Screenwriting : Which is a funnier concept? by Jacqueline Hicks

Jacqueline Hicks

Which is a funnier concept?

Religious beliefs aside, which is a funnier storyline? 1) Two "dumb and dumber" gangster wannabes stumble upon Jesus' return in the desert, thrilled He's Jesus but are too stupid to enjoy the kind of power they have with Him as they journey on their road trip to Vegas? 2) O, same story but these two guys don't know that it's Jesus, and let's see what happens as they road trip to Vegas? (Note: Obviously a comedy . It's two loser friends trying to discover who they are and drive to Vegas hoping to find answers. This is not a religious bashing story) Thanks.

Kerry Douglas Dye
2. Not knowing something is funnier than knowing it. Then watch the funniest Jesus comedy ever, coincidentally co-written and directed by me: http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Ultrachrist/60037796
Stephen J. Jacobs

Even stupid gangsters would try to manipulate Jesus to their advantage, whether they knew who he is or not. Another very funny consequence is how does Jesus react to their attempted Cons, hustles and scams, during their journey, if he even recognizes them?

Cherie Grant

maybe they kidnap jesus once they realise his power. try to use him, but to no avail. they fail spectacularly at every turn. will they eventually learn something by the end of the movie?

Danny Manus

The second one is by far funnier and stronger.

Varun Prabhu

I would vote for the second one.

Jacqueline Hicks

Thanks, all. I have been going with the second one, just needed some confirmation from other writers! (sometimes you find yourself questioning everything!) Clarification: These guys aren't gangsters yet, but want to be, because, one was rejected by a street gang for being too stupid. He wants to go to Vegas' gangster training camp, get trained and seek revenge. The other seeks the father who deserted him (he doesn't know his father, but has strong suspicious it's Michael Corleone). They do "manipulate" Jesus (but naturally, Jesus can't be manipulated), but in ways that are Dumb and Dumber stupid, (like asking for enough gas for their empty gas tank so that they can get to the gas station). They just don't realize just how much power they have here. They kind of think he's just gifted, maybe they think he's David Copperfield? (I'm working this out, lol). The audience clearly knows it's Jesus, but the guys treat him like a road buddy with cool benefits. Jesus is pretty quiet throughout. He has his own agenda, of course, and is fully aware of what they're doing. He does help them, at times giving them exactly what they want, but usually the end result isn't what they expected or hoped. In the end, yes, there is a lesson here. Thanks for all the feedback. Constructive criticism is always a wonderful thing for a writer.

Steve Tomas Fecske

I agree. Great opportunity for funny subtext. Even the audience can be uncertain about this resurrection or is he just a crazy? Would offer us the perspective of those around Jesus the first time he arrived who couldn't be sure of his power or his place next to God and question their own faith. Can we make the leap of fiath? Great idea.

Kerry Douglas Dye

I can't help but note that this story (rascal on a road trip to Vegas with a guy with magical powers) is awfully similar to Rain Man. :) Not saying that's a bad thing, or that it's unoriginal. Just thinking you might want to (re)watch Rain Man for ideas. Like, for example, the great beat where Charlie realizes the extent of Raymond's powers and that they might be to solution to the desperate situation he's in. Steal from the best, that's my motto.

Varun Prabhu

Kerry, following Quentin Tarantino's message, are we??

Maurice Tyson

On the heels of a Dumb & Dumber sequel thisclose to being released? I'd go with the 2nd choice.

P. Alan Richards
2
Demiurgic Endeavors

Both premises have high commercial potential literally this comedy writes itself. All that's left is for you to execute the script to its greatest potential.

Ruthann Conley

I like the second concept better. Not knowing it's Jesus can have some very funny moments.

Brandon L. Paige

Hi Jacqueline. Seen your ideas and I agree with 2nd concept. Would be great if they were about to enter a sandstorm or something and Jesus parts the storm like God did for Moses at the Red Sea.

M Powers

I like the second approach because it leaves more room to explore. Funny! Hope to see it one day.

Demiurgic Endeavors

I came across this link and thought it was right up your alley. http://www.nevadafilm.com/screenwriting-competition good luck!

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