Summer project: coursework planning

 1) Research: Fantasy TV drama extracts

Watch the following fantasy TV drama clips and write an NCIS analysis of each one.

His Dark Materials - The mise-en-scene is noteworthy as the costumes reflect the characters personalities and the fantasy world they inhabit. The props and set design contribute to the immersive experience, transporting viewers into the story.

The lighting creates a moody atmosphere, enhancing the dramatic impact. The editing transitions used, such as quick cuts and seamless transitions, maintain a fast paced rhythm, keeping the audience engaged. Narratively, the dialogue and actions drives the plot forward and creates suspense for the audience. His Dark Materials falls into the fantasy, adventure genre for a family friendly audience. James McAvoy and Ruth Wilson’s portrayal adds depth and complexity to the narrative, showcasing diverse and multi-dimensional characters within the fantasy genre. This representation allows for a more inclusive and engaging viewing experience 

Charmed - The set design, with it’s atmospheric and haunting elements which adds to the overall mood. The lighting is dim and somber. Wide shots are employed to emphasise the gravity of the situation and the sense of loss. Low angles are used to highlight the overwhelming odds the characters are planning. The narrative tension builds as the audience witnesses the emotional impact on Prue’s death on the other characters, creating a sense of loss and grief for the audience. Charmed falls into the supernatural fantasy genre - which adds onto the excitement and intrigue of the show. The show features strong, empowered female characters who use their supernatural abilities to fight against evil.

Shadow and Bone - Narratively, this clip showcases a crucial moment in the story as Alina, the protagonist, is introduced into the darker aspects of the world she’s in. The narrative tension builds up as she confronts the challenges and dangers that lie ahead, which also heightens the audience’s curiosity. 

2) TV drama planning 

Plan out the title and narrative for your new, original fantasy TV drama so you know how your extract will fit into the overall series.

Complete this TV drama pitch document with your NEW original idea for a fantasy TV drama aimed at a family audience. Copy and paste the questions from the Google doc into your blog. 

Title - Whispers in the Dark

Logline - one sentence that sums up the plot of your TV drama and hooks people in (25 words or fewer): Two friends explore a cemetery and stumble upon a hidden treasure, but when they grab it, they unknowingly trigger a thrilling chase from Mysterious creatures 

Other successful TV dramas that are similar to yours: The X Flies , Stranger Things, Genie in a bottle 

Narrative - what is in the main storyline in your TV drama: In the eerie depths of a forgotten cemetery, two unsuspecting adventures, Sarah and Luna, stumble upon a hidden world of secrets. With the company of Midnight (the cat) they embark on a exhilarating quest to find treasure for a school project. As they venture deeper into the shadows, they encounter sinister shadows as well as cryptic symbols causing them to become worried and run as they get chased in the cemetery and forest by a spirit.

Genre - how will your TV drama fit in the fantasy genre?: It will fit seamlessly into the fantasy genre by infusing elements of magic ands supernatural phenomena into the storyline. They will encounter enchanted objects and cryptic spells, making it an immersive, intriguing TV drama for fans of the fantasy genre. 

Narrative disruption - what will happen in your scene to develop the narrative? What will the audience learn about the characters or story? The narrative disruption will occur when Sarah and Luna stumble across an powerful magical artifact that unlocks a spirit 

Information about the two locations/settings that you are using and why you have chosen them: I have chosen the cemetery and the forest close to my house for this TV drama to enhance the eerie aspect of my TV drama.

Information about the main character e.g character type (hero/heroine) their desires, the conflicts they encounter etc.: Sarah is a fierce intelligent character who’s desire is ton unravel the mysteries of the cemetery which stems from her insatiable curiosity to explore;

Costume/props that you require for filming: Cat, a mysterious object, camera, tripod 

How you are aiming your product at the specified family target audience: I am captivating my target audience’s interests by inputting relatable characters like Sarah and Luna, who embodies curiosity and bravery.

3) Statement of Intent

On the same Summer Project blogpost, write the rough first draft of your genuine 300-word Statement of Intent for the two-minute sequence you plan to create. The final draft of this document will be submitted to the exam board alongside your fantasy TV drama extract and is worth 10 marks of the overall 60 marks available.

Guidance is provided by AQA in their NEA Student Booklet but we strongly recommend you also look at our Statement of Intent suggested content document too.

I plan to make a TV drama that aims to transports viewers into a captivating world where a fantasy and mystery intertwine. Through the eyes of Sarah, a curious and determined protagonist, we will explore the depths of a mystical cemetery, unraveling its hidden secrets and encountering supernatural forces along the way. With a blend of suspense, adventure, and relatable characters, my show will captivate audiences, leaving them on the edges of their seats, craving more.