My visuals will match the screenplay both in evilness and terror so it will feel like one big panic attack. In every frame, I’ll build a sense of eeriness that will develop into shivers, then hysteria – but slowly, just like the pace of my previous works. Even though I usually favor long focal lenses, I intend to frequently use wide-angle lenses on Rachel’s face to affect the viewer psychologically, so they feel uneasy as if they’re in the room watching the pandemonium unfold. Additionally, the two leads will often look directly in the camera as they speak to one another so we feel like we’re having the conversation ourselves.
It’s essential to understand the psychological effects that specific lenses, camera angles, and, furthermore, the edit and score will have on the viewer. The editing will reflect the acceleration of the story and the infernal spiral Rachel is trapped in. It will also focus on the emotional journey of both Rachel and Edward, emphasizing every look and reaction, so the tension progressively builds. In contrast, I’m a firm believer that playing with the audience’s imagination is the best way to maintain suspension of disbelief so much of the violence in the film will be moved off-screen and heightened by the sound design and score. On its own, the score will be an integral part of the film’s narrative. Orchestral and harmonious, a zombie lullaby will drag us along Rachel’s descent into hell.