Project Eden: Scriptwriting Portfolio Piece

Client
Project in my Convergent Media Writing Course

Year
2023

Objective
The goal of Project Eden was to craft a compelling narrative exploring themes of survival, resilience, and the ethics of rebuilding humanity in a post-apocalyptic world. This script was developed as part of a university-level creative writing course, focusing on creating a dramatic, character-driven screenplay. The project required adhering to screenplay formatting and storytelling techniques to develop a script that could be adapted for film or television.

Concept & Inspiration
The script takes place in a dystopian future where the Earth's surface has become uninhabitable due to catastrophic climate changes. The concept explores humanity’s ability to adapt through technology while wrestling with moral dilemmas about governance, survival, and equality. The inspiration came from a mix of post-apocalyptic media, climate change awareness, and speculative fiction, aiming to provide a story that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking.

Storyline Summary
The narrative follows Jessica, a resilient leader among a group of survivors, as they encounter a military faction that offers refuge in an underground city named Eden. This city, while technologically advanced and self-sustaining, hides darker secrets about the lengths its leadership will go to maintain control and preserve their way of life. The story evolves into a moral exploration of sacrifice, rebellion, and hope, as Jessica and her companions uncover the truth behind Project Eden and its implications for humanity's future.

Execution
The script adheres to professional screenplay formatting standards, including scene headers, dialogue tags, and visual descriptions. The story balances action sequences with emotional depth, highlighting character development and world-building. Key elements include:

  • Dialogue: Natural, impactful exchanges to highlight each character’s unique perspective and struggles.

  • World-Building: Detailed descriptions of the dystopian environment and the underground city add richness to the narrative.

  • Tension: Strategic pacing and conflict ensure continuous engagement for the audience.

Conclusion
Project Eden demonstrates my ability to develop a high-stakes, immersive narrative that examines societal and ethical issues. This script reflects my strengths in storytelling, character development, and envisioning cinematic experiences. It was an opportunity to push creative boundaries while addressing real-world concerns, making it a valuable addition to my portfolio.