Cheaters Prosper – 12/22
Today is the first day of shooting. I’m truly excited and unsure of what is to come.
I spent yesterday redrafting the script to strengthen a few plot lines. The biggest challenge was elevating the chemistry between the protagonist and his girlfriend. As I discussed in my previous post, the character named Mariah (was named Mary) is an INFJ.
Before I redrafted the script, I decided to label each of the 5 main characters in the film with specific types. This way, I could read about their personalities, and draw their characters accordingly. INFJs are best suited with ENTPs romantically. This was great for me, as I am an INTP.
Beyond the simple change from introvert to extrovert, ENTPs are most notable for their combative style – they are referred to as “the debators.” As you writers know, this is an ideal personality type to include in any story. An argumentative person will add tension to any scene they are in naturally, and we all know how valuable that is. The character I play is an INTP; like myself in real life. The 2 ‘bad guys’ in the film are, respectively, an ESTP and a ESFP (entrepreneur and entertainer).
I chose to focus on the story lines of Jax, Mariah, and Torque, so they are shown in the most depth. If this becomes a show, I will provide more background and dimensions to other principal characters. Currently, onscreen time does not allow me to carve anything more than caricatures out of my “bad guys.” They do show a range of emotion, and there’s no mustache twirling going on.
I think I’m most looking forward to hearing the actors and actresses recite lines that I wrote. I can’t think of a better way to put my writing to the test than to have my scenes acted out in front of me. I’m honored to have good friends from my acting class who are willing to do take part in this project for free.
That being said, I’m also pensive – we’re going to be shooting a script that takes place during a 2-3 day time frame over the course of a few weeks. This will be difficult because:
Continuity problems – wardrobes must remain the same from tomorrow on.
Daylight – we lack the luxury of shooting during the weekend, so the only time everyone can get together as of now is during weeknights.
I’m more than aware of the difficulty involved with shooting exterior scenes during the nighttime. Fortunately, my older brother is an expert with lighting, and has the proper equipment.
I will let you know how shooting goes tomorrow, and include pictures of the cast at work.
Thomas M. Watt
