VIDEO PITCH for SHADOWMEN (feature script) by Julie Merrick

Watch the Video Pitch: SHADOWMEN:

Get to know writer Julie Merrick

1. What is your screenplay about?  

Logline: While struggling with the unbelievable notion that his dreams affect reality, a man begins having daytime visions of creature-like men, asking for his help.

Aaron Gray whole heartedly attempts to believe that he is recovering from a mental breakdown. He separates himself from the family he cherishes and loves because he is afraid that his dreams will once again destroy his life and the lives around him. Despite Aaron’s commitment to his therapy, deep down, he can’t shake the notion that his dreams happen in reality. Eventually a brilliant, but eccentric doctor specializing in parasomnia discovers that Aaron’s brainwaves create holograms that in fact permeate this realm. The SHADOWMEN are creature-like men that have the same ability – they attempt to communicate with Aaron, asking for his help. A villain, The CHAIRMAN, a megalomaniac with high ideals and terrifying methods of harnessing power, incarcerates the Shadowmen, torturing them to persuade them to help his cause and aid in his agenda of control. The Chairman kidnaps Aaron Gray’s son so that Aaron will join his draconian mission, however Aaron, more powerful than he believes, saves his son and frees the Shadowmen by entering a lucid dreamlike state. With full awareness and intention, Aaron fights not only the Chairman’s despotic terror, but also his own fear and need for control. 2. Why should people know this story?

This story attaches far-out, fascinating scientific theories to a universal core narrative - a man’s love and sacrifice for his family. The protagonist’s internal struggle with gravitational emotions like fear and self-doubt coupled with his compassion and special ability make Aaron Gray an intriguing character - a character that bridges vulnerability and heroism.

3. This story has a lot going for it. How would you describe this story in two words?

Instinctual and mystifying

4. What movie have you seen the most in your life?

Alien.

5. How long have you been working on this story?

Created in 2012. Reworked this year.

6. How many stories have you written?

Ten.

7. What motivated you to write this story?

An article on holograms followed by an interesting conversation with my husband and his friends.

8. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

My family, dancing, music, art, human rights, learning.

9. Any advice or tips you'd like to pass on to other writers?

Enjoy the process.