Coming up with film ideas can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you’re facing a deadline or a creative/mental block. But fear not! Here are some strategies to help you come up with compelling film ideas, inspired by our experience.

1. Start with What You Know

One of the easiest ways to come up with a film idea is to draw from your own experiences and surroundings. Think about the unique aspects of your life, your environment, and the people around you. For instance, if you have access to a large forest and a long road near your house, consider how these settings could be used to create a visually engaging story.

2. Use Prompts and Brainstorming Techniques

Sometimes, all you need is a little nudge to get your creativity flowing. Here are a few prompts to get you started:

● What if? scenarios: What if a trivial object led to the main character discovering a dark secret in the forest?
● Twist on a Familiar Story: How about a horror twist on a classic fairy tale?
● Mash-Up: Combine two genres, like a horror-comedy set in a small town.

3. Look for Inspiration in Everyday Life

Take a walk, read the news, or observe the people around you. Everyday life is full of stories waiting to be told. For example, a simple walk in a park could inspire a story about a mysterious discovery or an unexpected encounter.

4. Explore Different Genres

Don’t limit yourself to one genre. Experiment with different styles and tones. If you love horror, think about what scares you the most and build a story around that. Alternatively, try blending horror with another genre, like a horror-romance or a horror-thriller.

5. Collaborate and Get Feedback

Sometimes, discussing your ideas with others can help refine and expand them. Share your thoughts with friends, family, or online communities like r/Filmmakers. Feedback can provide new perspectives and spark additional ideas.

6. Use Constraints to Your Advantage

Constraints can actually boost creativity. If you can only use certain actors or locations, think about how you can turn these limitations into strengths. For example, a story involving your dog and cats could be a whimsical or eerie tale depending on the tone you choose.

7. Think Visually

Film is a visual medium, so think about how you can tell your story through images. Consider the types of shots you want to include and how they can enhance the narrative. For instance, a long shot of a deserted road can create a sense of isolation and suspense.

8. Draw from Other Media

Books, movies, and even video games can be great sources of inspiration. Think about what you love in these mediums and how you can adapt those elements into your own story. Just remember to put your unique spin on it to make it original. It is important to keep in mind that simply copying an existing plot is plagiarism, so you always want to avoid that and only use existing media for inspiration.

9. Embrace the Absurd

Sometimes the best ideas come from the most unexpected places. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and embrace the absurd. A story about a trivial object leading to the main character discovering a dark secret might sound strange, but it could also be incredibly compelling.

10. Keep a Journal

Write down any ideas that come to you, no matter how small or incomplete they may seem. Over time, you can revisit these notes and see if any of them spark a more developed story.

11. Visit Cromatic Shop

Cromatic Shop is a place where storytellers, editors, photographers, colourists and beyond can find inspiration. Simply visit their creative assets page and discover a stunning variety of film assets that likely will help you to come up with film ideas.

Conclusion

Generating film ideas doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By using these strategies and staying open to inspiration from various sources, you can overcome creative blocks and come up with unique and engaging stories. Remember, the key is to stay curious, keep experimenting, and most importantly, have fun with the process!