3. Inspiration - Part 1
If we are to create, we must be inspired. But from where can we draw inspiration when our attention is always so divided, and our minds always so weary? I lack the profoundness to answer this question, but I would like to talk a little about some of the creative influences behind my Sci-Fi-Horror-Adventure novel. (On a side note, stay tuned for the end of the article, where I’ll now include regular updates of my novel’s progression!)
When I was about 13-14, I caught up with some friends and watched two movies: The Conjuring (2013), and The Evil Dead (2013). Being a novice to the genre who, growing up, had been absolutely mortified by Gremlins (1984) and a Sci-Fi horror my parents once put on called Sunshine (2007), this was my first experience of having the pants scared off me – and loving it! Since then, I’ve watched more horror films than all the other genres combined. I have always been enthralled by the macabre, the brutal, and the strange, and while I enjoy the genre widely, I have a particular soft spot for the niche of Sci-Fi/Cosmic horror. Today I wanted to focus on a few works that are direct inspirations for my novel.
The first, is John Carpenter’s The Thing (1982). It’s been out for justtt a little while now, but I finally got around to watching it for the first time midway through last year. Immediately, it launched into my top 5 of all time and, in my humble opinion, is a flawless piece of cinema. I could write an entire article on why I think so (maybe one day!) but here’s a few reasons I hold this movie in highest regard:
1) For its phenomenally tight concept, reflected in such a memorably amorphous and insidious monster.
2) Its compelling exploration of mistrust, paranoia and tension through its flawed protagonists.
3) Last but not least, its trope-defying commitment to sensible character decision-making! (except for a select few occasions)
And all that isn’t even mentioning the masterful ending…
Secondly are the companion pieces of Ridley Scott’s Alien (1979) and James Cameron’s Aliens (1986). Wow, what a good seven years that was! When it comes to these films, I feel that you can’t have one without the other, as they both explore a fascinating sci-fi premise through the complimentary lenses of horror and action. I love how both directors employ soft worldbuilding, hinting at a broader universe with a unique aesthetic, but never waste viewers time with heavy-handed exposition. I love the juxtaposition of the suspense-dripped first movie, where you barely see the alien until the climax, and the action-packed sequel, as gratifying as it is gratuitous.
All three of these films give compelling depictions of isolation and fear as their characters deal with a force of unknown power and self-serving intent – which are all key elements of my story. You may think it strange I am referring to movies alone as an inspiration for my book, but just know there are plenty more sources of inspiration that I will explore in future blogs! I chose these two to begin with due to their widespread influence and their importance to me as a developing storyteller – for I strongly believe that the best stories draw their inspiration from all artistic mediums.
Now, for the first book update! As of publishing this blog, we’re sitting on 62120 words, 19 chapters, and 249 formatted pages. Over the last two months, I’ve averaged 5400 words per week. Alongside working 30-hour weeks and managing everyday life, it’s been time consuming to say the least, but you know what they say about labours of love!
Thank you as always for reading, so much more to come.
With love,
JSH
