The Abduction
A group of friends who shared an alien abduction reunite
after years of separation, in an attempt to reconcile a past
they have kept hidden from the rest of the world. The trauma
they endured left lasting marks and in an attempt to recover
from the paranormal happening, as well as unravel its
mystery, they bond together over the death of a fellow
abduction victim.
The film is not primarily science fiction, as it is more
dramatic and character-driven. Also, the story relies on the
mystery of the extra-terrestrial visitation, rather than
special effects. In other words, it requires a mood and
style of Stephen Spielberg or M. Night Shyamalan, not
Stephen King. It may even have a similar feel to Mystic
River. The acting should be subtle, but powerful. Ideal
actors include Sean Penn, Mark Ruffalo, and Maggie
Gyllenhaal. The themes should be sweeping, really carrying
the film, about well - life on other planets, and the
implications of that and there should be a contrast of that
huge revelation to the smaller bonds that the humans who
were abducted share.
While I want the plot to be intricate and well paced, I
would hope that the film would "move" the audience member,
more than keep them entertained for an hour and a half or
so. It has to have a great amount to realism and sentiment
to it. At the same time the audience must be enthralled in
the mystery and thrill of it all. It has to be
unpredictable, with a major twist toward the end.
Perhaps the script would begin with the actual abduction,
and then fast forward to a few decades later, showing the
lives of the different friends in a happier, more charming
light. And when news of the funeral of one of their friends
is brought to the surface, the tone changes, and so do the
character's plans. While this short summary may appear lame
and farcical (I think a better title would help, perhaps
"The <town name> Abduction", with the right direction and
casting, this film could be incredibly convincing and
effective. Alien movies have always done well, and so have
dramas, and combining the genres is a good idea in my
opinion.
-- Script Pitch III Co-Host Commentary
--
by Stephen Lucas
Stephen's Analysis:
I think its kind of interesting how this film would
not focus on the science fiction aspects of those who were
abducted. Yet a big part of me sees a problem: how can you
really have a serious, heavy drama about an alien abduction?
To me if the characters were to take it to heart that badly,
people may see it more as a parody than anything. Just
imagine a scene of dialogue about being inside an alien ship
between Sean Penn and Maggie Gyllenhaal. I guess in the
right hands, this could work. Elsewhere, this could head
toward parody territory fast.
Rating: C+
