Film Studies - Into The Unknown Screen Play Creation

𝗦𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 – 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗻
As part of my A-Level Film Studies coursework, I wrote and developed an original short film screenplay titled Into The Unknown. This psychological thriller follows Clara, a teenage girl whose routine jog into the woods spirals into a chilling mystery involving her parents, a traumatic past, and a deadly twist. The screenplay explores themes of paranoia, generational trauma, and identity, culminating in a shocking climax where Clara unknowingly kills her own father, only to discover her mother orchestrated the entire scenario in a fit of madness and revenge.

𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀
I began by brainstorming narrative ideas inspired by psychological horror and real-world missing persons cases, which led me to explore the idea of hidden familial secrets. I structured the script using standard screenplay formatting and storytelling techniques, including flashbacks to gradually reveal the backstory. I focused on building tension through sensory descriptions, pacing, and character psychology. Throughout the writing process, I refined character motivations, particularly the contrast between Clara’s innocence, Dave’s apathy, and Katie’s concealed instability. To enhance realism, I incorporated detailed stage directions and internal monologues, especially during emotionally intense scenes. Feedback from peers and tutors helped shape the final version.