David Boder

1 Writer

Additional Project Info

BlueCat Screenplay Competition Reader Response to "David Boder" - “The descriptions in this piece are simple, clear, yet communicate all they need to. This style contributes to the desolate, evocative tone, and creates starkly beautiful imagery. This melancholy mood is very powerful, and it permeates the entire work. Additionally, Boder’s characterization and arc are well executed, and effectively draw the reader’s interest. From Boder’s introductory scene, it’s clear he’s a mysterious figure: curt, socially isolated, but very dedicated to his cause. The reader is invited to speculate about his motives alongside Michael and Simon. Boder’s initial guardedness makes it particularly satisfying to watch his history slowly unfold over the course of the narrative. Each flashback enriches our understanding of Boder as a character, and enables us to eventually forge a strong emotional connection with him. Boder, like his interviewees, is a Jewish refugee who was forced to make impossible sacrifices in order to flee persecution. The personal connection between Boder and his interviewees is the emotional core of this story, and it encourages the reader to truly care about the records he’s gathering. The script’s flashback-laden, parallel structure directly compares Boder’s experiences with those of his interviewees, and truly drives this point home. The third act powerfully delivers on these plot threads, and is a highlight of the narrative. After connecting particularly strongly with Anna, Boder, no longer able to contain his own feelings, finally breaks down. His outburst is incredibly sad, but it’s also cathartic, since he’s been concealing the depth of his trauma for many years. That his outburst draws no bystander attention also powerfully illustrates how deeply the war has scarred Europe. This scene is particularly well rendered and is one of this script’s most memorable and emotionally affecting moments. I also appreciated that the tragedy here is balanced with a little hope, human connection, and the promise of recovery. Boder’s final scene with Allan the rabbi is notable, and stands out as a moment of solidarity amid Boder’s isolation. The burgeoning city rebuilding effort is an excellent metaphor for the long, hard healing process, both for Boder and for Europe as a whole. Overall, this script is excellently crafted, with potent themes that complement the characters and the narrative. This is a beautiful story that I greatly enjoyed my time with.” 2023 BlueCat Screenplay Competition Semifinalist