TaleFlicks put together this pitch for a movie or television series based on Blood in the Water:
Film: This is a classic redemption tale with a crime thriller plot and contains a perfect arc for its protagonist as he grows from down-on-his-luck, depressed alcoholic to the journalist who rediscovers his calling in life by exposing the truth about the racist corruption eating away at the town, thus becoming the town’s hero.
The authentic portrayal of journalism informed by the author’s background in the profession pairs well with the authentic sense of a politically polarized small town in Florida to create a realistic setting viewers will believe and enjoy. The story maintains a broody, dark, slightly paranoid atmosphere reminiscent of film noir, as well as neo-noir CHINATOWN, which this film shares other similarities with. Ample subplots and characters enhance this main plot by adding elements of drama and romance, and the many twists and turns of the plot will keep viewers guessing the story’s outcome.
A satisfying ending to the story completes the protagonist’s arc nicely while skillfully weaving together several plot threads to create a bold finale and a final scene that will linger in viewers’ minds.
TV: Viewers would enjoy watching Walker’s investigations dig him deeper into a hole he might not be able to climb out of as the stakes are slowly and consistently raised each episode, culminating in a powerful finale in which Walker, against all odds, get the better of his foes. The many subplots and characters offer ample opportunity to fill screen time and weave a portrait of life in politically polarized small-town Florida amid an increasingly dirty election as the Democratic and Republican candidates for sheriff compete against each other, with much opportunity to develop these characters and the obstacles they face in the race. This story is perfectly suited to TV adaptation, and would be similar in tone and content to AMC’s THE KILLING.
Key points: Authentic portrayal of journalism and small-town Florida; Themes of white supremacy, police violence/corruption, and crooked politicians is highly relevant in 2020; The touching redemption arc of the protagonist is well written; The subplot of the election race is interesting and enjoyable, offering a convincing window into life in politically polarized small-town Florida; The many twists of the plot are unpredictable and surprising.