Film Proposal (Horror) Coursework Guidance
Produce an idea for a new horror film.
You need to produce:
- A short essay on the conventions of the horror genre. Using examples from the films you have seen explain what you would expect in a horror film. Focus on settings, characters, plot and music (plus anything else you think important). Aim for about 500 words.
- An outline of your plot. Try not to offer too much detail, perhaps focusing on the general storyline and then some key scenes. Remember to think in terms of the horror genre. Aim for around 500 words.
- An explanation of the characters in your film and the actors you would use. Again, give detailed reasons for your choices, with reference to other films they have starred in. Aim for around 250 words. Imdb.com will provide headshots of the actors which you should use to illustrate your ideas.
- A DVD box sleeve. This must include original photography – you can pretend someone is a famous actor/actress for the sake of the cover. It should also have the required details, such the age certification label (12, 15, 18 etc), a barcode, copyright information and so on. Many of these are available on the media website. Remember to focus on generic conventions.
Things to remember
When producing a film in a particular genre, directors often work with accepted conventions – the things that are expected of that type of film. This includes:
- Settings and mise-en-scene
- Story
- Characters
- Objects / Props
- Certain actors/actresses
You should bear these things in mind when devising your own film. Always think:
Is this appropriate to the genre? Does it agree with the conventions?
