Alumni

Executive Summary





Pass/Consider/Recommend/Highly Recommend

Consider

Explanation: The screenplay for 'Alumni' presents a compelling exploration of trauma and its aftermath, focusing on a group of high school alumni grappling with the lasting impact of a school shooting. While the screenplay excels in creating atmosphere and delving into the psychological complexities of its characters, it suffers from pacing issues, an underdeveloped antagonist, and an abrupt ending. Further development is needed to strengthen the narrative structure and provide a more satisfying resolution.

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Promo


USP: This script offers a unique blend of technical accuracy, emotional depth, and character-driven storytelling. It stands out from others in its genre by authentically portraying a range of complex characters and their interconnected lives. The script explores themes of trauma, healing, and personal growth, creating a compelling and immersive narrative. With its vivid atmosphere, engaging dialogue, and introspective voice, this script will captivate its target audience and leave a lasting impact as a powerful piece of storytelling.
Overview

Genres: Drama, Thriller, Horror, Mystery, Medical, Coming-of-age, Teen Drama, Crime, Comedy

Setting: 2003 and 2023, Ravenwood High School, hospital, police department, and various other locations

Overview: The screenplay achieves a strong overall score due to its compelling characters, emotionally resonant themes, and effective blend of genres. However, opportunities exist to refine pacing, deepen character arcs, and enhance plot originality.

Themes: Survival, Trauma and Healing, High School Memories, Guilt and Regret, Connection and Friendship, Identity and Self-Reflection, Violence and its Consequences, Memory and Nostalgia, Responsibility and Accountability

Conflict and Stakes: The primary conflicts in this story include the violent attack on Mark and the other students, the discovery of opioids in a patient's system, the unresolved cases at the police department, and the emotional struggles of the characters. The stakes involve their safety, reputation, and personal growth.

Overall Mood: Tense and introspective

Mood/Tone at Key Scenes:

Standout Features:

  • Violent Attack: The shocking and brutal attack on Mark and the other students creates a sense of urgency and danger.
  • Survivor's Journey : The exploration of trauma and the characters' journey towards healing and redemption.
  • High School Reunion : The reunion serves as a catalyst for the characters to confront their past and face their demons.
  • Mystery and Suspense : The screenplay incorporates elements of mystery and suspense, keeping the audience engaged and guessing.
  • Exploration of Social Issues : The screenplay delves into relevant social issues such as drug addiction, violence, and the impact of past events on individuals and communities.

Comparable Scripts:

  • Elephant
  • We Need to Talk About Kevin
  • Crash
  • The Perks of Being a Wallflower
  • Friday Night Lights
  • American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson
  • The Fault in Our Stars
  • Thirteen Reasons Why
  • The Breakfast Club
  • Black Mirror: White Bear
Market Analysis

Budget Estimate:$10-15 million

Target Audience Demographics: Adults aged 25-54, fans of drama, thriller, and mystery genres

Marketability: The screenplay explores compelling themes and features a diverse cast, which can attract a wide audience.

The unique blend of genres and the exploration of relevant social themes make this screenplay stand out in the market.

The gripping storyline and compelling characters have the potential to generate buzz and attract critical acclaim.

Profit Potential: Moderate to high, due to the strong appeal to a wide adult audience and potential for critical recognition and awards

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Writer's Voice

Summary:The writer's voice is characterized by a blend of concise, descriptive, and introspective narrative, with a focus on personal growth, healing, and empathetic dialogue. The author creates a balance between technical and emotional aspects, contributing to a realistic and engaging atmosphere.

Best representation: Scene 3 - Life-saving Efforts Fail in the Emergency Room. This scene is the best representation of the author's voice because it showcases their ability to create a tense and urgent atmosphere, while also focusing on the characters' emotional responses and their determination to protect themselves. The descriptive narrative and character-driven dialogue create a vivid and engaging scene that highlights the writer's unique voice.

Memorable Lines:

  • Jasmine: ABOVE ALL, WE RISE (Scene 19)
  • Chris: We're not cats. We're Raptors! And what do Raptors do? Above all, we rise... even if some of us have put on a bit of weight since high school. (Scene 40)
  • Chris: To Rachel, to Liam, to Tyler, to Sarah, to Mark, to Kevin. So long as we say their names, they will never truly die. We'll keep them in our hearts, honor them with our actions, and carry them into the future they've inspired us to build. With us, evermore! (Scene 42)
  • Eva: Five... five things... (Scene 17)
  • Alex: True horror lay not in the unseen menace prowling the shadows, but in the silent scream of his own soul, paralyzed by a moment forged in the dark - where every second echoes through time in a single choice. (Scene 14)

Writing Style:

The writing style of the entire screenplay is characterized by a focus on authentic and relatable dialogue, exploration of internal struggles and emotions, and a blend of humor and introspection.

Style Similarities:

  • Charlie Kaufman
  • Aaron Sorkin
Other Similarities: The screenplay also shows influences from other screenwriters such as John Hughes, Greta Gerwig, and Richard Linklater, who contribute to the overall style with their focus on high school dynamics, personal growth, and naturalistic dialogue.
Story Shape
Emotions Elicited