Balance
A soldier’s homecoming surprise for his daughter’s birthday is ruined when the “gift” goes missing.
Let’s face it: unless you’re watching a Stallone flick, war stories aren’t really about battles, blood, big guns, or technicolor explosions. Inevitably, the best stories of this genre are about people. Such films invariably focus on how war affects human beings. Their lives. Their emotions. Their families. The Hurt Locker. Platoon. Full Metal Jacket. The list could go on.
…and does, with the short script Balance. A polished short, Balance focuses on David – a military father returning from a tour in Afghanistan. His daughter, Katy, is competing in a gymnastic meet on her 13th birthday. Katy’s unaware that David’s home, and the school’s planned a surprise: presenting her with a huge present. Complete with her Dad inside. But once David enters the box, he discovers he’s not alone. His memories have accompanied him. Disturbing flashbacks of battle. Innocent casualties of war. An unnerved David flees to collect his thoughts – leaving a confused Katy alone. Can David learn to cope with his demons? Or will the war follow him (and his family) home?
As with some of the best dramas, Balance doesn’t wrap up its story in a convenient bow. But read this one, and you’ll care about the characters… and root for a happy ending.
About the writer: A writer since the age of 12, the first book that Steve Clark ever read was Amityville Horror. The second was Cujo. He’s been writing ever since, and is currently hard at work on two features. He’s reachable at SAClark69 “AT” verizon.net (or on Long Island, if you’re in the area!!)
Pages: 20
Budget: Mid-range. Admittedly, this one isn’t for a new film student with a handy cam. There are a lot of extras to cast for the school location, and a pivotal (though small skirmish) battle scene that can’t be done dirt cheap. Don’t try this on a shoestring budget. But if you’ve the financing, this could look spectacular on screen.
READ THE SCRIPT HERE – AND DON’T FORGET TO COMMENT!!
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1 Comments so far
1.
KP Mackie
November 22nd, 2015 at 1:05 am
Wonderful story.
A riveting and familiar situation that takes an original detour from what’s expected.
Well devloped, believable characters.
A quick read. Would love to see this one filmed. 🙂