Multimedia Adaptation
Some six or seven months ago, I wrote a flash fiction story called “The Postnup”. This original story is about a timid housewife who must find the courage to outwit her abusive husband, who just happens to be a well-known, high-powered attorney. I enjoyed writing the story but felt like it could use more development and a little more oomph.
Recently, I got the opportunity to give the story the boost it needs through a multimedia adaptation course. I adapted the story into a short film. It was a very rewarding experience. By adapting this story into a script, I was able to sift through the story, picking out all of the weak areas and adding action and dialogue, which raised the stakes in the story and gave it new life.
For example, in the original story, I hinted at the husband’s abuse and infidelity but didn’t bring it out. For that reason, and others, the story lacked luster. In the script, I let my imagination take over. I brought out the love child and her mother, a young mistress the husband hid from his wife. There’s collusion and deception, a hitman, and a murder. I went full throttle with this adaptation.
Adapting this story has taught me how to further develop my writing. I’m currently revising the original flash fiction piece, and I’m loving every minute of it. My next goal is to try my hand at adapting one of my short stories into a comic.
Through this adaptation experience, I’ve learned not to limit my creativity.
Photo: Olu Eletu