I ask GPT4 for a promo script pushing A CHRISTMAS CAROL. It generates a dull one, and so I will ask for a snappy second script.
I don't rate this GPT4 experience too highly, but it's an example of requesting a style refresh.
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Write the script for a one or two minute video that will encourage people to read Charles Dickens "A Christmas Carol" in the original. Assume people have heard of the story, from the many TV and movie versions. Why go back and read the Victorian original, Dickens' English?
GPT4 SCRIPT 01 [Dull]
[Scene 1: Camera fades in on a cozy room with a crackling fireplace, a comfortable armchair, and a copy of "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens on a wooden side table.]
Narrator (warm, inviting tone): We all know and love the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and yet to come. But have you ever read Charles Dickens' original Victorian masterpiece, "A Christmas Carol"?
[Scene 2: Montage of various movie and TV adaptations, with characters such as Scrooge and Tiny Tim.]
Narrator: While there are countless adaptations and retellings of this classic tale, there's nothing quite like experiencing the story through Dickens' own words.
[Scene 3: Close-up of the book's pages, with passages highlighted as the narrator speaks.]
Narrator: Delight in Dickens' rich language, his vivid descriptions of Victorian London, and his keen observations of human nature. By reading the original work, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the author's craftsmanship and the timelessness of his message.
[Scene 4: A person curled up in the armchair from Scene 1, reading the book, occasionally chuckling or looking thoughtful.]
Narrator: Rediscover the familiar characters you love, like Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim, and meet some that never made it to the screen. Witness the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge as he journeys through the Christmases of his life, and ponder the lessons he learns along the way.
[Scene 5: A group of friends discussing the book over a cup of hot cocoa or tea, sharing their favorite passages and insights.]
Narrator: "A Christmas Carol" is more than just a heartwarming holiday tale – it's a timeless story of redemption, compassion, and the importance of connecting with others. Share this literary gem with family and friends, and let Dickens' words spark meaningful conversations and create lasting memories.
[Scene 6: Camera zooms out, revealing a beautifully wrapped copy of "A Christmas Carol" placed under a twinkling Christmas tree.]
Narrator: This holiday season, why not go back to where it all began? Experience the magic, the warmth, and the wonder of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" in its original form. Immerse yourself in the world of Victorian London, and let this classic tale touch your heart and inspire your spirit.
[Scene 7: The screen fades to black, with the words "Experience the magic of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' – Read it now" appearing in elegant, glowing letters.]
Narrator: So, cozy up by the fire, open the pages of "A Christmas Carol," and let Charles Dickens take you on a journey that will stay with you for a lifetime.
BQ
All right, that was good and you clearly understood the task. However, now that I read it, it may be too "straight' and too "heartwarming" and come off as kind of boring. Let's make it livelier, perhaps portraying the book as surprisingly radical, or funny, or wacky (3 ghosts? Really! What was he smoking?) (Do not use the cliche, what was he smoking, though).
One crazy thing after another happens. The video can border on self parody or tongue in cheek style. Possibly, you want to go somewhat shorter than the first attempt.
GPT4
SCRIPT 02
[Scene 1: Camera zooms in on a well-worn copy of "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens, placed on a table. Animated illustrations of the three ghosts pop out and dance around the book.]
Narrator (excited, energetic tone): You think you know "A Christmas Carol," right? Ebenezer Scrooge, the ghosts of Christmas, yada yada. But have you ever dared to dive into Charles Dickens' original, wild, and totally bonkers Victorian masterpiece?
[Scene 2: Montage of dramatic and comedic scenes from various movie and TV adaptations, with exaggerated facial expressions and reactions.]
Narrator: Forget those watered-down adaptations! The real deal is a rollercoaster ride of emotions, packed with humor, heart, and the kind of supernatural madness that'll make you wonder, "What the Dickens?!"
[Scene 3: Animated Victorian London streets come to life, with quirky characters and comical situations playing out.]
Narrator: In Dickens' vivid world, you'll encounter oddball characters, eccentric situations, and some seriously twisted humor. This is no ordinary Christmas story; it's a surprisingly radical journey through time and the human psyche.
[Scene 4: A person chuckling and gasping as they read the book, reacting to unexpected twists and turns.]
Narrator: Prepare to be shocked, amused, and maybe even a little freaked out as you follow Scrooge through his bizarre encounters with three (yup, three!) time-traveling ghosts. Get ready to experience the story like never before!
[Scene 5: Close-up of the book's pages, with quirky passages highlighted as the narrator speaks.]
Narrator: Dickens' witty language and keen observations will have you laughing out loud and questioning your own assumptions about the world around you. It's a Christmas tale with a razor-sharp edge.
[Scene 6: Camera zooms out, revealing a group of friends gathered in a living room, animatedly discussing the book and sharing their favorite odd moments.]
Narrator: Dare to share this mind-blowing gem with your friends and family, and watch as "A Christmas Carol" becomes the life of the party – or at least the conversation starter you never knew you needed!
[Scene 7: The screen fades to black, with the words "Discover the wild world of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' – Read it now!" appearing in bold, vibrant letters.]
Narrator: So, buckle up, grab a copy of "A Christmas Carol," and let Charles Dickens take you on an unforgettable, delightfully twisted adventure. You'll never look at Christmas – or Victorian literature – the same way again!
