Story Synopsis - Draft 4 Self-Evaluation (Marilyn Milgrom Questions)

Questions for the Evaluation of the Synopsis

Explain the:

• World -  It is set in the present.

• Character - My protagonist is a man who is seemingly harmless although escalates in creepiness as the film moves on. This is due to the situation he has included himself in as his intentions are very obscure to the girl and even himself at times.

• Problem - The problem is within the imagination of the girl and audience, in contrast with his creepy and often illiterate personality. It is the problem of defining the girls safety and his obscure intentions.

Who’s POV is the story told from? Is this clear? How?

The POV is being told from the perspective of a 20 year old guy. It is clear because everyone is thinking the same question but he is the only one who has the answer, this is why he is important to the beginning, middle and end of the film. He is also included through-out the synopsis and he creates the final climax.

Is the main problem the heart of the film? Explain.

No, the heart of the film is the build up towards the main problem. The main problem is at the end of the film, it takes a dip in mood towards the end and then climaxing before finishing. The man taking the picture creates the main problem as it gives the audience the biggest clue towards his intentions.

Explain what motivates your protagonist.

The protagonist's motives are unexplained to everyone and this is the main problem in the film due to his obscure intentions, therefore I have left the motives open for analysis. Especially when he takes a picture of her house without her knowing as the audience then has more to work with in defining his intentions.

Does the story encompass a single moment/event? Describe it.

The moment comes when the girl safely gets home after all the suspicion against the protagonist and then the protagonist makes one final creepy act by taking a picture of her house without her knowing.

Are the stakes high enough? Explain.

The stakes are high enough as his creepiness insinuates to the girl and audience that within the problem unfolding, that stereotypically she should be in trouble. However, I make the audience wait all-whilst I am enhancing and building up tension and suspense. This raises the stakes but decreases in mood when the girl becomes safe, but then with the picture of the house it creates suspicions that he is planning something bigger and that having her trapped in his car wasn't enough. Therefore towards the end the stakes are raised high enough.

Is there at least one clear meaning that the audience can take away? What is it?

There isn't really a clear meaning as this isn't a stereotypical situation that people can relate to. Although if there was to be one, the most likely would be not to trust strangers.

Is the film doable on a zero budget?
Yes, the most expensive cost would be the cars needed for the film, but these can be borrowed from friends and I will also be able to get my friends to act for free. Costume, Hair and Make-Up will all be doable with currently owned clothing etc. from the actors. I also have my own camera that will be able to film my film on too. Finally, the location is a natural location and will not require cost to hire it etc.