The Cross-bow : an exercise in script writing with reference to Coleridge and his poem The Rime of the Ancient Mariner

Abstract

The aim of this exercise is to explore the techniques of script writing. By writing a script, I hope to illustrate not only the actual method of script writing but also, by choosing to refer to The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and Coleridge himself, show how, through the tools given by the film medium, offer a psychological portrayal of the characters of the film. Though the story in the script does have a beginning, a body and a conclusion, just like Coleridge's poem and life, its end may not be said lo be conclusive. This is so since it is a psychological script and a person's psychology does not end as long the person lives or, after his death, in someone else's heart - this someone I hope to be the eventual audience of the film. I am targeting a varied audience. A cultured, youthful one is possibly most apt since it would best understand the references made in the film. Should I succeed in this task - of reaching the audience's heart - then I may believe that I have concluded this Thesis.