Title: A Second Chance
Author: Dr. Walter Hoge
Screenplay Written: Anthony Guilianti
Pages: 95
Genre: Screenplay
Reviewer: Ephantus M
Hollywood Book Reviews
A Second Chance, written by Anthony Guilianti, is a gripping cathartic screenplay about a man who, while near death, gains a unique insight that alters his outlook on his difficulties and life in general.
A number of scenes reenact Rich Hoge’s life story, including his early poor performance in middle school, his rise to prominence as a veterinarian, and his eventual earning a Ph.D. in chemistry and physics. In the current scenario, he is the center of attention for a ground-breaking scientific achievement that he is discussing with his audience, which consists of dignitaries, university reps, and specialists in nuclear energy. He has pioneered a harnessed nuclear fusion discovery, making a huge leap that will eventually enable everyone to have access to affordable, clean, and dependable energy. This feat, which many of his listeners are unaware of, stems from his one-time excursion to a parallel reality, which he believes is the galaxy where the powerful God, the creator of everything, lives.
Hoge describes his encounter with a stranger – an elderly man who was lively, funny, and witty – during his trip to McEaster Valley in graphic detail. He remembers following the elderly man down a tunnel and seeing they were approaching the magma layer more deeply. His exhaustion, caused by a variety of situations and events, appeared to fade as astonishment and awe overtook him with each chat the two had, as did the beauty, tranquility, and relaxation he was experiencing in the magical world. The feeling that he was being given another chance – a chance to accomplish something truly extraordinary – takes center stage in his being, along with a startling request that he was asked to “sleep on.”
This screenplay encourages meditation on what is important and what is not in life. From a painstakingly created family history, it seeps a wealth of “specific” information that forms its foundation. Its protagonist is a man who is deeply dedicated to religion and prayer, and whose life is turned upside down by a horrific catastrophe in the aftermath of his wife’s death, which almost claims his life. Interestingly, he can receive an answer to his prayers in the most surprising way and at the most unexpected moment.
I was first worried about how the many scenarios would come together in the first few pages, but as the events developed, I witnessed the exceptional author’s creativity to make sure that everything made sense. I was impressed by the protagonist’s broad background and the depth of Sarah, Hoge’s ancestor’s astute journaling. I particularly adored the many V.Os that are not only well-spoken but also instructive and provide hints.
A Second Chance offers moments which really captured my attention, characters that appear real and easy for readers to relate to, and an emotional core that drives the story along with fervor and intensity. Its well-defined, coherent structure skillfully led me through the narrative while sowing the seeds of suspense while gradually building to a gratifying end. Despite being a little quick, its pacing is rather successful at maintaining crucial momentum and keeping the reader interested without becoming overpowering. Following an emotional start, it concludes with a satisfying finale which gives closure and resonates with its major themes and characters. This screenplay, written by an award-winning author, is a great addition to any drama enthusiast’s or aspiring screenwriter’s collection.