In order to develop our character, in our film trailer, we decided to interview them. This will in turn create a backstory for them, this is turn provides depth to the characters.
We were inspired by an article written by Charlie Sierra, on his website Film Escape, about building the back story to film characters and providing depth to characters. He was inspired by Riding the Alligator written by Pen Densham, an Academy Award nominated filmmaker. In one particular chapter in the book he provides a check list of questions every writer and director should ask of themselves when they are developing their characters The purpose of this is to outline a deep understanding of your characters for both the actors and director, and as a result what motivates a character’s choices or actions. Whilst Densham advocates scripting and questionnaire, we thought it would be more creative to
Military Personnel, Daniel, Tim,
Script:
Military: Are you lads ok?
Daniel: No not really
Military: Would you mind informing me why you did not travel to your local bunker?
Tim: It was too far away and we did not have enough time, we would have died if we went to that bunker. It was just too far.
Military: You should have properly timed your journey to the point at which you would have made it in time.
Daniel: We are trying to explain ourselves is all
Military: Well would someone please give me a good enough reason to explain the reason why you did not make it to your local bunker.
Tim: We were told at 9:00 am that there is a national emergency. We got home at 10:00 but we weren't really taking the whole situation seriously
Military: Any emergency issued by Her Majesty's Government should be taken with the up most seriousness and urgency.
Daniel: Yea well it was a pretty new situation for us all
Military: Am I right in saying that there was three of you? May I ask where this third member is?
Tim: Benji is in hospital as a result of the events
Military: I was unaware of that
Tim: Can we see him?
Military: I am being told that he is in quarantine and he will remain like that until he is cleared
Daniel: How long before we can see him?
Military: I am unable to disclose that information to civilians
Tim: What is the purpose of this interview if you cannot provide any information?
Military: This interview is a post attack , psychological check up. This is for your benefit and no-one elses.
Daniel: When can we leave then?
Military: Not until you have been cleared?
Daniel: What do you mean?
Military: You will have a similar interview with a different member of medical staff every week. And when you are cleared by at least 4 of them then you may leave. Your friend Benji is another story and his status will remain classified. Interview 1 28/11/2027
