Read Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog with its analysis


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Scene 1 -  Dr. Horrible's Ambitions and Aspirations
  • Overall: 8.0
  • Concept: 8
  • Plot: 8
  • Characters: 7
  • Dialogue: 9
DR. HORRIBLE’S SING-ALONG BLOG
By
Joss Whedon, Jed Whedon, Zack Whedon & Maurissa Tancharoen
ACT I
Blog #1
DR. HORRIBLE
Ah hahahaha. Ah ha haaaa. A haaaa.
So that’s you know... coming along. I’m working with a
vocal coach. Strengthening the “ahhaa”. A lot of guys
ignore the laugh and that’s about standards. I mean, if
you’re going to get into the Evil League of Evil you
HAVE to have a memorable laugh. I mean do you think Bad
Horse didn’t work on his whinny? His terrible...
Death... whinny.
No response, BTW from the League yet but my application
is strong this year. A letter of condemnation from the
deputy mayor. That’s gotta have some weight, so,
fingers crossed.
EMAILS! 2sly4you writes: “hey genius” wow. Sarcasm.
That’s ORIGINAL. “Where are the gold bars you were
supposed to pull out of that bank vault with your
trans-matter ray? Obviously it failed or it would be in
the papers.”
Well no, there not going to say anything in the press.
But BEHOLD. Transported from there to here.
The molecules tend to shift in the trans-matter...
um... event, but, they were transported IN BAR FORM and
they clearly were... (and by the way it’s not about
making money. It’s about TAKING money. Destroying the
status-quo because the “status” is NOT “quo”. The world
is a mess and I just need to RULE it.) I’m gonna...
that smells like cumin.
So, Trans-matter is 75% AND more importantly the
Freeze-Ray is almost up. This is the one. Stops time.
Freeze-ray. Tell your friends.
We have... OH! Here’s one from our good friend Johnny
Snow. “Dr. Horrible. I see you are once again afraid to
do battle with your nemesis. I waited at Dooley Park
for 45 minutes.”
Ok, DUDE you’re NOT my nemesis. My nemesis is Captain
Hammer. Captain Hammer, Corporate TOOL. He dislocated
my shoulder... Again... last week.
LOOK! I’m just trying to change the world, OK? I don’t
have time for a grudge match with every poser in a
parka. Besides, there’s kids in that park, so...
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 2.


DR. HORRIBLE (cont’d)
Here’s one from DeadNotSleeping. “Long time watcher,
first time writing.” Blah blah blah blah... “You always
say on your blog that you will ‘show her the way, show
her you are a true villain’. Who is ‘her’ and does she
even know that you’re” ...
Laundry Mat
"My Freeze Ray"
LAUNDRY DAY
SEE YOU THERE
UNDER THINGS
TUMBLING
WANNA SAY
“LOVE YOUR HAIR”
HERE I GO
MUMBLING
WITH MY FREEZE-RAY I WILL STOP THE WORLD
WITH MY FREEZE-RAY I WILL FIND THE TIME TO FIND THE
WORDS TO
TELL YOU HOW
HOW YOU MAKE
MAKE ME FEEL
WHAT’S THE PHRASE?
LIKE A FOOL
KINDA SICK
SPECIAL NEEDS
ANY WAYS
WITH MY FREEZE-RAY I WILL STOP THE PAIN
IT’S NOT A DEATH-RAY OR AN ICE-BEAM THAT’S ALL JOHNNY
SNOW
I JUST THINK YOU NEED TIME TO KNOW
THAT I’M THE GUY TO MAKE IT REAL
THE FEELINGS YOU DON’T DARE TO FEEL
I’LL BEND THE WORLD TO OUR WILL
AND WE’LL MAKE TIME STAND STILL
THAT’S THE PLAN
RULE THE WORLD
YOU AND ME
ANYDAY
Love your hair
PENNY
What?


(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 3.


DR. HORRIBLE
No... I... I... I love the air...
ANYWAY
WITH MY FREEZE RAY I WILL STOP -
Lab
MOIST
Hey doc.
DR. HORRIBLE
Moist! My evil, moisture buddy. What’s going on?
MOIST
Life of crime. Got your mail.
DR. HORRIBLE
Hey, didn’t you ahh. Didn’t you go on a date last
night? Conflict Diamond told me you were doubling with
Bait’N’Switch.
MOIST
Yeah, ahhh...
DR. HORRIBLE
Yeah?
MOIST
It was all right. I kinda thought I was supposed to
end up with bait, but...
DR. HORRIBLE
I hear ya. I saw Penny today.
MOIST
You talk to her?
DR. HORRIBLE
So close. I’m just a few weeks away from a real,
audible, connection. I’m gonna ask... Oh my God!
MOIST
Is that from the League?
DR. HORRIBLE
It’s from him! That’s his seal isn’t it?!?
MOIST
The leader? The... Oh my God!



(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 4.


DR. HORRIBLE
I got a letter from Bad Horse!
MOIST
That’s so hard core. Bad Horse is legend. He rules
the league with an iron hoof. Are you sure you
wanna...?

"Bad Horse Letter"
BAD HORSE CHORUS
BAD HORSE
BAD HORSE
BAD HORSE
BAD HORSE
HE RIDES ACROSS THE NATION
THE THOROUGHBRED OF SIN
HE GOT THE APPLICATION THAT YOU JUST SENT IN
IT NEEDS EVALUATION, SO LET THE GAMES BEGIN
A HEINOUS CRIME, A SHOW OF FORCE,
(A MURDER WOULD BE NICE OF COURSE)
BAD HORSE
BAD HORSE
BAD HORSE
HE’S BAD
THE EVIL LEAGUE OF EVIL
IS WATCHING SO BEWARE
THE GRADE THAT YOU RECEIVE WILL BE YOUR LAST
WE SWEAR
SO MAKE THE BAD HORSE GLEEFUL
OR HE’LL MAKE YOU HIS MARE
YOU’RE SADDLED UP
THERE’S NO RECOURSE
IT’S ‘HIGH-HO SILVER’
SIGNED: BAD HORSE
MOIST
It’s not a no...
DR. HORRIBLE
Are you kidding? This is great! I’m about to pull a
major heist. You know the Wonderflonium that I need
for the Freeze-Ray? It’s being transported tomorrow.
MOIST
Armored car?
DR. HORRIBLE
Courier van. Candy from a baby.




(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 5.
Genres: ["Comedy","Musical","Superhero"]

Summary In his lab, Dr. Horrible records a blog entry detailing his desire to join the Evil League of Evil and his progress on a freeze-ray. He expresses disdain for his rival, Captain Hammer, and shares his feelings for Penny, the girl he admires. Excitement builds when he receives a letter from Bad Horse about an upcoming heist for Wonderflonium, setting the stage for his villainous plans while highlighting his internal conflicts.
Strengths
  • Engaging dialogue
  • Humorous tone
  • Musical element
  • Introduction of conflict and high stakes
Weaknesses
  • Limited emotional depth
  • Some dialogue may be too fast-paced for some viewers
Critique
  • The scene effectively establishes Dr. Horrible's character as a quirky, ambitious villain with a humorous take on his aspirations. The use of a blog format allows for a direct connection with the audience, making his thoughts and motivations clear.
  • The dialogue is witty and captures Dr. Horrible's cynicism and desire for recognition. However, some lines could be tightened for clarity and impact. For instance, the explanation of his freeze-ray could be more concise to maintain the audience's engagement.
  • The transition from the blog to the musical number is creative, but it may benefit from a smoother segue. The abrupt shift could confuse viewers who are not expecting a musical format. Consider adding a visual or thematic cue that signals the transition more clearly.
  • The introduction of the emails adds a layer of interaction, but the responses could be more varied to showcase different perspectives on Dr. Horrible's character. This would enrich the scene and provide more depth to his interactions with the audience.
  • The humor is strong, but it occasionally overshadows the emotional stakes. While Dr. Horrible's comedic elements are essential, balancing them with moments of genuine vulnerability could enhance the audience's connection to him.
  • The scene's pacing is generally good, but some sections feel slightly drawn out, particularly the email responses. Streamlining these parts could help maintain momentum and keep the audience engaged.
  • The introduction of Bad Horse is intriguing, but the significance of his character could be emphasized more. Providing a brief context about the Evil League of Evil and Bad Horse's role could heighten the stakes for Dr. Horrible.
Suggestions
  • Consider tightening the dialogue, especially around the freeze-ray explanation, to keep the audience's attention focused.
  • Add a visual or thematic cue to signal the transition from the blog to the musical number for a smoother flow.
  • Incorporate a wider variety of email responses to showcase different perspectives and add depth to Dr. Horrible's character.
  • Balance the humor with moments of vulnerability to create a stronger emotional connection with the audience.
  • Streamline the pacing by condensing some of the email responses to maintain momentum.
  • Provide a brief context about the Evil League of Evil and Bad Horse's significance to heighten the stakes for Dr. Horrible.



Scene 2 -  A Clash of Ideals
  • Overall: 8.0
  • Concept: 8
  • Plot: 7
  • Characters: 9
  • Dialogue: 9
MOIST
You need anything dampened or made soggy or...?
DR. HORRIBLE
Thanks, but... the League is watching. I gotta go this
alone.
Street
"Caring Hands"
PENNY
WILL YOU LEND A CARING HAND
TO SHELTER THOSE WHO NEED IT?
ONLY HAVE TO SIGN YOUR NAME
DON’T EVEN HAVE TO READ IT
WOULD YOU HELP?
NO? HOW BOUT YOU?
WILL YOU LEND A CARING HAND?
DR. HORRIBLE
ARGHHH!
PENNY
Oh. Oh.
DR. HORRIBLE
Argh. Ah. Hah. What?
PENNY
I was wondering if I could just... Hey, I know you!
DR. HORRIBLE
Hello. You know me? Cool. I mean. Yeah, you do. Do
you?
PENNY
From the laundry mat.
DR. HORRIBLE
Wednesdays and Saturdays except twice last month, you
skipped the weekend. Or, if that was you. It coulda
been someone else, I mean, I’ve SEEN you. Billy is my
name.
PENNY
I’m Penny. What are you doing?
DR. HORRIBLE
I’m texting. It’s very important or I would stop. What
are you doing?


(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 6.


PENNY
Actually I’m out here volunteering for the Caring Hands
Homeless Shelter. Can you spare a minute?
DR. HORRIBLE
Umm... Ok, go.
PENNY
Ok, we’re hoping to open up a new location soon, expand
our efforts. There’s this great building nearby that
the city is just going to demolish and turn into a
parking lot, but if we get enough signatures...
DR. HORRIBLE
Signatures? *pfft*
PENNY
Yeah.
DR. HORRIBLE
I’m sorry, go on.
PENNY
I was saying um, maybe we could get the city to donate
the building to our cause. We would be able to provide
250 new beds, get people off the streets and into job
training so they could... buy rocket packs and go to
the moon and become... florists... You’re not really
interested in the homeless are you?
DR. HORRIBLE
No, I am. But they’re a symptom. You’re treating a
symptom and the disease rages on, consumes the human
race. The fish rots from the head as they say. So my
thinking is why not cut off the head?
PENNY
Of the human race?
DR. HORRIBLE
It’s not a perfect metaphor... but I’m talking about an
overhaul of the system. Putting the power in...
DIFFERENT... hands.
PENNY
I’m all for that... This petition is about the
building...
DR. HORRIBLE
I’d love to sign it.




(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 7.


PENNY
Thank you.
DR. HORRIBLE
Sorry I... I come on strong.
PENNY
But you signed.
DR. HORRIBLE
Wouldn’t want to turn my back on a fellow laundry
person...
PENNY
Well if WE can’t stick together I don’t... I’ll
probably see you there.
DR. HORRIBLE
No, I will. I’ll...
She talked to me. Why did she talk to me NOW? Maybe I
should...

"A Man’s Gotta Do"
A MAN’S GOTTA DO WHAT A MAN’S GOTTA DO
DON’T PLAN THE PLAN IF YOU CAN’T FOLLOW THROUGH
ALL THAT MATTERS IS TAKING MATTERS INTO YOUR OWN HANDS
SOON I’LL CONTROL EVERYTHING
MY WISH IS YOUR COMMAND
CAPTAIN HAMMER
STAND BACK EVERYONE
NOTHIN’ HERE TO SEE
JUST IMMINENT DANGER
AND IN THE MIDDLE OF IT ME
YES CAPTAIN HAMMER’S HERE
HAIR BLOWING IN THE BREEZE
THE DAY NEEDS MY SAVING EXPERTISE
A MAN’S GOTTA DO WHAT A MAN’S GOTTA DO
SEEMS DESTINY ENDS WITH ME SAVING YOU
THE ONLY DOOM THAT’S LOOMING IS YOU LOVING ME TO DEATH
SO I’LL GIVE YOU A SECOND TO CATCH YOUR BREATH
DR. HORRIBLE
You Idiot!
CAPTAIN HAMMER
Dr. Horrible. I should have known you were behind this.
DR. HORRIBLE
You almost killed her


(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 8.


CAPTAIN HAMMER
I remember it differently.
DR. HORRIBLE
Is she? *urgh*
CAPTAIN HAMMER
Its curtains for you Dr. Horrible. Lacy, gently wafting
curtains.
PENNY
THANK YOU HAMMER MAN, I DON’T THINK I CAN
EXPLAIN HOW IMPORTANT IT WAS THAT YOU STOP THE VAN
I WOULD BE SPLATTERED; I’D BE CRUSHED UNDER DEBRIS
THANK YOU SIR FOR SAVING ME
CAPTAIN HAMMER
Don’t worry about it.
A MAN’S GOTTA DO WHAT A MAN’S GOTTA DO.
PENNY
(YOU CAME FROM ABOVE.)
DR. HORRIBLE
(ARE YOU KIDDING?)
CAPTAIN HAMMER
SEEMS DESTINY ENDS WITH ME SAVING YOU
DR. HORRIBLE
(WHAT HEIST WERE YOU WATCHING?)
PENNY
(I WONDER WHAT YOU’RE CAPTAIN OF)
DR. HORRIBLE
(STOP LOOKING AT HER LIKE THAT)
CAPTAIN HAMMER
WHEN YOU’RE THE BEST YOU CAN’T REST, WHAT’S THE USE?
DR. HORRIBLE
(DID YOU NOTICE THAT HE THREW YOU IN THE GARBAGE?)
PENNY
(MY HEART IS BEATING LIKE A DRUM)
CAPTAIN HAMMER
THERE’S ASS NEEDS KICKING. SOME TICKING BOMB TO
DIFFUSE.



(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 9.


PENNY
(MUST... MUST BE IN SHOCK)
DR. HORRIBLE
(I STOPPED THE VAN. THE REMOTE CONTROL WAS IN MY HAND)
CAPTAIN HAMMER
THE ONLY DOOM THAT’S LOOMING IS YOU LOVING ME TO DEATH
PENNY
(ASSUMING I’M NOT LOVING YOU TO DEATH)
DR. HORRIBLE
(WHATEVER)
CAPTAIN HAMMER & PENNY
SO PLEASE GIVE ME A SEC TO CATCH MY BREATH
DR. HORRIBLE
Balls.
10.
Genres: ["Musical","Comedy","Superhero"]

Summary In this scene, Dr. Horrible meets Penny on a city street as she promotes a petition for the Caring Hands Homeless Shelter. Their conversation reveals Penny's passion for her cause and Dr. Horrible's cynical perspective on societal issues. Despite his initial reluctance, he signs her petition, hinting at a connection between them. The scene shifts when Captain Hammer arrives, claiming to save Penny and confronting Dr. Horrible, highlighting the tension between heroism and villainy, and leaving Dr. Horrible feeling overshadowed and frustrated.
Strengths
  • Sharp dialogue
  • Well-defined characters
  • Engaging conflict
  • Humorous tone
Weaknesses
  • Some dialogue may be overly verbose
  • Transition between musical and dialogue scenes
Critique
  • The scene effectively establishes the contrast between Dr. Horrible's cynical worldview and Penny's optimistic mission, which is a strong thematic element. However, the dialogue can feel a bit expository at times, particularly when Dr. Horrible explains his views on the homeless situation. This could be streamlined to maintain a more natural flow.
  • Penny's character comes across as earnest and passionate, which is great, but her dialogue could benefit from more specificity about the shelter's mission. This would help the audience connect more deeply with her cause and understand why it matters to her personally.
  • The transition into the musical number feels a bit abrupt. While it serves to heighten the stakes with Captain Hammer's entrance, it might be more effective if there were a clearer emotional or narrative build-up leading into the song. This would help the audience feel the weight of the moment.
  • Dr. Horrible's internal conflict is hinted at but could be more pronounced. His motivations for signing the petition could be explored further, perhaps through a brief moment of hesitation or reflection that reveals his struggle between his villainous aspirations and his feelings for Penny.
  • The comedic elements are strong, particularly in the banter between Dr. Horrible and Penny, but the humor could be enhanced by incorporating more physical comedy or visual gags that complement the dialogue. This would add another layer to the scene and keep the audience engaged.
Suggestions
  • Consider tightening Dr. Horrible's dialogue to make it feel more conversational and less like exposition. This could involve using more subtext and allowing his actions to convey his feelings.
  • Add a personal anecdote or a specific detail from Penny about why the shelter is important to her. This would deepen her character and make her mission more relatable.
  • Create a more gradual transition into the musical number by building tension or emotional stakes in the dialogue leading up to Captain Hammer's entrance. Perhaps Dr. Horrible could express a moment of doubt or fear about his plans.
  • Explore Dr. Horrible's internal conflict more explicitly. A brief moment of self-reflection or a visual cue (like him looking at his freeze-ray) could highlight his struggle between villainy and his feelings for Penny.
  • Incorporate physical comedy or visual elements that enhance the humor in the scene. For example, Dr. Horrible could fumble with his phone while trying to appear nonchalant, or Penny could have a humorous interaction with a passerby that contrasts with the serious nature of her mission.



Scene 3 -  Laundry and Longing
  • Overall: 8.0
  • Concept: 8
  • Plot: 7
  • Characters: 8
  • Dialogue: 9
ACT II
Blog #2
Dr. Horrible sits with blank expression.
Street
"On the Rise"
DR. HORRIBLE
ANY DOLT WITH HALF A BRAIN
CAN SEE THAT HUMAN KIND HAS GONE INSANE
TO THE POINT WHERE I DON’T KNOW
IF I’LL UPSET THE STATUS QUO
IF I THROW POISON IN THE WATER MAIN
LISTEN CLOSE TO EVERYBODY’S HEART
AND HEAR THAT BREAKING SOUND
HOPES AND DREAMS ARE SHATTERING APART
AND CRASHING TO THE GROUND
I CAN NOT BELIEVE MY EYES
HOW THE WORLD’S FILLED WITH FILTH AND LIES
BUT IT’S PLAIN TO SEE
EVIL INSIDE OF ME
IS ON THE RISE
PENNY
LOOK AROUND. WE’RE LIVING WITH THE LOST AND FOUND
JUST WHEN YOU FEEL YOU’VE ALMOST DROWNED
YOU FIND YOURSELF ON SOLID GROUND
AND YOU BELIEVE THERE’S GOOD IN EVERYBODY’S HEART
KEEP IT SAFE AND SOUND
WITH HOPE, YOU CAN DO YOUR PART
TO TURN A LIFE AROUND
I CAN NOT BELIEVE MY EYES
IS THE WORLD FINALLY GROWING WISE
CAUSE IT SEEMS TO ME
SOME KIND OF HARMONY
IS ON THE RISE
DR. HORRIBLE
ANY ONE WITH HALF A BRAIN
COULD SPEND THEIR WHOLE LIFE HOWLING IN PAIN
PENNY
(TAKE IT SLOW
HE LOOKS AT ME AND SEEMS TO KNOW)
THE THINGS THAT I’M AFRAID TO SHOW
AND SUDDENLY I FEEL HIS GLOW


(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 11.


DR. HORRIBLE
(CAUSE THE DARK IS EVERYWHERE
AND PENNY DOESN’T SEEM TO CARE
THAT SOON THE DARK IN ME IS ALL THAT WILL REMAIN)
PENNY
AND I BELIEVE THERE’S GOOD IN EVERYBODY’S HEART
KEEP IT SAFE AND SOUND
DR. HORRIBLE
(LISTEN CLOSE TO EVERYBODY’S HEART
AND HEAR THAT BREAKING SOUND)
HOPES AND DREAMS ARE SHATTERING APART
PENNY
(WITH HOPE YOU CAN DO YOUR PART)
DR. HORRIBLE
AND CRASHING TO THE GROUND
PENNY
(TO TURN A LIFE AROUND)
DR. HORRIBLE & PENNY
I CAN NOT BELIEVE MY EYES
HOW THE WORLD’S -
DR. HORRIBLE
FILLED WITH FILTH AND LIES
PENNY
FINALLY GROWING WISE
DR. HORRIBLE
BUT IT’S PLAIN TO SEE
PENNY
(AND IT’S PLAIN TO SEE)
DR. HORRIBLE
EVIL INSIDE OF ME
PENNY
(RAPTURE INSIDE OF ME)
DR. HORRIBLE & PENNY
IS ON THE RISE
12.


Laundry Mat
PENNY
It is so dumb that we’ve been coming here so long and
never spoke.
DR. HORRIBLE
I know. All those months doing a stunningly boring
chore.
PENNY
I’m a fan of laundry.
DR. HORRIBLE
Psych! I love it.
PENNY
The smell of fabric softener.
DR. HORRIBLE
MMmm.
PENNY
The feel of warm clothes in your hands.
DR. HORRIBLE
So good.
Hey, this is weird. I ordered one frozen yogurt and
they gave me two. You don’t happen to like frozen
yogurt do you?
PENNY
I love it.
DR. HORRIBLE
Yore kidding! what a crazy, random happen-stance. Here.
PENNY
Thank you.
DR. HORRIBLE
So how was your weekend? Did you spend the whole time
hunting wild signatures?
PENNY
Um, actually, I went on a date...
DR. HORRIBLE
Get right outta town. How was that?




(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 13.


PENNY
Unexpected. He’s a really good looking guy, and I
thought he was kinda cheesy at first...
DR. HORRIBLE
Trust your instincts -
PENNY
But, he turned out to be totally sweet. Sometimes
people are layered like that. there’s something totally
different underneath than what’s on the surface.
DR. HORRIBLE
And sometimes there’s a third, even deeper level and
that one is the same as the top surface one.
PENNY
Huh?
DR. HORRIBLE
Like with pie...
So, you gonna see him again?
PENNY
I think I will...
DR. HORRIBLE
Huh.
PENNY
Billy?
DR. HORRIBLE
Yeah?
PENNY
You’re driving a spork into your leg.
DR. HORRIBLE
So I am. Hilarious.

Blog #3
DR. HORRIBLE
All right. The wait is over. This my friends, is my
Freeze-Ray which, with the addition of the
Wonderflonium I obtained at my famously successful
heist last week.
I say successful in that I achieved my objective. It
was less successful in that I inadvertently introduced
my arch-nemesis to the girl of my dreams, and now he’s
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 14.


DR. HORRIBLE (cont’d)
taking her out on dates, and they’re probably going to
french kiss or something.
She called him sweet. How is he sweet?
RIGHT. Freeze-Ray. SO as of tonight I am in the Evil
League of Evil if all goes according to plan; which it
WILL because I hold a P.H.D in Horribleness. See you at
the aftermath. PEACE!
But not literally...

Blog #4
Dr. Horrible returns battered and bruised.
DR. HORRIBLE
*cough* Ahem. The Freeze-Ray needs work. I also need to
be a LITTLE bit more careful about what I say on this
blog. Apparently the L.A.P.D and Captain Hammer are
among our viewers.
They were waiting for me at the Mayor’s dedication of
the Superhero Memorial Bridge. The Freeze-Ray takes a
few seconds to warm up and I wasn’t...
Captain Hammer threw a car at my head.
Not to worry though, because I’m....
Oh, one second.
"Bad Horse Phone Call"
BAD HORSE CHORUS
HE SAW THE OPERATION
YOU TRIED TO PULL TODAY
BUT YOUR HUMILIATION MEANS HE STILL VOTES NAY
AND NOW ASSASSINATION IS JUST THE ONLY WAY
THERE WILL BE BLOOD
IT MIGHT BE YOURS
SO GO KILL SOMEONE
SIGNED: BAD HORSE

Lab
MOIST
Kill someone?
DR. HORRIBLE
Would you do it? To get into the Evil League of Evil?


(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 15.
Genres: ["Musical","Comedy","Drama"]

Summary In a laundromat, Dr. Horrible sings about his disillusionment with the world, revealing his inner turmoil and jealousy over Penny's date with Captain Hammer. Penny counters his negativity with optimism, highlighting the goodness in people. Their playful banter about laundry and frozen yogurt showcases their budding friendship, but Dr. Horrible's darker thoughts linger, culminating in a humorous moment where he accidentally stabs himself with a spork. The scene captures the tension between his cynicism and her hopefulness, leaving his feelings of inadequacy unresolved.
Strengths
  • Engaging dialogue
  • Contrasting perspectives
  • Humor
Weaknesses
  • Character growth not fully realized
  • Stakes not fully established
Critique
  • The juxtaposition of Dr. Horrible's cynical worldview with Penny's optimism is effective in showcasing their contrasting personalities. However, the transition between their perspectives could be more fluid. The song lyrics are strong, but the dialogue that follows feels slightly disjointed from the emotional weight of the song, which may confuse the audience about the characters' feelings.
  • The banter about laundry and frozen yogurt adds a light-hearted touch, but it risks undermining the emotional stakes established in the song. While humor is essential, it should not detract from the tension of Dr. Horrible's jealousy and inner turmoil regarding Penny's date with Captain Hammer.
  • The scene's pacing could be improved. The song is impactful, but the subsequent dialogue feels rushed. Allowing more time for the characters to process their emotions after the song could enhance the scene's depth and give the audience a moment to absorb the conflict.
  • Dr. Horrible's internal conflict is compelling, but it could be more explicitly tied to his actions and decisions in the scene. His jealousy over Penny's date is mentioned but not fully explored, which could leave the audience wanting more insight into his motivations.
  • The use of the spork as a comedic element is clever, but it may come off as too absurd in the context of the scene. It could be beneficial to find a balance between humor and the darker themes at play, ensuring that the comedy serves to enhance rather than distract from the narrative.
Suggestions
  • Consider revising the transition between the song and the dialogue to create a smoother emotional flow. Perhaps include a moment of silence or reflection after the song before diving into the banter.
  • Enhance the emotional stakes by allowing Dr. Horrible to express his jealousy more explicitly in the dialogue. This could involve him making a more pointed comment about Penny's date that reveals his feelings.
  • Extend the dialogue following the song to give characters more time to react to each other's perspectives. This could involve them discussing their views on the world in a way that feels more organic and less rushed.
  • Explore the theme of duality in Dr. Horrible's character more deeply. Perhaps include a moment where he almost reveals his true feelings for Penny, only to pull back at the last moment, emphasizing his internal struggle.
  • Reassess the use of humor in the scene. While the spork is a fun visual, consider replacing it with a more relatable object or action that ties back to the themes of the scene, maintaining the balance between comedy and the darker undertones.



Scene 4 -  The Struggle for Acceptance
  • Overall: 8.0
  • Concept: 8
  • Plot: 7
  • Characters: 9
  • Dialogue: 8
MOIST
Look at me man. I’m Moist. I mean, at my most bad-ass I
make people feel like they want to take a shower. I’m
not E.L.E material.
DR. HORRIBLE
Killing’s not elegant or creative. It’s not my style.
MOIST
You’ve got more than enough evil hours to get into the
Henchman’s Union.
DR. HORRIBLE
*Pfft* I’m not a henchman. I’m Dr. Horrible. I have a
P.H.D. in horribleness.
MOIST
Is that the new catch phrase?
DR. HORRIBLE
I deserve to get in. You know I do. But killing?
Really?
MOIST
Hourglass says she knows a kid in Iowa that grows up to
become president. That’d be big.
DR. HORRIBLE
I’m not gonna kill a little kid.
MOIST
Smother an old lady.
DR. HORRIBLE:
Do I even know you?

Laundry Mat
DR. HORRIBLE
I just, you know, REALLY think I’m qualified for this,
this job and I just can’t get my foot in the door.
PENNY
I’m sure you will.
DR. HORRIBLE
I wanna do great things, you know? I wanna be an
achiever. Like Bad Horse...
PENNY
The thoroughbred of sin?



(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 16.


DR. HORRIBLE
I meant Ghandi.
PENNY
Well, I’ve gotten turned down from plenty of jobs. Even
fired a few times.
DR. HORRIBLE
I can’t imagine anyone firing you.
PENNY
Neither could I. Now I can visualize it really well.
But, you know... everything happens.
DR. HORRIBLE
Don’t say "for a reason".
PENNY
No, I’m just saying that everything happens.
DR. HORRIBLE
Not to me.

"Here’s a Story"
PENNY
HERE’S A STORY
OF A GIRL
WHO GREW UP LOST AND LONELY
THINKING LOVE WAS FAIRY TALE
AND TROUBLE WAS MADE ONLY FOR ME
EVEN IN THE DARKENSS EVERY COLOR CAN BE FOUND
AND EVERY DAY OF RAIN BRINGS WATER FLOWING TO
THINGS GROWING IN THE GROUND
GRIEF REPLACED WITH PITTY
FOR A CITY BARELY COPING
DREAMS ARE EASY TO ACHIEVE
IF HOPE IS ALL I’M HOPING TO BE
ANY TIME YOU’RE HURT
THERE’S ONE WHO HAS IT WORSE AROUND
AND EVERY DROP OF RAIN WILL KEEP YOU GROWING
SEEDS YOU’RE SOWING IN THE GROUND
SO KEEP YOUR HEAD UP
BILLY BUDDY
It’s like Captain Hammer’s always saying...




(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 17.


DR. HORRIBLE
Right. Him. How are things with "cheesy on the
outside"?
PENNY
Good. They’re good. He’s nice.
I’ll be interested to know what you think of him. He
said he might stop by.
DR. HORRIBLE
Stop by here?!
PENNY
Yeah.
DR. HORRIBLE
OH! Goodness. Look at my wrist. I gotta go
PENNY
But what about your clothes?
DR. HORRIBLE
I don’t love these. See ya.
ARGH!
CAPTAIN HAMMER
Oh, Pardon.
DR. HORRIBLE
Pardon.
PENNY
Billy, this is Captain Hammer.
CAPTAIN HAMMER
OH! Billy, the laundry buddy. well it is very nice to
meet you.
DR. HORRIBLE
We’re meeting now for the first time.
CAPTAIN HAMMER
You look horribly familiar.
DR. HORRIBLE
One of those faces I guess.
CAPTAIN HAMMER
Have I seen you at the gym?



(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 18.


DR. HORRIBLE
At the gym...
CAPTAIN HAMMER
I don’t go to the gym, I’m just naturally like this. Oh
well.
Who wants to know what the Mayor is doing behind closed
doors? He is signing over a certain building to a
Caring Hands Group as a new homeless shelter.
PENNY
Oh my God!
CAPTAIN HAMMER
Yep. Apparently the only signature he needed was my
fist. But, with a pen in it. That I was signing with.
PENNY
I, I can’t believe it!
DR. HORRIBLE
Congratulations
PENNY
Thank you, THANK YOU!
CAPTAIN HAMMER
ahh
PENNY
Oh
DR. HORRIBLE
Well, this is great. I wish I could stay and chit-chat.
CAPTAIN HAMMER
Well it sure was nice to meet you... Doctor...
You got a little crush, don’t you Doc? Well that’s
gonna make this hard to hear. See, later I’m gonna take
little Penny back to my place, show her the Command
Center, Hammer Cycle, maybe even the Ham-Jet. You think
she likes me now? I’m gonna give Penny the night of her
life. Just because you want her, and I get what you
want. See, Penny’s giving it up. She’s givin it up
hard, cause she’s with Captain Hammer. And THESE are
not the hammer.
The hammer is my penis.
19.


Street
"Brand New Day"
DR. HORRIBLE
THIS APPEARED AS A MORAL DILEMMA
CAUSE AT FIRST IT WAS WEIRD THOUGH I SWORE TO ELIMINATE
THE WORST OF THE PLAGUE THAT DEVOURED HUMANITY
ITS TRUE I WAS VAGUE ON THE HOW SO HOW CAN IT BE THAT
YOU
HAVE SHOWN ME THE LIGHT
IT’S A BRAND NEW DAY
AND THE SUN IS HIGH
ALL THE BIRDS ARE SINGING
THAT YOU’RE GONNA DIE
HOW I HESITATED
NOW I WONDER WHY
IT’S A BRAND NEW DAY
ALL THE TIMES THAT YOU BEAT ME UNCONSCIOUS
I’LL FORGIVE
ALL THE CRIMES INCOMPLETE, LISTEN, HONESTLY
I’LL LIVE
MR. COOL, MR. RIGHT, MR. KNOW-IT-ALL IS THROUGH
AND THE FUTURE’S SO BRIGHT
AND I OWE IT ALL TO YOU
YOU SHOWED ME THE LIGHT
IT’S A BRAND NEW ME
I’VE GOT NO REMORSE
NOW THE WATER’S RISIN’
BUT I KNOW THE COURSE
I’M GONNA SHOCK THE WORLD
GONNA SHOW BAD HORSE
IT’S A BRAND NEW DAY
AND PENNY WILL SEE
THE EVIL ME
NOT A JOKE
NOT A DORK
NOT A FAILURE
AND SHE MAY CRY
BUT HER TEARS WILL DRY
WHEN I HAND HER THE KEYS
TO A SHINY NEW AUSTRALIA
IT’S A BRAND NEW DAY
AND THE SUN IS HIGH
ALL THE ANGELS SING
BECAUSE YOU’RE GONNA DIE
GO AHEAD AND LAUGH
YEAH I’M A FUNNY GUY
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 20.
Genres: ["Musical","Comedy","Drama"]

Summary In a laundromat, Dr. Horrible grapples with his failure to join the Evil League of Evil, while his friend Moist suggests violent acts to prove his villainy. Dr. Horrible's reluctance to kill is evident as he shares a heartfelt conversation with Penny, who reveals her own experiences with rejection. Their bond deepens until Captain Hammer arrives, boasting about his heroics and relationship with Penny, creating tension for Dr. Horrible. The scene culminates with Dr. Horrible's resolve to embrace his darker side, setting the stage for his transformation.
Strengths
  • Strong character development
  • Effective use of musical numbers
  • Engaging dialogue
Weaknesses
  • Some dialogue may feel forced or cliched
Critique
  • The dialogue between Dr. Horrible and Moist effectively establishes Dr. Horrible's reluctance to embrace true villainy, showcasing his internal conflict. However, the humor can sometimes overshadow the emotional stakes. Balancing the comedic elements with the gravity of Dr. Horrible's aspirations would enhance the scene's impact.
  • Penny's introduction into the scene feels somewhat abrupt. While her character is essential for Dr. Horrible's development, her transition from the previous scene could be smoother. Establishing her presence more organically would help maintain the flow of the narrative.
  • The musical number 'Here's a Story' serves as a strong emotional anchor, but it could benefit from clearer thematic ties to Dr. Horrible's journey. While Penny's optimism contrasts with Dr. Horrible's cynicism, the connection between her story and his internal struggle could be more explicitly drawn to deepen the audience's understanding of their relationship.
  • Captain Hammer's entrance is impactful, but his dialogue could be more concise. Some of his lines feel overly verbose, which detracts from the tension of the moment. Streamlining his dialogue would maintain the scene's pacing and enhance the comedic effect.
  • The climax of the scene, where Dr. Horrible's jealousy surfaces, is well-executed, but it could be heightened by incorporating more physicality or visual cues. For instance, Dr. Horrible's body language could reflect his internal turmoil more vividly, making his emotional state clearer to the audience.
Suggestions
  • Consider adding a brief moment of reflection for Dr. Horrible after Moist's suggestions about violent acts. This could provide insight into his character and deepen the audience's connection to his internal conflict.
  • Introduce Penny with a more gradual build-up, perhaps by having her engage with someone else before Dr. Horrible notices her. This would create a more natural transition and enhance her role in the scene.
  • Rework the lyrics of 'Here's a Story' to include more direct references to Dr. Horrible's struggles. This would create a stronger thematic resonance and make the song feel more integral to the narrative.
  • Edit Captain Hammer's dialogue to be more punchy and impactful. Focus on key phrases that highlight his arrogance and the tension between him and Dr. Horrible without excessive elaboration.
  • Incorporate more visual storytelling elements, such as Dr. Horrible's physical reactions to Captain Hammer's boasting. This could include subtle gestures or facial expressions that convey his jealousy and frustration without needing explicit dialogue.



Scene 5 -  Heroism and Disillusionment
  • Overall: 8.0
  • Concept: 8
  • Plot: 8
  • Characters: 8
  • Dialogue: 9
DR. HORRIBLE (cont’d)
TELL EVERYONE GOOD-BYE
IT’S A BRAND NEW DAY
21.


ACT III
Multiple (T.V., Street & Lab)
FEMALE REPORTER
Looks like we’re finding out what a true hero is
MALE REPORTER
The mayor himself will be on hand to dedicate the new
homeless shelter and unveil the statue of Captain
Hammer.
FEMALE REPORTER
It’s a good day to be homeless.
MALE REPORTER
Ahaha, it certainly is.
"Perfect Story"
MOVER #1
SO THEY SAY CAPTAIN HAMMER’S BECOME A CRUSADER,
POLITICAL, HE’S CLEANIN’ UP THE STREETS.
MOVER #2
About time.
GROUPIE #1
SO THEY SAY IT’S REAL LOVE
GROUPIES
SO ROMANTIC
GROUPIE #3
HE SIGNED THIS.
PENNY
SO THEY SAY WE’LL HAVE BLANKETS AND BEDS. WE CAN OPEN
BY MONDAY THANKS TO YOU.
CAPTAIN HAMMER
Thanks to ME.

REPORTERS
IT’S THE PERFECT STORY
MALE REPORTER
SO THEY SAY

FEMALE REPORTER
A HERO LEADING THE WAY



(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 22.


REPORTERS
HAMMER’S CALL TO GLORY
FEMALE REPORTER
LETS ALL BE OUR BEST
MALE REPORTER
Next up, who’s gay?
GROUPIE #2
SO THEY SAY HE SAVED HER LIFE.
GROUPIE #1
THEY SAY SHE WORKS WITH THE HOMELESS, AND DOESN’T EAT
MEAT.
GROUPIES
WE HAVE A PROBLEM WITH HER.
GROUPIE #3
THIS IS HIS HAIR.
CAPTAIN HAMMER
THIS IS SO NICE
I JUST MIGHT SLEEP WITH THE SAME GIRL TWICE
THEY SAY IT’S BETTER THE SECOND TIME
THEY SAY YOU GET TO DO THE WEIRD STUFF
GROUPIES
WE DO THE WEIRD STUFF
PENNY
THIS IS PERFECT FOR ME
SO THEY SAY
I GUESS HE’S PRETTY OK
AFTER YEARS OF STORMY SAILING
HAVE I FINALLY FOUND THE BAY?
MOIST
He’s still not picking up.
DR. HORRIBLE & PENNY
THERE’S NO HAPPY ENDING
SO THEY SAY
DR. HORRIBLE
Not for me anyway.
PENNY
SHOULD I STOP PRETENDING




(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 23.


DR. HORRIBLE
(STOP PRETENDING)
TAKE THE CHANCE TO BUILD A BRAND NEW DAY?
PENNY
(OR IS THIS A BRAND NEW DAY?)
GROUPIE #3
THIS IS HIS DRY-CLEANING BILL
GROUPIES
FOUR SWEATER-VESTS.

Town Hall
MAYOR
And in just a few minutes we’ll unveil the statue of
the man himself. Thank you. Thank you.
Justice has a name, and the name it has (besides
justice) is Captain Hammer. Ladies and Gentlemen; your
hero.
CAPTAIN HAMMER
Thank you. Thank you Mayor for those kind words.
"I hate the homeless...
"-ness problem that plagues our city. Everyone should
have the basic... "
You know what? I don’t need tiny cue cards. When I fell
DEEPLY in love with my serious, long term girlfriend
Penny (wave your hand Penny) There she is. Cute huh?
Sort of a quiet, nerdy thing. Not my usual, but nice.
Anyway, she turned me on to this whole homeless...
thing... which is terrible, and I realized, I’m not the
only hero in the room tonight. I’m not the only one
who’s fighting.
"Everyone’s a Hero"
IT MAY NOT FEEL TOO CLASSY
BEGGING JUST TO EAT
BUT YOU KNOW WHO DOES THAT?
LASSIE. AND SHE ALWAYS GETS A TREAT
SO YOU WONDER WHAT YOUR PART IS
CAUSE YOU’RE HOMELESS AND DEPRESSED
BUT HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS
SO YOUR REAL HOME’S IN YOUR CHEST
EVERYONE’S A HERO IN THEIR OWN WAY
EVERYONE’S GOT VILLAINS THEY MUST FACE
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 24.



THEY’RE NOT AS COOL AS MINE
BUT FOLKS YOU KNOW IT’S FINE
TO KNOW YOUR PLACE
EVERYONE’S A HERO IN THEIR OWN WAY
IN THEIR OWN, NOT THAT HEROIC WAY
SO I THANK MY GIRLFRIEND PENNY
YEAH, WE TOTALLY HAD SEX
SHE SHOWED ME THERE’S SO MANY
DIFFERENT MUSCLES I CAN FLEX
THERE’S THE DELTOIDS OF COMPASSION
THERE’S THE ABS OF BEING KIND
IT’S NOT ENOUGH TO BASH IN HEADS
YOU’VE GOT TO BASH IN MINDS
EVERYONE’S A HERO IN THEIR OWN WAY
EVERYONE’S GOT SOMETHIN’ THEY CAN DO
GET UP, GO OUT AND FLY
ESPECIALLY THAT GUY
HE SMELLS LIKE POO
EVERYONE’S A HERO IN THEIR OWN WAY
YOU AND YOU AND MOSTLY ME AND YOU
I’M POVERTY’S NEW SHERIFF
AND I’M BASHING IN THE SLUMS
A HERO DOESN’T CARE IF YOU’RE A
BUNCH OF SCARY, ALCOHOLIC BUMS
EVERYBODY!
EVERYONE’S A HERO IN THEIR OWN WAY
CHORUS
(WE’RE HEROES TOO)
CAPTAIN HAMMER
EVERYONE CAN BLAZE A HERO’S TRAIL
CHORUS
(WE’RE JUST LIKE YOU)
CAPTAIN HAMMER
DON’T WORRY IF IT’S HARD
IF YOU’RE NOT A FRIGGIN’ TARD
YOU WILL PREVAIL
CHORUS
(AHHH AHH AHH OOOOOO)
CAPTAIN HAMMER
EVERYONE’S A HERO IN THEIR OWN WAY



(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 25.


CHORUS
(WE’RE HEROES TOO)
CAPTAIN HAMMER
EVERYONE’S A HERO IN THEI...

"Slipping"
DR. HORRIBLE
LOOK AT THESE PEOPLE
AMAZING HOW SHEEP’LL
SHOW UP FOR THE SLAUGHTER
NO ONE CONDEMNING
YOU LINED UP LIKE LEMMINGS
YOU LED TO THE WATER
WHY CAN’T THEY SEE
WHAT I SEE
WHY CAN’T THEY HEAR THE LIES?
MAYBE THE FEE’S TOO PRICEY
FOR THEM TO REALIZE
YOUR DISGUISE IS SLIPPING
I THINK YOU’RE SLIPPING
NOW THAT YOUR SAVIOR’S
AS STILL AS THE GRAVE
YOU’RE BEGINNING TO FEAR ME
LIKE CAVEMEN FEAR THUNDER
I STILL HAVE TO WONDER
CAN YOU REALLY HEAR ME?
I BRING YOU PAIN
THE KIND YOU CAN’T SUFFER QUIETLY
FIRE UP YOUR BRAIN
REMIND YOU INSIDE YOU’RE RIOTING
SOCIETY IS SLIPPING
EVERYTHING’S SLIPPING AWAY
SOO
GO AHEAD
RUN AWAY
SAY IT WAS HORRIBLE
SPREAD THE WORD
TELL A FRIEND
TELL THEM THE TALE
GET A PIC
DO A BLOG
HERO’S ARE OVER WITH
LOOK AT HIM
NOT A WORD
HAMMER MEET NAIL
Genres: ["Musical","Comedy","Drama"]

Summary In a public ceremony, Captain Hammer is celebrated for his dedication of a new homeless shelter and the unveiling of his statue, reinforcing his image as a hero. While the crowd, including movers, groupies, and reporters, adores him, Penny expresses hope for a better future. In stark contrast, Dr. Horrible reflects on his feelings of marginalization and resentment towards society's blind admiration for Hammer. As Captain Hammer performs a song about universal heroism, Dr. Horrible's internal monologue reveals his dark intentions and growing frustration, setting the stage for potential conflict.
Strengths
  • Engaging dialogue
  • Complex characters
  • Musical numbers that enhance the narrative
  • Effective exploration of themes
Weaknesses
  • Some elements may be predictable
  • Captain Hammer's character may come off as one-dimensional at times
Critique
  • The scene effectively contrasts the public perception of Captain Hammer as a hero with Dr. Horrible's internal struggle and cynicism. This duality is a strong thematic element, highlighting the disparity between appearance and reality.
  • The use of musical numbers to convey character emotions and societal commentary is well-executed. However, the lyrics could benefit from more specificity to enhance the emotional impact. For instance, rather than general statements about heroism, incorporating personal stakes for Dr. Horrible could deepen the audience's connection to his plight.
  • The dialogue among the groupies and reporters adds a layer of satire, but it risks becoming too chaotic. Streamlining some of the lines or focusing on fewer characters could help maintain clarity and impact.
  • Dr. Horrible's internal monologue during the performance is compelling, but it could be more integrated with the action on stage. Consider having him interact with the environment or other characters to emphasize his isolation amidst the crowd's adoration for Captain Hammer.
  • The pacing of the scene feels uneven at times, particularly during the transitions between the celebratory atmosphere and Dr. Horrible's darker reflections. A more seamless flow could enhance the emotional weight of his internal conflict.
Suggestions
  • Consider revising the lyrics to include more personal stakes for Dr. Horrible, such as specific memories or feelings about Penny and Captain Hammer, to create a stronger emotional resonance.
  • Streamline the dialogue among the groupies and reporters to focus on key lines that enhance the satire without overwhelming the audience with too many voices.
  • Integrate Dr. Horrible's internal monologue more closely with the action on stage, perhaps by having him physically react to the crowd's cheers or interact with the statue being unveiled.
  • Work on the pacing by ensuring smoother transitions between the celebratory elements and Dr. Horrible's darker thoughts, possibly through visual cues or changes in music tempo.
  • Consider adding a moment where Dr. Horrible's cynicism directly influences the crowd's perception, perhaps by having him attempt to speak out but being drowned out by the celebration, reinforcing his feelings of isolation.



Scene 6 -  Triumph and Tragedy
  • Overall: 9.0
  • Concept: 9
  • Plot: 8
  • Characters: 9
  • Dialogue: 8
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 26.


DR. HORRIBLE (cont’d)
THEN I WIN
THEN I GET
EVERYTHING I EVER
ALL THE CASH
ALL THE FAME
AND SOCIAL CHANGE
ANARCHY
THAT I RUN
IT’S DR. HORRIBLE’S TURN
YOU PEOPLE ALL HAVE TO LEARN
THIS WORLD IS GOING TO BURN
BURN
Yeah, it’s two "R’s"
H-O-R-R. Right.
BURN
NO SIGN OF PENNY
GOOD
I WOULD GIVE ANYTHING
NOT TO HAVE HER SEE
IT’S GONNA BE BLOODY
HEAD UP BILLY BUDDY
THERE’S NO TIME FOR MERCY
HERE GOES NO MERCY
That’s not a good sound...
CAPTAIN HAMMER
WAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYY!
A Death-Ray? Looks like Dr. Horrible’s moving up. Let’s
see if this one works any better than your others.
DR. HORRIBLE
Don’t...
CAPTAIN HAMMER
I don’t have time for your warnings. You give my
regards to Saint Peter... or whoever has his job, but
in Hell.
Awww ahhhhh I’m in pain. I think this is what pain
feels like. Oh mommy! Someone maternal. Get outta my
way! I gotta get out!




(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 27.


DR. HORRIBLE
Penny! Penny? oh
PENNY
Billy? Is that you?
DR. HORRIBLE
Penny, hold on. Oh no no no no no.
PENNY
Are you all right?
DR. HORRIBLE
Hold on, we’ll...
PENNY
It’s ok. It’s ok. Captain Hammer will save us...
DR. HORRIBLE
Penny?!?

"Everything You Ever (Finale)"
PRESS
Dr. Horrible, why’d you kill her?
Dr. Horrible, was this all part of your plan?
Dr. Horrible, over here. Why’d you do it Dr. Horrible?
DR. HORRIBLE
HERE LIES EVERYTHING
THE WORLD I WANTED AT MY FEET
MY VICTORY’S COMPLETE
SO HAIL TO THE KING
CHORUS
(EVERYTHING YOU EVER...)
DR. HORRIBLE
ARISE AND SING
SO YOUR WORLD’S BENIGN
SO YOU THINK JUSTICE HAS A VOICE
AND WE ALL HAVE A CHOICE
WELL NOW YOUR WORLD IS MINE
CHORUS
(EVERYTHING YOU EVER...)
DR. HORRIBLE
AND I AM FINE
CAPTAIN HAMMER
Right here, In my heart and it hurts inside...


(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 28.


DR. HORRIBLE
NOW THE NIGHTMARE’S REAL
NOW DR. HORRIBLE IS HERE
TO MAKE YOU QUAKE WITH FEAR
TO MAKE THE WHOLE WORLD KNEEL
CHORUS
EVERYTHING YOU EVER...
DR. HORRIBLE
AND I WON’T FEEL
Blog # 5
A thing.
Genres: ["Musical","Comedy","Drama"]

Summary In a climactic confrontation, Dr. Horrible revels in his perceived victory and plans for chaos, while Captain Hammer mocks him despite his own pain. Penny, unaware of the danger, calls out for Billy, believing in heroism. The scene escalates the conflict between villainy and heroism, culminating in a dark celebration of Dr. Horrible's power, overshadowed by the tragic fate of Penny, leaving him to grapple with the consequences of his actions.
Strengths
  • Strong character development
  • Emotional depth
  • Engaging conflict
  • Compelling narrative
Weaknesses
  • Some dialogue may be overly dramatic or cliched
Critique
  • The scene effectively captures Dr. Horrible's internal conflict and his descent into villainy, but it could benefit from clearer emotional stakes. The juxtaposition of his triumph with the tragic fate of Penny feels rushed; more buildup to her fate could enhance the emotional impact.
  • The dialogue is sharp and reflects the characters' personalities well, but some lines, particularly from Captain Hammer, come off as overly comedic in a moment that should be more serious. Balancing humor with the gravity of the situation is crucial to maintain tension.
  • The transition from Dr. Horrible's triumphant declaration to the chaos that ensues feels abrupt. A smoother transition could help the audience digest the shift in tone and understand the stakes involved.
  • The chorus's repetition of 'everything you ever...' is catchy but may come off as repetitive without further development. Consider varying the lyrics or adding more context to deepen the audience's understanding of Dr. Horrible's motivations.
  • Penny's absence during the climax is notable, but her presence is felt through Dr. Horrible's dialogue. However, her fate should be foreshadowed more clearly earlier in the scene to enhance the emotional weight of her loss.
Suggestions
  • Introduce a moment of hesitation or doubt for Dr. Horrible before he fully embraces his villainous side. This could create a more compelling internal struggle and make his eventual actions feel more impactful.
  • Consider adding a brief flashback or memory of Penny that plays in Dr. Horrible's mind as he prepares to unleash chaos. This could serve to heighten the emotional stakes and provide a poignant contrast to his actions.
  • Revise Captain Hammer's lines to maintain his comedic persona while ensuring they don't undermine the scene's tension. Perhaps he could express mock concern for Penny, which would add to the irony without detracting from the seriousness of the moment.
  • Explore the use of staging and blocking to visually represent the conflict between Dr. Horrible and Captain Hammer. For instance, positioning them at different heights or distances could symbolize their opposing ideologies and emotional states.
  • Incorporate more physicality into the scene, such as Dr. Horrible's body language reflecting his internal turmoil. This could enhance the audience's connection to his character and make his eventual actions feel more justified.