Spaghetti Dinner

Author

Eric Vasallo

Logline

A grandmother’s family dinner turns nightmarish after she forages wild mushrooms, drawing her children into a surreal clash of love, death, and elemental beings.

Genre

Horror

Format

One-Hour

Hit Confidence

31.8%

Summary

The screenplay centers around Adele, a grandmother whose seemingly mundane family dinner spirals into chaos after she forages wild mushrooms. The narrative juxtaposes her serene domestic life with the surreal elements introduced by the mushrooms, hinting at themes of love, death, and the supernatural. Key plot beats include Adele's interactions with anthropomorphized pill bottles and a hummingbird, which serve as metaphors for her internal struggles and desires. The relationships with her family are implied to be complex, suggesting deeper emotional stakes as the story unfolds. This blend of the ordinary and the extraordinary sets the stage for a compelling exploration of familial bonds and existential themes.

Script Category Scores

Audience Appeal & Marketability

The script taps into a unique blend of family dynamics and surreal horror, appealing to audiences who enjoy psychological thrillers with a touch of dark humor. The premise of a grandmother's dinner turning nightmarish is intriguing and relatable, potentially attracting viewers interested in character-driven stories that explore deeper themes. The incorporation of elements like foraging and the supernatural may resonate with current trends in storytelling, enhancing its marketability.

Series Concept Clarity

The core idea of a grandmother's family dinner transforming into a surreal experience due to her foraging is clearly articulated. The logline effectively conveys the central conflict and thematic elements, such as love and death, while hinting at the fantastical aspects of the narrative. This clarity allows potential readers and audiences to grasp the unique premise quickly, making it compelling and communicable.

Character Appeal & Depth

Adele, as the protagonist, is portrayed with depth and complexity, showcasing her struggles with aging and mental health through her interactions with inanimate objects. This distinctiveness makes her a relatable and engaging character, with potential for growth and exploration throughout the narrative. The relationships hinted at with her family suggest a rich emotional landscape that could evolve, providing long-term potential for character development and audience investment.

Creative Originality & Boldness

The screenplay exhibits a strong sense of originality through its anthropomorphized pill bottles and the whimsical yet dark interactions with nature. This creative choice adds a layer of surrealism that sets it apart from typical family dramas or horror stories. The boldness in blending everyday life with fantastical elements invites viewers to engage with the narrative on multiple levels, enhancing its distinctiveness.

Narrative Momentum & Pace

The pacing of the script is deliberate, allowing for moments of introspection that build tension as Adele's seemingly innocent actions lead to darker implications. The transition from her tranquil home life to the eerie forest setting creates a compelling contrast that maintains engagement. Each scene effectively escalates the stakes, particularly as Adele's foraging introduces uncertainty and potential danger, keeping the audience invested in her journey.