Hey, guys.
My latest script is designed to have multiple endings depending on the main character's ultimate choice made at the story's climax (I got the idea from playing the "Deus Ex" games, which I highly recommend, even the unfairly-shafted "Invisible War"). The only problem is... how do I integrate each ending into the finished script? Do I leave the base story deliberately unfinished and have each ending separately? Do I write multiple copies of the same script (each with a different conclusion)? Do I have them all in the same script back-to-back? I don't plan on writing a sequel, so any ending can be considered canon.
S. P.
4 people like this
In my time at the studios I only saw one script that had a multiple ending in it. There was one ending, and then the writer skipped several spaces (returns) and typed ALTERNATE ENDING and then typed what happened below. Figure out your ending and stick with it. Avoid typing a second one. If a producer wants to change the ending after it's purchased then it will be changed. The producer may, may not, film two endings to see which one tests better.
3 people like this
I would do what Lindbergh E Hollingsworth said, Stefano Pavone. I would also keep the extra endings in separate files (just the extra endings, not the full scripts) and tell a producer (during the pitch or later on), "I also have extra endings if you want to read them."
2 people like this
I'd pull a David Koepp and just write alts to include as an addendum after your preferred ending. Alt Ending #1, Alt Ending #2, etc. But when it comes to the page count, make sure to keep them similar. One two-minute ending does not equate to another ten-minute ending.
3 people like this
Stefano - if you haven't got it already, get hold of Linda Aronson's 21st C screenwriter which deals with everything that is tandem/fractured narrative et al. She knows her stuff and provides useful structure for writing the non-linear script.
1 person likes this
Maybe create a scene where the main character dreams through all the multiple endings then wakes up and proceeds towards the actual ending.... you don't show the actual ending but the audience has seen all the multiple endings but does not know which one it actually was.
3 people like this
Dont. Just write a screenplay showing storytelling execution from beginning to end.
Do... when you have a track record and your reps back you.
1 person likes this
Living it open ended in my opinion that covers each ending which includes your finally. In my opinion.
2 people like this
Sounds too complicated to push on a spec...many other (simpler) ways to be original...check out this new "Day Shift" flick filmed of spec script...guy did an overdone vampire hunter theme and squeezed something fresh outta it.
1 person likes this
One thing to consider...who is your main target for the script? If it is a seed investor, you can frame your Logline and eventual pitch with an angle at this unique point of intrigue. At this point, you are the Executive Producer and depending on the end goal, can embed your marketing strategy into the script itself:)
3 people like this
Having multiple endings in a script could look to the reader as if you don't have confidence in pursuing one or the other so you're making them chose. It works for videogames because the player is transposing their choices on the character's actions, the result of which in some cases can be different endings. But for movies and TV this is not the case. I'd suggest writing which ending you think is the best and strongest for the story.
2 people like this
It's a very cool concept to have multiple endings and very daring! You have my respect! I would suggest doing it as follows-- Before presenting each ending have a focal point that each ending will take off of; for example if each ending starts after the Protagonist gets in a car crash, keep repeating the scene of the car crash each time you want to present an alternate ending. That way, the audience is oriented in the time of the story that you want to show -- the aftermath of the car crash.
A similar technique was used in Death Proof (2007) when Tarantino wanted to show the aftermath of several characters after a car crash. I think it can work with any "focal point" event being repeated the same way... then adding the different endings.
What an exciting idea you have!
2 people like this
Excellent Michael!