Cinematic AI Pilot Screenplay Selection
What is the Cinematic AI project?
A long series of short films depicting the life and teachings of Jesus and its relevance to us all. The films will be inspired by the Urantia Book.

Thank you for helping us select the screenplay that will be produced as a pilot for the Cinematic AI project. 

The purpose of this pilot is two-fold – to demonstrate what is possible with the current state-of-the-art AI filmmaking tools and processes AND to inspire the funding for the rest of the project.


Instructions:
1. Read each logline and synopsis.
2. How well is this script suited to be THE first pilot? Give it a rating from 1 (least suitable) to 5 (most suitable).

Thanks!
Sign in to Google to save your progress. Learn more
Email *
Screenplay 1: The Pharisee's Dilemma
*

Logline: 

A respected Pharisee's encounter with Jesus challenges his understanding of faith, forcing him to choose between religious tradition and a transformative new way of knowing God.

Synopsis: 

Nicodemus, a 40-year-old Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin, is known for his deep knowledge of religious law. Despite his outward success, Nicodemus secretly yearns for a more profound connection with God. His life takes an unexpected turn when he witnesses Jesus teaching in the temple courts, captivated by the depth and authority of his words.

As Nicodemus grapples with the dissonance between Jesus' message of love and grace and the rigid legalism he has always known, he finds himself drawn to learn more. Seeking guidance, Nicodemus confides in his fellow Pharisee, Yehuda, who dismisses Jesus as a dangerous heretic. Undeterred, Nicodemus continues to study Jesus' teachings, even as he faces growing pressure from the religious establishment to denounce him.

Nicodemus' journey of spiritual discovery causes tension in his personal life, as his wife Rachel fears the consequences of her husband's questioning. Torn between his desire for truth and his duty to tradition, Nicodemus arranges a secret meeting with Jesus, where he learns about the transformative power of being born again in the Spirit.

As the Sanhedrin plots to silence Jesus, Nicodemus must make a choice. Will he use his influence to protect the man who has opened his eyes to a new way of knowing God, or will he bow to the pressure of his peers and maintain the status quo? In a powerful climax, Nicodemus takes a stand for his newfound faith, risking his reputation and position to defend Jesus.

"The Pharisee's Dilemma" is a thought-provoking exploration of one man's journey from religious legalism to a life-changing encounter with divine grace. Through Nicodemus' story, the film invites viewers to question their own understanding of faith and to embrace the transformative power of a personal relationship with God.

lowest
highest
Screenplay 2: The Sheperd’s Epiphany
*

Logline:
A young shepherd boy's encounter with Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount leads him on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.

Synopsis:
Ethan, a 12-year-old shepherd, lives a simple life in the Galilean countryside with his widowed mother, Sarah. Though content with his responsibilities, Ethan yearns for a deeper understanding of his purpose.

Ethan's world changes when he stumbles upon Jesus delivering the Sermon on the Mount. Captivated by the profound teachings, Ethan becomes determined to uncover their true meaning. With the guidance of his mentor, Ezra, Ethan begins to apply Jesus' wisdom to his daily life as a shepherd.

As Ethan navigates the challenges of his newfound spiritual journey, he faces opposition from those who view his actions as a distraction from his duties. Undeterred, Ethan persists in his quest for understanding, leading him to unexpected revelations and a growing sense of compassion for others.

Ethan's pivotal moment arrives when he hears Jesus share the parable of the lost sheep. In a sudden epiphany, Ethan realizes that his role as a shepherd mirrors God's love and care for all people. This realization transforms Ethan's perception of himself and his purpose, empowering him to embrace a life of service and inspire others.

"The Shepherd's Epiphany" is a poignant short film that explores the transformative power of spiritual awakening through the eyes of a young shepherd boy. Set against the backdrop of Jesus' ministry, this coming-of-age tale reminds us that true purpose is found in compassion, faith, and the courage to follow our own path to enlightenment.

lowest
highest
Screenplay 3: The Centurion's Choice
*

Logline:
A loyal Roman centurion's encounter with Jesus leads him to question his allegiance to Rome and to make a life-changing decision that will test his faith and his understanding of true authority.

Synopsis:
Marcus Aurelius Severus, a disciplined and loyal Roman centurion stationed in Capernaum, has always found purpose in serving the empire. However, when he witnesses Jesus miraculously healing a paralyzed man, Marcus begins to question his beliefs and the nature of true power and authority.

As Marcus investigates Jesus' teachings with the help of Rachel, a young Jewish servant in his household, he finds himself increasingly drawn to the message of compassion and mercy. This newfound understanding puts him at odds with his second-in-command, Lucius Gaius Clemens, who sees Jesus as a threat to Roman rule and urges Marcus to take action against him.

Torn between his duty and his growing faith, Marcus must navigate the complex political landscape of Capernaum, as both the Jewish religious leaders and his own superiors pressure him to put a stop to Jesus' ministry. As Marcus struggles with his inner turmoil, he begins to live out his new convictions through small acts of kindness and mercy, even as he faces the disapproval of those around him.

When orders come from Pontius Pilate to arrest Jesus, Marcus faces his ultimate test of faith. Will he follow his orders and betray the man who has shown him a new way of life, or will he risk everything to stand up for what he believes is right?

In a powerful climax, Marcus publicly declares his allegiance to Jesus, accepting the consequences of his choice. As he faces an uncertain future, Marcus finds peace in knowing that he has followed his conscience and discovered the true meaning of authority and service.

"The Centurion's Choice" is a gripping and inspiring tale of one man's journey from loyal soldier to faithful follower, showcasing the transformative power of Jesus' message and the courage it takes to live out one's convictions in the face of opposition.

lowest
highest
Screenplay 4: The Magdalene's Mirror
*

Logline:
A woman burdened by her past discovers the transformative power of forgiveness and becomes a devoted follower of Jesus, ultimately bearing witness to his resurrection.

Synopsis:
Mary Magdalene, a woman haunted by her mistakes and ostracized by society, encounters Jesus and his message of love and redemption through two of his followers, Martha and Rachel. Drawn to the hope they offer, Mary leaves her life at a disreputable resort in Magdala to follow Jesus, seeking a new beginning.

As Mary journeys with Jesus and his disciples, she struggles to overcome her feelings of unworthiness and the judgment of those who know her past. Through Jesus' compassion and the support of the women believers, particularly Martha and Rachel, Mary begins to understand her true identity in the kingdom of heaven.

Mary's faith is tested when a Pharisee named Simon publicly criticizes Jesus for associating with her. Jesus' response, affirming Mary's worth and the sincerity of her devotion, becomes a turning point in her journey. Emboldened by his love, Mary emerges as a leader and teacher among the women, using her story to inspire others.

When Jesus is crucified, Mary remains faithful, standing near the cross while many others flee. After his burial, she is among the women who discover the empty tomb and encounter the risen Christ. Despite facing doubt and disbelief from the apostles, Mary becomes the first to proclaim the resurrection, fulfilling her calling as a witness to the power of Jesus' love.

"The Magdalene's Mirror" is a powerful story of redemption, hope, and the transformative impact of unconditional love. Through Mary's journey, the film invites viewers to see themselves in her story and embrace the life-changing message of the gospel.

lowest
highest
Screenplay 5: The Scribe's Quest
*

Logline:
A young scribe's encounter with Jesus' profound teachings sends him on a quest to uncover the true meaning of the scriptures, challenging his long-held beliefs and transforming his understanding of God's will.

Synopsis:
Eleazar, a meticulous and dedicated scribe in Jerusalem's temple, takes pride in his knowledge of the sacred texts and his adherence to the law. However, when he witnesses Jesus teaching in the temple courts, he is struck by the way Jesus challenges traditional interpretations and emphasizes love and mercy above ritual and tradition.

Intrigued and unsettled, Eleazar begins to study Jesus' teachings more closely, much to the concern of his fellow scribe, Reuben, who views Jesus as a threat to their authority. As Eleazar grapples with the discrepancies between his understanding and Jesus' wisdom, he seeks guidance from his mentor, Simeon, and his sister, Deborah.

Eleazar's journey leads him to question the very foundations of his beliefs, causing tension with his colleagues and community. He wrestles with the fear of losing his identity and status as a scribe, but through the support of Simeon and Deborah, he begins to embrace the importance of humility, compassion, and a genuine relationship with God.

The turning point comes when Eleazar witnesses Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem and hears him teach about the greatest commandment. Realizing that the heart of the law lies in embodying love and mercy, Eleazar makes a bold decision to align himself with Jesus' teachings, even at great personal cost.

In the end, Eleazar uses his knowledge of the scriptures to illuminate the true meaning of God's message, becoming a bridge between the old traditions and the transformative wisdom of Jesus. His quest for truth and willingness to challenge the status quo inspire others to seek a deeper understanding of faith.

"The Scribe's Quest" is a thought-provoking story that explores the transformative power of encountering divine wisdom and the courage required to align one's life with the heart of God's will. Through Eleazar's journey, the film invites viewers to examine their own beliefs and embrace the ongoing quest for spiritual growth and understanding.

lowest
highest
Screenplay 6: The Merchant's Revelation
*

Logline:
A wealthy Roman merchant's encounter with Jesus and his teachings leads him to question the true value of his possessions and embark on a transformative journey of purpose and service.

Synopsis:
Quintus Antonius Maximus, a successful Roman merchant, has achieved great wealth and status through his business acumen and inherited fortune. Despite his outward success, Quintus feels an increasing sense of emptiness and yearns for a more meaningful existence. His wife, Julia, and son, Marcus, sense his discontent but are uncertain of its cause.

During a business trip to Jerusalem, Quintus witnesses Jesus teaching in the temple courts and is captivated by his wisdom and the way he connects with people from all walks of life. Intrigued, Quintus arranges a private meeting with Jesus to discuss the true meaning and purpose of wealth. Through their conversation, Jesus challenges Quintus to view his wealth as a tool for serving others and making a positive impact on the world.

As Quintus begins to apply Jesus' teachings to his life and business, he faces resistance from Julia, who fears the changes in her husband's priorities, and from his business associates, who view his new values as a threat to their own interests. Quintus also struggles internally with the idea of relinquishing control and trusting in a higher purpose.

Despite the challenges, Quintus takes steps to align his business practices with his newfound principles. He treats his workers fairly, invests in projects that benefit the community, and becomes more involved in the lives of his family members, particularly Marcus, whom he encourages to pursue his own path.

Quintus' commitment to his new values is put to the test when he faces a critical business decision that could compromise his integrity. Remembering Jesus' teachings about the true meaning of success, Quintus chooses to prioritize the well-being of others over personal gain, marking a turning point in his journey.

In the end, Quintus discovers a sense of peace and purpose that he had never experienced before. His transformation inspires those around him to reassess their own values and priorities. Quintus dedicates his wealth and influence to creating positive change, leaving a lasting legacy that extends far beyond his own life.

"The Merchant's Revelation" is an inspiring story that explores the transformative power of spiritual principles in the life of a wealthy individual. Through Quintus' journey, the film invites viewers to reflect on their own relationship with wealth and purpose, and to consider the impact they can have on the world around them.

lowest
highest
Screenplay 7: The Fisherman's Faith
*

Logline:

A skeptical Galilean fisherman grapples with doubt and desperation until a miraculous encounter with Jesus challenges his beliefs, leading him on a transformative journey of faith, trust, and spiritual awakening.

Synopsis:

"The Fisherman's Faith" follows the spiritual journey of Ethan, a hardworking fisherman from the Galilean village of Bethsaida. Struggling to provide for his wife, Hannah, and their two children, Ethan finds himself increasingly desperate as fishing harvests dwindle. When Jesus arrives in the village and begins preaching from Ethan's boat, the skeptical fisherman is initially resistant to his message.

However, after witnessing a miraculous catch of fish, Ethan begins to question his doubts. As he attends Jesus' Discourse on True Religion and interacts with the Master, Ethan's understanding of faith and his relationship with God is challenged. When Hannah falls ill and Ethan seeks out Jesus for help, he learns to trust in the power of spiritual belief.

Through his personal experiences and interactions with Jesus, Ethan undergoes a profound spiritual transformation. He discovers the importance of faith, the growth of spiritual confidence, and the transformative power of the divine in his life. As Ethan embraces his newfound understanding, he becomes a living testament to the teachings of the Master and the reality of religious experience.

"The Fisherman's Faith" is a contemplative and inspiring short film that explores the universal themes of doubt, faith, and spiritual awakening through the lens of a simple fisherman's encounter with Jesus. By incorporating teachings from The Urantia Book, the narrative offers a fresh perspective on the transformative power of spiritual belief and the impact of personal experience with the divine.

lowest
highest
Screenplay 8: The Widow's Blessing
*

Logline:

A struggling Galilean widow finds renewed hope and purpose through Jesus' teachings, ultimately discovering the transformative power of faith, prayer, and service to others in the face of adversity.

Synopsis:

"The Widow's Blessing" tells the story of Miriam, a 40-year-old widow from the Galilean village of Nain, who struggles to provide for her two children after the death of her husband. Despite her skills as a weaver, Miriam faces mounting debts and the threat of losing her home, leading her to feel hopeless and abandoned by God.

When Jesus arrives in Nain and begins preaching, Miriam initially hesitates to attend, feeling unworthy and burdened by her troubles. Encouraged by her close friend Sarah, Miriam listens to Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and is deeply moved by his teachings on the love of the Heavenly Father and the importance of seeking the kingdom of God.

Inspired by Jesus' words, Miriam begins to apply his teachings to her life, finding solace in prayer and focusing on serving others despite her own hardships. When her son Reuben falls ill, Miriam's faith is tested. She seeks out Jesus, remembering his teachings on the power of faith and the importance of trusting in the Father's love.

Through her unwavering faith and the support of her community, Miriam witnesses Reuben's miraculous recovery, strengthening her belief in the transformative power of Jesus' message. As she continues to embrace Jesus' teachings and share them with others, Miriam discovers a renewed sense of purpose and becomes a beacon of hope for her village.

"The Widow's Blessing" is an uplifting and empowering short film that explores the universal themes of faith, resilience, and the transformative power of service to others. By incorporating teachings from The Urantia Book, the narrative offers a fresh perspective on the love of the Heavenly Father and the importance of seeking the kingdom of God in the face of adversity.

lowest
highest
Screenplay 9: The Leper's Courage
*

Logline:

A young leper's life is transformed when Jesus heals him, but he must navigate the complexities of reintegrating into a society that once shunned him, ultimately learning the power of forgiveness and the transformative nature of divine love.

Synopsis:

"The Leper's Courage" follows the story of Caleb, a 25-year-old skilled carpenter from Capernaum who is forced to leave his family and community after contracting leprosy. Exiled and isolated, Caleb struggles with feelings of despair and hopelessness, questioning the purpose of his existence.

When Caleb's childhood friend, Ezra, informs him about Jesus and his healing ministry, Caleb cautiously seeks out the Master, hoping for a miracle. After being healed by Jesus, Caleb is overjoyed but soon realizes that his physical healing is only the beginning of his journey.

As Caleb attempts to rejoin his community, he faces prejudice, fear, and skepticism from those who once knew him. Inspired by Jesus' teachings on forgiveness and self-mastery, Caleb learns to confront the prejudices of others with compassion and understanding, slowly winning over the hearts of his community.

Through his interactions with Jesus and his own personal struggles, Caleb comes to understand the power of faith, the importance of forgiveness, and the transformative nature of divine love. As he embraces his newfound purpose, Caleb becomes a living testament to the teachings of Jesus and the resilience of the human spirit.

"The Leper's Courage" is an inspiring and emotionally resonant short film that explores the profound impact of forgiveness and the transformative power of divine love in the face of adversity. By incorporating teachings from The Urantia Book, the narrative offers a fresh perspective on the spiritual significance of physical healing and the importance of overcoming prejudice through love and understanding.

lowest
highest
Screenplay 10: The Disciple's Doubt
*

Logline:

In the wake of Jesus' crucifixion, a devoted disciple grapples with shattered faith and crushing doubt, ultimately finding renewed purpose and spiritual rebirth through the transformative events of the resurrection and Pentecost.

Synopsis:

"The Disciple's Doubt" follows the spiritual journey of Levi, a 30-year-old former tax collector and devoted follower of Jesus. As the story unfolds during the final week of Jesus' life, Levi's faith is tested by the tumultuous events surrounding the crucifixion.

Consumed by grief and doubt, Levi questions the purpose of Jesus' mission and his own commitment to the cause. In the aftermath of the crucifixion, he isolates himself from the other disciples, grappling with his shattered faith and the apparent failure of Jesus' ministry.

Through interactions with David Zebedee and the other disciples, Levi gradually confronts his doubts and begins to rediscover his faith. As he witnesses the resurrection appearances and the transformative events of Pentecost, Levi experiences a profound spiritual awakening and renewed sense of purpose.

Levi's journey explores the nature of faith, the inevitability of doubt, and the transformative power of spiritual rebirth. By incorporating teachings from The Urantia Book, the narrative delves into the significance of the crucifixion and the growth of the early church.

"The Disciple's Doubt" is a spiritually and emotionally intense short film that ultimately leads to a sense of renewal and purpose. Through Levi's story, viewers are invited to explore their own faith journeys and the transformative power of spiritual awakening in the face of adversity.

lowest
highest

Additional Comments

Please share any other comments or suggestions you might have:
Thank you! 
We sincerely thank you for your time and valuable insights. If you want to take an active role in this project, please write to contact@thecenterforunity.org.
Thanks!
Submit
Clear form
Never submit passwords through Google Forms.
This content is neither created nor endorsed by Google. Report Abuse - Terms of Service - Privacy Policy