The screenplay offers a gripping and suspenseful storyline with compelling characters and explores relevant social themes. It has the potential to attract a wide audience and generate buzz.
The unique blend of genres and exploration of compelling themes with a diverse cast make this screenplay stand out in the market.
The screenplay's compelling characters and gripping storyline, along with its exploration of relevant social themes, make it marketable to a wide adult audience.
Profit Potential: High, due to the strong appeal to a wide adult audience and potential for award nominations in the thriller and crime genres.
Scene Level Percentiles
Emotions Elicited Percentiles
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
Summary:The writer's voice is characterized by concise and impactful dialogue, minimalistic narrative description, and a focus on tension and suspense. The dialogue is realistic and gritty, with occasional touches of dark humor. The narrative description is concise and effective in setting the atmosphere and conveying the characters' emotions. The writer's voice contributes to the script by creating a sense of tension, urgency, and danger. It explores themes of moral ambiguity, personal agency, and the consequences of one's actions. The writer's voice adds depth to the screenplay by effectively conveying the internal struggles and conflicts faced by the characters, as well as the dark and dangerous world they inhabit.
Best representation: Scene 4 - Trapped in the Trunk. This scene could serve as the encapsulation of the writer's unique voice in the screenplay because it effectively conveys the internal and external conflicts faced by the protagonist, as well as the dark and dangerous world they inhabit.
Memorable Lines:
- Hector: You are mine, ok. You belong to me you little cunt. I can end you whenever I want. (Scene 9)
- Aaron: I'll fuck your ass! You are a dead man, you understand, you are fucking DEAD! (Scene 13)
- Sarah: Yeahhhh, fuck you!!! (Scene 23)
- Sarah: I won't be a victim anymore! (Scene 45)
- Mike: I'm not leaving her alone. (Scene 35)
Writing Style:
The overall writing style of the screenplay is characterized by a focus on creating tension, suspense, and mystery. The scenes often feature concise and impactful dialogue, as well as a dark and atmospheric tone. There is an emphasis on building suspense through the use of unexpected twists and turns, as well as exploring moral dilemmas and complex character motivations.
Style Similarities:
- Christopher Nolan
- Quentin Tarantino
Story Shape
Emotions Elicited
Consider
Executive Summary
The screenplay for 'Merch' presents a powerful and suspenseful exploration of human trafficking, with a strong premise, compelling character arcs, and a thought-provoking social message. While the pacing could be tightened and some character motivations further developed, the script effectively interweaves multiple storylines and delivers moments of both darkness and hope. With some refinements, 'Merch' has the potential to be a captivating and impactful film that raises awareness about a critical issue.
- The script establishes a strong and gripping premise from the beginning, with Glenn's discovery of the body in the trunk immediately hooking the reader. The suspense and tension are maintained effectively throughout, keeping the audience engaged. high ( Scene 1 Scene 4 Scene 7 )
- The script explores the dark and disturbing theme of human trafficking with unflinching realism, raising awareness about a critical social issue and prompting viewers to reflect on its complexities. high ( Scene 1 Scene 6 Scene 18 )
- Glenn's character arc is particularly well-developed. His transformation from an ordinary man caught in a desperate situation to someone willing to take a stand against the traffickers is both believable and emotionally resonant. high ( Scene 1 Scene 18 )
- The script effectively interweaves multiple storylines, creating a complex and layered narrative that keeps the audience guessing and invested in the fates of various characters. medium ( Scene 1 Scene 7 Scene 20 Scene 41 )
- The script includes subtle but impactful moments of hope and human connection, such as Selena's compassion for Jimmy and Sarah's determination to survive, offering a glimmer of light amidst the darkness. medium ( Scene 33 Scene 41 )
- The pacing of the script could be tightened in certain sections, particularly during some of the dialogue-heavy scenes, to maintain a sense of urgency and momentum. medium
- The motivations and backstories of some characters, such as Robby and the FBI agents, could be further explored to provide more depth and context to their actions. medium ( Scene 2 Scene 7 )
- The violence, while realistic, could be toned down in certain scenes, particularly those involving Enola, to avoid gratuitous depictions and maintain a focus on the emotional impact. low ( Scene 9 )
- The dialogue in some scenes could be more natural and less expository, allowing the characters to reveal their thoughts and emotions through actions and subtle interactions. low ( Scene 33 Scene 37 )
- The resolution of the FBI storyline feels somewhat abrupt and could benefit from a more conclusive and satisfying ending. low ( Scene 35 )
- The script could benefit from a stronger emotional connection between Sarah and Glenn. While their shared predicament creates a bond, exploring their individual backstories and developing their relationship further could enhance the emotional impact of the story. medium
- The script could explore the psychological impact of human trafficking on the victims, delving deeper into their trauma, resilience, and the long-term consequences of their experiences. medium
- The script could offer a more nuanced perspective on the motivations and methods of the traffickers, exploring the economic, social, and cultural factors that contribute to the human trafficking industry. low
- Sean's character, while villainous, is intriguing due to his complex personality and philosophical musings on the nature of "merch" and human commodification. medium ( Scene 6 Scene 18 )
- The juxtaposition of Hector's brutality towards Enola with his tender phone conversation with his children creates a disturbing contrast and highlights the multifaceted nature of evil. medium ( Scene 9 )
- The script effectively utilizes dramatic irony, with the audience often knowing more than the characters, which heightens suspense and creates moments of surprise. medium ( Scene 11 Scene 32 )
- The scene where Mike removes his FBI wire and recorder in the gas station bathroom is a powerful moment of character development, showcasing his internal conflict and ultimately his choice to do what he believes is right. medium ( Scene 35 )
- The script's ending, while bittersweet, offers a sense of hope and empowerment as Sarah escapes and seeks help, and Selena takes action to protect Jimmy. medium ( Scene 41 )
Screenplay Insights:
Premise: 7.75, The screenplay's premise exhibits strong potential with its intriguing blend of crime, mystery, and human trafficking themes. However, the initial setup could be enhanced by clarifying the motivations of key characters like Glenn and establishing a clearer connection between the various storylines. The complexity of the narrative is a strength but could benefit from a more streamlined introduction to avoid overwhelming the audience early on. See More
Structure: 7.25, This screenplay exhibits a solid narrative structure and engaging plot that effectively captivates the audience's attention. However, there are a few areas where refinement could elevate the screenplay's storytelling impact. See More
Theme: 8.5, The screenplay effectively conveys its themes and messages through a well-crafted narrative, delivering an impactful and thoughtful exploration of relevant social issues. While the themes are generally clear and resonate with the audience, there are opportunities to refine the integration and originality of these elements to further enhance the screenplay's thematic depth and audience engagement. See More
Visual Impact: 8.5, The screenplay's visual imagery creates a tense and suspenseful atmosphere, with vivid descriptions of dramatic events and a strong sense of place. The focus on specific details and the use of dynamic imagery work well to convey the characters' emotional states and progress the narrative. See More
Emotional Impact: 7.75, The screenplay demonstrates a strong foundation for emotional impact, effectively utilizing suspense and tension to engage the audience. However, there is room to enhance emotional depth by exploring character backstories, internal conflicts, and relationships in more detail, particularly for Sarah, Sean, and Hector. See More
Conflict: 7.5, The screenplay's conflict and stakes are well-defined and engaging, creating palpable tension and driving the narrative. It effectively establishes the central conflict of Glenn's involvement in a kidnapping and his subsequent efforts to save Sarah, raising high stakes for both characters. However, the resolution could be strengthened to provide a more satisfying and appropriate conclusion. See More
Originality: 7.25, This screenplay showcases a blend of suspense and realism through a well-structured narrative that explores the darker side of humanity. The script effectively portrays the desperation and resilience of its characters, adding depth to the overall story. See More
Screenplay Story Analysis
Note: This is the overall critique. For scene by scene critique click here
Summaries
- Glenn, a 60-year-old man, sits in his car in a parking lot, checking license plates against a number on a piece of paper. He discovers a grey Chevy Impala with a matching license plate number and decides to take it. Glenn cleans up the car and finds $10k in an envelope. He sets the destination on the navigator to Mojave and drives away after encountering a boy, Robby, who drops a paper bag in front of his car.
- Robby runs across a parking lot, yelling that he did what was asked of him. He hears a car start its engine and sees it drive away. Unaware, he continues walking until a black SUV accelerates towards him but narrowly avoids hitting him. As he crosses an intersection against a red light, a patrol car with lights and sirens turns towards him. Robby runs away, but is confronted by police who draw their guns. Meanwhile, Manolo watches from the third floor and makes a call.
- Hector receives a call from Manolo informing him that 'Romeo' has been arrested. Sean tries to reach Glenn and demands him to check the trunk. The scene ends with Glenn turning off the engine and getting out of the car.
- Glenn opens the trunk of a car on a dark highway and finds the body of a girl. He panics when he realizes she is alive. Sean instructs Glenn to deliver the girl alive and reassures him. Glenn is in shock and unable to move, staring at the trunk.
- Sarah, a 15-year-old girl, is trapped in the trunk of a grey Chevy. Bound with plastic ties, she panics as she realizes her situation. Flashing back, Sarah is seen sneaking out of her house and getting into the car with Robby, sharing a passionate kiss. Back in the present, Sarah pleads with Robby to stop as she feels dizzy and unwell, but he ignores her. Weakened and disoriented, Sarah is gagged and tied up in the trunk. She tries to free herself but injures her foot. Screaming for help, Glenn, the driver, becomes agitated and drives away, leaving Sarah trapped and desperate.
- In this scene, Sean makes a phone call to Hector to confirm the status of the merchandise. He then has a conversation with Mike about their involvement in the merchandise business, joking about it but also highlighting that everyone is essentially 'merch'. While Sean tries to reassure Mike, he becomes tense and uncertain about the implications. The scene takes place inside Sean's car at night, with a mix of lightheartedness and tension. The conflict arises from Mike's uncertainty, which remains unresolved. The scene ends with Mike finding it difficult to argue against Sean's points about being 'merch'.
- In this scene, Jimmy overhears a heated argument between his Uncle Josh and Aunt Monica about whether she should come with them somewhere. Aunt Monica eventually convinces Uncle Josh to take Jimmy but to be careful. The scene then shifts to an FBI warehouse where Robby, a suspect, is brought in for interrogation by agents Rodriguez and Brown. Robby provides them with an address in Palmdale, but the conflict is not resolved. The scene ends with Rodriguez pushing Robby into a chair and two more agents entering the room.
- Rodriguez and Brown, two FBI agents, walk out of the warehouse towards parked cars. They discuss the risks and reliability of their source, as well as the decision to use someone as bait for an upcoming exchange. Rodriguez expresses concern, but Brown assures him it's a calculated risk. They share a moment of camaraderie and humor, laughing about a signal they used. The scene ends with them getting into a car and driving away.
- Hector drives Enola to an abandoned airport where he turns on the lights in the control tower and talks on the phone. Enola tries to escape but is caught by Hector, who threatens and sexually assaults her. The scene ends with Hector receiving a phone call and leaving Enola in the car.
- Glenn drives slowly in a grey Chevy, sweating and hearing muffled screaming from the trunk. Sarah, trapped inside, panics and tries to escape but ends up choking. She calms down and realizes she is bound and her phone is missing. The car stops and starts frequently, and Sarah tries to scream and kick for attention. The scene ends with Sarah desperately screaming and kicking in the trunk, hoping to get help.
- In this tense and suspenseful scene, Brown and Rodriguez are parked in a dark, empty parking area, surveilling someone. They discuss the heat and the possibility of the person being late. As they wait, they notice a car approaching the exchange spot.
- Hector drives into the darkness and tries to wake up Enola, but she remains unresponsive. Frustrated, Hector sees car headlights approaching and realizes it's the FBI agents. The agents turn on their recorder and speaker to eavesdrop on the conversation. Aaron, seemingly under the influence of drugs, arrives and flashes his high beams three times. Hector confronts Aaron at gunpoint, but eventually decides to let him go. Aaron asks about the welcoming committee, to which Hector replies that they are asleep.
- Aaron and Hector find Enola unconscious in the car, pale and sweaty. Aaron becomes concerned about her condition, but Hector reveals that she had a rough encounter with a client. They argue about their responsibilities, and Hector decides to leave. Aaron threatens Hector with a gun, but Hector drives away. Aaron is left angry and upset, realizing that Enola is the 'welcoming committee' for the upcoming transaction.
- In a dark FBI agents' car, Brown and Rodriguez observe an exchange but realize it's not their target. Brown decides to pursue Hector's car, leaving Rodriguez frustrated. Meanwhile, Aaron discovers blood on his hand and Enola's legs. Rodriguez tries to gather information but only hears static. She searches for Dr. Michaels on her computer but finds multiple results. Brown warns Rodriguez about involving local authorities, and the scene ends with Rodriguez closing her laptop in frustration.
- In this scene, Robby is confronted by Agent Achak for lying about a meeting with Mr. Renzo, leading to Agent Califan angrily throwing hot coffee at him. Meanwhile, Selena visits a memorial for a 5-year-old girl and is approached by four Latina women, who all get into a white van together. Sean and Mike discuss a phone call from Aaron, who urgently needs money and has someone in bad shape, planning to meet at a view in half an hour. Lastly, Glenn drives in a grey Chevy, swerves to avoid a collision, and panics when he realizes the girl in his car is unresponsive.
- Glenn parks the car in a dark side street and finds Sarah unconscious in the trunk. When she wakes up, she tries to attack him, but she is still bound. Glenn closes the trunk and feels guilty for his actions. He paces back and forth, conflicted. He takes out his car keys with a knife and a flip phone. Another car appears behind his, but he can't see inside. His phone rings and he quickly answers.
- Glenn stops the car because he couldn't hear the person on the other end of the phone, but Sean reassures him that the person is alive and he did the right thing. Glenn suggests leaving the money in the car and letting the person go, but Sean reminds him that the person saw Glenn's face and they know where Glenn's daughter is. Sean also mentions another phone Glenn had in his pocket, which he instructs Glenn to put on the ground and drive away. After some hesitation, Glenn follows Sean's instructions and drives away. The scene ends with Glenn in complete darkness, unable to see the car anymore, and he turns on the radio.
- In this tense and secretive scene, Sean picks up Glenn's phone and checks the FIND MY PEOPLE app. He smiles and puts down the phone before driving away. Mike suggests following Glenn, but Sean insists on going to Aaron instead. Despite Mike's concern about Glenn going to the police, Sean reassures him. They discuss empathy and Sean's acting background. As Glenn's car disappears down the highway, Sean reveals his chilling plan to kill him, explaining his twisted perspective on empathy. Mike questions how Sean knows so much about Glenn, and Sean mentions his sources and research. The scene ends with both of them smiling, leaving the audience with an unsettling sense of foreboding.
- A small airplane lands at Clearwater air field, and three large men in suits quickly disembark along with Mr. Renzo. Mr. Renzo makes a call while Hector sits in his car and answers a phone call. Uncle Josh hangs up a call and takes Jimmy out of the house, leaving Aunt Monica in tears. Aunt Monica tells Jimmy to be a good boy, and Uncle Josh instructs him to behave like a man. They share a kiss before Uncle Josh drives away, leaving Jimmy staring at the house he just left.
- In this scene, the Cleaning Ladies chat in a van while Selena remains quiet and pensive. Marisa jokes about Selena's husband cheating, but Luisa reminds her that it's the anniversary of Selena's daughter's death. Hernesta gets out of the van and heads towards a store. Meanwhile, Sarah struggles to free herself from the trunk of a car. In another location, Sean gives Aaron an envelope and warns him not to be stupid. Sean then reveals to Mike that he told Aaron he thinks Mike is a Fed, leaving Mike stunned. The scene ends with Sean driving away with Mike, while Aaron drives away with Enola.
- Robby is interrogated by Agent Achak and Agent Califan in an FBI warehouse while Aaron arrives at a small hospital ER with Enola. Susy, a receptionist, tries to stop Aaron from leaving but Dr. Nichols arrives and takes Aaron to the examination area.
- Dr. Nichols leads Aaron into Room 103 of the E.R. medical area where Enola is lying on a bed soaked in blood. Dr. Nichols asks Aaron about the extent of Enola's bleeding, but Aaron is unsure. Dr. Nichols calls for Nurse Jane and instructs Aaron to wait in his car. Aaron hesitates before leaving the room and puts an envelope with money in the first drawer of a small utility cabinet.
- Aaron walks along the corridor of an E.R. medical area and realizes he is lost. Meanwhile, Sarah finds herself trapped in the trunk of a grey Chevy. She notices a hole in the tail light and kicks it to break the plastic cover. Despite cutting herself in the process, she manages to illuminate her feet and legs with the red light. Sarah tries to escape through the hole but fails. She contorts herself and attempts different positions to fit through, screaming for help but her words are muffled by the gag. Sarah eventually breaks the wire holding the tail light, turning it off, and exclaims in triumph.
- In this tense and suspenseful scene, Rodriguez and Brown surveil Hector's activities in an empty mall parking lot at night. Rodriguez tries to make phone calls to find Dr. Michaels, but is unsuccessful. Brown discourages her while Hector gets out of his car and urinates. The conflict between Rodriguez and Brown regarding her search for Dr. Michaels remains unresolved. The scene ends with Rodriguez continuing to make phone calls.
- In this scene, Susy receives a call from Agent Rodriguez of the FBI at the E.R. reception. She provides information about a man looking for Nurse Davis and agrees to notify Rodriguez if she sees him or Dr. Nichols leaving. Rodriguez and Brown discuss their plans in their FBI car. Meanwhile, Glenn encounters a Sheriff's car while driving the grey Chevy and is pulled over, leading to a tense situation. The conflict remains unresolved in this scene.
- In this tense and suspenseful scene on a dark highway, Sarah desperately bangs and screams for help from the trunk of a grey Chevy. Glenn, the driver, tries to drown out the noise by turning up the radio. Sheriff Donald arrives and becomes suspicious of Glenn's behavior. He asks Glenn to walk along the yellow line and recite the alphabet, noticing vomit stains on Glenn's shirt and jacket. Sheriff Donald asks Glenn to take a breathalyzer test, which shows a blood alcohol level of 0.07. While Glenn waits, Sheriff Donald walks back to his car, leaving Glenn to clean the vomit stain off his shirt.
- In this scene, Sheriff Donald types information about a car into his onboard computer and receives a message about a possible kidnapping. Glenn pretends to be distracted but keeps an eye on Sheriff Donald. Sheriff Donald suggests Glenn go to a nearby gas station. Glenn hurries back to the Chevy and turns off the music, hearing Sarah banging and screaming from the trunk. He apologizes to her, expressing his guilt and promising to figure out what to do. Glenn answers a phone call from Sean, who questions him about the encounter with the sheriff and warns him to keep moving.
- In this scene, Sean tries to track Glenn's car on a map and finally sees the signal indicating movement. Meanwhile, Glenn reassures Sarah in the trunk, promising to figure things out. Aaron, covered in Enola's blood, walks around the E.R. corridors and is approached by Susy, who notices his blood-stained shirt. Aaron quickly walks away, and Susy sees that Room 103 is in use and starts dialing Agent Rodriguez's number.
- Rodriguez receives a call from Susy, who saw someone covered in blood. Susy confirms the sighting, and Rodriguez turns on the phone speaker. Brown drives away. In a dark alley, Manolo meets Officer Gomez who informs him that the person they are looking for is not in the system. Gomez gives Manolo a piece of paper with the person's picture and information. Manolo burns the paper and suspects the involvement of the FBI. He calls Hector and informs him that the person was not brought to the station. Hector instructs Manolo to head back.
- Hector delivers bad news to Sean and instructs him, then drives away. Sean and Mike discuss getting coffee but decide against it. In the E.R., Dr. Nichols and Nurse Jane work on Enola, who pleads to be let go. Dr. Nichols hesitates but decides not to waste blood after Enola's plea. Enola smiles peacefully as the scene ends.
- Rodriguez and Brown confront Dr. Nichols in Room 103 of the E.R. Medical Area. They demand that he move away from the patient, but he refuses. Dr. Brandt takes over and the doctors push Dr. Nichols and Nurse Jane out of the way. Rodriguez accuses Dr. Nichols of saving girls for money, but he remains silent. The scene ends with tension and unanswered accusations.
- In this tense and suspenseful scene, Brown and Rodriguez push Dr. Nichols and Nurse Jane out of Room 103 in the E.R. medical area corridors. Susy points out Brown and Rodriguez to a security guard, who informs them that his partner has cornered the strange guy on the first floor. Brown and Rodriguez quickly handcuff Dr. Nichols and Nurse Jane to chairs and instruct Susy to keep an eye on them and call the police. The security guard leads Brown and Rodriguez to a storeroom guarded by another security guard. Brown tries to negotiate with the person inside the locked room, but there is no response. Rodriguez grows impatient, prompting Brown to kick the door open. Inside, they find Aaron freezing while trying to climb out an open window. Aaron claims he wasn't running, just needed fresh air.
- Hector buys cookies at a gas station and discreetly places an envelope under the bag. He then addresses the security cameras, requesting them to be turned off until 3.30. Meanwhile, Selena, the observant cleaning lady, watches Hector and the cashier closely. In Sean's car, he receives a call on Glenn's phone from Jenny, Glenn's daughter. Sean shows the caller ID to Mike, and they listen to Jenny's voicemail. Sean pretends to be deeply moved by the message. Later, Sean calls Glenn and plays Jenny's heartfelt message, leaving the scene filled with suspense and secrecy.
- Glenn listens to a voicemail from his daughter Jenny, expressing her love and apologies. Sean feels a mix of guilt, frustration, fear, anger, and determination. Sean and Mike have a tense conversation in the car, with Sean expressing regret and asserting his control. Sean drives into a gas station and watches Mike go to the bathroom.
- Mike enters a gas station bathroom and makes a phone call to change plans. He becomes distressed and removes a wire and microphone from his abdomen, flushing them down the toilet. Mike bumps into Hector outside the bathroom and is surprised when Hector says he is joining Mike and Sean for the grand finale. Mike pours coffee and looks for Sean and Hector, but spills it on his hands. He pays for the coffee and notices Sean and Hector giving each other a fist bump.
- Mike is tense at the gas station while Sean expresses concern. They all get in the car and head to the E.R. In the E.R., Dr. Nichols and Nurse Jane are interrogated by police officers. Aaron is handcuffed and questioned by Brown and Rodriguez. Dr. Lewis and Rodriguez have a conversation, revealing Aaron's name and the pimp's name. Aaron's expression changes from grief to panic. Rodriguez threatens Aaron, who taunts them about his red hat. In response, Rodriguez punches Aaron in the stomach, and Aaron laughs.
- In this tense and violent scene, Sean and Mike are in a car when Sean realizes his coffee is not decaf and gets upset. Mike apologizes, but Sean's anger escalates when Hector reveals he has stolen Mike's phone. In a flashback, Hector pickpockets Mike's phone at a gas station. Sean helps Hector hold Mike captive, and Sean cuts Mike's throat with a pocket knife. They then get out of the car, Hector takes something from Mike's pocket, and Sean sets the car on fire. The scene ends with Hector showing Sean Mike's FBI badge and marking a cross on it, symbolizing betrayal and revenge.
- Agent Brown becomes frustrated when he doesn't get a response on the phone. Hector hangs up and throws the phone away, while Sean discovers blood stains in the car. Rodriguez rushes to Room 103 to talk to Enola, and despite initial hesitation, Dr. Lewis and Dr. Brandt wake her up. Enola whispers the location of the exchange, Clearwater Airport.
- In this scene, the Minions are busy at Clearwater Airport under the supervision of Mr. Renzo. Hector and Sean have a tense conversation in the car, with Sean accusing Hector of having another gig. Meanwhile, Glenn drives in the desert, noticing two lights following him and becoming startled by a passing tumbleweed. Uncle Josh and Jimmy arrive at a gas station, where Uncle Josh initially refuses to let Jimmy use the bathroom. However, after Jimmy starts crying, Uncle Josh quickly agrees.
- In this scene, Brown and Rodriguez discuss their mission and the trustworthiness of a girl while driving in an FBI agents' car. Meanwhile, Glenn drives carefully on a dirt road, and Sean and Hector wait for him. At a gas station, Jimmy explores while Selena watches him closely. Tension arises when the gas station cashier questions Uncle Josh about paying for Jimmy's snacks. The scene ends with Uncle Josh rushing to his car and Jimmy running out of the store.
- Uncle Josh leaves the gas station while Jimmy watches. Selena comforts Jimmy as he cries. The Gas Station Cashier sends a threatening text message. Selena stands up to him and calls the police. Selena gives Jimmy a package of cookies, reassuring him that everything will be okay.
- Glenn drives along a bumpy dirt road, closely followed by Hector and Sean. Concern arises when Glenn's car disappears and reappears. Eventually, Glenn parks in front of Hector and Sean. Sarah, who is in the trunk, is tense and focused. Suddenly, Glenn accelerates the car, causing Sarah to jolt with every shot fired. The car eventually stops, and Sean and Hector discuss Glenn's fate. When the trunk opens, blinding Sarah with the lights, Sean begins to pee on her. However, Sarah takes advantage of her freedom and slams the trunk shut, ending the scene.
- In this intense and suspenseful scene set in the desert at night, Sean falls onto a cactus, causing him immense pain. Hector, amused by Sean's suffering, approaches him and notices blood on Sean's crotch and pants. Sarah, determined to protect herself and Sean, tries to hit Hector with a lug wrench but only manages to strike his hand, causing him to drop his gun. Hector reveals himself as a Federal Agent, showing Sarah his FBI badge. Sarah hesitates but eventually lowers the lug wrench. However, Hector tries to distract her and reach for Sean's gun. In a swift and decisive move, Sarah swings the lug wrench, killing Hector. As the scene concludes, Sarah discovers Glenn's lifeless body in the car, triggering a flashback to when Glenn had freed her from the trunk and given her the lug wrench and knife.
- Sarah, limping towards the grey Chevy, finds Glenn soaked in his own blood but still breathing. She quickly pushes his body into the passenger seat and drives away without headlights, carefully navigating the darkness. As she reaches the paved road and turns on the headlights, Sarah speeds towards city lights, passing several cars. Flashing her headlights at a Sheriff's car, she causes it to turn on its strobe lights. Sarah abruptly stops, jumps out of the car, and screams for help. Sheriff Donald arrives and calls for an ambulance upon seeing Glenn's injuries, resolving the conflict. The scene ends with Sarah taking a deep breath as the sun rises on a new day.
- The pilot notices something at the end of the tarmac and quickly climbs into the cockpit. Mr. Renzo and three men in surgical gowns rush onto the plane and shut the doors. The authorities close in as the airplane taxis into position for takeoff. The pilot accelerates and the airplane narrowly avoids the police cars and FBI car. The policemen shoot at the airplane but it escapes. Inside the airport building, Rodriguez and Brown discover a makeshift surgical room with medical equipment and containers labeled as organ transportation boxes. Rodriguez finds a picture of Jimmy and realizes the connection to human trafficking. The scene ends with Rodriguez finding a picture of Jimmy and the screen fading out.
Characters in the screenplay, and their arcs:
Character | Arc | Critique | Suggestions |
---|---|---|---|
Glenn | Glenn's character arc in the screenplay is one of transformation and redemption. He starts off as a cautious and reserved man leading a double life, but his encounter with the body in the trunk forces him to confront the dark realities of the criminal world. This leads to a deep internal conflict and a struggle with his own actions and conscience. As the story progresses, Glenn becomes more determined and willing to take risks to protect his daughter. He is haunted by guilt and remorse, but ultimately sacrifices himself to save Sarah, showing a sense of redemption and growth. | The character arc for Glenn is well-developed and provides a compelling journey for the audience. However, it would be beneficial to further explore Glenn's motivations and backstory to enhance his character development. Additionally, there could be more opportunities for Glenn to showcase his resourcefulness and problem-solving skills, which would add depth to his character and make his transformation more impactful. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating flashbacks or dialogue that provide insight into Glenn's past and the reasons behind his involvement in the criminal world. This will help the audience understand his internal conflict and add layers to his character. Additionally, create scenes where Glenn uses his meticulousness and attention to detail to overcome obstacles and outsmart his pursuers. This will showcase his resourcefulness and problem-solving skills, making his transformation and sacrifice more impactful. |
Robby | Robby's character arc in the screenplay starts with him being a young man connected to Glenn's delivery job. He is initially confident and defiant, willing to do whatever it takes to complete his task. However, as the story unfolds, he finds himself in increasingly dangerous circumstances, leading to fear and desperation. The encounter with the police adds a new layer of uncertainty and pushes Robby to question his choices. As the interrogation progresses, Robby's demeanor shifts from confrontational to fearful and hesitant. He becomes more focused on self-preservation and protecting himself. By the end of the screenplay, Robby's character arc reaches its climax as he must make a crucial decision that will determine his fate. | The character arc for Robby is well-developed and effectively portrays his transformation from a confident and defiant young man to a desperate and scared individual. The descriptions of his actions, speaking style, and emotions throughout the feature provide a clear understanding of his character. However, it would be beneficial to further explore the reasons behind Robby's initial connection to Glenn's delivery job and the nature of their relationship. This would add depth to Robby's motivations and enhance the overall narrative. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating flashbacks or dialogue that shed light on Robby's background and his initial involvement with Glenn's delivery job. This could help explain his initial confidence and defiance, as well as provide a stronger foundation for his transformation. Additionally, exploring Robby's internal struggles and moral dilemmas could add complexity to his character and make his choices more impactful. Overall, further exploring Robby's backstory and internal conflicts would enhance the character arc and deepen the audience's connection to his journey. |
Sean | Sean starts off as a mysterious and manipulative character who exerts control over others. As the story progresses, his true intentions and motivations are revealed, showcasing his cunning and manipulative nature. However, Sean's control is challenged when he is betrayed by his partner, leading him to take drastic measures to protect himself. This betrayal causes Sean to become conflicted and determined, ultimately embracing his ruthless side. In the climax, Sean's hot-headed and impulsive nature leads him to make rash decisions in his pursuit of revenge. By the end of the story, Sean's character arc shows a transformation from a mysterious manipulator to a vengeful and desperate individual. | The character arc for Sean is well-developed and showcases his transformation throughout the story. However, it would be beneficial to provide more insight into Sean's backstory and motivations earlier in the screenplay. This would help the audience understand his actions and manipulative nature from the beginning. Additionally, while Sean's confrontational and volatile personality adds tension to the story, it would be helpful to balance it with moments of vulnerability or introspection to make him more relatable to the audience. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating flashbacks or dialogue that provide glimpses into Sean's past, revealing the events that shaped him into the manipulative and cunning character he is. This will add depth to his character and help the audience empathize with his actions. Additionally, explore moments of vulnerability for Sean, where he questions his own choices and motivations. This will make him more relatable and add complexity to his character. Finally, consider incorporating a redemption arc for Sean, where he realizes the consequences of his actions and seeks to make amends, adding a layer of growth and development to his character. |
Sarah | Sarah's character arc in the screenplay is a journey of transformation and empowerment. She starts as a vulnerable captive, but through her resilience and determination, she becomes a fierce fighter and courageous rescuer. Her arc showcases her growth from helplessness to taking control of her own destiny. Sarah's transformation is driven by her strong will to survive and protect herself, as well as her desire to save Glenn. She goes from being trapped and desperate for help to being resourceful and assertive, using her wits and physicality to overcome obstacles and fight back against her captors. | The character arc for Sarah is well-developed and engaging. It effectively portrays her transformation from a captive to a courageous rescuer. However, it would be beneficial to further explore Sarah's emotional journey throughout the feature. While her determination and resourcefulness are highlighted, delving deeper into her fears, vulnerabilities, and the psychological impact of her captivity could add more depth to her character arc. Additionally, providing more opportunities for Sarah to interact with other characters and develop relationships could enhance her growth and provide further emotional resonance. | To improve Sarah's character arc, consider incorporating moments of introspection and reflection where she grapples with her fears and vulnerabilities. This could be done through internal monologues or brief moments of solitude. Additionally, explore opportunities for Sarah to form connections with other characters, such as Glenn or other survivors she encounters. These relationships can serve as catalysts for her growth and provide emotional support. Finally, consider adding scenes that highlight the psychological impact of her captivity, showcasing her resilience in the face of trauma and the strength she gains from overcoming it. |
Rodriguez | Rodriguez starts off as a conflicted FBI agent, torn between his personal feelings and the undercover operation. As the story progresses, he becomes more emotionally invested and determined to save Enola. His dedication to his job and strong sense of justice drive him to do whatever it takes to apprehend the suspect. However, his impatience and impulsiveness grow, leading to confrontational and aggressive behavior. In the end, Rodriguez's arc resolves with him taking decisive action and revealing the twist in the plot, ultimately achieving justice and closure. | The character arc for Rodriguez is well-developed and engaging. It effectively portrays his internal conflict and growth throughout the story. However, the transition from being cautious and empathetic to confrontational and aggressive could be smoother. It would benefit from more gradual escalation, allowing the audience to understand and empathize with Rodriguez's increasing frustration. Additionally, the arc could be strengthened by exploring the consequences of Rodriguez's impulsive behavior and how it affects his relationships with other characters. | To improve the character arc, consider adding scenes that highlight the consequences of Rodriguez's impulsive behavior. Show how his confrontational approach affects his relationships with his colleagues and potentially puts the operation at risk. This will add depth to his character and create more tension in the story. Additionally, consider incorporating moments of reflection or self-realization for Rodriguez, where he recognizes the need to balance his emotions with the demands of his job. This will make his growth more nuanced and relatable to the audience. |
Brown | Throughout the feature, Brown starts off as a pragmatic and focused FBI agent, solely focused on the mission and the greater good. However, as the story progresses, he becomes conflicted between following protocol and saving Enola. This internal conflict challenges his beliefs and forces him to question his actions. Eventually, Brown realizes that sometimes bending the rules is necessary to achieve justice and protect innocent lives. He learns to trust his instincts and take calculated risks for the sake of the operation. By the end of the feature, Brown has evolved into a more well-rounded agent who understands the importance of balancing protocol with compassion. | The character arc for Brown is well-developed and provides a clear progression for his internal conflict. However, it would be beneficial to further explore the emotional impact of his decisions and the toll it takes on him. This would add depth to his character and make his arc even more compelling. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating moments of vulnerability for Brown. Show how his internal conflict affects him on an emotional level, such as through moments of doubt or guilt. Additionally, provide opportunities for Brown to reflect on his choices and the consequences they have on others. This will allow the audience to connect with him on a deeper level and further enhance his character development. |
Hector | Hector starts as a violent and controlling individual, exerting power and control over others. He is ruthless and shows no remorse for his actions. However, as the story progresses, Hector's true intentions are revealed as he orchestrates a betrayal and later reveals himself as an undercover FBI agent. This twist in his character arc adds depth and complexity to his character. Hector becomes a determined and resourceful ally, willing to do whatever it takes to complete his mission, even if it means getting injured. He transforms from an antagonist to a dedicated and selfless agent, showcasing his growth and development throughout the feature. | The character arc for Hector is intriguing and adds depth to his character. However, it would be beneficial to further explore his motivations and backstory to provide a clearer understanding of his transformation. Additionally, the transition from being a violent and controlling individual to a selfless agent could be further developed to make it more believable and impactful. Providing more insight into Hector's internal struggles and conflicts would enhance the emotional journey of his character. | To improve the character arc for Hector, consider incorporating flashbacks or dialogue that delves into his past experiences and motivations. This will help the audience understand why he initially behaves in a violent and controlling manner. Additionally, explore moments of vulnerability and internal conflict for Hector as he grapples with his true intentions and the consequences of his actions. This will make his transformation into a selfless agent more believable and emotionally resonant. Finally, consider adding more moments of redemption or self-sacrifice for Hector to further emphasize his growth and development throughout the feature. |
Dr. Nichols | Dr. Nichols starts off as a competent and authoritative doctor, but as the story unfolds, he is faced with moral dilemmas that challenge his beliefs and values. This leads to a transformation in his character, as he becomes conflicted and torn between his duty to his patient and the pressure from law enforcement. Ultimately, he reaches a breaking point and becomes desperate, trying to justify his actions. This arc showcases the internal struggle and moral complexity of Dr. Nichols. | The character arc of Dr. Nichols is well-developed and effectively portrays his internal conflict. However, it would be beneficial to provide more context and background information about Dr. Nichols early on in the screenplay. This would help the audience understand his initial authoritative demeanor and make his transformation more impactful. Additionally, exploring the consequences of his actions and the aftermath of his decisions could add depth to the character arc. | To improve the character arc, consider adding a prologue or introductory scene that establishes Dr. Nichols' competence and no-nonsense attitude. This could be a brief interaction with a patient or a conversation with a colleague. Additionally, after the climax of the story, consider including a resolution or aftermath scene that shows the consequences of Dr. Nichols' actions and how they impact his life and career. This would provide a sense of closure and further explore the moral complexity of his choices. |
Nurse Jane | Nurse Jane starts off as a minor character, efficiently carrying out her duties and reflecting her professionalism. However, as the conflict between the FBI agents and the doctors intensifies, she is caught in the middle and experiences fear and resistance. This conflict ultimately leads to her being handcuffed and interrogated. Throughout the screenplay, Nurse Jane's loyalty and dedication to her profession and patients remain constant, even in the face of adversity. | The character arc for Nurse Jane is somewhat limited and lacks significant development. While her loyalty and dedication are admirable, there is potential for further exploration of her internal struggles and growth. Additionally, her role in the conflict could be expanded to provide more depth and complexity to her character. | To improve the character arc for Nurse Jane, consider delving deeper into her internal struggles and the reasons behind her fear and resistance. Show her grappling with ethical dilemmas and the consequences of her actions. Additionally, provide opportunities for her to make choices that challenge her loyalty and dedication, allowing for growth and development throughout the screenplay. Expanding her role in the conflict and exploring her relationships with other characters could also add depth and complexity to her character. |
Sheriff Donald | Sheriff Donald starts off as a persistent law enforcement officer chasing Glenn. As the story progresses, he becomes more suspicious and cautious, determined to uncover the truth. He goes through a transformation where he starts questioning Glenn's actions and using his authority to investigate further. By the end of the feature, Sheriff Donald's underlying suspicion is revealed, and he becomes more focused on protecting the community from potential harm. | The character arc for Sheriff Donald is well-developed and shows a clear progression from a determined law enforcement officer to a suspicious investigator. However, it would be beneficial to provide more insight into Sheriff Donald's personal motivations and backstory to make his transformation more impactful. | To improve the character arc, consider adding scenes or dialogue that reveal Sheriff Donald's personal connection to the case or his past experiences that have made him skeptical. This will help the audience understand his underlying suspicion and make his transformation more relatable and compelling. |
Theme | Theme Details | Themee Explanation | ||||||||||||
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Kidnapping and Human Trafficking | The screenplay revolves around the kidnapping of Sarah and her involvement in human trafficking. It explores the consequences and struggles of the victims and the efforts to rescue them. | The theme of kidnapping and human trafficking is the central focus of the screenplay, driving the plot and character motivations. | ||||||||||||
Strengthening Kidnapping and Human Trafficking:
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Guilt and Redemption | Glenn experiences guilt for his involvement in the kidnapping and seeks redemption by trying to save Sarah. Sean also grapples with guilt and contemplates his actions. | The theme of guilt and redemption is prominent as characters confront their past actions and strive to make amends. | ||||||||||||
Betrayal and Deception | Characters deceive and betray each other throughout the screenplay, leading to unexpected twists and turns. | The theme of betrayal and deception adds tension and complexity to the relationships and motivations of the characters. | ||||||||||||
Family and Parental Love | The love and protection of family members, particularly Glenn's love for his daughter Jenny, drive the actions of several characters. | The theme of family and parental love highlights the lengths people will go to protect and save their loved ones. | ||||||||||||
Corruption and Crime | The screenplay explores the criminal underworld, with characters involved in illegal activities and corrupt law enforcement agents. | The theme of corruption and crime adds a gritty and dangerous element to the story, showcasing the dark side of society. | ||||||||||||
Desperation and Survival | Characters, particularly Sarah, face desperate situations and must use their resourcefulness and resilience to survive. | The theme of desperation and survival highlights the human instinct to overcome adversity and fight for one's life. | ||||||||||||
Justice and Law Enforcement | Law enforcement agents, such as Rodriguez and Brown, strive to bring criminals to justice and rescue victims. | The theme of justice and law enforcement explores the role of the legal system in combating crime and protecting the innocent. | ||||||||||||
Identity and Self-discovery | Characters, such as Glenn and Sarah, undergo personal journeys of self-discovery and question their identities in the face of challenging circumstances. | The theme of identity and self-discovery adds depth to the characters as they grapple with their true selves and find strength in their identities. |
Screenwriting Resources on Themes
Articles
Site | Description |
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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 |
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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 |
Goals and Philosophical Conflict | |
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internal Goals | The protagonist's internal goal is to balance his duty as a criminal with his desire to protect innocent lives and ensure the safety of his family. |
External Goals | The protagonist's external goal is to navigate the criminal underworld and complete various tasks without getting caught by the authorities or jeopardizing the safety of his family. |
Philosophical Conflict | The overarching philosophical conflict in the screenplay revolves around the protagonist's internal struggle between his moral values and the criminal activities he is involved in. This conflict challenges his beliefs about right and wrong, and forces him to make difficult choices. |
Character Development Contribution: The goals and conflicts contribute to the protagonist's development by testing his moral compass, forcing him to confront his fears, and ultimately shaping his transformation from a hardened criminal to a more empathetic and morally aware individual.
Narrative Structure Contribution: The goals and conflicts provide a driving force for the narrative structure, creating tension, suspense, and a sense of urgency as the protagonist navigates through various challenges and obstacles. The conflicts also contribute to the overall plot by raising moral dilemmas and highlighting the consequences of the protagonist's actions.
Thematic Depth Contribution: The goals and conflicts deepen the thematic exploration of morality, personal agency, and the consequences of one's choices. They invite the audience to reflect on the complexities of right and wrong, the power dynamics in society, and the sacrifices individuals make in the pursuit of their goals.
Screenwriting Resources on Goals and Philosophical Conflict
Articles
Site | Description |
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Creative Screenwriting | How Important Is A Character’s Goal? |
Studio Binder | What is Conflict in a Story? A Quick Reminder of the Purpose of Conflict |
YouTube Videos
Title | Description |
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How I Build a Story's Philosophical Conflict | How do you build philosophical conflict into your story? Where do you start? And how do you develop it into your characters and their external actions. Today I’m going to break this all down and make it fully clear in this episode. |
Endings: The Good, the Bad, and the Insanely Great | By Michael Arndt: I put this lecture together in 2006, when I started work at Pixar on Toy Story 3. It looks at how to write an "insanely great" ending, using Star Wars, The Graduate, and Little Miss Sunshine as examples. 90 minutes |
Tips for Writing Effective Character Goals | By Jessica Brody (Save the Cat!): Writing character goals is one of the most important jobs of any novelist. But are your character's goals...mushy? |
Story Content | Character Development | Scene Elements | Audience Engagement | Technical Aspects | |||||||||||||||||
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Click for Full Analysis | Tone | Overall | Concept | Plot | Originality | Characters | Character Changes | Internal Goal | External Goal | Conflict | Opposition | High stakes | Story forward | Twist | Emotional Impact | Dialogue | Engagement | Pacing | Formatting | Structure | |
1 - Mysterious Discovery Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Mysterious | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | |
2 - Tense Confrontation in the Parking Lot Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
3 - Arrest and Trunk Inspection Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Mysterious | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
4 - Shocking Discovery Improve | Suspenseful, Disturbing, Terrifying | 10 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 10 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
5 - Trapped in the Trunk Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Disturbing | 9 | 8 | 9 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
6 - Uncertainty in the Merchandise Business Improve | Dark, Intense, Suspenseful | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
7 - Tense Confrontations and FBI Interrogation Improve | Tense, Serious, Suspenseful | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
8 - A Risky Exchange Improve | Tense, Serious, Dark | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
9 - Escape Attempt at Abandoned Airport Improve | Tense, Dark, Disturbing | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
10 - Trapped in the Trunk Improve | Tense, Dark, Suspenseful | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
11 - Surveillance Stakeout Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Dark, Serious | 9 | 8 | 9 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
12 - Confrontation in the Darkness Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Dark | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
13 - A Troubled Encounter Improve | Tense, Dark, Disturbing | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
14 - Tense Pursuit Improve | Tense, Serious, Frustrated | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
15 - Tense Moments and Surprising Revelations Improve | Tense, Dramatic, Suspenseful | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
16 - Dark Encounter Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
17 - Driving into Darkness Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Confrontational | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | |
18 - A Sinister Plan Unveiled Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Dark, Cynical | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | |
19 - Departure Improve | Suspenseful, Tense, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 4 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
20 - Tension and Secrets Unveiled Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Dark | 9 | 8 | 9 | 3 | 8 | 7 | 0 | 7 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 4 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 8 | |
21 - Interrogation and Hospital Visit Improve | Intense, Suspenseful, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
22 - Urgent Situation in Room 103 Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Anxious | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
23 - Lost in the Corridor, Trapped in the Trunk Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Desperate | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
24 - Surveillance in the Mall Parking Lot Improve | Suspenseful, Dark, Intense | 9 | 8 | 9 | 4 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
25 - Tense Encounter at the E.R. Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Serious | 9 | 8 | 9 | 3 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 7 | |
26 - Suspicion on the Highway Improve | Suspenseful, Tense, Intense | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
27 - Guilt and Pressure Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Desperate | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
28 - Tracking and Tension Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Desperate | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
29 - A Suspicious Sighting Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Mysterious | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
30 - Critical Condition Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Emotional | 9 | 8 | 9 | 4 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
31 - Confrontation in the E.R. Improve | Intense, Suspenseful, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
32 - The Search for the Strange Guy Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Serious | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
33 - Suspenseful Encounter at the Gas Station Improve | Suspenseful, Intense, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 4 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 10 | 6 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
34 - Tense Car Conversation Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Emotional | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
35 - Mike's Distress and Surprise Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Anxious | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
36 - Tense Confrontation at the Gas Station and E.R. Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
37 - Betrayal and Revenge Improve | Tense, Dark, Suspenseful, Violent | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
38 - Desperate Phone Calls and Whispered Secrets Improve | Tense, Distressed, Resolute | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
39 - Tense Moments and Unexpected Stops Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 3 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 10 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
40 - Tense Moments at the Gas Station Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Dark | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
41 - Confrontation at the Gas Station Improve | Tense, Dramatic, Intense | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
42 - Tense Encounter in the Desert Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Dark | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
43 - Deadly Confrontation in the Desert Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Violent | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
44 - Race Against Time Improve | Tense, Suspenseful, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
45 - Narrow Escape Improve | Intense, Suspenseful, Dark | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 |
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
- Intense tension and suspense
- Effective dialogue
- Strong emotional impact
- Building tension and suspense
- Well-developed plot and characters
Scene Weaknesses
- Limited character development
- Limited exploration of theme
- Some dialogue could be more impactful
- Possible lack of clarity in character motivations
- Lack of standout dialogue
Suggestions
- Focus on character development to deepen audience engagement and emotional impact
- Strive for clear and distinct character motivations to avoid confusion
- Spend additional time exploring themes to create a richer, more resonant story
- Work on crafting impactful dialogue that resonates with the audience
- Pay close attention to pacing and flow to ensure that the story is engaging from beginning to end
- Physical environment: The world depicted in the screenplay includes various physical environments such as parking lots, highways, desert spots, gas stations, airports, and emergency rooms. These locations contribute to the atmosphere of tension, danger, isolation, and secrecy in the story.
- Culture: The cultural elements in the screenplay are not explicitly mentioned or explored in detail. However, there are hints of different cultural backgrounds and identities, such as the African American identity of Jimmy and the use of Spanish language by some characters.
- Society: The societal structures in the screenplay are not explicitly described or explored. However, there are indications of criminal enterprises, law enforcement agencies, and the authority of figures like Uncle Josh and Aunt Monica over Jimmy.
- Technology: The technological aspects in the screenplay include the use of mobile phones, car navigators, computers, surveillance equipment, and medical equipment. These technologies contribute to the modernity, convenience, surveillance, and espionage elements of the story.
- Characters influence: The unique physical environments, cultural elements, societal structures, and technological aspects shape the characters' experiences and actions in the screenplay. For example, the characters' interactions with the physical environments create a sense of tension, danger, and urgency. The cultural elements and societal structures influence the characters' relationships, motivations, and behaviors. The technological aspects enable communication, surveillance, and navigation, affecting the characters' strategies and decisions.
- Narrative contribution: The world elements in the screenplay contribute to the narrative by creating a rich and immersive setting. The physical environments, cultural elements, societal structures, and technological aspects provide the backdrop for the characters' journeys, conflicts, and interactions. They also drive the plot forward, introducing obstacles, conflicts, and opportunities for the characters.
- Thematic depth contribution: The world elements in the screenplay contribute to the thematic depth by exploring themes such as tension, danger, secrecy, morality, identity, and power dynamics. The physical environments, cultural elements, societal structures, and technological aspects reflect and reinforce these thematic elements, adding layers of complexity and depth to the story.
Voice Analysis | |
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Summary: | The writer's voice is characterized by concise and impactful dialogue, minimalistic narrative description, and a focus on tension and suspense. The dialogue is realistic and gritty, with occasional touches of dark humor. The narrative description is concise and effective in setting the atmosphere and conveying the characters' emotions. The writer's voice contributes to the script by creating a sense of tension, urgency, and danger. It explores themes of moral ambiguity, personal agency, and the consequences of one's actions. The writer's voice adds depth to the screenplay by effectively conveying the internal struggles and conflicts faced by the characters, as well as the dark and dangerous world they inhabit. |
Voice Contribution | The writer's voice contributes to the script by creating a sense of tension, urgency, and danger. The concise and impactful dialogue adds depth to the characters and explores complex themes. The minimalistic narrative description enhances the suspense and atmosphere, allowing the reader to feel the emotions and actions of the characters. The writer's voice also adds depth to the screenplay by effectively conveying the internal struggles and conflicts faced by the characters, as well as the dark and dangerous world they inhabit. |
Best Representation Scene | 4 - Shocking Discovery |
Best Scene Explanation | This scene could serve as the encapsulation of the writer's unique voice in the screenplay because it effectively conveys the internal and external conflicts faced by the protagonist, as well as the dark and dangerous world they inhabit. |
Top Correlations and patterns found in the scenes:
Pattern | Explanation |
---|---|
Correlation between Emotional Impact and Overall Grade | There is a strong positive correlation between Emotional Impact and Overall Grade in this screenplay. Scenes with higher Emotional Impact tend to have higher Overall Grades. |
Correlation between Conflict and High Stakes | There is a strong positive correlation between Conflict and High Stakes in this screenplay. Scenes with higher Conflict tend to have higher High Stakes. |
Correlation between Dialogue and Character Changes | There is a moderate positive correlation between Dialogue and Character Changes in this screenplay. Scenes with more Dialogue tend to have more Character Changes. |
Correlation between Tone and Emotional Impact | There is a moderate positive correlation between Tone and Emotional Impact in this screenplay. Scenes with more intense or suspenseful Tone tend to have higher Emotional Impact. |
Correlation between Suspenseful Tone and Suspenseful Concept | There is a strong positive correlation between scenes with Suspenseful Tone and scenes with Suspenseful Concept in this screenplay. Suspenseful Tone is consistently associated with Suspenseful Concept. |
Writer's Craft Overall Analysis
The overall writing style of the screenplay is effective in creating tension, suspense, and intrigue. The concise and impactful dialogue, along with minimalistic narrative description, keeps the reader engaged and invested in the story. The writer demonstrates a strong command of storytelling techniques and creates engaging and well-paced scenes. However, there is room for improvement in terms of scene structure, character development, and originality.
Key Improvement Areas
Suggestions
Type | Suggestion | Rationale |
---|---|---|
Book | Story by Robert McKee | This book provides insights and techniques for crafting compelling and engaging scenes, improving scene structure, and developing well-rounded characters. It will help address the key improvement areas identified in the analysis. |
Video | MasterClass: Aaron Sorkin Teaches Screenwriting | This video course by Aaron Sorkin, a renowned screenwriter, offers valuable lessons and techniques for improving dialogue writing, creating dynamic characters, and crafting engaging scenes. It will enhance the writer's skills in the key improvement areas. |
Exercise | Write a scene with conflicting internal and external goals for the protagonistPractice In SceneProv | This exercise will help the writer further develop their skills in creating complex and compelling scenes. By exploring the internal conflicts of the protagonist, they can add depth and tension to their storytelling. |
Exercise | Write a scene with a different genrePractice In SceneProv | Exploring different genres will expand the writer's skills and creativity. It will challenge them to adapt their writing style and explore new storytelling techniques, ultimately enhancing their overall craft. |
Exercise | Practice writing dialogue-driven scenes with high stakesPractice In SceneProv | This exercise will improve the writer's ability to create tension and conflict in their scenes. By focusing on dialogue and raising the stakes, they can enhance the impact of their storytelling. |
Here are different Tropes found in the screenplay
Trope | Trope Details | Trope Explanation |
---|---|---|
Mistaken Identity | Glenn mistakenly believes that the girl in the trunk is dead. | Mistaken Identity is a trope where a character mistakenly believes someone or something to be something else. In this case, Glenn mistakenly believes that the girl in the trunk is dead, when in fact she is alive. |
Kidnapping | Sarah is kidnapped and trapped in the trunk of a car. | Kidnapping is a trope where a character is forcibly taken and held against their will. In this case, Sarah is kidnapped by Robby and trapped in the trunk of a car. |
Car Chase | Glenn is involved in a car chase with the police. | Car Chase is a trope where characters engage in a high-speed pursuit in vehicles. In this case, Glenn is involved in a car chase with the police. |
Corrupt Law Enforcement | Hector is a corrupt law enforcement officer. | Corrupt Law Enforcement is a trope where law enforcement officers abuse their power for personal gain. In this case, Hector is a corrupt law enforcement officer involved in illegal activities. |
Double Cross | Sean plans to kill Glenn after using him. | Double Cross is a trope where a character betrays or deceives another character, often after gaining their trust. In this case, Sean plans to kill Glenn after using him to deliver the kidnapped girl. |
Deserted Location | Glenn drives through a deserted desert location. | Deserted Location is a trope where characters find themselves in a remote or isolated area with few or no other people around. In this case, Glenn drives through a deserted desert location. |
Police Investigation | Rodriguez and Brown investigate the criminal activities. | Police Investigation is a trope where law enforcement officers conduct an investigation to solve a crime or uncover the truth. In this case, Rodriguez and Brown investigate the criminal activities and try to apprehend the perpetrators. |
Flashback | Sarah has a flashback to a previous event. | Flashback is a trope where a character remembers or relives a past event. In this case, Sarah has a flashback to a previous event where she sneaks out of her house and gets into the car with Robby. |
Undercover Operation | Brown and Rodriguez go undercover to gather information. | Undercover Operation is a trope where law enforcement officers assume false identities or infiltrate a criminal organization to gather information or evidence. In this case, Brown and Rodriguez go undercover to gather information on the criminal activities. |
Rescue Mission | Sarah tries to escape and rescue herself. | Rescue Mission is a trope where a character tries to escape from a dangerous situation and rescue themselves or others. In this case, Sarah tries to escape from the trunk of the car and rescue herself. |
Memorable lines in the script:
Scene Number | Line |
---|---|
9 | Hector: You are mine, ok. You belong to me you little cunt. I can end you whenever I want. |
13 | Aaron: I'll fuck your ass! You are a dead man, you understand, you are fucking DEAD! |
23 | Sarah: Yeahhhh, fuck you!!! |
45 | Sarah: I won't be a victim anymore! |
35 | Mike: I'm not leaving her alone. |
Some Loglines to consider:
A desperate father forced to transport a kidnapped girl becomes entangled in a human trafficking ring, leading him to make a life-altering choice. |
A young girl trapped in the trunk of a car must fight for survival as she becomes a pawn in a deadly game of human trafficking. |
When an undercover FBI agent's cover is blown, a routine exchange turns into a desperate race against time to save innocent lives. |
A cleaning lady witnesses suspicious activity at a gas station and must decide whether to speak up, potentially jeopardizing her own safety. |
A group of ordinary people caught in the dark underworld of human trafficking are forced to confront their own morals and make difficult choices. |
Help & FAQ
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Consider
Explanation: The screenplay for 'Merch' presents a powerful and suspenseful exploration of human trafficking, with a strong premise, compelling character arcs, and a thought-provoking social message. While the pacing could be tightened and some character motivations further developed, the script effectively interweaves multiple storylines and delivers moments of both darkness and hope. With some refinements, 'Merch' has the potential to be a captivating and impactful film that raises awareness about a critical issue.