Film Opening Brain Storm
by Tara Brazier
1. Props
1.1. Old phone- suggests the character is popular/has a busy social life and is also rich, due to the era that my film is set in.
1.2. Candle- used during blackout scene. Gives a bit of light.
1.3. Red lipstick- connotes blood and death. However, it could also initiate love and romance.
1.4. Knife- weapon of choice for the antagonist.
1.5. Fake blood and face paint- characters will put on themselves to get ready for Halloween party.
2. Conventions
2.1. Props such as a knife will make my film conventional to the slasher genre (see prop list for more detail)
2.2. Blood, violence, gore
2.3. Teenagers are also conventional to the slasher and paranormal sub-genre as they are usually considered to be innocent and naive.
3. Diegesis
3.1. I will keep the dialogue short as I believe having too much dialogue will make the opening seem too long.
3.2. Laura and Bethany will be gossiping during the time that they're getting ready to go out, but that'll really be the only bit of dialogue.
3.3. I will also include music during different scenes. For instance, during the blackout I could include slow but dramatic music to create even more tension.
3.4. Door squeaking when its being opened.
4. Editing
4.1. Slow-paced throughout to build up the tension and suspense.
4.2. However, the editing will speed up alongside the action within the scene (e.g. a chase)
5. Plot
5.1. Laura goes round Bethany's house to get ready to go out to a Halloween party. Laura has a boyfriend called James who is also on his way over to Bethany's. There's a blackout at the house, Bethany becomes possessed by an evil spirit. Laura is looking all over the house for Bethany, only to get killed. James arrives at the door to then be killed by Bethany. Bethany then heads out to the party.
6. Characters
6.1. Laura
6.1.1. 16 years old
6.1.2. Brown short hair
6.1.3. Innocent and vulnerable, could be typed as playing the 'dumb' act
6.2. Bethany
6.2.1. 16 years old
6.2.2. Laura's best friend
6.2.3. Witty and independent
6.3. James
6.3.1. 17 years old
6.3.2. Laura's boyfriend
6.3.3. Is popular and outgoing
7. Setting/Locations
7.1. My House
7.1.1. Bedroom
7.1.2. Hallway
7.1.3. Kitchen
7.1.4. Front Door