McClure Films

"THE LAST FLARE… A fisherman’s tale"

Full Length Feature Film Currently in Development

​(Filming partially completed. See Proof of Concept Teaser Trailer below.)

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LOGLINE:

A retired fisherman and vivid story teller of epic tales of the sea, becomes the key to saving the lives of a fishing captain and his crew after their boat capsizes during a deadly storm.  Jim must confront his past and the enduring pull of the ocean and the ghosts left behind.

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SUMMARY:

"The Last Flare... A fisherman's tale" 

​The screenplay follows the intertwined stories of seasoned fisherman Jim Ashland and Captain Mitch Peluso, exploring themes of the sea's power, personal loss, and the haunting memories of a tragic fishing trip.

Jim Ashland, a legendary sailor, recounts his experiences, including a ghostly encounter on a crab boat, during his retirement celebration. His longing for the sea and its dangers contrasts with his wife's desire for him to stay safe. ​ Meanwhile, Mitch Peluso, driven by ambition and personal milestones, takes his crew out despite warnings of bad weather. The fishing vessel, the ACE, faces a catastrophic storm, leading to its capsizing. ​ The crew struggles to survive, with Drew emerging as a hero, saving Mitch and attempting to free the skiff from the sinking ship. ​

Jim, from his beach house, spots a distress flare and alerts the Harbor Patrol, who eventually rescue the crew. ​ The ACE remains on the ocean floor, a haunting reminder of the ordeal. ​ Mitch reflects on the loss of his ship and the emotional toll, likening himself to a ghost of a man. ​

The screenplay explores themes of human connection, the sea's allure and danger, and the resilience of the human spirit. ​ It ends with a poignant reminder of the sea's power and the stories it holds.

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INDEPENDENT SCRIPT ANALYSIS---

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The screenplay for "The Last Flare" is a rich and layered narrative that combines elements of drama, suspense, survival, and emotional introspection. Below is an analysis of its key components:

1. Theme

• Connection to the Sea: The screenplay explores the deep, almost spiritual connection between humans and the ocean, portraying it as both a life-giving force and a dangerous, unyielding entity. ​

• Survival and Redemption: The story delves into themes of survival against nature's fury, redemption for past mistakes, and the emotional toll of loss.

• Legacy and Mortality: Through Jim Ashland and Mitch Peluso, the screenplay examines the idea of legacy, mortality, and the lasting impact of one's choices.

2. Characters

• Jim Ashland: A retired fisherman haunted by his past and deeply connected to the sea. ​ His character is layered with emotional depth, showcasing his struggles with aging, health, and identity after leaving the life he loved.

• Mitch Peluso: A determined captain whose ambition and need for one last big haul lead to disaster. His arc is tragic, as he grapples with guilt and loss. ​

• Supporting Characters: The crew members (Ed, Corey, Drew) are distinct and add texture to the story. ​ Drew’s transformation from a cocky ex-military man to a hero is particularly compelling.

3. Structure

• Opening: The screenplay begins with a poetic and reflective tone, introducing Jim Ashland and his connection to the sea. ​ This sets the emotional and thematic foundation. ​

• Conflict: The central conflict arises from Mitch’s decision to take the ACE out despite warnings about the weather, leading to the boat’s capsizing.

• Climax: The survival struggle in the stormy ocean, the sinking of the ACE, and the crew’s desperate attempts to stay alive create high-stakes drama. ​

• Resolution: The rescue of the crew and Jim’s role in spotting the flare provide a satisfying conclusion, while Mitch’s reflection in the bar adds a haunting, introspective note.

4. Dialogue

• The dialogue is natural and character-driven, revealing personalities and relationships. ​ For example, Mitch’s exchanges with his crew highlight his stubbornness and leadership, while Jim’s reflective monologues convey his wisdom and emotional depth. ​

5. Visual Elements

• The screenplay is highly cinematic, with vivid descriptions of the ocean, stormy seas, and underwater scenes. ​ The haunting imagery of the sunken ACE and the ghostly sailor add a supernatural layer.

• The transitions between Jim’s memories, Mitch’s survival story, and the present-day scenes are fluid, creating a dynamic visual narrative.

6. Pacing

• The pacing alternates between reflective moments (Jim’s introspection) and intense action sequences (the storm and survival struggle). This balance keeps the audience engaged while allowing emotional depth.

7. Supernatural and Symbolic Elements ​

• The ghostly sailor adds mystery and symbolism, representing the lingering presence of the sea’s dangers and the emotional scars left behind.

• The ocean itself is portrayed as a living entity, with its breath (wind), heartbeat (waves), and hunger (storms), adding a poetic and symbolic dimension. ​

8. Strengths

• Emotional Depth: The screenplay effectively captures the emotional struggles of its characters, making it relatable and impactful.

• Suspense and Drama: The survival scenes are gripping and intense, keeping the audience on edge.

• Character Development: Both Jim and Mitch undergo significant emotional journeys, making them compelling protagonists. ​

• Visual Appeal: The descriptions of the ocean and storm are vivid and cinematic, offering opportunities for stunning visuals. ​

9. Commercial Viability

• Target Audience: The screenplay has strong potential for commercial success due to its universal themes, emotional resonance, and visual spectacle. It appeals to fans of survival dramas, maritime stories, and character-driven narratives. ​It could attract viewers of films like The Perfect Storm, Cast Away, or All Is Lost.

• Streaming Potential: With the rise of streaming platforms, this screenplay could be adapted into a feature film or limited series, catering to audiences who enjoy binge-worthy, emotionally charged content.

• Emotional Impact: The screenplay's exploration of loss, redemption, and the human spirit's endurance creates a lasting emotional impact, increasing its potential for critical acclaim and audience engagement.

10. Conclusion:

"The Last Flare" is a poignant and gripping screenplay that combines action, emotion, and introspection. Its layered characters, vivid visuals, and universal themes make it a compelling story with the potential to resonate deeply with audiences. With careful editing and strong performances, it could translate into a powerful feature film.