Find the Feels

Let’s talk about the importance of identifying the emotions you want your audience to feel while watching your movie or show.

Do you want them to be scared out of their minds? Do you want them to laugh until they cry? Or do you want them to be on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating what's coming next? Once you know the answer, you can begin to scribble your story with characters and situations to elicit the desired emotions.

If you're aiming for horror, take a cue from Stranger Things. This series delivers a constant sense of dread and fear to its viewers. It achieves this by establishing a terrifying, otherworldly threat and making the audience care deeply about the characters who are in danger. The fear is heightened by the fact that many of the characters are vulnerable children, making the stakes even higher.

If you're aiming for comedy, take a cue from The Hangover. From the absurd situations that the characters find themselves in, to the hilarious dialogue, to the impeccable timing of the jokes, The Hangover is a masterclass in comedy. The characters are well-drawn and likable, and the situations they find themselves in are both outrageous and relatable.

Glass Onion is a great example of how to create a sense of curiosity and intrigue in your audience. The story is mysterious, with a series of clues and puzzles that the viewer must piece together to uncover the truth. The film leaves the audience guessing until the very end, creating a sense of anticipation and engagement that keeps them invested in the story.

So, think carefully about the emotions you want to evoke in your audience and create a story that is engaging, impactful, and memorable.