Synopsis
The The Seven screenplay is based on the classic fairy tale published by Bozena Nemcova, to which we have added elements to fill out and enrich the original plot. We have added motifs to justify the motivation of supporting characters and compliment the central story-line, strengthening it and, we hope, adding humor and drama.
Our intention is to make a fairy tale for the whole family with strong visual imagery, expressive and natural acting and a well developed story-line. The basic story is simple and easy to understand even for small children, other levels will appeal to more literate older children (and adults!), who like stories with mystery, suspense, and their own symbolism and internal logic, which they can discover and assimilate, becoming fans in the process.
Our design takes inspiration from the Romantics and Pre-Raphaelites. Given that much of the film takes place outdoors, locations are crucial as is working with natural light, combined with computer enhancement and special effects. Examples of the latter include the endless field of nettles, or the forest cottage teeming with hundreds of cats. The end result should be strong images both as regards composition and lighting, but which still represent a – slightly distorted – version of reality. Nature and the weather play an important symbolic role in the story. The cycle of the year will form a strong visual narrative frame.
Costumes and decor will be based on 19th century styles, as said, but not strictly. We will take our inspiration from silhouettes, enhanced by the contrasting use of color and light. The two worlds in which the protagonists move form two different levels of reality; that of the gentry and that of the villagers, which require contrasting visualizations. While the village will look simple, natural and healthy, the castle and its culture, following the original story, will be more decadent; the building itself crumbling, the dresses, though generous, showing signs of dirt and wear. The Castle decor should reflect a glory that is passing.
As for the cast, the two main roles – Bohdanka and Bartholomew - should create an unusual, dramatically powerful couple. They are not a typical Beauty and the Prince. Both are outsiders and we are looking for actors who are not only charismatic, but also visually malleable, interesting and believable. Bohdanka must be believable living in a village, among the locals, spending time alone outdoors, but also in the role of the expectant mother. Bartholomew has to credibly play the role of an introvert who you can fall in love with over time.
Working with ravens and the special effects involving them is a challenge. This will be done by a combination of real material shot with trained ravens and computer animation. Our goal is the greatest naturalness even in scenes that are obviously magical, such as when the ravens turn into boys.