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- Finished - Horror vs Romance Story Contest
#1
19th Jun 2014 at 2:40 AM
Last edited by Qnshr5 : 20th Sep 2014 at 2:27 AM.
Posts: 293
Horror vs Romance Story Contest
Horror vs Romance: A Sims Story Contest
What’s stronger? The power of love or the power of fear?
Concept: Choose one genre--either horror or romance--and write a story in 4 rounds.
Romance and horror stories have been around for centuries in all cultures. Historically, often folk tales of caution, horror has always explored our fears whether imaginary or real. They might end in hopelessness or triumph mirroring our desire to conquer fear and vanquish evil though we doubt if it’s possible. Romance, on the other hand, showed the perils and joys of risking our hearts. Whether ending happily or tragically, they remind us of the importance of giving and experiencing love.
Both love and fear have the power to transform. Which will you choose? Does the hero fear love or do they love fear?
Qualifications to Host:
- Hosted Genre Drama;
Contestant in Heaven’s Story Time: Hero’s Edition;
Contestant in Official MTS Sim Contest (TS3): Cultural Diversity;
Contestant in Qbuilderz Groundwork: A TS3 Foundation Challenge
Requirements:
Any skill level. Writing and picture taking experience helpful, but not necessary. This is a great opportunity to learn if you’ve never done it before.
Rounds:
Over the whole contest you will write a complete story with beginning, middle and end. Each round will be one part of your story with round 1 being the beginning and the final round the ending. Each round you will be required to include an objective in your story (usually to do with plot and structure) and a challenge known as the requirement. There will also be a bonus to include that is optional.
Choose either romance or horror to write in. You cannot write in both. However, you may write any kind of story within the genre. Gothic, comedy, thriller, psychological horror, etc are just as game as a romantic comedy, tragedy, drama, paranormal romance, etc. If you’re writing a story with the other genre in it like a horror with a romance subplot, be sure that the genre group you chose is the main focus and conflict.
Contest Rules:
1. Forum Rules Apply
2. Sims 2 & 3 accepted
3. No eliminations. No placeholders.
4. One entry per person. First round is application. Must have 5-20 entries.
5. Any CC are allowed.
6. Original stories only. No borrowed or reused stories. It must be a new story written by you not one you’ve (or anyone else has) written before.
7. PG-13 or below only! No Explicit material please! This means no graphic violence, sexual themes, or mature adult material. Cursing is allowed, but must be kept within reason/relevancy.
8. Post-editing is allowed. However, your entry will only be added once it appears to be a full submission meaning the word/picture count appears to be in the requirements and the entry form is complete. A couple screenshots and a few sentences does not count as an entry. Please hold off posting until you have something that is close to or within the contest story rules. I will not add you otherwise.
9. However, no post-editing after a round ends. If you do post edit after a round has closed you will be automatically docked -5pts as if it were turned in late. If your story/pictures are not finished or edited to your liking, sorry. Your entry will be judged based on what you’ve submitted.
10. Entry form must be completely filled out for your submission to be added. This includes the word & picture/screenshot counts. If you post an entry with an incomplete form, you will not be added until the entry form is completed. If you do not fix this before round 1 ends, you will not be able to participate. Promising to “take care of it later” could take a spot from someone who is fully prepared if you never get back to it.
11. Entry must be in spoiler tags. Example:
[spoiler]entry[/spoil… (ending with "/spoiler]" in 2nd brackets)
Story Rules
1. Main characters must be your creation. Can be any age, species, pet, etc.
2. Must be a complete story with a beginning, middle and end. Endings can be ambiguous or cliffhangers, but must be conclusive.
3. Must have a title and include a 1-3 sentence synopsis and a brief recap of previous rounds.
4. Word count must be within 1,000-2,000 words (unless instructed otherwise in a round). Please use Microsoft Word or Word Counter for your count.
5. Screenshots are required and must be within 10-20 pictures (unless instructed otherwise in a round). Pictures must be 800x600 (minimum) to 1280x1060 (maximum). See Creator Guidelines Screenshot Basics
6. Grammar/spelling will not be judged. But please put your best effort into it.
7. Photoshop can be used at minimal. Borders, greyscale/sepia, smudge/fog, saturation are all okay. Get creative with your pictures.
8. Cover picture is allowed. This is like a book front cover or a movie poster. It is optional, but gives judges/readers a visual reminder beside the synopsis/recap of what the story is. The cover picture should reflect your story and be above the entry outside of the spoiler. You may use Photoshop to your heart’s content, including text, effects, etc, on this picture only.
CONTESTANTS
Horror | ||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Contestants | Round 1 | Score | Round 2 | Score | Round 3 | Score | Round 4 | Score | Final Score | |
1 | frenchyxo22 | Les Secrets De La Nuit | 74.5 | Withdrew | ---- | Withdrew | ---- | Withdrew | ---- | ---- |
2 | Mr_Valentine90 | Only Nightmares | 81.3 | Part 2 | 80 | Part 3 | 94.8** | Part 4 | 82.3 | 84.85 |
3 | justJones | Charlie and the Terrible Day | 81 | Part 2 | 74.7 | Withdrew | ---- | Withdrew | ---- | ---- |
4 | spladoum | All the Pretty Flowers | 89.3 | No Entry | 0 | No Entry | 0 | DQ | ---- | ---- |
5 | pixipulator | Worse Than Dead | 82 | No Entry | 0 | No Entry | 0 | DQ | ---- | ---- |
6 | Silent_Monochrome | Piskie-Led | 75 | No Entry | 0 | No Entry | 0 | DQ | ---- | ---- |
7 | Jasumi | The Forgotten Year | 92.5* | Part 2 | 78.5 | Part 3 | 92 | Withdrew | ---- | ---- |
Romance | ||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Contestants | Round 1 | Score | Round 2 | Score | Round 3 | Score | Round 4 | Score | Final Score | |
1 | random_name | I Can Grant You A Miracle | 87 | Part 2 | 87.3 | Part 3 | 90.5 | Part 4 | 98.7 | 90.88 |
2 | Rin_of_Water | Spirit Dreams | 89 | No Entry | 0 | No Entry | 0 | DQ | ---- | ---- |
3 | LucyBorgia | Falling for the Man Next Door | 88.7 | Part 2 | 86 | Part 3 | 76 | No Entry | 0 | 62.68 |
4 | katiejapan | Heaven Shifting | 79.8 | No Entry | 0 | No Entry | 0 | DQ | ---- | ---- |
5 | PinkWallet14 | Expect Style | 81.7 | Part 2 | 64.5 | Part 3 | 71.7 | No Entry | 0 | 54.48 |
6 | SimsObsessed | Say Something | 84.7 | Part 2 | 79.7 | Part 3 | 73.3 | Part 4 | 65.7 | 75.85 |
7 | Tamlyn | Daughter of the Witch | 93** | Part 2 | 99.3** | Part 3 | 92.8* | Part 4 | 101.7* | 96.7 |
8 | Freelala | Bright Water | 89.8 | Part 2 | 98* | Part 3 | 90.7 | Part 4 | 107** | 96.38 |
9 | Vagen | Arrows | 91 | Part 2 | 86.7 | Part 3 | 83.3 | No Entry | 0 | 65.25 |
Scores
Round One Scores
Round Two Scores
Round Three Scores
Round Four Scores
Timeline:
Each round will last 3 weeks ending at 11:59:59 HAST. You have 3 weeks to write, take screenshots and post your story. There are 4 rounds so this contest will last until the beginning of September. Round 4 Ends 9 September 2014
Judging:
Judges will read and judge within 6 days (this may be expanded, if needed). Contestants will get scored by the judges. Those scores will be added and averaged. Both judges and EJs can give feedback.
Judge 1 | Judge 2 | Judge 3 | EJ 1 | EJ 2 |
---|---|---|---|---|
cherry4567 | heaven | Qnshr5 |
Scoring:
(All scores show the maximum available points for that section. Each line/question of criteria worth up to 5 points unless otherwise noted.)
1. Creativity (15): Is the story original? Is it entertaining? Is the requirement done well, flows with the story?
2. Character (20): Is the main character(s) realistic and relatable? Are their goal/desires clear & understandable? Do their decisions have consequences (good or bad) that shape the plot? Do they grow/change during the course of the story?
3. Story (20): Does the plot make sense/is it understandable? Is the conflict consistent, a struggle that’s rising? Does the setting capture the period, mood and tone of the story? Are the round objectives met?
4. Genre (25):
Horror: Does the story revolve around characters worst fears, nightmares or terror?
Does the story evoke fear/panic/unsettledness in the audience? (10pts)
Is the antagonist(s) believable and enough of a threat to keep the story moving? (10pts)
Romance: Does the story revolve around the love between two protagonists?
Does the story evoke strong emotions (hope/humor/sadness/etc) that fit its tone in the audience? (10pts)
Is the obstacle(s) believable and big enough to keep the lovers apart or in conflict? (10pts)
5. Atmosphere (15): Do the props/staging draw us into the world? Do the words paint a picture/good description? Do the screenshots complement the story/bring it alive?
6. Presentation(5): Is it organized/follow the entry form? Does it adhere to the rules? Is it within the rounds limits (screenshots/words)? (Deducted points at judges discretion.)
7. Bonus Rounds(5-10): Determined by how difficult or how much work is required.
Scores will be added and averaged. Max points=100/round. Bonus round max=105-110/100
EXTENSIONS:
Because there are three full weeks to get an entry in, extensions will be individual based given only for a good reason (an emergency, the unexpected, etc, not for planned vacations or procrastination, etc) one time only. Please let me know ASAP before the round ends in a PM. Otherwise, entries can be turned in up to 3 days after the round ends with -5 pts accumulating per day (-15 max). After 3 days you will get a “0” for no entry even if you turn in one afterward. Extensions will not be provided for round 1.
Entry Form:
Story Title:
Genre:
Cover Picture: (optional)
Synopsis & Recap:
Requirement: (put the quote, title or name you chose here.) [For Round 4: Requirement must be below your entry]
Bonus: (optional) [put the quote, title, or name you chose here.]
Word/Picture Count:
Entry [in spoilers]
--Any additional notes, inspirational background, music, etc that you'd like to add must go below entry form [in spoilers] (not judged!)
Round One--Closed!
Timer Ends 8 July 2014
The Setup: Your protagonist just moved into a new house, got a new job, wants to get away from the noisy busy city, is on vacation, is having a midlife crisis, has the perfect life they would never want to change, etc... however, something unexpected is on the horizon. This is the beginning of your story.
Round 1 Objective: Setup your story and establish the genre. Introduce your main character(s) and their world. By the end of this round, the audience should know whether your story is horror or romance. Yes, I know it’s labeled which one, but we should be able to tell from reading the story itself thus “establishing your genre”. Disturb your protagonist’s world with the beginnings of love or fear whether they know it or not.
Requirement: The Excerpt (aka How writers let people know that they read, too!)
Speaking of beginnings, incorporate the opening line from one of these classic tales of fear or love anywhere in your story. It takes creativity and logic to place a bit of another’s work in your own while staying true to the mood (general feel) and tone (story voice) of your story. In other words, it should feel like it’s part of the story and not feel like it was thrown in haphazardly.
Points will be rewarded based on how well you blend the line into your story. Please underline the excerpt so the judges will know that it’s there. You are allowed to change the tense to fit your story, if necessary, but nothing else. Though they are categorized you may choose from any of the six quotes no matter which genre you are writing in. This line does not count as “establishing the genre”. Identify the line used & genre it’s from in the entry form under “Requirement”.
Round 1 Bonus: Incorporate a second line, but it must not be from the genre your first line came from. So, if your first chosen line is from the romance options, then to get awarded for the bonus, your second line must come from the horror choices. This second line may be placed anywhere in your story, don’t forget to underline it. Identify the line & genre as the “bonus” on the entry form. (Worth up to 5 points for how well integrated into the story)
The Setup: Your protagonist just moved into a new house, got a new job, wants to get away from the noisy busy city, is on vacation, is having a midlife crisis, has the perfect life they would never want to change, etc... however, something unexpected is on the horizon. This is the beginning of your story.
Round 1 Objective: Setup your story and establish the genre. Introduce your main character(s) and their world. By the end of this round, the audience should know whether your story is horror or romance. Yes, I know it’s labeled which one, but we should be able to tell from reading the story itself thus “establishing your genre”. Disturb your protagonist’s world with the beginnings of love or fear whether they know it or not.
Requirement: The Excerpt (aka How writers let people know that they read, too!)
Speaking of beginnings, incorporate the opening line from one of these classic tales of fear or love anywhere in your story. It takes creativity and logic to place a bit of another’s work in your own while staying true to the mood (general feel) and tone (story voice) of your story. In other words, it should feel like it’s part of the story and not feel like it was thrown in haphazardly.
Points will be rewarded based on how well you blend the line into your story. Please underline the excerpt so the judges will know that it’s there. You are allowed to change the tense to fit your story, if necessary, but nothing else. Though they are categorized you may choose from any of the six quotes no matter which genre you are writing in. This line does not count as “establishing the genre”. Identify the line used & genre it’s from in the entry form under “Requirement”.
Horror Novel Opening Lines:
“True! – nervous – very, very dreadfully nervous I had been and am! But why will you say that I am mad?” The Tell-Tale Heart, Edgar Allen Poe
“No live organism can continue for long to exist sanely under conditions of absolute reality; even larks and katydids are supposed, by some, to dream.” The Haunting of Hill House, Shirley Jackson
“Nobody was really surprised when it happened, not really, not at the subconscious level where savage things grow.” Carrie, Stephen King
Romance Novel Opening Lines:
“It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.” Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen
“All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” Anna Karenina, Leo Tolstoy
“Who am I? And how, I wonder, will this story end?” The Notebook, Nicholas Sparks
“True! – nervous – very, very dreadfully nervous I had been and am! But why will you say that I am mad?” The Tell-Tale Heart, Edgar Allen Poe
“No live organism can continue for long to exist sanely under conditions of absolute reality; even larks and katydids are supposed, by some, to dream.” The Haunting of Hill House, Shirley Jackson
“Nobody was really surprised when it happened, not really, not at the subconscious level where savage things grow.” Carrie, Stephen King
Romance Novel Opening Lines:
“It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.” Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen
“All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” Anna Karenina, Leo Tolstoy
“Who am I? And how, I wonder, will this story end?” The Notebook, Nicholas Sparks
Round 1 Bonus: Incorporate a second line, but it must not be from the genre your first line came from. So, if your first chosen line is from the romance options, then to get awarded for the bonus, your second line must come from the horror choices. This second line may be placed anywhere in your story, don’t forget to underline it. Identify the line & genre as the “bonus” on the entry form. (Worth up to 5 points for how well integrated into the story)
Round Two--CLOSED
Timer: Round Ends 29 July
Objective: You Can Never Go Back
Push your character across a line that can’t be re-crossed. They should be locked into the story and the conflict. This means that your main character(s) cannot get out of the main conflict. It's like going into a strange house through the front door. As long as you can walk back out that front door you're not locked into the story. Only once the door is closed, locked, & hammered shut are you forced to find the way out. For your character, the only way out is the ending. Whether they are running for their lives or hunting down true love, your characters can never go back to the way life used to be.
Requirement: Add a Character
Adding a new character is a great way to freshen up a story or add more conflict. Fortunately for you not only will you add a character, they’ve already been chosen for you! These characters come in pairs. You must choose 1 character from pair. The character choices are from your genre category OR from the horror-romance category. Romance writers must choose from the romance pair or the horror-romance pair. Horror from the horror pair or the horror-romance pair. This means you will chose 1 character from 4 choices. The character does not need to play a big role, but their purpose should be important enough that their presence means something to the plot. (So, the person can’t just take a random order at a restaurant, they have to be relevant to the story. Give important info, bring more conflict, etc.)
You are free to re-imagine the character to fit your story and CAS/game capabilities/creativity. You must keep their names for easy identification* It is up to you if the character appears in this round only or if they continue in your story in further rounds.
You will be scored based on the creativity of the character and how well they are put into the story. If you are unfamiliar with the characters, a link to their story’s wikipedia page is included. (But the character does not have to follow their original story in your story for the requirement).
Entry Form: Requirement: Character’s name
Objective: You Can Never Go Back
Push your character across a line that can’t be re-crossed. They should be locked into the story and the conflict. This means that your main character(s) cannot get out of the main conflict. It's like going into a strange house through the front door. As long as you can walk back out that front door you're not locked into the story. Only once the door is closed, locked, & hammered shut are you forced to find the way out. For your character, the only way out is the ending. Whether they are running for their lives or hunting down true love, your characters can never go back to the way life used to be.
Requirement: Add a Character
Adding a new character is a great way to freshen up a story or add more conflict. Fortunately for you not only will you add a character, they’ve already been chosen for you! These characters come in pairs. You must choose 1 character from pair. The character choices are from your genre category OR from the horror-romance category. Romance writers must choose from the romance pair or the horror-romance pair. Horror from the horror pair or the horror-romance pair. This means you will chose 1 character from 4 choices. The character does not need to play a big role, but their purpose should be important enough that their presence means something to the plot. (So, the person can’t just take a random order at a restaurant, they have to be relevant to the story. Give important info, bring more conflict, etc.)
You are free to re-imagine the character to fit your story and CAS/game capabilities/creativity. You must keep their names for easy identification* It is up to you if the character appears in this round only or if they continue in your story in further rounds.
You will be scored based on the creativity of the character and how well they are put into the story. If you are unfamiliar with the characters, a link to their story’s wikipedia page is included. (But the character does not have to follow their original story in your story for the requirement).
Entry Form: Requirement: Character’s name
Horror Iconic Pair:
Dr. Victor Frankenstein
OR
Frankenstein’s Monster
(*may use “Frankenstein” for the monster/man made sentient being and “Dr. Victor” for the scientist/creator since the names are close. Purists… be calm...)
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
Romance Iconic Pair:
Romeo Montague
OR
Juliet Capulet
William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet
Horror-Romance Iconic Pair:
Erik, The Phantom*
OR
Christine Daae
(*May use either Erik or The Phantom)
For Horror: Gaston Leroux’s The Phantom of the Opera, 1910 (novel), see also The 1925 film version of the novel.
For Romance: Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, 1986 (musical), see also The 2004 film version of the musical.
--The basic story for both is the same, but the gothic novel & 1925 film focus more on the horror aspect of the situation while the musical & 2004 film are more romanticized.
Dr. Victor Frankenstein
OR
Frankenstein’s Monster
(*may use “Frankenstein” for the monster/man made sentient being and “Dr. Victor” for the scientist/creator since the names are close. Purists… be calm...)
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
Romance Iconic Pair:
Romeo Montague
OR
Juliet Capulet
William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet
Horror-Romance Iconic Pair:
Erik, The Phantom*
OR
Christine Daae
(*May use either Erik or The Phantom)
For Horror: Gaston Leroux’s The Phantom of the Opera, 1910 (novel), see also The 1925 film version of the novel.
For Romance: Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, 1986 (musical), see also The 2004 film version of the musical.
--The basic story for both is the same, but the gothic novel & 1925 film focus more on the horror aspect of the situation while the musical & 2004 film are more romanticized.
Round Two Bonuses:
Bonus #1: Lotsa Character. Remember how the characters came in pairs? Now, add the other character choice from the iconic pair your required character came from. You will have both characters in your story. If you had Romeo, you must now have Juliet. If you had Christine, you must use The Phantom. They can be together or separate or however you imagine. Both should play an important role even if it’s minor. Must add 3-5 pictures for a total of 13-25 pictures. (Worth up to 5 pts)
Bonus #2: Purist’s Paradise. Work in the original background, personality, or plot from the story the iconic character(s) you chose came from. Please refer to the provided wikipedia links if you are unfamiliar with the original story or want a refresher. For The Phantom of the Opera, please refer to the genre you are writing in for the storyline to follow. May be done with or without bonus #1. Points awarded for how well the character(s) reflects the original work blended into your story. Must add 300 to 500 extra words for a total of 1300-2500 words. (Worth up to 5 pts)
May have both bonuses in your entry or just one! On entry form: Bonus 1: Character Name; Bonus 2: Book/Play Title
Bonus #1: Lotsa Character. Remember how the characters came in pairs? Now, add the other character choice from the iconic pair your required character came from. You will have both characters in your story. If you had Romeo, you must now have Juliet. If you had Christine, you must use The Phantom. They can be together or separate or however you imagine. Both should play an important role even if it’s minor. Must add 3-5 pictures for a total of 13-25 pictures. (Worth up to 5 pts)
Bonus #2: Purist’s Paradise. Work in the original background, personality, or plot from the story the iconic character(s) you chose came from. Please refer to the provided wikipedia links if you are unfamiliar with the original story or want a refresher. For The Phantom of the Opera, please refer to the genre you are writing in for the storyline to follow. May be done with or without bonus #1. Points awarded for how well the character(s) reflects the original work blended into your story. Must add 300 to 500 extra words for a total of 1300-2500 words. (Worth up to 5 pts)
May have both bonuses in your entry or just one! On entry form: Bonus 1: Character Name; Bonus 2: Book/Play Title
Round 3--CLOSED
Timer: Round 3 ends 19 August 2014
Objective: Is it Just Me, or is it Getting Tense in Here?
The conflict is rising as the climax and ending are just around the corner. This is a good place to bring the emotional stakes to their height by uping the ante (the tension) just before the conflict reaches its boiling point and the final battle/climax commences.
Rachet up the conflict and tension as high as you can in preparation for the climax.
Requirement: Tap into the Other Side
Fear (of loneliness, commitment, opinion, the past/future, etc) can drive a romance just as well as love (for self, a loved one, community, humanity, etc) can fuel a horror story. This will push up the emotional stakes in your story by giving your character more to lose. In this round, include the element of the other genre in a scene in your story. Romances must have a scene of fear. Horrors must have a scene of love. It can be a whole scene, part of one or fleshed out over the course of the story. Fear or love must be not only apparent in this round, but should make the audience feel the emotion.
(Remember, romances and horrors are both about mood, tone and emotions. If you can pull off one feeling, you can pull off its opposite!)
See this post for more explanation on what having the opposite element in your genre means.
Objective: Is it Just Me, or is it Getting Tense in Here?
The conflict is rising as the climax and ending are just around the corner. This is a good place to bring the emotional stakes to their height by uping the ante (the tension) just before the conflict reaches its boiling point and the final battle/climax commences.
Rachet up the conflict and tension as high as you can in preparation for the climax.
Requirement: Tap into the Other Side
Fear (of loneliness, commitment, opinion, the past/future, etc) can drive a romance just as well as love (for self, a loved one, community, humanity, etc) can fuel a horror story. This will push up the emotional stakes in your story by giving your character more to lose. In this round, include the element of the other genre in a scene in your story. Romances must have a scene of fear. Horrors must have a scene of love. It can be a whole scene, part of one or fleshed out over the course of the story. Fear or love must be not only apparent in this round, but should make the audience feel the emotion.
(Remember, romances and horrors are both about mood, tone and emotions. If you can pull off one feeling, you can pull off its opposite!)
See this post for more explanation on what having the opposite element in your genre means.
Round 3 Bonus: Cliches & Tropes
Cliches and tropes are simply ideas that have been used the same way so much that they are universal and the audience automatically recognizes, knows what to expect and predicts its conclusion. Most stories have cliches because they help up the tension, create conflict, or are true to the story/characters. Since there are no new ideas, to “uncliche” a cliche requires putting a twist, or a different conclusion to an old idea, or bending it toward the character (& not the other way around). Consider how your character(s) would actually act & react. Don’t be Hollywood or generic, be true to your story. Tell an old idea in a new way. After all, when they’re well written, cliches and tropes are often not even noticed and some are even enjoyed.
Pick a classic “up the ante” cliche below and add it to a scene for up to 5 points. You’ll be rewarded based on how well it is setup and executed. To rake in up to an additional 2 points, put a fresh spin on it to invert the trope.
May add up to 300 extra words for a maximum total of 2300 words. (Worth up to 5-7 points.)
Cliches and tropes are simply ideas that have been used the same way so much that they are universal and the audience automatically recognizes, knows what to expect and predicts its conclusion. Most stories have cliches because they help up the tension, create conflict, or are true to the story/characters. Since there are no new ideas, to “uncliche” a cliche requires putting a twist, or a different conclusion to an old idea, or bending it toward the character (& not the other way around). Consider how your character(s) would actually act & react. Don’t be Hollywood or generic, be true to your story. Tell an old idea in a new way. After all, when they’re well written, cliches and tropes are often not even noticed and some are even enjoyed.
Pick a classic “up the ante” cliche below and add it to a scene for up to 5 points. You’ll be rewarded based on how well it is setup and executed. To rake in up to an additional 2 points, put a fresh spin on it to invert the trope.
May add up to 300 extra words for a maximum total of 2300 words. (Worth up to 5-7 points.)
Cliches/Tropes: (select 1)
1.) The Misunderstanding: Mistaken identities, misinformation, presumptions, “it’s not what it looks like”, etc. These can often be cleared up with a little investigation and communication, but who has time for such inconvenience?
2.) The Tragic Consequence: An earlier choice ends up having an unfortunate consequence. Some decisions come back to haunt… big time!
3.) Too Dumb to Live: A main character does something so stupid they should be dead or, at least, loathed for all eternity.
4.) Don’t Celebrate Just Yet: It would appear that the hero(es) has won, reached the goal, and the story is over, but wait! There’s more! The worst is yet to come.
Put the cliche title under “bonus”. Include where your cliche is in the story in a spoiler note beneath your story. (Don’t put it above so we can get the full effect in the first read!)
1.) The Misunderstanding: Mistaken identities, misinformation, presumptions, “it’s not what it looks like”, etc. These can often be cleared up with a little investigation and communication, but who has time for such inconvenience?
2.) The Tragic Consequence: An earlier choice ends up having an unfortunate consequence. Some decisions come back to haunt… big time!
3.) Too Dumb to Live: A main character does something so stupid they should be dead or, at least, loathed for all eternity.
4.) Don’t Celebrate Just Yet: It would appear that the hero(es) has won, reached the goal, and the story is over, but wait! There’s more! The worst is yet to come.
Put the cliche title under “bonus”. Include where your cliche is in the story in a spoiler note beneath your story. (Don’t put it above so we can get the full effect in the first read!)
Round 4: CLOSED
Timer: Ends 9 September 2014
You must have 1500-3000 words and 15-30 pictures for this round.
Objective: All Good (and Bad) Things Must Come to an End
The conflict must end here and loose ends tied up.
The Ending. Let the final battle commence! Fight evil. Find true love. Will your hero(es) emerge victorious with a happily ever after? Or will they be crushed by defeat? We find out if the Main Character accomplishes their goal or not and gain closure! (If you want a cliffhanger or to continue the story--a sequel on the site for instance--the current story arc must end, but you may open a new arc. An ambiguous ending should still feel conclusive.)
The conflict must end here and loose ends tied up.
Requirement: The Third Act Twist
Include an unexpected turn of events (that is still logical to you story) or one last test of the hero.
Other writing mediums have tricks and advice that are very useful for all stories. A staple of screenwriting, the twist is an “unexpected turn of events in the third act. Without a twist, the third act can seem too linear and predictable. It can also be the last test of the hero.”
While commonly associated with thriller and suspense stories, the twist isn’t about shocking the audience (necessarily), instead it takes the character’s goal and the path they were on to accomplish it, and detours forcing a new path to either accomplish or not accomplish said goal. Sometimes it comes in the form of the hero completing what was stated to be necessary to accomplish the goal only to learn that there is actually one more much bigger thing that must be done afterward (the one last test). It leads to the final conflict/battle that must be overcome before the resolution happens. For examples of how this plays out in films you may be familiar with, please see Script Lab’s 5 Point Plot Breakdowns (scroll down to see a list of movie examples). I have also included a few examples below.
Requirement: Third Act Twist: Include an unexpected turn of events (that is still logical to you story) or one last test of the hero. In a spoiler below the entry, tell what your twist/last test is. You can format like the examples below.
(As this is such a standard in modern storytelling, some/most/all of you probably already have a twist/last test maybe without even realizing it, so check your outline/plans and see if you have something that fits before you start groaning in despair! You may only need to be aware of it to bring it out. )
Quick Examples: (Warning: huge spoilers if you have not seen these movies!)
Round 4 Bonus:
You must have 1500-3000 words and 15-30 pictures for this round.
Objective: All Good (and Bad) Things Must Come to an End
The conflict must end here and loose ends tied up.
The Ending. Let the final battle commence! Fight evil. Find true love. Will your hero(es) emerge victorious with a happily ever after? Or will they be crushed by defeat? We find out if the Main Character accomplishes their goal or not and gain closure! (If you want a cliffhanger or to continue the story--a sequel on the site for instance--the current story arc must end, but you may open a new arc. An ambiguous ending should still feel conclusive.)
The conflict must end here and loose ends tied up.
Requirement: The Third Act Twist
Include an unexpected turn of events (that is still logical to you story) or one last test of the hero.
Other writing mediums have tricks and advice that are very useful for all stories. A staple of screenwriting, the twist is an “unexpected turn of events in the third act. Without a twist, the third act can seem too linear and predictable. It can also be the last test of the hero.”
While commonly associated with thriller and suspense stories, the twist isn’t about shocking the audience (necessarily), instead it takes the character’s goal and the path they were on to accomplish it, and detours forcing a new path to either accomplish or not accomplish said goal. Sometimes it comes in the form of the hero completing what was stated to be necessary to accomplish the goal only to learn that there is actually one more much bigger thing that must be done afterward (the one last test). It leads to the final conflict/battle that must be overcome before the resolution happens. For examples of how this plays out in films you may be familiar with, please see Script Lab’s 5 Point Plot Breakdowns (scroll down to see a list of movie examples). I have also included a few examples below.
Requirement: Third Act Twist: Include an unexpected turn of events (that is still logical to you story) or one last test of the hero. In a spoiler below the entry, tell what your twist/last test is. You can format like the examples below.
(As this is such a standard in modern storytelling, some/most/all of you probably already have a twist/last test maybe without even realizing it, so check your outline/plans and see if you have something that fits before you start groaning in despair! You may only need to be aware of it to bring it out. )
Quick Examples: (Warning: huge spoilers if you have not seen these movies!)
Character goals and the final conflict/battle to be overcome are included to help you see how the goal, the twist, and the final conflict intertwine. Note that the goal and the final conflict are essentially the same. 3rd Act Twist merely puts one last seemingly impossible mountain to climb or sets up for one last unforeseen battle. If you know how your story ends, you can plant a twist near it.
The Wizard of Oz
The Princess Bride
Toy Story
The Silence of the Lambs
The Wizard of Oz
Goal: To get home
THIRD ACT TWIST
The team returns to the Emerald City broomstick in-hand. However, the Wizard is unwilling to help. As it turns out, he is not a wizard at all, but a man who was lost in Oz during a ballooning accident. He shows all of Dorothy’s friends that they’ve had what they wanted all along, and he agrees to take Dorothy home in the balloon. As they take off, Toto attacks a cat and Dorothy is left behind since the “Wizard” can’t return. (see full story/5 point plot here)
Final Conflict: Getting back home
THIRD ACT TWIST
The team returns to the Emerald City broomstick in-hand. However, the Wizard is unwilling to help. As it turns out, he is not a wizard at all, but a man who was lost in Oz during a ballooning accident. He shows all of Dorothy’s friends that they’ve had what they wanted all along, and he agrees to take Dorothy home in the balloon. As they take off, Toto attacks a cat and Dorothy is left behind since the “Wizard” can’t return. (see full story/5 point plot here)
Final Conflict: Getting back home
The Princess Bride
Goal: To be together in true love
THIRD ACT TWIST
As Buttercup prepares to kill herself in her honeymoon suite, she turns to find Westley reclining on the bed and throws herself into his arms. After a moment of blissful reunion, Buttercup asks for forgiveness, confessing that she married Prince Humperdinck without meaning to. Westley asks if she said, "I do." She did not. Westley then illustrates that it wasn't a legal wedding. (see full story/5 point plot here)
Final Conflict: Staying together (Getting away from Prince Humperdinck)
THIRD ACT TWIST
As Buttercup prepares to kill herself in her honeymoon suite, she turns to find Westley reclining on the bed and throws herself into his arms. After a moment of blissful reunion, Buttercup asks for forgiveness, confessing that she married Prince Humperdinck without meaning to. Westley asks if she said, "I do." She did not. Westley then illustrates that it wasn't a legal wedding. (see full story/5 point plot here)
Final Conflict: Staying together (Getting away from Prince Humperdinck)
Toy Story
Goal: To get back to Andy
THIRD ACT TWIST
Buzz and Woody run to their house, but see that Andy and the moving van just left. They work together to reach the van, ultimately lighting Buzz’s rocket on fire to reach it. (see full story/5 point plot here)
Final Conflict: Getting to Andy
THIRD ACT TWIST
Buzz and Woody run to their house, but see that Andy and the moving van just left. They work together to reach the van, ultimately lighting Buzz’s rocket on fire to reach it. (see full story/5 point plot here)
Final Conflict: Getting to Andy
The Silence of the Lambs
Goal: To get Buffalo Bill
THIRD ACT TWIST
While Starling's superior Jack Crawford (Scott Glenn) leads a SWAT team to a house in Calumet City, Illinois, the location they believe is Buffalo Bill's lair, Starling follows a lead from interviews she conducted surrounding Buffalo Bill's first victim and arrives at the house of "Jack Gordon", who Starling soon realizes is actually Buffalo Bill. She draws her weapon just as the killer disappears in the basement. (see full story/5 point plot here)
Final Conflict: Getting Buffalo Bill
THIRD ACT TWIST
While Starling's superior Jack Crawford (Scott Glenn) leads a SWAT team to a house in Calumet City, Illinois, the location they believe is Buffalo Bill's lair, Starling follows a lead from interviews she conducted surrounding Buffalo Bill's first victim and arrives at the house of "Jack Gordon", who Starling soon realizes is actually Buffalo Bill. She draws her weapon just as the killer disappears in the basement. (see full story/5 point plot here)
Final Conflict: Getting Buffalo Bill
Round 4 Bonus:
Keeping with the theme of movies, this round’s bonus is all about what screenwriters do best: Dialogue. As this is the end, each of the following quotes is the last line or from the last lines of a 20th century film.
Choose one line from the list below and build dialogue around it. The line should flow with the dialogue. It does not have to be uttered by the main character. Points based on how well line is incorporated/flows with your dialogue. Do not change anything about the quote or break up the quote. Underline the quote and identify it under Bonus 1. (Worth up to 5 points)
For a second bonus, choose a second line putting it in anywhere first person can be used, ie dialogue, 1st person thoughts, muttering to self, etc. Points based on how well line is incorporated/flows in story. Do not change anything about the quote or break up the quote. Underline the quote and identify it under Bonus 2. (Worth up to 5 points)
Last Lines from Films:
Choose one line from the list below and build dialogue around it. The line should flow with the dialogue. It does not have to be uttered by the main character. Points based on how well line is incorporated/flows with your dialogue. Do not change anything about the quote or break up the quote. Underline the quote and identify it under Bonus 1. (Worth up to 5 points)
For a second bonus, choose a second line putting it in anywhere first person can be used, ie dialogue, 1st person thoughts, muttering to self, etc. Points based on how well line is incorporated/flows in story. Do not change anything about the quote or break up the quote. Underline the quote and identify it under Bonus 2. (Worth up to 5 points)
Last Lines from Films:
“Why should I be afraid? I'm not afraid."
--Morning Glory (1933)
“After all, tomorrow is another day!"
--Gone with the Wind (1939)
"I feel as though I'd lived through all of this before in another life."
--The Philadelphia Story (1940)
“You see, this is my life. It always will be! There's nothing else.”
--Sunset Boulevard (1950)
“If I live to be ninety, I'm never going to figure you out."
--Giant (1956)
“For a moment there, I thought we were in trouble."
--Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."
--Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
"You have no idea what I'm talking about, I'm sure. But don't worry: you will someday."
--American Beauty (1999)
"You met me at a very strange time in my life."
--Fight Club (1999)
--Morning Glory (1933)
“After all, tomorrow is another day!"
--Gone with the Wind (1939)
"I feel as though I'd lived through all of this before in another life."
--The Philadelphia Story (1940)
“You see, this is my life. It always will be! There's nothing else.”
--Sunset Boulevard (1950)
“If I live to be ninety, I'm never going to figure you out."
--Giant (1956)
“For a moment there, I thought we were in trouble."
--Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."
--Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
"You have no idea what I'm talking about, I'm sure. But don't worry: you will someday."
--American Beauty (1999)
"You met me at a very strange time in my life."
--Fight Club (1999)
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Resources:
For Story & Picture:
How to Write a Good Story
Sims 2: Picture Taking Tutorial
Picture Taking Tutorial Sims 3 ("perfect pictures" & "contests" sections have good info for all no matter the game you play)
How to Post Pictures
For Plotting/Other:
Five Plot Point Breakdowns Good for understanding story structure
Genre Explanations Good to the point genre definitions with movies as examples. Not a complete sub-genre list, though. You don't have to limit yourself to this site's list. Literature has a lot more in both genres.
Please Remember! This is just for fun. Be encouraging, help each other, and have fun! :D
Memory Games A Sims 3 Thriller Mystery
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#2
19th Jun 2014 at 2:40 AM
Posts: 3,720
Thanks: 27209 in 66 Posts
Contest Approved
- Do not post replies and/or contest applications before the contest host has checked in on this thread, or your post will be deleted.
- DO NOT WRITE USELESS POSTS like "Hey cool contest, I think I might join." Reserve type posts and useless posts about coming back with an application will be deleted.
Heaven Sims | Avendale Legacy
"On the internet, you can be anything you want. It's strange that so many people choose to be stupid."
"On the internet, you can be anything you want. It's strange that so many people choose to be stupid."
#4
19th Jun 2014 at 2:30 PM
Posts: 1,101
Thanks: 39722 in 94 Posts
I'm in! I'll do horror.
Strangers in a Strange Land--The Shin Yi Legacy | last updated 3.7.2014
My Simblr | Is probably NSFW
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Test Subject
#5
19th Jun 2014 at 10:59 PM
Posts: 12
Sure, I'm game. I'm all dry of horror ideas at the moment so I'll go for romance.
Test Subject
#6
19th Jun 2014 at 11:07 PM
Posts: 4
Is it 1.000 to 2.000 words per round (hopefully it is otherwhise stoies would turn out short) or for the full story. And in entry form what should be written in Requirement: (identifying title, quote, name, etc).
#7
19th Jun 2014 at 11:38 PM
Posts: 179
I would like to do a romance :D
#8
19th Jun 2014 at 11:42 PM
Posts: 293
Quote: Originally posted by Nitro-Ham
Is it 1.000 to 2.000 words per round (hopefully it is otherwhise stoies would turn out short) or for the full story. And in entry form what should be written in Requirement: (identifying title, quote, name, etc). |
Yes. It is 1,000-2,000 words per round. At minimum you'll write a 4,000-8,000 word story. As for the Requirement, this round it is to include an excerpt from the given list. On the entry form you just need to identify the quote. So, if you chose the Notebook quote (because it's short ) you would fill out the form as so: Requirement: "Who am I? And how, I wonder, will this story end?", romance
As the requirements for the following rounds are not quotes, I added "title" and "name" just so people will know that the way it is identified is the way they can write it in. This will make it easy for the judges to quickly see what you used without having to refer to the quote list. Thanks for the question. I'll try to make that clearer.
@Spladoum, random_name & keepsims: First confirmed interests in both genres. I can't wait to see what you come up with!
Memory Games A Sims 3 Thriller Mystery
#9
20th Jun 2014 at 3:01 AM
Have been wanting to try my hand at sim story telling, and my contest will be wrapped up by the end of next week at the very latest, so I think I will give this a go Haven't decided which genre yet, Will have to think it over and see which story starts to form in my head first, lol.
EDIT: Well, that was quick Think it will be horror. Well, satirical horror. Have already got a story rolling around in my brain.
EDIT: Well, that was quick Think it will be horror. Well, satirical horror. Have already got a story rolling around in my brain.
#10
20th Jun 2014 at 7:22 AM
Posts: 577
I would like to do a horror :D
Peace, Harmony & Balance... Libra is Love..
Peace, Harmony & Balance... Libra is Love..
Test Subject
#11
20th Jun 2014 at 4:52 PM
Posts: 21
Thanks: 46 in 1 Posts
I may not have much experience, but I would be more than happy to be a judge for this!
Everyone remembers the Michael Jordans, but nobody knows about the people passing the ball
- Kelly Clarkson
Everyone remembers the Michael Jordans, but nobody knows about the people passing the ball
- Kelly Clarkson
#12
20th Jun 2014 at 5:45 PM
Posts: 73
Yes! Writing! I love writing! Alright, so I'll go romance, and get started on that submission! :D
#13
21st Jun 2014 at 1:50 AM
Posts: 293
Excited to see all the interest. Satirical horror, JustJones? That's gonna be fun. I think there's going to be some really groovy stories here.
@TheIrishJJ: I sent you a PM
Memory Games A Sims 3 Thriller Mystery
@TheIrishJJ: I sent you a PM
Memory Games A Sims 3 Thriller Mystery
Test Subject
#14
21st Jun 2014 at 11:36 AM
Posts: 9
Umm I don't get these contests...I know I sound nooby but i'm only new to this stuff.
So can someone please explain the contests to me?
So can someone please explain the contests to me?
#15
21st Jun 2014 at 5:18 PM
Hello SnowFlakeGamer. It's a contest for fun using the Sims as characters in your story. No money changes hands. You get MTS fame and a chance to participate with cool people. And, if you win, a kewl contest sticker. So, write a story of 1,000 to 2,000 words each submission. Either romance or horror. Follow the rules as given and post here.
#16
21st Jun 2014 at 5:21 PM
Last edited by Qnshr5 : 21st Jun 2014 at 5:37 PM.
Posts: 293
Quote: Originally posted by SnowFlakeGamer
Umm I don't get these contests...I know I sound nooby but i'm only new to this stuff. So can someone please explain the contests to me? |
Hi SnowFlakeGamer! There's no way to move up from being a noob without learning! A contest is simply a competition with other simmers on the site. There are different kinds of contests. This one is a story contest. Blake currently has a home makeover contest accepting applications (aka entries, submissions) where you would redecorate the interior of a house. There are also building contests (making in-game buildings), beauty contests where you'd create or makeover a sim, picture contests where you focus on taking good pics that capture a certain theme, and others. Contests always have judges and a time limit. This is the main thing that separates them from challenges.
If you want to join a contest you only need to carefully read over the instructions in the first post, do what it asks, and submit your entry in a post to the thread. In this one, you need to write a story and take in-game pics to go with that story. Follow the rules I have and post it. In Blake's, you'd download the house she has, pick a family and decorate according to her rules. In both, there's a time limit and when it expires judges will look at what you've submitted and decide how well you followed the rules and how creative you were... Then you'll get a score back based on the judges's decisions and a new round (level) will begin in which you'll do basically the same thing.
The best way to really learn how contests on MTS work is to either follow one or, even better, participate in one. I encourage you to look at some of the completed contests in the closed contest section to see the entire process. Just reading the contest instructions and then clicking on the entries and scores will help you to see what a contest entails. justJones has a room design contest that still on going that you can also look at to see one that's gone through some rounds in real time (there's some envy inducing beautiful work going on over there )! Contests are a great way to have fun, learn new skills, and improve old skills in the Sims games. I hoped this helps and isn't more confusing! :D
EDIT: A good example of the structure and feel of this contest is to look at heaven's story contests. Read the instructions. Then read a story or two round by round. Story Time Contest, Story Time Contest: Hero Edition
Memory Games A Sims 3 Thriller Mystery
#17
21st Jun 2014 at 6:11 PM
Posts: 1,570
Thanks: 3468 in 27 Posts
Thanks, Qnshr5 That's a really good explanation of what contests are to people new here.
Yes, everything she said about my contest is spot on.
Yes, everything she said about my contest is spot on.
Just call me Blake! :)
Hola, hablo español también - Hi, I speak Spanish too.
#18
21st Jun 2014 at 8:20 PM
Posts: 218
I am SO excited to see this contest. Definitely going to be putting in an entry.
"Passion makes no accommodation for self-preservation."
Test Subject
#19
21st Jun 2014 at 8:22 PM
Posts: 24
Ugh, I hate being the awkward one who doesn't know what to do.... Umm, where do we put the entry form? Or do we just check in like this?
#20
21st Jun 2014 at 9:24 PM
Posts: 577
I have a question for the pictures, are we allowed to do collages? Like i see as im writing, there are some important things I want to capture but I cant go over the pic limit, so what Im asking is, does a pic collage count as one picture?
like one picture split into two frames? lol i hope I explained that in a way that it makes sense.
Peace, Harmony & Balance... Libra is Love..
like one picture split into two frames? lol i hope I explained that in a way that it makes sense.
Peace, Harmony & Balance... Libra is Love..
Lab Assistant
#21
21st Jun 2014 at 10:36 PM
Posts: 89
Thanks: 334 in 2 Posts
I will be doing horror! (with underlying romance but that'll end pretty quickly)
Unfortunately I cannot judge (don't meet the post count D but I would love to if I could.
Mine will be in the Sims 2.
Unfortunately I cannot judge (don't meet the post count D but I would love to if I could.
Mine will be in the Sims 2.
Test Subject
#22
22nd Jun 2014 at 12:17 AM
Posts: 1
I'd love to do a romance story in the Sims 2.
#23
22nd Jun 2014 at 1:11 AM
Posts: 293
Quote: Originally posted by PinkWallet14
Ugh, I hate being the awkward one who doesn't know what to do.... Umm, where do we put the entry form? Or do we just check in like this? |
Your entry form will go on a new post. You just go to the "Post Reply" box and I highly recommend that you push "Go Advanced" because you can preview your post and edit it based on how it will appear before submitting. You can copy/paste the entry form and fill it out. Then click submit and that's your entry.
Quote: Originally posted by frenchyxo22
I have a question for the pictures, are we allowed to do collages? Like i see as im writing, there are some important things I want to capture but I cant go over the pic limit, so what Im asking is, does a pic collage count as one picture? like one picture split into two frames? lol i hope I explained that in a way that it makes sense. |
I know what you mean! I feel your pain, but since the rules don't allow for the Photoshopping/editing that is necessary to split the frame, I have to say no to picture collages or frame splitting by editing. But if you can find a way to split your frame in-game, you could do that. For instance, it's possible to show separate actions happening in two adjoining rooms split by a wall on a set. Or if you make a sim clone or two, you can have that sim giving a progression of emotion by having both (all) in the shot doing different emotions in a replicate of the same space side by side. Or using smudge, which is allowed, to split the frame. Think of the comics/graphic novels/mangas that have multiple actions in one panel. Sometimes its possible to get the ideas for multiple pics into one just by creatively adding more details to it.
What you want to do may not work with these suggestions, though. It's a tough choice, but you'll have to focus on the pictures that visually enhance your story the most. The biggest emotions, actions, and plot drivers.
Memory Games A Sims 3 Thriller Mystery
Test Subject
#24
22nd Jun 2014 at 5:55 PM
Posts: 3
I would love to enter as well. I'm usually quiet here but when I saw this contest I had to enter I would like to do a romance in Sims 3.
#25
22nd Jun 2014 at 6:18 PM
Posts: 655
I'm very interested in taking part in this contest. Thinking horror, hopefully I can come up with something good by tonight and start writing.
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