How to Write an Inclusionary Short Form Horror Script

It is of the utmost importance that the story is delivered in a way that gives the audience an adrenaline rush. Most of all, the script must invoke fear.

How to Write an Inclusionary Short Form Horror Script

Written by: Monty S.
September 25, 2020

 

Defining Horror

Short-form scriptwriting in the genre of horror is very unique. It is of the utmost importance that the story is delivered in a way that gives the audience an adrenaline rush. Most of all, the script must invoke fear. The fear is what the audience is waiting on.

Viewers are entertained by the horrors found in this genre. The thriller-horror script should contain the things people find the most frightening. This may include someone’s worst nightmares and other scenarios that spark dread. Though it is important for the viewer to be frightened, it is equally important for audiences to be entertained. A good short-form horror script will be both entertaining and scary.

 

Writing for Diverse Groups of People

When writing a short-form script, it is important to create an atmosphere of equality for both the audience and actors. The writer of a strong, well-written script is conscious of the unique individuals he or she is writing for. Having the understanding that actors and viewers want and need to be valued as the authentic person that they are will create an environment of innovation and equality.

The dialogue should be diverse. This means that differences should not be looked at as weaknesses, but instead they should be portrayed in a light of strength. Every person should feel like they belong, this includes the actors and the audience. When the feelings of belonging are present, people begin to feel like they have purpose. This promotes a healthy community that sparks creativity.

When writing a script, be sure to have equality always in the forefront. Be sensitive and respectful to the needs of the audience and actors. Don’t just stop at embracing the uniqueness of everyone. Go further, include the uniqueness of everyone.

 

What Does a Short-Form Horror Script Need?

Make it personal: Bring the audience close to the main character by emphasizing what is going on inside of the character’s mind. This will cause a closeness that evokes a personalized experience for viewers as they further connect to the horror film.

  • Suspense: Compliment the gore with suspense that flows throughout the script to continuously catch the audience off guard.
  • Show the story: It is important for the audience to be able to understand why each character is afraid. The dialogue will help with this, but what the audience sees will show them what is happening. Viewers connect to what they see more than they connect to what that they hear. Paint the picture of fear rather than tell.
  • Villain: Portraying a bad guy in a horror film is essential. Show what makes the villain a villain and where he or she originated from.
  • Surprises or jump scares: Sudden scares and loud noises add to the depth of the script and further heighten the levels of fear that carry throughout the film.
  • Gore: In a thriller-horror film, the viewers need to be unsettled. The gory details of death and moments of terrifying torture all aid in the unsettlement of the audience.

 

Let’s now explore writing for Comedy with inclusive group, read more here!

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