Simon Says

Abstract

This thesis consists of practice-led research in the form of a full-length script for a feature film; plus a 6000-word essay (exegesis). A summary of the script is as follows:

Simon Hall is a man without doubts. He is a product of, what he believes, is impeccable upbringing. He embodies: family values, wholesome Christian ethics, loyalty, dedication, determination and a sense of duty and wears them on his sleeve with obvious pride. Following the path set out by his ambitious and domineering mother, he has risen through a successful business career to prime minister of the country. What could possibly go wrong now for this man of the people?

What Simon has failed to realise along his seamlessly successful trajectory is that none of these values are truly his. In fact, over a tortured weekend, he comes to realise he does not know who he is at all.

Grace, his mother and idol, announces she must kill herself before the weekend is over. The news sends the cast reeling in all directions. Everyone has a secret that threatens Simon’s orderly world. As the revelations slip out in to the open, he takes desperate action to keep the great charade of his life from falling into ruins.

The script is framed by an Exegesis which is a 6000-word essay on the subject of: (a) the genre of the script and (b) the development process from synopsis to second draft.

NOTE: The thesis is approved by the Faculty of Culture and Society for an indefinite term embargo.