Option 1: Narrative Exchange
The film “Westworld” can be restructured to have a more classical narrative style. In its current form, “Westworld” follows a complex, post-classical narrative structure where the storylines are nonlinear and converge towards the end. However, if the narrative structure were more classical, it would follow a linear sequence of events, where the protagonist’s journey towards self-discovery would be the central plot.
In a classical narrative, the story follows a three-act structure, where the first act establishes the protagonist, the second act presents obstacles for the protagonist, and the third act resolves the story. In this narrative style, the story is character-driven, and the protagonist’s arc is the central focus of the story.
If “Westworld” were to follow a classical narrative, the protagonist would be William, a newcomer to the park who is searching for his true self. The first act would introduce William and establish his motivations for visiting Westworld. The second act would present obstacles in the form of his relationship with Dolores, a host whom he falls in love with, and the emergence of the Man in Black, who is on a violent quest for the center of the maze. In the third act, William would confront the Man in Black and discover the truth about himself and the nature of reality in the park.
This classical narrative structure would provide a clear focus on William’s journey towards self-discovery, allowing the audience to empathize with the character and follow his emotional arc. By removing the complex narrative structure, the story would be more accessible to a wider audience and would create a more emotionally satisfying experience.
Option 2: Adapting a News Story
I would like to adapt the news story “UCLA researchers develop technique to restore movement sensation in limbs” into an art cinema narrative film. The story, which details a new technique for restoring sensation in paralyzed limbs, could be adapted to explore themes of loss, hope, and human connection.
The film would follow the story of a young woman who is paralyzed from the waist down after a car accident. She is despondent and feels disconnected from her body, unable to feel the touch of her loved ones. However, she hears about a new experimental technique that could restore her sense of touch. The rest of the film would explore her journey through the experimental treatment and the emotional connections she makes with the researchers who are helping her.
The art cinema narrative style would allow for a more introspective exploration of the character’s emotions and experiences. The film would focus less on the technical details of the experimental treatment and more on the character’s emotional journey. The use of non-linear storytelling, abstract imagery, and symbolic motifs would provide a more complex and layered exploration of the character’s experiences.
Creators’ Statement:
With this film, I hope to explore the complex emotional journey of individuals who experience paralysis and the possibility of restoring sensation through experimental techniques. By using an art cinema narrative style, I aim to provide a unique and introspective view of the character’s experiences. Through non-linear storytelling and the use of abstract imagery, I hope to create a layered and nuanced exploration of the character’s emotional journey. The film’s ultimate goal is to promote empathy and understanding for individuals with disabilities and the possibilities for medical advancements in the field.