Your Stage : Dilemma with Two Alternate Ideas of a Single Story (I NEED HELP) by Johnathon Zimmerman

Johnathon Zimmerman

Dilemma with Two Alternate Ideas of a Single Story (I NEED HELP)

So, I'm writing a short film. Initially it started out as a scene that could potentially be the beginning of a spy thriller of some sort. But as I was writing it I began to feel like there were so many plot holes I found difficult to fill that I started to feel a little depressed about it and less confident. Tonight I had a brilliant idea to completely change the backstory. Originally it was about a washed up burned CIA Operative who is presented with an opportunity to prove his innocence. Problem is, I was having problems with plot points in the backstory. So my idea was to instead make my protagonist actually be in hiding (still a former CIA Op) acting as the guardian of a little girl who was the product of genetic experimentation. Therefore changing the entirety of the short to be more of a sci-fi thriller rather then spy thriller. I know that both stories sound a bit cliche, but I'm not overly concerned with that right now, this short is something I just wanted to cut my teeth on. Personally I feel more drawn towards my second idea, but I've already gotten so much written and put so much effort into my first idea that I feel like I should stick with it and finish it out. But I find it hard to novitiate myself to do that. Any advice, tips, suggestions, or feedback? Should I go with my interest and rewrite nearly the whole thing, or stick with what I have so far? (I'm willing to share the 8 pages I have written so far with anyone who's interested in giving feedback.)

Christian Pius

Does it matter if both stories have been a staple? Go with what you want. I think you should stick with the human factors that make your stories. Plots are means to an end. People search for what will speak into their circumstances everyday. All the story lines to the top films follow a template. However, the attraction is what we can all see and relate to.

Elena Lommers

Hi Johnathon, I started out with drama/romance and end up writing a psychological thriller with a pitch of romance and a whole lot of drama. :) So, maybe I could help you a little with the plot if I could read those 8 pages? Please feel free to mail them to me. I promise I'll give you my feedback asap.

Anthony Cawood

The second one sounds more interesting and at least you didn't get 80 pages into a feature before having a change of heart... of course there's nothing wrong with writing both versions either, is be tempted to do that.

Johnathon Zimmerman

Thank you guys for your suggestions. I really do appreciate it. Elena, I'd be happy to, though it'd be easier to email it at this point. Is there any way I could do that instead?

Elena Lommers

Sure. Elena.lommers@gmail.com should be the best option. Best, Elena

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